Ribfest returns

The grills were fired up and busy at the Amherstburg Ribfest held over the weekend along Ramsay St.

The sweet and savory scent of barbecue wafted down Ramsay Street this past weekend at the Amherstburg Ribfest.

“The weather has been great. It only rained when we were closed. It’s been a great event. Amherstburg loves its rib fest,” said Gus Sakellis.

His Fabulous Ribs Royal BBQ was one of the three entries in the second annual event. They went up against The Hogfather – BBQ to die for, and Dinosaur Smoke House. At stake was a couple of big trophies for best sauce and best ribs.

“We love the bragging rights but at the end of the day we are all family. We are here to look after each other,” said Sakellis.

While the competition, which was judged by the public, was as intense as some of the interesting recipes, there was a noticeable comradery amongst the three.

Sakellis has owned Ribs Royale since 2006 and before coming to Amherstburg they were in Prescott. Next stop on an estimated 30 event season is Canada Day celebrations in Hamilton.

“We are on the road every day in the summer,” he said.

Ribfest, as seen from the steps of the Amherstburg post office, looking south down Ramsay St. June 21, 2025.

Prior to making a choice of which ribs to sample, each entrant gave everyone the opportunity to taste just their sauce. Sakellis told the River Town Times that their sauce which has won numerous awards is a simple combination of Crown Royal whiskey and pickle juice.

“We cook the ribs low and slow, and we use cherry wood. They are tender enough to not quite fall off the bone.”

Amherstburg Ribfest is in conjunction with Open Air Weekends and began Friday and wrapped up Sunday night. Once again local realtor Dan Gemus organized and sponsored the event.

“We have heard from hundreds of people. They love it in the downtown core. They can eat ribs, enjoy the music and stroll downtown,” said Gemus.

There was a lot of entertainment throughout the festival, beginning with Norm Gemus on Friday and wrapping up with Back 2 Back when things wound down around 7 p.m. on Sunday.

When asked if there will be a third annual ribfest next summer, Dan Gemus said a definite “yes.”

Ribfest is held on Ramsay St. between Richmond and Murray. Besides the three rib entries there were other vendors.

“This year we have got a lot more seating. We have added 300 seats and the crowds are bigger this weekend.”

Ribfest returns

By Fred Groves