KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – Hundreds of Ecuador fans descended on Kansas City barbecue restaurants this week ahead of the World Cup match, creating lines out the door and record-breaking sales at some of the city’s most popular spots.
Kansas City barbecue restaurants reported at least double their normal business since World Cup games began in the city. At Q39, Executive Chef Patrick Peluso said the restaurant cooked more than 6,000 pounds of brisket this week alone at one location, roughly double the normal amount.
Jack Stack Barbecue’s Freight House location also saw business double, according to General Manager Nick Beffer.
Jack Stack Barbecue’s Freight House location saw business double.(KCTV)
“The crowds have been phenomenal. So much energy, so much fun,” Beffer said. “The highlight is as they’re enjoying the barbecue, the raving fans that we’re creating throughout the world.”
First-time visitors impressed
For many international visitors, the trip to Kansas City marked their first taste of American barbecue.
Mariana Diaz, who was born in Ecuador, said the barbecue exceeded expectations.
“Number one is very tasteful, like soft and just any of the sauces. Oh my gosh. It was like amazingly good, like different from what I’ve tasted,” Diaz said.
Q39 said the restaurant cooked more than 6,000 pounds of brisket this week alone at one location.(KCTV)
Diaz said word about Kansas City barbecue had spread to Ecuador before she boarded her plane.
“Ecuadorians are like, you have to go barbecue places and you have to go to this,” she said.
Mario Hidalgo flew from Quito to Philadelphia, then straight to Kansas City with one thing on his mind.
“We actually didn’t know much about Kansas. The top one thing to do was eating barbecue. But that’s why we’re here,” Hidalgo said.
After his first bite, Hidalgo said the brisket was soft and juicy.
“That’s hard to get anywhere else. This one is much juicier, softer as well. It tastes really good,” he said.
Kansas City versus Texas
International fans also weighed in on the Kansas City versus Texas barbecue debate.
“I’ve tried Texan barbecue. I don’t remember it being that good to be honest,” Hidalgo said.
Q39 said the restaurant cooked more than 6,000 pounds of brisket this week alone at one location.(KCTV)
Diaz agreed.
“I’ve had Texas barbecue, but this is tops. This is good. This is better. Sorry Texas,” she said.
Mario “Canario” Espinoza, a former professional soccer player who played on Ecuador’s national team in the 1970s, visited Kansas City for the first time. He said he liked the barbecue.
Ecuador plays at Kansas City Stadium on Saturday.
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