By Dathan Kazsuk
It’s back. The event that somehow manages to combine two of my favorite things—brisket and sparkling wines! Oh, and a 90s hip-hop soundtrack. How can that trio go wrong?
The 5th Annual Bubbles & Brisket will take place in Raleigh on Saturday, June 7, thanks to my good friend Max Trujillo at the North Carolina Food & Beverage Podcast. And if you’ve never been, well you’ve been missing out on one of the most delicious, chaotic and downright fun food festivals this side of the Carolinas. These delightful images you’re seeing came from last year’s event—aren’t they tempting?
Trujillo promises me this year will be bigger, better and bubblier than ever, bringing together some of the state’s top pitmasters alongside a global lineup of sparkling beverages. We’re talking Champagne. Prosecco. Cava. Crémant. Plus sparkling beers, craft sodas, a few boozy cocktails for good measure and non-alcoholic sips for the designated drivers.
Every guest walks away with a commemorative glass and a lanyard koozie because juggling brisket and bubbly requires some strategic planning—especially if you’re trying to capture the best moments with your phone.
And about that brisket—get ready for a lineup of culinary heavyweights who’ll be slinging their signature smoked creations. You’ll be feasting on brisket from Nick Dampf of Dampf Good BBQ in Cary, Matt Barry of Midwood Smokehouse in Raleigh, Spencer Carter from Donovan’s Dish in Cary, David Ellis of Figulina in Raleigh, Henry Ramos from High Rail in Raleigh, Justin Wright of Julep in Greenville, Caleb Stewart with Local Icon Hospitality in Raleigh, Anthony Rapillo of Flour & Barrel + V Pizza in Raleigh and Alejandro Contreras from Tepuy Donuts in Raleigh. Yes, even the donut guy is in on the action—because who says you can’t pair smoked meat with dessert? Have you ever had a maple donut sprinkled with bacon?
Of course, it wouldn’t be Bubbles & Brisket without some carefully curated beverages to wash it all down. Expect selections from A-Vin-Garde, Liberty & Plenty Distillery, Hatchet Brewing, Raleigh Wine Shop, and The Merchant—all keeping your glass topped off whether you’re in the mood for Champagne or something a little more experimental.
There’ll be dessert stations, a few games to work off those bites, and a steady stream of 90s hip-hop setting the soundtrack. And if you’re feeling fancy—or just want a head start—you can upgrade to the VIP experience, which includes early entry, access to an exclusive lounge, a private Champagne tasting and exceptional culinary creations from Eduardo Mera of Mera Brothers Oysters out of Coastal North Carolina.
General admission tickets are $75. Got a crew? Grab the six-pack of tickets for $375 and call it a party. VIP tickets are limited, so if you’re aiming for that elevated experience, don’t wait.
Best of all, it’s not just about eating and drinking for sport. A portion of the proceeds goes to Project Skyline, helping support Hurricane Helene relief and disaster recovery efforts.
So come hungry, come thirsty and come ready to vibe. Bubbles & Brisket isn’t just a food festival—it’s a full-on experience. Tickets are available now at ncfbpodcast.com/event-details/bubbles-and-brisket-5.
You in? I’ll see you there!
