8 chefs reveal their go-to barbecue sauce

“My favorite barbecue sauce is Open Pit. It’s a Chicago based family recipe that has the right unique spices. A thin sauce that is perfect for bbq meats.” — Chef Kodak, Private Chef and Owner of Kodak's Kitchen in Atlanta, GA

“My favorite bbq sauce (might I add, barbecue sauce is my favourite condiment?) is KC Masterpiece. It has the perfect smokiness mixed with right amount of sweetness.” — Chef Nikki of Nikki Can Cook and alumni Food Network's "America's Best Cook" Season 1

“The Sonny’s BBQ Sizzlin’ BBQ Sauce is one of my favorite go-to sauces because it adds a nice kick to anything I slather it on! No one ingredient is too overpowering, and its tomato base helps mellow out the aged cayenne and jalapeños — making it spicy, yet still palatable for most. This can be used over your choice of protein, but I love it on ribs, brisket, and even grilled vegetables.” — Head Pitmaster Bryan Mroczka, Sonny’s BBQ

“My favorite barbecue sauce is Dinosaur Bar-B-Que’s Wango Tango. I love it as it is spicy, but 'barbecue-y' at the same time. The spice is just enough that you know it’s there, but it’s not the only thing you taste. I use it on everything at home from chicken to sandwiches (mixed with mayo it’s a great spread).” — Nick Pelliccione, executive chef and director of Food and Beverage Operations at Hyatt Centric Times Square New York

“I feel that Sweet Baby Ray’s has the best taste to balance the senses of the tongue. If you want to add your own flavors to it, it's won’t be overpowering to the point where all hope is lost. I think that makes a great sauce. Remember: a great sauce should be able to go with anything and Sweet Baby Ray’s does just that. Besides making my own, this is my choice any day.” — Chef Isaac "Izzo" Walker, celebrity private chef

“I use this sauce all the time and for everyone I cook for if I’m not making my own. It has a true homemade taste and a subtle kick. I use it at home a lot  and it’s actually in my refrigerator right now. Although it’s a little bit more expensive than other traditional barbecues that you purchase, the flavor makes it all worth it.” — Chef Danie, Celebrity Chef

"I used to live in Eastern North Carolina and this is the closest over-the-counter sauce to making it yourself! I close my eyes and I can smell the Pamlico Sound." — Libbie Summers, chef and Creative Culinary Director, Terra's Kitchen

“When I don’t make my own barbecue sauce, I am a fan of 4 Rivers Barbecue sauce that is available for purchase in Publix. Its a balance of smoke, heat and sweet and what’s also great is that it is a product made right here in Florida.” — Norman Van Aken, chef of Three Restaurant in Miami and 1921 by Norman Van Aken in Mt. Dora, Florida

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