2025 BBQ Trends You Need to Try

(And the Best Spices to Go with Them)

BBQ in 2025 is shaping up to be bolder, smokier, and more adventurous than ever. Whether you’re a backyard grill master or a smoking enthusiast, staying ahead of the latest grilling trends means you’ll need the right tools—and even better spices. At Paia Spice Company, we’ve got the perfect seasoning blends and salts to elevate every sizzling bite.

Trend #1: Reverse-Searing is the New Searing

Reverse-searing, where you slowly bring meat to temperature before finishing it with a high-heat sear, gives you better control and jaw-dropping flavor. It’s a favorite for thick steaks and pork chops.

Try it with:

Big Haole’s Kiawe Seasoning – This smoky all-purpose blend was made for steaks. Use it before your low-temp oven or smoker session, then finish over direct heat for a crust that crackles with flavor.

Trend #2: Pellet Grills are Taking Over

Pellet grills are no longer niche—they’re redefining outdoor cooking. With precise temperature control and wood pellet options, they offer convenience without compromising on smoky depth.

Try it with

Big Haole’s Blackened Seasoning – Slightly smoky with a citrusy hint from lemon basil, it’s perfect for blackened chicken, fish, or even tofu. The lower heat of pellet grills brings out its complexity without burning the delicate herbs.

Trend #3: DIY Dry-Aging at Home

Thanks to new home dry-aging kits and fridges, BBQ lovers are embracing the art of dry-aging beef for rich umami flavor and tender texture.

Best rub match:

Aunty Jen’s Greek Seasoning – Packed with 12 herbs and spices, this Mediterranean blend enhances dry-aged beef with bold herbal notes that complement its savory depth. Bonus: it’s excellent on lamb or grilled flatbreads too.

Trend #4: Fruit & Heat Fusion

Hot-and-fruity combos are in, with chefs pairing habanero heat with tropical fruits and BBQ.

Game-changer:

Aunty Jen’s Hela Wela Seasoning – Developed with BBQ pitmaster Dana Leatherwood, this blend delivers mouth-tingling heat that builds with flavor. It’s perfect on grilled mango chicken, fish tacos, or even brunch dishes like eggs and avocado toast.

Trend #5: Salts that Finish the Show

Finishing salts are making their way from fine dining into BBQ. A final sprinkle just before serving adds texture, color, and complex flavor.

Top picks:

- - Kiawe Smoked Sea Salt – Finish brisket or ribs with a bold, smoky kiss.
  - Black Lava Paʻakai – Adds color contrast and subtle earthiness to grilled seafood or veggies.
  - Red Alaea Paʻakai – The go-to for traditional Hawaiian BBQ like kalua pork.
  - Bamboo Jade Salt – Sprinkle over grilled pineapple or avocado toast for a subtle umami kick.

Spice Up Your Grill Game

The best BBQ rubs in 2025 aren’t just about heat—they’re about balance, depth, and storytelling through flavor. From reverse-seared ribeyes to smoky pellet-grilled wings, Paia Spice Company has handcrafted blends to match every grilling innovation. Stock up, fire up, and get ready to taste the trends.

2025 BBQ Trends You Need to Try