The Big Grill Festival 2025: How to Make the Most of Dublin’s Hottest Food Event 

Dublin’s smokiest, juiciest weekend is almost here. The Big Grill Festival is firing up in Herbert Park from August 8–11, and it’s set to be a feast of flame, flavor, and good vibes. Whether you’re a barbecue purist or just looking for a great day out, this is the kind of event that delivers more than just a full stomach. With some of the world’s best pitmasters, local legends, open-fire demos, and an unreal festival buzz, The Big Grill is not one to miss. 

So, what’s it all about? And how do you make sure you get the most out of it? 

What is The Big Grill? 

The Big Grill is Europe’s largest BBQ and craft beer festival, and it’s all about celebrating cooking with fire and smoke. Set in lush Herbert Park, it brings together chefs, grill masters, brewers, and live performers for a weekend that goes way beyond your standard burger-and-a-beer setup. 

Expect: 

• Open-fire cooking stations and food stalls from some of the best restaurants and chefs in Ireland and beyond

• Live fire demos from international BBQ royalty

• Eating competitions (if you dare)

• Craft beer, natural wine, and cocktail bars

• Live music, DJs, and chill zones to kick back in between bites 

It’s high heat, high flavour, and high energy - all in one of Dublin’s best green spaces. 

🔥 Must-See Chefs & Restaurants at The Big Grill 

The festival is stacked with fire-loving culinary talent- here are the ones you absolutely don’t want to miss: 

InterStellar BBQ – John Bates (Texas, Michelin-starred) 

A household name in Texas BBQ, John Bates brings his acclaimed Michelin-starred smokehouse to Dublin. Expect legendary beef brisket and melt-in-your-mouth ribs that earned the #2 spot in Texas Monthly back in 2021 

la Barbecue – Ali Clem (Austin, Michelin-starred) 

Ali Clem is a rising star of the BBQ world, taking the la Barbecue brand to Michelin-level heights. Her brisket lineup is a true must-try. 

From the Ashes BBQ – Martin Anderson & Curtis Bell (London) 

This London-based duo have been making waves with their nose-to-tail BBQ style. After launching during lockdown in Hackney Wick, they're back with a sizzling booth packed with inventive fire-cooked fare 

Bah33º – Gaucho-style BBQ (Brazil via Dublin) 

Authentic Brazilian churrasco meets Irish beef-expect dry-aged picanha and juicy ribs slow-roasted over charcoal, served with that campfire flair. 

Achara – Northern Thai Charcoal Grill (Dublin) 

A local flame-front runner: Achara specialises in Northern Thai dishes grilled over charcoal, offering vibrant, spice-kissed flavours you won't forget. 

Hang Dai – Wood-fired Chinese Street Food 

Another Dubs favourite, Hang Dai fires up traditional Chinese street food in a wood-fired oven, from Beijing duck to Mapo tofu—perfect for something adventurous. 

Hera – Mediterranean-Irish Fusion (Dublin) 

Hera, a newer northside spot from the Crudo/Achara team, serves seasonal, wood-fired dishes with Mediterranean flair—ideal for fans of upscale comfort food. 

Reyna – Modern Turkish Grill (Dublin) 

Reyna brings fresh, charcoal-grilled Turkish fare—think kebabs and meze with big, bold flavours that pair great with festival drinks . 

Bahay – Filipino BBQ (Dublin) 

For something completely different, don’t miss Bahay’s Filipino BBQ skewers, Longanisa HotDawg, and tangy sides like Pinakurat potato salad—bright, bold, and utterly delicious. 

Chiya – Berlin-style Kebabs (Dublin) 

Chiya’s famed wood-fired Berlin kebabs made a big splash at Big Grill 2024—and they’re back again with that addictive, smoky flavour. 

Pitt Bros – USA-style BBQ (Dublin) 

A longstanding local favourite, John Relihan’s Pitt Bros has been dishing up classic American-style grilled and smoked meats in Dublin since 2013 

Tips to Make the Most of Your Time at The Big Grill 

1. Plan Your Feast
   There are a lot of food options, and if you’re not careful, you’ll fill up before you get to the heavy hitters. Browse the lineup online before you go, and create a short list of your must-try options. Start light, pace yourself, and don’t skip the smaller vendors — they often serve up hidden gems.
2. Go Early (or Late) to Beat the Queues
   The middle of the day tends to be the busiest. Arriving early gives you first dibs on the most popular dishes (and photo opportunities), while arriving later can mean smaller lines and a more relaxed atmosphere, especially great if you’re planning to stay for the evening music sets.
3. Bring the Crew, Share the Plates
   The best way to try more? Go with a group and split dishes. That way, you can sample more of what the festival has to offer without hitting the BBQ wall too soon.
4. Catch a Demo or Two
   It’s not just about eating — The Big Grill has some top-tier chefs showing off live-fire techniques you won’t see anywhere else. Whether it’s butchery breakdowns, fish over flames, or global BBQ styles, the demos are a great break between bites.
5. Don’t Skip the Drinks Tent
   Whether you’re a craft beer fan or more into natural wine and cocktails, the drinks tents at The Big Grill are curated with care. Chat with the vendors — they’re passionate and often recommend great pairings for what you’re eating.
6. Make Use of the Chill Areas
   There are shaded spots, grassy areas, and quiet corners designed for relaxation. Grab a plate, find a patch of grass, and soak it all in.

Final Thoughts 

Whether you’re there to learn, taste, or just vibe with friends, The Big Grill is about celebrating fire, food, and fun. It’s a unique Dublin experience with a global flavour and the perfect Summer plan if you love food that brings people together. 

See you in the smoke. 🍖🔥