Mel Chmilar Jr., better known as @darksideofthegrill! Hailing from the BBQ heartland, this self-taught pit master and live fire legend is blazing a trail in the BBQ community, and he's no stranger to the Land Down Under.

Mel is not just your average BBQ maestro; by day, he's a journeyman welder, but when the sun sets, he's a Pitmaster. Known for his epic, outrageous, and highly skilled cooks, Mel takes the spotlight on social platforms, bringing the magic of his EGGs straight to your backyard in friendly, positive, and easy-to-follow tutorials.

A Certified KCBS BBQ judge, Mel has not only judged the best but has also shared his expertise in live fire and BBQ classes, mind-blowing demos, and the art of whole animal/meat processing. Mel earned his spot as a chosen competitor at the prestigious World Food Championships, showcasing his exceptional skills on the global stage.

Mel's unique BBQ personality has lit up TV networks, and he's currently rocking the airwaves with his weekly After the Cook podcast, featuring NHL, NFL, and cooking stars from around the globe. And guess what? Mel is a frequent flyer to Australia, where he pleases crowds with his culinary prowess at events across the country, generously sharing his EGGciting skills.

When Mel first stepped into the world of BBQ, he experimented with every grill imaginable, but his heart was always drawn to the allure of live fire and real wood smoking. Through BBQ competitions and festivals, he fell head over heels for the Big Green Egg. This versatile cooking marvel stole his heart with its ability to sear, cook low and slow, engage in real wood smoking, and even wok cooking. Mel isn't just a weekend warrior; he fires up his EGGs daily!

Keep your eyes peeled, because @darksideofthegrill is gearing up to make waves at major events and festivals in the Australian BBQ community. Get ready to experience the thrill of the grill like never before – the Mel Chmilar Jr. way!