Sizzle & Smoke: A BBQ Masterclass at Elite Horizon HQ with Smoking Beards

At Elite Horizon, BBQ isn’t just business—it’s a way of life.

We were honored to host UAE BBQ champion Fred Cassagrande aka Smoking Beards at our HQ for a Sizzle & Smoke cookout. With an assist from the always-reliable Ahmed Shahat, Fred worked his magic over the fire, grilling up perfectly seared steaks, juicy chops, and some of the best potatoes we’ve ever had.

Frederic Casagrande, widely known as Smoking Beards, is a distinguished figure in the barbecue community, celebrated for his exceptional skills and contributions to the culinary arts.

Culinary Achievements

In 2023, Frederic’s dedication to the craft led him to victory at the UAE Live Fire Championships, organized by Cucina Del Sul, earning him the title of UAE’s BBQ Champion. This accomplishment qualified him to represent the UAE at the prestigious World Food Championships in Dallas, Texas, where he achieved an impressive seventh-place finish on the global stage.  

Smoking Beards® Brand

Beyond competitions, Frederic is the founder of Smoking Beards®, a premium brand specializing in spices and seasonings. The brand originated from a unique blend of spices he created during the 2021 Smoke’n’Flames competition, which quickly gained popularity among culinary enthusiasts.  

Collaborations and Events

Frederic’s expertise has been showcased in various culinary events, including a limited-time menu at JB’s Gastropub, where he offered a selection of dishes under the Smoking Beards menu, catering to serious meat lovers.  

His passion for open-fire cooking was also highlighted at the Open Fire Food Festival, where he led cooking demonstrations alongside aspiring chefs, emphasizing his commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering culinary excellence.  

Of course, none of this would be possible without Meat House Gourmet, who supplied us with the finest cuts to make it all happen.

This was more than just lunch—it was a masterclass in BBQ done right. A huge thank you to Fred, Ahmed, and the entire team for making this an event to remember.

🔥 Until the next one, keep the fire burning! 🔥

#BBQ #EliteHorizon #SizzleAndSmoke #FireAndFlavor