Two Second-Place Finishes for Southern Luv BBQ in Tampa's 2025 Food Competitions

TAMPA, FL — Southern Luv BBQ closed out its first full year in Tampa with two second-place finishes in the city’s best-known food competitions.

At the 14th Annual International Cuban Sandwich Festival in Ybor City, Southern Luv’s brisket-based Cuban took second place for World’s Best Non-Traditional Cuban Sandwich — an entry that keeps the pressed Cuban format but replaces the roast pork with pecan-wood smoked brisket.

At the Taste of Tampa Festival, the restaurant placed second for Popular Tampeño Food, an award decided by the people who actually eat in this city rather than by a judging panel.

Both awards came within roughly a year of opening. Southern Luv BBQ opened on Citrus Park Drive shortly after Hurricane Milton, and served free pulled pork sandwiches and mac and cheese to neighbours once power was restored.

The following year, the pit returned to the Cuban Sandwich Festival and placed second again — this time in the traditional category.

About Southern Luv BBQ

Southern Luv BBQ is a fast-casual Southern barbecue concept founded by Chef Essi Tadrus in Tampa, Florida. Brisket and chicken are hand-trimmed and smoked over pecan wood, and sauces, sides, and barbecue potato chips are made from scratch.