WOW. Fourteen years in and Estel’s Dine by the Sea BBQ Cook-Off is still bringing the heat. This family-friendly tradition has grown into one of those events you circle on the calendar without even thinking twice. Great food, live music, cold drinks, and the best part, everyone gets to be a judge. What’s not to love?
We had been away from the competition scene for a couple of years, but stepping back into it this weekend reminded us why it’s always been such a favorite. The energy, the friendly rivalry, the smell of ribs on the grill drifting through the air, it all came rushing back.
This year, nine grill masters stepped up to the challenge, competing for titles like Judges’ Choice, People’s Choice, Griller’s Choice, and the coveted Grand Master award. And let’s just say, nobody came to play. From perfectly seasoned racks to secret sauces that had everyone licking their fingers, each team gave it their all.
Despite a bit of chilly weather, the crowd showed up ready for a good time. There were plenty of appetizers making the rounds, drink specials flowing, and laughter filling the space. Estel’s switched things up this year by moving the grilling later into the afternoon, turning the judging and serving into an evening affair instead of the usual lunchtime competition. The change worked beautifully.
The setup created a relaxed but lively atmosphere. Lighted tents covered the lot adjacent to the restaurant, the grill masters lined the side working their magic, and a stage kept the vibe going with live music as the sun went down. It felt festive, cozy, and unmistakably San Pedro.
Being a judge at this competition is no easy task. Every rib is cooked with pride. Every sauce carries a story. Choosing a favorite feels almost impossible when the level of talent is that high. But that’s part of the fun, sampling, debating, going back for “just one more bite.” Now in its 14th year, the BBQ Cook-Off continues to prove itself as a strong draw for both locals and visitors. The restaurant was packed, the beers were ice-cold, and the scent of grilled ribs kept everyone hovering near the action.
At the heart of it all are those tender, smoky ribs, crafted by local chefs and returning grill masters who genuinely love what they do. It’s more than a competition. It’s a celebration of flavor, community, and a little friendly bragging rights. If you missed it this year, don’t worry. Something tells us Estel’s will be firing up those grills again next year, and we won’t be missing it.
Estel’s Cook Off Winners
- Judge’s Choice
- 1st – Jim Gochenour
- 2nd – Mark Reid
- 3rd – Carl Johnston (Chef CJ)
- People’s Choice
- 1st – Sergio Gomez & David Aguilar
- 2nd – Jim Gochenour
- 3r – Toshiya Tsujimoto
- Griller’s Choice
- 1st – Toshiya Tsujimoto
- 2nd – Carl Johnston
- 3rd – Kevin Urbina
Grand Master Griller
Jim Gochenour
At the judge’s table – including Chef Jennie Staines, Mayor Wally Nunez, Eiden Salazer and Rebecca Coutant
