Touring grill ready to sizzle in Arlington Heights

The Johnsonville Big Taste Grill — the world’s largest touring grill — will be rolling into Mariano’s Fresh Market Saturday, Aug. 13, at the Northwest Highway store in Arlington Heights and Sunday, Aug. 14, for the Vernon Hills Grand Opening on Milwaukee Avenue. Brat proceeds will benefit the Elk Grove Village Rotary Club.

The semi-truck-sized grill weighs in at 53,000 pounds and measures 65 feet long, 20 feet high and six feet in diameter. It has the ability to hold up to 10 grillers, preparing 750 brats at a time — that’s 2,500 brats an hour.

The Johnsonville Big Taste Grill has a history of helping communities like Vernon Hills/Arlington Heights. Since it was first introduced in 1995 as part of Johnsonville Sausage’s 50th anniversary celebration, the Big Taste Grill has helped raise more than $3 million for charitable groups and organizations throughout North America.

The Big Taste Grill travels year-round throughout North America, grilling brats and helping raise money for deserving organizations. In addition to countless local events, including state fairs, community festivals and air shows, the grills have also appeared at a number of major events over the years.

For example, the Big Taste Grill has appeared at several Super Bowls, the Daytona 500, the Kentucky Derby, the Pentagon and more.

“The Big Taste Grill is a great tool that gives Johnsonville another way to support the communities where we do business,” said Ryan Pociask, Johnsonville senior brand manager.

“We know Johnsonville brats are a favorite among consumers, and we’re glad they’re also a great way we can help raise money for local organizations. All are welcome.”

Head to either Mariano’s Fresh Market locations from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13, at 802 W. Northwest Hwy., Arlington Heights, or Sunday, Aug. 14, at 1720 N. Milwaukee Ave., in Vernon Hills.

For more information about the Johnsonville Big Taste Grill, visit www.johnsonville.com/bigtastegrill. For recipes and cooking tips, visit www.johnsonville.com.

Follow Grill Master Ryan’s Blog at www.bigtastegrill.com.

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