The smoky aroma of brisket, pulled pork and sizzling tomahawks filled the air as Brethren Brewing Co. in Manteca hosted the inaugural 209 Meat Up — a community-driven barbecue celebration that brought together food lovers, pitmasters and social media influencers from across the country.
But the 209 Meat Up wasn’t about profit — it was about giving back.
Barbecue creators from across the region came to Manteca to serve free food, connect in person, and celebrate the community that supports them year-round…