Fanning the Flames: Recipes and Tall Tales from BBQ Hall of Famer Melissa Cookston

Melissa Cookston is a seven-time world BBQ champion and the first woman inducted into the BBQ Hall of Fame. She is a renowned pitmaster, restaurateur, and author. Her award-winning food is served at her Mississippi outpost Memphis BBQ Co. and via Goldbelly nationwide. Melissa is a judge on BBQ Showdown, the award winning Netflix Series.

In 2023, Melissa retired from competition barbecue to focus on her non-profit: The World Jr. BBQ League. There, she mentors at-risk youth in the culinary arts, while teaching skills beyond the grill. Melissa Cookston's legacy continues to inspire barbecue enthusiasts worldwide.