Gloucester Pitmaster Doug Keiles and Team Shiva Que Win Back-to-Back Grand Championships at the Great American Kosher BBQ 

(Lake Worth, FL)  February 3, 2025 – Doug Keiles and his team from Gloucester, MA, Shiva Que, have once again emerged victorious at the second annual Great American Kosher BBQ Championship and Jewish Festival, held February 1-2, 2025, at The American German Club in Lake Worth, FL.

Keiles, co-owner of Meat and Sweet Foods in Gloucester, MA, successfully defended his Grand Championship title, marking back-to-back wins for Shiva Que. Last year, the team left no doubt in their victory, securing first place in Turkey and Brisket and second place in Beef Ribs. However, this year, the competition was significantly tighter, and the outcome remained uncertain until the end.

Despite placing first in Beef Ribs, fourth in Chicken, sixth in Turkey, and fifth in Brisket, Shiva Que did not feel confident of a repeat win. However, with razor-thin margins separating the top teams, the final results revealed that Shiva Que had clinched the championship by less than half a point.

Keiles, alongside team members Randall Smith and Gregg David, overcame numerous challenges, including the pressure to defend their title and the logistical difficulties of competing without their own pit. While teams were allowed to bring their own equipment and have it koshered on-site, Shiva Que relied on borrowed equipment—a Weber Smoky Mountain and two Weber kettles—to cook their entire competition spread.

“Every category was incredibly tight in scoring, and anything could happen—and did,” said Keiles. “We are beyond thrilled to have won this year’s championship, and I couldn’t have done it without my incredible team.”

In between the 2 contests, Keiles and his Meat and Sweet BBQ Team finished in the Top 10 in BBQ at the World Food Championships in Indianapolis, IN. "It was a great year! Can't wait for next year!" He added.

Pictured left Gregg David, Center Doug Keiles, Right Randall Smith.

For more information, please contact:

Doug Keiles
Shiva Que | Meat and Sweet Foods | Ribs Within
Phone: 908-294-2078  doug@meatandsweetfoods.com