Rib Off: United We Smoke

Billy Younger and Andy Diaz of Beach City Barbecue inspect what would turn out to be a first place winner in the 2019 Key Biscayne Rib Off, June 1, 2019 (Key News/Tony Winton)

There was charcoal. There was grilling apparatus in all shapes and sizes. There was even a water-submerged form of barbecue. But in the end, what mattered most was a good cause, good fellowship and good-natured competition for being the best rib team in Key Biscayne.

For the record, top honors in this year’s 13th annual Rib Off were split between old and new: Beach City

James Duncan, left, and Chris Loughlin pose near their sous vide barbecue rig in the 13th annual Key Biscayne Rib Off, June 1, 2019. The team tied for first place (Key News/Tony Winton)

BBQ, a repeat winner; and Team McLovin, which used electrically-powered sous vide cookers to provide what proved to be award-winning succulence.

In the judge’s shack at the Key Biscayne Yacht Club, taste testers paced themselves to sample 15 rib entries  — identified only by number — that were ushered in one by one under the careful attention of Kara Stearns Sharp, the official tabulator. Judges Mike O’Brien, Ron Erbel and Hank Weil judged on appearance, texture and, of course, taste. Some cleansed their palates with water. Others used beverages of a higher proof.

The event raises money in honor of the late Dr. Robert Kemper, a beloved local physician, with proceeds benefiting a stipend for medical students at Florida International University who best embody the values of his practice. It is supported by the Key Biscayne Community Foundation.

This year’s winner, Amara Fazal, shared her story here.

Kemper’s widow Rosa, who was celebrating her birthday, congratulated the winners at the event’s end.

“You give this community a lot of fun and a lot to talk about,” she said. “This is the best birthday party ever!”