Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-off

Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-off

The Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-off is an annual event held in Sparks, Nevada. It is one of the largest rib cook-offs in the United States, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The cook-off features some of the best rib vendors from around the country, competing for the title of "Best in the West."

History

The Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-off was first held in 1989 and has since become a highly anticipated event in the region. It was initially organized by the Nugget Casino Resort, a popular hotel and casino in Sparks. Over the years, the cook-off has grown in size and popularity, attracting both locals and tourists.

Event Details

The cook-off takes place over several days during the Labor Day weekend. It is held in Victorian Square, a historic district in downtown Sparks. The event features live music, entertainment, and of course, mouth-watering ribs.

Visitors can purchase tickets to sample ribs from various vendors. Each vendor sets up a booth and prepares their ribs on-site. The ribs are then judged by a panel of experts based on taste, tenderness, and presentation. The vendor with the highest score is crowned the winner of the cook-off.

Participating Vendors

The Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-off attracts top rib vendors from all over the country. Some of the notable vendors that have participated in the past include:

• Famous Dave's - A well-known barbecue chain with locations across the United States.
• Blues City Deli - A popular deli in St. Louis, Missouri, known for their delicious ribs.
• Johnson's BBQ - A family-owned barbecue joint from Chesapeake, Virginia, serving up traditional Southern-style ribs.

These are just a few examples, as the cook-off typically features around 20 different vendors each year.

Awards and Recognition

The Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-off has gained recognition and accolades over the years. It has been featured in various media outlets and has received positive reviews from both attendees and participants. The event has also been recognized as one of the top food festivals in the country.