Grilling is one of Black men’s favorite pastimes. For Bando chef Fifty Ru from Raleigh, North Carolina, it is not only his passion but his career.
On June 15, at Littyindacity SG Dash BG ENT.’s All-White Baddies Bash Pool Party in Atlanta, Ru spoke to rolling out about his career and Black masculinity.
Why do fathers need to teach younger generations about grilling?
Being Black, that’s No. 1, just being there. You have to be there. As Black fathers, we have a bad reputation for not being there. If you’re not there for your kid, you can’t come around me. You have to know how to feed yourself. It’s not just grilling …
Father’s Day is for the real fathers — not the holiday fathers, the birthday fathers or on special occasions. It’s for the 24/7 fathers. Happy Father’s Day.
What is so special about fatherhood?
Keeping it a hop? My b— a– daddy wasn’t around like that. I’ve got seven kids, but I don’t know, once I had a kid, my life changed. Nothing else matters. When all my babies are smiling, I’m smiling.
What do you have on the grill today?
We’ve got brisket, lamb chops, and ribs. I’m about to put the ribeyes and lamb chops on. Man, if you aren’t here, you’re missing the f— out.
When was the first time you got on the grill?
I was like 19 years old. My mother was the one who put me on. I’ve been in the kitchen since I was like 5 years old. It’s a passion. I love this s— to be out here in this heat. It’s a great time and a great vibe. I might jump in that pool later on.
Where can people find you on social media?
@Fifty_Ru17, @bando_chefs on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and Snapchat.
