Michael Symon Explores BBQ USA in a Smokin’ New Series

Mark your calendars for the premiere on Monday, July 11 at 9|8c.

June 08, 2022
Chef Michael Symon at the Rhythm & Ribs Festival in Tifton GA , as seen on BBQ
USA, Season 1

Commissioned Photographer

Chef Michael Symon at the Rhythm & Ribs Festival in Tifton GA , as seen on BBQUSA, Season 1

Photo by: Stacy Howell

Stacy Howell

Let’s just say these aren’t your everyday cooking contests at the local town fair.

On BBQ USA, Monday, July 11 at 9|8c, longtime meat enthusiast Michael Symon will head to some of the country’s most-esteemed barbecue competitions in America for an up-close look at the fiery showdowns and red-hot ‘cue being cooked up from Tennessee to Texas to Georgia and everywhere in between.

Over the course of six episodes, Michael will meet the pitmasters who are vying for the win with their expertly crafted barbecue and check in with the festival-goers who are so obsessed with BBQ that they travel near and far for a taste of it all. Michael, too, will get a taste of it all when he samples some of the most-droolworthy ribs, brisket and more smoked meats up for grabs. Tune in each week for a special look at the many styles of ‘cue across the country and get to know the folks facing off in these demanding competitions.

Don’t miss the series premiere of BBQ USA on Monday, July 11 at 9|8c.

Next Up

All About Michael Symon

Get to know the Cleveland-born Food Network chef, restaurateur and author. Discover how he began his career at 13 years old and how he honors his Greek Sicilian roots in his culinary work.

Michael Symon’s Restaurant Recommendations

The host of Throwdown with Michael Symon shares his go-to spots for barbecue, Italian, Israeli and more.

Michael Symon Prepares for Culinary Throwdowns in All-New Kitchen Matchups

Throwdown with Michael Symon will premiere on Tuesday, Dec. 14 at 9:30|8:30c with special back-to-back episodes.

Michael Symon to Fire Up the Grill in Brand-New Symon’s Dinners Cooking Out

The upcoming series will launch on TV June 7 before moving to the Food Network Kitchen app on June 22.

All About Michael Voltaggio

Get to know the Maryland-born, Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur — discover how his past as a picky eater led to his wildly successful culinary career, read about his journey to opening three flourishing restaurants with his brother and his role on your favorite Food Network shows.

Gabe Bertaccini Launches New Series 'Cook Like an Italian'

No Italian grandmother? No problem. Chef Gabe's new YouTube series teaches you how to cook like a nonna — starting with classic spaghetti carbonara.