2nd Annual Big Apple Barbecue Block Party

We went and checked out the Big Apple Barbecue Block Party on Sunday. We sampled five or six of the ‘cue vendors. The baby back ribs from pitmaster Mike Mills were my favorite, although the brisket and sausage from The Salt Lick was pretty fine too. The North Carolinian BBQ, flavored with a thin vinegar-based sauce, was not to my personal liking — give me Memphis or Kansas City style any day — but others enjoyed it.

On the way out, we sat for a second to listen to a panel on America’s “barbeculture”. Listening to folks argue about BBQ is right up there with listening to people argue about blogging, but panelist Lolis Eric Elie’s use of the phrase “barbecue diaspora” made our short time in the audience worthwhile.

More on the BABBP: NYC Eats finds a hardcore BBQ fan and eGullet prepared an extensive report, going in-depth on Ed Mitchell.