A popular London food festival dubbed “the best barbecue in the world” is taking place in Scotland for the first time.

Meatopia, taking place at SWG3 in Glasgow from June 6-8, 2025, will feature chefs from around the world, as well as local culinary talent, crafting unique dishes over open flames, alongside drinks and live music.

The festival began in 2013 and has since showcased some of the “biggest names in cooking” – from Yotam Ottolenghi to Fergus Henderson and Scotland’s youngest Michelin-starred chef, Sam Yorke, at Tobacco Dock in London.

Using only sustainable wood, charcoal and quality, responsibly sourced meat, fish and vegetables, the food is taste tested throughout the year, with each dish refined before being unveiled at the festival.

Last year’s event marked the 10th anniversary and welcomed more than 100 renowned chefs and 16,000 visitors.

The concept was introduced to the UK in 2013 by Mat Kemp, Richard Turner and James George.

Story Shop via Supplied

Creative director Mat Kemp believes Glasgow is the “perfect next stop” for the food and fire cooking festival.

He said: “Our festival is centered around world-class chefs each creating a dish, with the knowledge and influence of global fire-cooking culture, but using the finest local ingredients – and keeping it -eating Scottish is a dream come true for any cook. The cooks will have so much to play with.

“The success of Meatopia has been overwhelming. It sells out every year because it truly is a one-of-a-kind experience, founded to champion the use of naturally raised and produced, ethically sourced meat, fish and vegetables cooked only over a fire or smoke. It truly is the best barbecue in the world.

“Since Meatopia moved to Dublin in 2017, ’18 and ’19, we’ve traveled all over the UK to find somewhere to take it next, and Glasgow was the perfect fit.

“It’s about showcasing experienced cooks, centuries-old techniques and natural foods, and Glasgow has that in abundance. There is such an incredible food scene. More than anything else, I wanted Meatopia to be in Glasgow to give me an excuse to explore it more.

A limited run of early bird tickets (from £10) are now available for Meatopia, with the full line-up of chefs expected to be announced in the coming months.

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