The popular Key Biscayne annual Rib-off competition is returning for its 20th year on Saturday with some notable changes — and a new way for fans to weigh in on their favorite food. The charity event at the Yacht Club is in memory of Dr. Bob Kemper, a beloved local physician and raises money for student doctors. 

Changes this year 

Rib-Off organizer York Flik said the cookoffwill largely keep its traditional format but introduce a new competition category –– a People’s Choice award for the best side-dish. “The side dishes tend to be better than the ribs, at least, in my opinion.” he said. 

But there’s a more practical reason – unlike previous years, the entry fee will no longer include a buffet. To keep plenty of food available, teams are being asked to boost both their rib output and side offerings.

“The club is donating the space. The club is not actually organizing any of the event,” Flik said. As a result, the organizers will be working more closely with the Key Biscayne Community Foundation to coordinate security and staff to run the competition.  “We’re asking teams to make additional sides so we can help have enough food for everyone to be at the event.”

IF YOU GO:
Location: Key Biscayne Yacht Club
Time: 2-9 p.m.
Parking: Crossbridge Church 160 Harbor Dr.
Tickets: Click here

The Yacht Club will remain open to all, putting more responsibility on organizers to control access to the charity area. 

“Unlike years past, the club will remain open for everybody, even non rib-off participants. The onus will be on us to monitor the facilities.
Flik urged the public to purchase tickets online in advance.

Medical Student Scholarship

The event is named for Dr. Kemper, who started a tradition of barbecuing ribs at home that later expanded into the event that today features live music amid the haze of charcoal, wood, and the aroma of spiced pork.

Kemper had a passion for community medicine,  and  award recipients must demonstrate respect for patients, faculty, peers with altruism, compassion, and empathy.  

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2026 Winners of the Robert Kemper, M.D. Award for Professionalism in Medicine, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (Key Biscayne Community Foundation via KBI)

Winners this year are Rima Avellan and Joel Mantilla, FIU College of Medicine seniors who demonstrated the values of professionalism, according to Dr. Eugenio Rothe, an FIU professor. 

Despite the logistical changes, Flik said Rib-off organizers are focused on keeping the day enjoyable. 

 As of Monday, the National Weather Service forecast called for a 40% chance of rain with a chance of thunderstorms. It is forecast to be humid with highs near 80ºF.

“It’s rain or shine,” Flik said. “It’s gonna be a lot of fun. We just keep our fingers crossed.”

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Editor-in-Chief

Tony Winton is the editor-in-chief of the Key Biscayne Independent and president of Miami Fourth Estate, Inc. He worked previously at The Associated Press for three decades winning multiple Edward R. Murrow awards. He was president of the News Media Guild, a journalism union, for 10 years. Born in Chicago, he is a graduate of Columbia University. His interests are photography and technology, sailing, cooking, and science fiction.