DUNWOODY, Ga. — The Atlanta Kosher Barbecue Festival returned Sunday with 15 teams competing in brisket, ribs, chicken and chili, while drawing attendees from across metro Atlanta to a new location near Perimeter Mall.
Jacqueline Morris, executive director of the Atlanta Jewish Life Foundation, said the festival is designed to bring together Jewish residents across different levels of religious observance, while also welcoming non-Jewish attendees.
“It’s one of the few events in Atlanta where any person, Jew or non-Jew, no matter how kosher, can attend,” Morris said. “Everyone from Orthodox to Reform is welcome in the same spot. Everyone can eat, which is always a rarity.”
To maintain kosher standards, organizers provide the meat, grills, utensils and other cooking equipment used by competitors. Kansas City Barbecue Society-certified judges evaluate the entries…