Please don't laugh...

Bahamianlvr · Joined: 19 Jun 2007 Posts: 17 Location: Maryland

When I introduced myself to the forum, I noted that I am new to smoking. For that matter, I'm just learning about indirect grilling through this site much less cooking at 200-250.

With that said I went to the Capital BBQ festival this weekend. It was quite a good time. Lots and Lots of people and quite a bit to do. I went kind of late in the afternoon so I missed the competition and therefore any smoking tips that I could have gotten from the contestants.

But one thing I'll take from this is that I tasted smoked turkey for the first time. I know, I know. Like I said, don't laugh. But boy was it good! I wish I knew the name of the group I got it from so I could give them a plug. But I really can't wait to get my smoker now and get to it.

Markbb · Posted: Jun 25 2007 Post subject: Really

First time with smoked turkey, well get ready because there's a whole lot more to be looking forward too, your gonna love this obsision(sp) good luck to you!!

cwall1313 · Posted: Jun 26 2007 Post subject:

you'll definitely love the obsession, however, the capital bbq festival was no way to introduce yourself to it. I went and was thoroughly disappointed. First, the real good teams weren't vending. Now, that may be the norm, but I wanted to eat the q of the teams that consistently win comps. Second, being from NC, I expected the guys who have "Real Carolina BBQ" on their signs to know what that means. They didn't. Third, I waited in line for the "Smoking Rednecks" tent to sample ribs and brisket only to find out that they don't use any rub on their ribs and the brisket is all point. Again, maybe I don't know how these things work, but for the money these guys were charging, I expect to have some flavor on my bbq. I've only been doing this for about two years, but my little silver smoker and me can produce better bbq than any of those guys at the competition.

I will say that a smoke ring member was there and vending but after I sampled everyone elses fare, I was unable to stuff any of his down. So, please excuse Chef Hog from my diatribe.

Bahamianlvr · Joined: 19 Jun 2007 Posts: 17 Location: Maryland

cwall1313 · Posted: Jun 26 2007 Post subject:

there is only one restaurant in the DC area that knows what they're doing and its called Levi's Port City Cafe on 8th Street, SE. It's on Capitol Hill and this guys knows what he's doing. The bbq is excellent and the fried chicken may be better. He's from NC, makes his own sauce, and cooks the Q everyday. Give them a try.

Sorry if I rained on your parade with the competition this weekend but I was just so disappointed. Did you stick around to see who won?

Bahamianlvr · Joined: 19 Jun 2007 Posts: 17 Location: Maryland