The Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency has announced the semifinalists for the upcoming People’s Choice Barbecue Cookoff, a free public event aimed at celebrating Overtown’s culinary heritage while creating a business opportunity for a local entrepreneur.
The cookoff is scheduled for Saturday, March 28, from noon to 5 p.m. at the 9th Street Pedestrian Mall.
Three semifinalists will compete for the opportunity to lease the fully renovated Historic People’s Barbecue Building:
- David Sifflet of Extra Butter Miami, competing as People’s Outlaw BBQ
- Akino West of Rosie’s, competing as Black Pit BBQ
- Jeanette McKay of McKays Catering, competing as Queen of the Kitchen
At the conclusion of the competition, the winner will advance to the final request for proposals (RFP) review process to be considered for a future barbecue partnership at the historic site.
“The People’s Choice Barbecue Cookoff represents our commitment to honoring Overtown’s history while building its future,” said James McQueen, executive director of the Southeast Overtown/Park West CRA, in a press statement.
McQueen said the agency’s bond initiative focuses on investing in economic empowerment, cultural preservation and strengthening local businesses within the redevelopment area.
“Awarding a lease at the Historic People’s Barbecue Building ensures that this treasured space remains in the hands of entrepreneurs who understand its significance to this community,” said Christine King, chairwoman of the CRA and the City of Miami’s District 5 commissioner, in a press statement.
The original People’s Barbecue operated in Overtown for more than five decades and served as a cultural gathering place and symbol of Black entrepreneurship in the neighborhood.
CRA officials say the cookoff is designed to help revive that legacy by selecting a finalist who will potentially operate out of the historic building, continuing the community-centered tradition tied to the space.
Organizers say the event is also intended to ensure the site remains a neighborhood anchor for residents and families, rather than becoming solely a tourist destination. Community members will be able to sample barbecue from the competitors and take part in celebrating the next chapter of the location’s history.
The People’s Choice Barbecue Cookoff is free and open to the public. Residents and food lovers can RSVP through Eventbrite to attend the event.
This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.
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