In short: BBQ in 2025 will be more diverse, creative, and sustainable than ever before. From new cuts like tri-tip and picanha to fermented marinades, umami rubs, and grilled fish, as well as smart technology and social BBQ events—the scene is evolving. Here are the most important BBQ trends for 2025 you should know about.
1. New meat cuts & international inspiration
In 2025, unusual cuts of meat will be the focus. Instead of just beef fillet and pork loin, cuts like tri-tip, picanha, flat iron, and bavette will be more common on the grill. Many originate from Brazilian, American, or Asian BBQ cultures.
2. More fish & seafood on the grill
Fish and seafood are a real trend: salmon planks, shrimp skewers, scallops , or whole fish like sea bream. Combinations with smoked wood and Asian flavors are particularly popular.
Trending dish: Grilled octopus tentacles with chili-lime marinade, served on a dark walnut board.
3. Plant-Based & Vegetable Deluxe
Vegetarian BBQ will become a separate discipline in 2025: grilled eggplant steaks, whole cauliflower, BBQ mushrooms with portobello mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms. Meat-free burgers and grilled tofu are also becoming increasingly sophisticated.
- Vegetable cuts: grill thick celery slices like steaks
- BBQ Cheese: Halloumi & grilled cheese in marinades
- Fermented vegetables: Kimchi as a side dish
4. Umami, fermentation & new spices
In 2025, flavors will go even deeper: Umami boosters like soy sauce, miso paste, or mushroom powder are standard in rubs and marinades. Fermented sauces like gochujang or homemade BBQ kimchi sauces are taking over the scene.
5. Sauces & Rubs – more creative than ever
Classic BBQ sauces remain, but new blends are emerging: beer BBQ sauce, olive BBQ sauce, espresso rub, cocoa chili glazes . Sweet and spicy combinations with honey and chili or fruit and pepper are trending.
trend | Example |
---|---|
Fruity-spicy | Mango Chili BBQ Sauce |
Coffee & Cocoa | Espresso rub for beef |
Herb-heavy | Rosemary-lemon marinade |
6. Equipment & Technology 2025
BBQ is getting smarter: Smokers with digital controls, thermometer apps, and pellet grills are booming. At the same time, wood-fired BBQ remains popular – especially for premium events. Professional-quality boards and knives are a must for presenting large cuts with style.
- Digital: Smart thermometers, app-controlled smokers
- Analogue: Wood fire & Dutch oven
- Must-have: Solid cutting boards, Damascus knives
7. Sustainability & Nose-to-Tail
In 2025, BBQ will become more sustainable. Many are focusing on locally produced meat , "nose-to-tail" concepts (using the whole animal), and reusable utensils . The topic of "less plastic" in accessories is also a real trend.
9. Practical tips for your trendy BBQ
- Try new cuts – tri-tip, picanha or flat iron.
- Combine sweet & spicy: honey + chili, mango + pepper.
- Include umami – soy, mushrooms, tomato powder.
- Experiment with fermented marinades (e.g., gochujang).
- Use sturdy boards and sharp knives for perfect presentation.
10. Mini FAQ
What is the biggest BBQ trend in 2025?
New meat cuts, umami rubs, and more vegetables on the grill – variety is the mega trend.
Do I need expensive equipment for the trends?
Not necessarily—many things can be done with a kettle grill or gas grill. Good knives and boards are essential.
Which trends are suitable for beginners?
Grilled vegetables, fruity-spicy sauces, and simple cuts like flat iron are ideal for beginners.
8. BBQ as an event & lifestyle
BBQ is becoming more and more of a social experience . Whether it's tailgating in the US, garden parties in Europe, or BBQ competitions – grilling is a lifestyle. In 2025, community culture will also grow, with many sharing recipes, cuts, and experiences in forums and social media.
wood & more tip: In our Facebook community BBQ & Grillmeister Recipes you will find exactly this passion.