Rib King NYC Fires Up Memorial Day Weekend in Brooklyn

Can Empire BBQ's Vincent Mangual Hold Onto His Crown or Will a New Challenger Take the Throne?

This Memorial Day Weekend, the smoke will rise again at Rib King NYC 2025, returning to Industry City, Brooklyn, for what promises to be the most mouthwatering competition yet. On the line? Bragging rights, barbecue glory, and the coveted Rib King NYC trophy.

BUY TICKETS HERE.

Back to defend his 2024 championship is Vincent Mangual of Empire BBQ, known for his bold flavors and ingredients that clinched last year's crown. But the reigning champ faces serious heat. 

Anthony Scerri of Smoke Sweats BBQ, fresh off his Brisket King NYC victory, is coming with momentum and ambition. And don’t count out Darlene Lawrence of Sands Jerk Hut, who took home the 2024 People’s Choice Award—her apple honey smoked jerk ribs & peach cobbler cornbread won many hearts, and she’s ready to win the title.

But Rib King NYC isn’t just a three-horse race. Other top competitors include:

  • Chef Oak Marprasert of KAM RAI THAI

  • Brothers BBQ (Gavin, Jamie, and Chris Farella)

  • Cenobio Canalizo of Morgan’s Brooklyn BBQ

  • Dinosaur Bar-B-Q

  • Jose Perez of Archie Moore’s and The Meat Truck

  • Samuel Alleyne of Fire + Smoke BBQ

  • Fefe Anggono of Taste of Surabaya

  • Francis Maling of Bad For Business Popups

  • Eric Bernal of Just Ribs

  • Dancing Pig BBQ

  • Kitchen Time Food Group / @kitchentime_kev

  • Mike’s Hot Honey Team

  • And more!

Beyond the Bones: Flavors, Sips, and Sweets

Sure, it’s called Rib King—but there’s plenty more on the plate. Sample sopes and tortillas made with Masienda heirloom masa harina, savor the buttery richness of 36-month aged Kentucky ham from Dakota Hams, and explore a heat-lover’s paradise with a range of award-winning Sauce King NYC hot sauces.  The Jimmy’s No. 43 team will be firing up a vegetable grilling station just for the day—perfect for anyone wanting to balance with all the meat.

Satisfy your sweet tooth with offerings from Tejas BBQ, Tipsy Scoop, Aurelia Gelato, and MuMsKitchens NYC. And don’t worry, there’s no shortage of beverages to pair with all that smoke and spice. Sip on craft pours and cocktails from:

  • Upstate Vodka

  • Brooklyn Gin

  • Fort Hamilton Distillery

  • Piñaq

  • Round Table Brewery

  • Gun Hill Publick House

  • Zero-proof options for the sober-curious crowd

And while you eat and drink your way through the afternoon, DJ Alex Corporan will keep the energy high with a sizzling soundtrack.

Details, Tickets, & VIP Access

The event will be held on May 24, 2025, at Industry City's Courtyard 1/2, 635 2nd Avenue in Brooklyn. General admission tickets start at just $50 + fees, but if you want the true Rib King experience, VIP tickets ($85 + fees) get you in an hour early for first tastes, early pours, chef meet-and-greets, and exclusive Rib King NYC swag.

Rib King NYC 2025 is more than a food fest—it’s a flavor showdown you won’t want to miss. Grab your tickets today and join the feast at Industry City, Brooklyn. I hope to see you all there.

Sean Ludwig
Founder, NYC BBQ

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