Meat Heat Eat - June 2026
Get ready for the ultimate BBQ experience!
We're bringing world class BBQ events to Newfoundland and Labrador and very excited to welcome back the Canadian Cajun, the Picanha King of the North - the legendary Mel Chmilar Jr. of Darkside of the Grill fame!
About The Events
Our third annual Meat Heat Eat event with legendary BBQ Pitmaster Mel Chmilar Jr, Darkside of the Grill is happening June 13th in Deer Lake and June 20th in Paradise.
We've listened and learned from past events and we're making some changes in hopes to make it better for everyone. This year we'll host a Live Fire Masterclass with Mel followed by Fire and Feast with our BBQ partners.
The Live Fire Masterclass hosted by Mel Chmilar Jr. of Darkside of the Grill is a special treat. It's a show, it's a feast, and it's packed with BBQ tips and tricks to bring your BBQ game to a whole new level. Watch Mel work his magic over the flames and then you get to sample everything that he creates all while he answers your burning BBQ questions in an intimate, fireside setting. After the class, you'll have access to the Fire and Feast festivities as well.
The Fire and Feast is a brand new addition to our 3rd annual event. We've invited our partners to participate and showcase their talents and their equipment. We will have live fire from Yoder Smokers and Big Green Egg and pellet action from Pit Boss and Traeger. Their reps will be serving up some delicious samples and answering questions while you enjoy libations, and live music.
Like past events, most of the hardware we'll be cooking on will be offered to attendees at deep discounts. Be sure to get in contact to find out more.
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Who is this for
These events are suitable for all skill levels from brand new to the smoking game to back yard pitmasters and competition BBQers. Come for the delicious BBQ and live music at the Fire and Feast or come ready to ask questions and learn from Mel at the Live Fire Masterclass.
When and Where
Deer Lake - Saturday, June 13th
The BBQ Emporium, 9 Wellon Drive, Deer Lake, NL A8A 2G6
~ Live Fire Masterclass - 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
~ Fire and Feast - 6:30 pm to 10:00 pm
Paradise - Saturday June 20th
Banished Brewing, 9 Maverick Place, Paradise, NL A1L 0J1
~ Live Fire Masterclass - 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
~ Fire and Feast - 6:30 pm to 10:00 pm
About The Chef
Mel Chmiler Jr.
Darkside of the Grill
Mel Chmilar Jr., widely known as Darkside of the Grill, is an award-winning pitmaster, pit builder, TV personality, and proud Canadian - ranked 80th in the world of BBQ pitmasters. He is celebrated for bringing the heat and flavor of live-fire cooking from the Great White North to audiences worldwide.
With his own line of BBQ rubs and seasonings, Mel creates products that stand out for their quality ingredients and bold, global flavors. His collaboration with Heartbeat Hot Sauce, featured on the popular TV show Hot Ones, showcases his dedication to unique, high-quality ingredients.
A global BBQ ambassador, Mel has been spotlighted in numerous magazines, TV shows, and online platforms. His energetic performances at international live-fire events—from Memphis in May to the Key West Invitational (where he took home Grand Champion honors)—have earned him recognition on stages from New Zealand to Brazil. Mel’s signature catchphrase, “Fire in the Hole!,” never fails to ignite excitement in crowds.
Purchase Tickets Now!
Those that want the entire experience, including a private BBQ class, can purchase a Live Fire Masterclass ticket and those that want to sample some delicious BBQ, listen to some music, and enjoy a sociable can purchase a Fire and Feast ticket.