Frankfort Amateur Rib Cook-Off A Huge Success

Hundreds of people crowded downtown Frankfort on Saturday, August 3 for Frankfort’s 11th annual “Amateur Rib Cook-Off”. Fifteen contestants from Frankfort, Palos Heights, Orland Park, Plainfield, Mokena, New Lenox, Chicago and surrounding areas used special spices and sauces to perfect the ideal rib for the cook-off. The competition continues to draw new contestants as well as repeat favorites. The event was co-sponsored by the Village of Frankfort, Frankfort Area Jaycees, and the Frankfort Lions Club. All proceeds benefit the Frankfort Area Jaycees and Frankfort Lions Club organizations and serves as a fundraiser for their organizations.

The judges for the event this year were Rick Boehm (KCBS certified), Jeanine Smith (KCBS certified) and Dan McGee, Executive Chef. Live music was provided by Marty “Big Dog” Mercer, who entertained the crowd with blues from the Breidert Green stage.

Winners of the contest for 2019 were:

1st Place: Rusty Pig BBQ – from Orland Park, IL
2nd Place: Mi-Cue – from Orland Park, IL
3rd Place: Salt & Pepper – from Frankfort, IL
Crowd Pleaser: Lillie’s BBQ – from Frankfort, IL

“Thanks to the Frankfort Area Jaycees and the Frankfort Lions Club for their support and enthusiasm to make this event a huge success. We look forward to next year’s competition”, commented Frankfort’s Mayor Jim Holland.

Photo: First place winners, Rusty Pig Barbecue, prepare their succulent ribs for the hungry crowd to sample.