Kansas City rolled out a warm welcome for Argentina supporters ahead of their World Cup Group J debut against Algeria, but a delicious rivalry quickly ignited: who truly masters the art of barbecue?
For South American fans, particularly Argentines, gathering over cold beer and grilled meat, known as “asado”, is as integral to their culture as soccer itself. Yet, in a region fiercely proud of its own barbecue traditions, visiting supporters have been keen to sample the local fare.
Lines snaked out the door at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, a local institution housed in a gas station that straddles the Kansas and Missouri sides of the metropolitan area.
This eatery, a favorite of celebrities like the late chef Anthony Bourdain, has seen a surge in business from World Cup visitors.
“To be able to be on the world stage here means a lot to the people who are in Kansas City, and they’re getting into the soccer spirit just as much,” said General Manager Victor Brummel.
In a city boasting over 100 barbecue restaurants, Brummel championed the local dry rub. “We don’t need to sauce anything up too much. We like to taste the meat, and we like to let it speak for itself,” he explained.
Despite the local acclaim, loyalty to asado runs deep for Argentina supporters. This was evident Monday evening as they convened for a meat-filled party at Mill Creek Park, another Kansas City landmark.
Fan Alejandro Cuenca, while at Joe’s, declared: “Nothing compares to a good Argentine barbecue. I wouldn’t miss an Argentine barbecue for anything.” He conceded, however, “But this one is very good.”
As the reigning champions prepare to face Algeria, with white-and-blue jerseys now ubiquitous across the city, the debate over barbecue supremacy may remain unsettled. Still, fans readily acknowledged the quality of the American offering.
“The Argentine barbecue is my favourite, but this one is really good,” supporter Cristian Gastes remarked while queuing for Joe’s famed brisket. His son, Roman, offered a succinct, “Amazing.”
Argentina will face Algeria on Tuesday night before taking on Austria and tournament debutants Jordan in Group J.
