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.
by Drew the "Barbeque Man" May 24, 2014