In the strictest sense, a barbequephile describes someone with a disciplined devotion to
American barbeque, accompanying strict traditions of consumption and appreciation. In a general sense however, a barbequephile simply refers to a person who enjoys
American barbeque and often a layperson. Barbequephiles are also known as
American barbeque aficionados or connoisseurs. They are people who appreciate authentic
American barbeque, particularly authentic representations of regional barbeque specialties, methods of cooking barbeque, or methods of manufacturing barbeque equipment. While most barbequephiles are hobbyists, some may also be professionals like chefs, pitmasters, barbeque equipment manufacturers, or barbeque judges (one who tastes and grades Barbeque, according to specific criteria, for for contests).
Sure, I enjoy eating barbeque, but I am no barbequephile
like Jim. Just ask his
wife, he will
stop at any barbeque restaurant, run down shack or rib joint he passes on the road.