(photo from 2010)

Back in town and ready for action, nothing says Summer more than BBQ.  The Big Apple Barbecue Block Party in Madison Square Park is an event we do our best to attend every year. This year it takes place next weekend, June 9th and 10th.  It is everything BBQ – there’s food, there’s music, there’s beer for sale and there’s a chill vibe that encourages hanging out and enjoying a nice summer afternoon.

The Pitmasters are award-winning champions from the best BBQ joints from all of the country.  One in particular is Myron Mixon from Jack’s Old South in Unadilla, GA. Per Jayson, Myron smoked the most amazing brisket that nothing has yet to compare to.  I’m sure this will be one of the first tables that we hit.

All of the Pitmasters smoke or grill their meats right there and serve delicious sides to go with it.  The jovial attitudes of the Pitmasters encourage dialogue about the mouth watering plates of food everyone is holding.  They are proud of their individual cooking styles and love to tell you about them.

There are so many things to try,  I recommend saving the NYC joints for last (if you are still hungry) as you can swing by those anytime.  Try to focus on those from the South.  If you’re not sure which ones to start with, don’t worry.  You will most likely see someone else eating something that you will drool over and be compelled to ask them about it.  And you never know – you might leave with a new friend.

The food will be served between 11am and 6pm both days.  From past experiences and with most events in NYC, I recommend getting there as early as possible for shorter lines and to assure they won’t run out of food.  Stay tuned for my recap from next weekend!