Welcome to Zibo, China’s hottest tourist destination! Who would’ve thought that a city better known for its chemical production would steal the hearts of millions with its barbecue? Not us, that’s for sure. But here we are, in the middle of what can only be described as a Coachella for barbecue enthusiasts.
As you drive into town (because there is little else to do here), the flame-shaped neon archway welcomes you from miles away. It flickers between icy blue and red-hot because why not keep your eyes shifting between cool tones and warm tones every few seconds?
And if that isn’t enough to draw you in, how about posing with a mascot dressed like a meat skewer? That’s right folks; you too can wrap your arms around this phallic symbol and take home some unforgettable photos!
But wait, there’s more! You could watch live concerts against an LED backdrop of radiating flames while savoring succulent meats cooked on one of hundreds of grills scattered across 12 football fields’ worth of grounds. Just make sure to bring some patience because waiting hours for a table is part of the experience.
This sudden craze has transformed Zibo from an obscure city into something greater than even their wildest dreams! In March alone, Zibo welcomed 4.8 million visitors after it began attracting notice on social media… yes SOCIAL MEDIA – apparently it still works wonders even on those living under rocks.
If you think higher prices equal better quality food – Sorry pal but not here! Skewers at ‘the most popular restaurants’ start at just 15 cents which clearly screams QUALITY!!!
Zibo now offers so much joy to college students who first posted about their local BBQ style online- Don’t believe me?- The rise was purely accidental- amazing , simply mind-blowing Their gas-station charcoal-stoves-turned-tabletop BBQs have garnered devotion amongst DIY meal enthusiasts. And let’s not forget the sprig of green onion and hot sauce -another extra- that takes it over the top!
What’s more is all those “influencers” who followed suit & made sure to use their social media power for greater good, influencing others to flock here. With everyone fighting for a piece of meat – It was either follow the herd or risk being labeled as “uncool” – Tough choice TBH.
You want hospitality? You got it! Like seriously they offer it ALL !! Local residents will welcome you with open arms even if there are no hotels available (so not like China). Let them warm your heart(ha..ha..) by offering you freebies as soon as you arrive at the train station.
And for those craving human interaction after prolonged Covid lockdowns, Zibo has provided an elevated viewing platform at one of its most popular BBQ restaurants just so tourists can watch other diners through the cumin-scented smoke below. What could be better than watching strangers enjoy your food while festively sweating under intensified Chinese summer heat?
One local mentioned he grabbed a table around 6 p.m., having lined up since 3AM waiting patiently in traffic– I mean forget Disneyland!! This excitement-packed three-hour wait time seems unbeatable compared to any day-long amusement park rides,
But don’t worry;’ locals have done all they can to keep this frenzy alive pulling out all stops including staff sleeping only a couple hours each night and barbecue vendors unable to replenish produce from recently converted Vegetable markets.
For half-hearted souvenir hunters even pan-fried crisps have been added into the mix along with pumpkin-flavored crackers out-of-town visitors are showered with goodies on arrival…the ultimate tourist experience!
While some might fear prices rising or worse yet – shortage due to high demand,- Ms.Gao, factory owner is optimistic-“When there’s a shortage in the market, it’s easy to overreact, Let’s wait and see.” In other words- Trust the Craze.
So come on down & join us in Zibo for an unforgettable BBQ experience! Hoping you’re tall enough or at least donning a suit so as not to be too easily forgotten. We all need that new profile picture with our mascot – ahem meat skewer friend anyways. Aren’t we all sick of vague photos unidentifiable from any social media timeline? Here’s your chance: Don’t miss out ! Stop living life without some real excitement because who knows when will be your next chance to witness (the rise) first-hand!
