7 days ago
Texas Jack's BBQ and Gonzalez BBQ win top 2025 Ribfest Awards
Who won this year's Ribfest in London? CTV News London's Brent Lale has the details.
Two rib teams took home the four main prizes at the 2025 Ribfest Awards.
Texas Jack's Barbeque from Cayuga, Ont. captured the prestigious 'Best Ribs' and 'Best Sauce' awards.
'It was amazing,' said Dan Tobias of Texas Jack's BBQ.
'There's a lot of really good rib teams here, so it makes it just that much sweeter.'
The company, which started in Texas, has transitioned to the Canadian circuit. They do 60 shows per year across two countries and have won more than 500 awards.
'Our sauce is something that we're really proud of,' said Tobias.
'It's been in the family for 45 years. It started with Grandma Janine. It's unchanged, gluten free. And we put a lot of love into it.
At the end of Ribber's Row, Jorge Gonzalez is entertaining the crowds.
London ribfest 2025
Jorge Gonzalez of Gonzalez BBQ shows off his ribs which won the 2025 People's Choice Award at London Ribfest (Source: Brent Lale/CTV London)
It's a big reason why the London, Ont. ribber captured the 'People's Choice Award' (PCA) and also won the 'Showmanship Award'.
'Thank You London,' said Gonzalez, who captured the PCA for the first time.
'You've got to be thankful to the customers and the followers that they follow Gonzalez Barbecue.'
Gonzalez no longer has a brick-and-mortar location, as it just became too tough. However, he is starting to branch out with a new idea of frozen brisket and pulled pork in boxes.
London ribfest 2025
Jorge Gonzalez of London, Ont. based Gonzalez BBQ is expanding his business to include frozen pulled pork and brisket (Source: Brent Lale/CTV London)
'We're going to be going up in Angelo's Supermarket and hopefully Costco by the end of the year,' said Gonzalez.
'Right now, it's available but very exclusive. You'd have to give me a call or send me a message; I'll get it to you.'
London Ribfest continues until Monday evening.
