Taste of South Texas BBQ Crowned Grand Champion at Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's Bar-B-Que Cookoff

HOUSTON — The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's highly anticipated Bar-B-Que cookoff concluded on Saturday, with Taste of South Texas BBQ taking home the prestigious title of overall grand champion among a competitive field of 250 teams. The event, known for its spirited competition and celebration of barbecue, crowned winners across various categories, marking a highlight of the rodeo festivities.

Rancho Cerveza earned the title of reserve grand champion, following closely behind the grand champion in a tightly contested showdown. The cookoff, a staple of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, drew thousands of barbecue enthusiasts, eager to sample some of the best BBQ the state has to offer.

In the brisket category, Taste of South Texas BBQ continued its winning streak, securing the top spot, while Telstar Cookers and Texas Lonestar Cookers came in second and third, respectively. The ribs competition saw Pitmaker – BBQ Addiction emerge as champion, with Victoria County Go Texan and Calhoun County Go Texan finishing second and third.

The chicken category was fiercely contested, with Chicken Fried claiming first place. S&S Club, Inc. and RIVS Smoke & Grill rounded out the top three, showcasing their culinary skills in a highly competitive field.

Victoria County Go Texans was named the Go Texan grand champion, with Metro Go Texan 4/Chase-N-Moore Smoke taking the reserve grand champion spot, highlighting the talent and passion for barbecue within the Texan community.

The Dutch Oven Dessert category saw S&S Club, Inc. emerge victorious, followed by Tejas Cookers and Brew Crew Cookers. The Open Contest awarded the top prize to Texas Cowtown Cookers, with Paloma Blanca and Floyd, Morrow & Larkin completing the podium.

The Jr. Cook-off, open to young chefs aged eight to 14, was won by Shylyn Keith, with Hailynn Speichinger and Brodie Daniel taking second and third places, respectively. The young competitors were judged on appearance, presentation, tenderness, and taste of their prepared steaks.

Specialty awards were also distributed, with Desperados Cook Team winning Best Façade, Cherokee County Go Texans taking home Best Overall Theme, and the BOHICA BBQ Cooking Team being recognized for Best Skit.