Fort Davis, TX – A sizzling spectacle unfolded last weekend as Fort Davis hosted the thrilling Smoke in the Mountains BBQ & Ribeye Shootout. The highly anticipated event, held on June 9th and 10th, turned up the heat with a fierce barbecue competition while rallying support for the local First Responders. The scenic backdrop of Fort Davis set the stage for a mouthwatering showdown like no other.
Located in the heart of downtown Fort Davis, the Smoke in the Mountains BBQ & Ribeye Shootout transformed the quaint streets into a smoky paradise. Teams from across Texas and beyond gathered to showcase their culinary prowess in a range of meat categories, including chicken, ribs, brisket, and cabrito. The pièce de résistance was undoubtedly the ribeye competition, where top grill masters battled it out for the title of the best ribeye in town.
The event, aimed at celebrating the art of barbecue while giving back to the community, saw the funds raised go directly towards supporting the courageous First Responders of Jeff Davis County. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of the community, and the Smoke in the Mountains BBQ & Ribeye Shootout provided a platform to honor their invaluable contributions.
The event attracted a full roster of talented participants, with registration closing quickly as teams eagerly secured their spots. Adding to the allure of the competition, a stunning wooden carving by acclaimed local artist Doug Moreland awaited the team that entered every category and achieved the highest combined score. This prestigious accolade of the Overall-Overall Grand Champion was a testament to both culinary skill and perseverance.
Doug Moreland, known for his captivating wood sculptures, recently opened a new shop on Fort Davis’s charming main street. Alongside his artistic endeavors, Moreland entertains the “far out” west Texas region with his full band, bringing a unique musical flavor to the local scene.
Throughout the weekend, the air was filled with tantalizing aromas and the sound of lively music. The Bucket of Bullets band provided an energetic soundtrack as attendees indulged in barbecue delights and cheered on their favorite teams. On Friday, the salsa, margarita, and ribeye competitions were held the lawn of the Jeff Davis County courthouse, which added a touch of historical charm to the festivities.
The Smoke in the Mountains BBQ & Ribeye Shootout showcased not only the culinary talent of the participants but also honored the legacy of two remarkable individuals. Sara Adams and Robert Rubio, instrumental in the early days of the BBQ cook-off, were remembered for their contributions to the community. Their spirit and dedication inspired the creation of the Smoke in the Mountains BBQ & Ribeye Shootout as an official non-profit organization, ensuring their memory lives on through this annual fundraising event.
As the last wisps of smoke dispersed and the echoes of laughter faded, the Smoke in the Mountains BBQ & Ribeye Shootout left an indelible mark on the Fort Davis community. The flavorful showdown not only satisfied taste buds but also brought people together in support of a worthy cause.
For barbecue enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of true Texas flavor, the Smoke in the Mountains BBQ & Ribeye Shootout will continue to be a culinary extravaganza to look forward to each year.
