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BBQ Cook-Off 2026

Family Rules & Judging Info

Date: Saturday, May 3rd
Food Judging: 3 PM Sharp
Location: 2540 Crosby Herold Rd, Lincoln, CA 95648
Bring Enough For: 30 Sample-Size Tastings (Think Costco-size bites)

Categories

Tri-Tip

Show off your skills with the classic California cut

Chicken Thighs

Bone-in with skin - juicy and flavorful

Side Dish

BBQ themed - complement the mains

You can enter any one - or go all in and try all three!

Judging Criteria (Score 1-5 in Each)

A score of 10 is a perfect score from a single judge.

Tri-Tip

  • Flavor (1-5): Is it seasoned well, with a good balance of salt, smoke, and meatiness? Does the flavor stand out without being overpowering?
  • Tenderness (1-5): Is it easy to chew, juicy, and cooked to a pleasant texture - not dry or tough?

Chicken Thighs

  • Flavor (1-5): Is the seasoning or sauce flavorful and well-balanced? Does it enhance the chicken rather than mask it?
  • Texture (1-5): Is the meat moist and tender? Is the skin bite-through (bonus if slightly crispy)?

Side Dish

  • Flavor (1-5): Is it delicious on its own and does it complement BBQ? Is it too salty, too bland, or just right?
  • Execution (1-5): Was it prepared well? Ingredients properly cooked? Good mix of textures and consistency?

Light Rules (a.k.a. "Just to Keep It Fair")

Prizes

1st Place winners in each category get a fun prize and bragging rights until next year.

The Tri-Tip Champion will receive a custom trophy and a special prize!

Ready to Compete?

Sign up for the BBQ Competition today!

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