Smoke(less)

Can Texas BBQ Handle the World Cup?

Smoke(less)

Show Notes

The World Cup is bringing a massive wave of soccer fans to Dallas… but what does that mean for Texas BBQ?

In this episode of Smoke(less), Justin, Wayne and Nick dig into what it actually takes to prep for huge event crowds, why guessing demand during something like the World Cup is almost impossible, and how every day in BBQ can feel like placing a bet. Justin breaks down the challenge of planning for surges before and after games, while also dealing with the reality that crowds can disappear the second a match kicks off.

The guys also get into rising beef prices, whether BBQ joints need to rethink menus, how chicken and other proteins can help balance the numbers, and why brisket costs are still punching restaurants in the face. Plus, they answer listener questions on building better BBQ trays, pulling brisket earlier for a long rest, and whether temperature matters as much as feel.

And of course, Plate or Hate returns — with sausage, brisket, turkey, ribs, chicken, beans, street corn and a few redemption trays on the menu.

Got a BBQ question or want your cook judged on Plate or Hate?

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @smokeless_podcast

Use code SMOKELESS at DrinkWillies.com for 10% off your first order.

#BBQ #TexasBBQ #WorldCup #Dallas #Brisket #SmokelessPodcast

More from Smoke(less)

Oct 1, 2026

Making great BBQ is easy. You just need a little patience… right? This week on Smoke(less), Nick Pencis of Stanley’s Famous Pit Bar-B-Q, Wayne Mueller of Louie Mueller Barbecue, Justin Fourton of Pecan Lodge and Vic Barry respond to the claim that anyone with a cheap offset smoker and a little patience can make great barbecue.

Sep 24, 2026

What started as a backyard BBQ in Dallas has grown into something nobody could have predicted.

Sep 17, 2026

Before Texas BBQ became a global phenomenon, Wyatt McSpadden was already there — camera in hand, documenting the people, places and traditions that helped define it.

Sep 10, 2026

Why are so many Texas BBQ joints closing? Is the Texas BBQ Boom Over?

Sep 3, 2026

Before Jess Pryles became one of the biggest names in live-fire cooking, she was living in Australia, bouncing between careers and travelling to Texas whenever she could. Eventually, she realised her life back home was essentially “on pause” while she waited for the next trip.

See all episodes →