Overview

The Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit is an annual celebration of barbecue, bringing together top pitmasters, renowned chefs, and BBQ enthusiasts for a day of incredible food, drinks, and community. Hosted at Pig Beach BBQ Queens, this event honors the legacy of Jeff Michner while supporting culinary education scholarships.

What to Expect

Indulge in an EPIC BBQ experience featuring over 25 food stations with mouthwatering smoked meats, signature dishes, and creative BBQ creations from the nation's top pitmasters. Enjoy complimentary beer, craft cocktails, and refreshing non-alcoholic drinks all day long.

Best for: BBQ lovers, food enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to support a great cause while enjoying world-class barbecue. Kids under 12 are free!

Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit - smoked lamb ribs with cheesy hominy
Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit - brisket egg roll with green chili sauce
Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit - pork belly skewer
Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit - pastrami bacon dog
Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit - whole hog BBQ
Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit - smoked pastrami
Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit - BBQ burger
Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit - honoring the legacy of Jeff Michner
Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit - top national BBQ talent
Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit - whole hog presentation
Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit at Pig Beach - outdoor BBQ experience
Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit at Pig Beach - indoor dining and bar

Why Visit?

  • Top pitmasters from across the country serving their signature dishes.
  • All-you-can-eat BBQ featuring smoked meats, ribs, brisket, and more.
  • Craft cocktails & beer included with your ticket.
  • Live music & entertainment for a full festival atmosphere.
  • Raffles & prizes with a 50/50 raffle and silent auction.
  • Support a great cause — proceeds fund culinary scholarships.

About the Cause

"Supporting scholarships for students passionate about cooking and golf"

This event is more than world-class BBQ: it's about making a difference. Proceeds support the Jeff Michener Foundation, funding scholarships for students who share Jeff's passion for cooking and golf, the two loves that defined his life.

Meet the Masters

  • Ed Mitchell

    Wilson, NC Ed Mitchell

    Ed Mitchell

    A founding pitmaster of the Big Apple BBQ Block Party who helped bring traditional whole hog barbecue to NYC. Inducted into two Halls of Fame.

  • Rodney Scott

    Charleston, SC Rodney Scott

    Rodney Scott

    Only the second pitmaster in history to win the James Beard Award. Featured in Netflix's "Chef's Table: BBQ."

  • Billy Durney

    Hometown BBQ, Brooklyn Billy Durney

    Billy Durney

    From protecting Hollywood celebrities to Brooklyn's Brisket King. His Red Hook restaurant is a NYC BBQ landmark.

  • Chris Lilly

    Big Bob Gibson, AL Chris Lilly

    Chris Lilly

    The most decorated competition pitmaster in history. He literally married into BBQ royalty—Big Bob Gibson's great-granddaughter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome at Pig Beach. They must remain on a leash and stay on the floor at all times—no tables or chairs. Please be mindful of other guests and clean up after your pet.
Absolutely! The Jeff Michener BBQ Benefit is family-friendly. Children are welcome during all event hours, and kids under 12 get in free. It's a great opportunity to introduce the next generation to world-class barbecue.
No reservations are required. This is a first-come, first-served event. General admission tickets can be purchased at the door, though we recommend arriving early for the best experience as popular pitmasters' offerings may sell out.
If you lost something at the event, please email info@pigbeachnyc.com. The Pig Beach team will do their best to help you recover your item.
Your admission includes access to the event. Food is sold à la carte from each pitmaster's station. Bring cash or card to purchase tastings from your favorite pitmasters. We recommend trying small portions from multiple pitmasters to experience the variety.
Yes, the Jeff Michener BBQ Benefit is a rain or shine event. Pig Beach has both indoor and outdoor seating areas, so there's plenty of covered space if weather doesn't cooperate.
All proceeds from the Jeff Michener BBQ Benefit support the Jeff Michener BBQ Foundation, which provides financial assistance to barbecue industry workers facing hardship. Your attendance directly helps pitmasters and BBQ professionals in need.
Yes, Pig Beach is wheelchair accessible. The main dining areas, restrooms, and pitmaster stations are accessible to guests with mobility devices. If you need special accommodations, please contact Pig Beach in advance.

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