Photography by Frank Chin

The best of backyard barbequers gathered on Beale Street to compete in the Patio Porkers contest. Formerly part of the Memphis in May's World Championship Barbeque Cooking Contest, the Patio Porkers competition was held May 20 in Handy Park, and this was a one-day extravaganza of bbq fun.

The competition was ribs-only and a sanctioned Kansas City Barbeque Society competition. Bringing the Patio Porkers up to Beale Street was a full-circle move for this inaugural competition. When the first Memphis in May barbeque contest was held in 1978, it was originally held on Beale. This year’s event was a joint collaboration between the Downtown Memphis Commission and the Beale Street Merchants Association.

The top prize went to Battle Brothers Que from Jackson, TN, and the second place winner was Weez's Groovin' BBQ. Both were presented with prize money and a beautifully designed, custom trophy from the Metal Museum. Beale Street restaurants were also invited to submit ribs for judging, and Alfred’s On Beale was chosen for the Rib King honor.

The competition is open to anyone who wants to barbeque in the Patio Porkers contest, so fire up your grill and practice your best rib recipes for next year!