Darnell Ashley, owner of Ashley’s Bar-B-Que in Milwaukee tested his barbecue skills this summer for the Cooking Channel’s “Big Bad BBQ Brawl” as he competed against Brooklyn chef and show host, Shannon Ambrosio. The episode will air Oct. 3 at 9 p.m.
Ashley has owned the restaurant, located on 1501 W. Center St., for 20 years. His father first opened the business in the 1960s.
“Getting this opportunity means everything to me,” Ashley said. “I call myself the king of barbecue and I really take pride in my food.”
Ambrosio teamed up with Michael Feker, owner of Il Mito and Zesti restaurants in Wauwatosa and Hartland, while Ashley was accompanied by his son, Jazz. Judging the competition was Wendi Devan of Wisconsin Public Television’s “Wisconsin Foodie” and publisher of Edible Milwaukee magazine. Devan also owns Milwaukee-based sausage company, SA Braai.
The episode is set at The Landing at Hoyt Park in Wauwatosa and the beer garden will host a viewing party in its Grand Hall for the Oct. 3 airing. Food by Ashley’s Bar-B-Que will be available.
“Since the filming, its been shocking, people have been coming (to Ashley’s Bar-B-Que) from all over to try the rib tips and the shoulder,” Ashley said. “It’s a blessing.”
Other local restaurant have been spotlighted recently. The Cooking Channel’s “Cheap Eats” and “Seaside Snacks & Shacks” programs featured Milwaukee restaurants and food in episodes that aired on Sept. 13 and Sept. 14.
