PITMASTERS
At Grill and Chill Fest, we are proud to showcase an extraordinary lineup of pitmasters who bring unmatched expertise, passion, and creativity to the art of barbecue. These culinary stars, each with their unique styles and rich heritage, have captivated audiences with their exceptional skills and flavorful creations. Our all-star cast of pitmasters includes legends of the BBQ world and rising stars, each contributing their distinct flair to make this event a true celebration of barbecue.
Kevin Bludso
A James Beard Award-winning chef and the founder of Bludso's BBQ, Kevin Bludso is renowned for his legendary smoked meats and charismatic presence. With roots in Compton, California, and Corsicana, Texas, Kevin blends traditional Texas BBQ techniques with the vibrant culture of Southern California, creating unforgettable flavors.
Rasheed Philips
Rasheed Philips, known as The Gentleman Smoker™, brings a distinctive twist to the world of barbecue, drawing from his Jamaican heritage and innovative cooking techniques. Raised in Jamaica, Rasheed grew up immersed in a culture that revered open-fire cooking and bold, vibrant flavors. His culinary journey is deeply influenced by these traditional methods, which he skillfully blends with contemporary BBQ practices to create dishes that are both flavorful and unique. @RasheedPhilips
Erica Roby
Erica Roby is a dynamic and inventive force in the barbecue scene, known for her bold flavors and creative approach to grilling. As the champion of Food Network's "Barbecue Brawl," Erica has demonstrated her exceptional skills and culinary creativity, earning accolades from judges and audiences alike. @bluesmokeblaire
Logan Sandoval
Logan Sandoval is a culinary innovator who is redefining the barbecue scene with his modern twists and inventive techniques. He believes in honoring the roots of BBQ while constantly exploring new possibilities and pushing culinary boundaries. Logan’s dedication to community service and his commitment to excellence have made him a beloved figure both in and out of the kitchen.
Chuck '“Flavortrain” Matto
Chuck Matto, conductor of Chucks FlavorTrain is a self-taught BBQ pitmaster. He grew up in Napa where his culinary journey began. With a flair for fire and flavors and a personality to match, Chuck has showcased his skills on The Cooking Channels "Fire Masters" and battled his way to the finals on Season 4 of Food Networks "BBQ Brawl". With over 3.5 million followers across social media, Chuck's innovative approach to BBQ ignites a passion for grilling in every dish he creates. @chucksflavortrain
Gerald Vinnett JR.
Gerald Vinnett Jr. gained national recognition as a standout contestant on Season 3 of "Barbecue Showdown," where his unique flavor profiles and impressive grilling techniques wowed judges and viewers alike. His ability to seamlessly integrate Cajun spices and Southern cooking methods into his barbecue dishes set him apart as a formidable competitor. Gerald’s performances on the show not only showcased his culinary talents but also his passion and dedication to the craft of barbecue. @pitmaster_papi
Kalin Harvard
Evan Wiederspohn
Evan Wiederspohn, at just 18 years old, is already a formidable force in the barbecue world, with numerous competition wins under his belt, including titles like BBQ USA Category Champion and Ilani BBQ Grand Champion. His talent and creativity have even led to one of his signature dishes being featured on Famous Dave's menu. Despite his success, Evan remains humble and hardworking, continuously honing his skills as a pitmaster and culinary advocate. With a bright future ahead, Evan is poised to become a leading voice in the next generation of barbecue. @thegladiatorbbq
Kalin Harvard is a talented chef known for showcasing her culinary skills across the country, bringing creativity and passion to every dish she creates. She currently runs The Harbor in majestic Corsicana, Texas, a beloved restaurant nestled on a stunning lakeside property. Here, she delights local patrons and the community with dishes that reflect both her travels and her love for food. At The Harbor, Kalin combines her culinary expertise with the serene beauty of the lakefront setting, creating a dining experience that is as memorable as it is delicious. @HarborRestaurant
