A little tornado warning was NOT going to keep these carnivores from tasting some great meat, sipping on some cool cocktails and enjoying a nice brewski in between. On Saturday September 8, 2012 Randall's Island Park was home to Meatopia, a festival completely dedicated to the love of meat. Chef's from all over the world came to compete in a chance to prove who's meat reigns supreme. 

Walking into the tented lawn event, our first stop was the "Raising the Bar" tent which showcased several cocktails served from whiskey barrels and featuring George Dickel Tennessee Whisky. The experience featured renowned designer and artist Jimmy Diresta (from Discovery Channel’s Dirty Money), who built an entire bar during the event. The amazingly delicious cocktails, served into glasses via ladle and beautifully partnered with fruits that both soaked up and enhanced the cocktail, was the perfect first (and last) stop.

As you continued through the event, the smell of perfectly cooked meat filled the air and goodies, such as homemade ketchup and eco-friendly totes, could be scooped up from various tents. There was no way goers of the event were letting anything rain on their meat parade. If you missed Meatopia and all it had to offer this year, be sure to buy your ticket next year. It's an event that is not to be missed! And don't forget to check out our gallery for some amazing cocktail recipes.