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Lil Boy BBQ (Courtesy photo)
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You may be surprised to learn that two of Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival’s newest Rise & Dine participants are not actually from the Lone Star State. The Alaskan natives and brothers behind the Lil Boy Blue BBQ pop-up supper clubs have mastered the subtle art of Southern genteelness, barbecue and perfectly curated immersive dinners. 

Reggie Robinson is one-half of the culinary team behind the scenes. Alongside him is Cedric Robinson, also a former educator and barbecue enthusiast, who applies his own unique brushstrokes to the canvas of their culinary journey. And while I’m proud to call them my friends, the brothers’ talents are indisputably noteworthy.

The Robinson brothers, Cedric and Reggie. (Courtesy photo)

Their venture into food stands not only as a celebration of their grandfather’s legacy but also as a living canvas where art, history and culinary innovation converge. The flavors, intention and emotion that characterize their pop-up events are a testament to an interplay of diverse influences, creating an experience that resonates beyond traditional barbecue. 

They recently participated in the food festival’s Night Market, a 2023 event showcasing Lil Boy Blue BBQ’s offerings. Since that event, Reggie has joined the board of directors for the celebrated Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival.

Together, Reggie and Cedric curate themed dinners ranging from classic soulful Southern dishes to white linen fine dining. Their culinary spectacle is not just a feast for the senses but a testament to their harmonious collaboration. This year, the pair behind the popular super clubs will strut their stuff at the festival’s Rise + Dine event, bringing their unique food interpretation to brunch.  

Reggie captures the sentiment of both chefs: “We’re storytellers with a connective lens. We subscribe to the philosophy that food is the voice of our experience; it has the ability to make us smile, to surprise us, to comfort us. Our work allows us to source enchantment, then convert it into experiences for those looking for spaces to feel seen, and to be present. Ced always says, ‘We make food that inspires a more pronounced ability to love.’ And when we do it well, when it’s truly special, I think what our food does best is help us remember.” 

Dish with Deah

For more about Deah Mitchell or the Dish with Deah columns, click here.

And that it does. 

A remembrance of familial bonds, and how food can cross boundaries to create edible art. 

Follow the duo on social media platforms @LilBoyBlueBBQ and for a full lineup of Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival events check here: 

Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival Details 

The 10th annual festival, produced by the Fort Worth Food + Wine Foundation, promises an unparalleled culinary experience, showcasing the best of local talent alongside nationally recognized culinary personalities. 

● Date: April 4 – 7, 2024 

● Location: Heart of the Ranch at Clearfork, 5000 Clearfork Main St., Fort Worth

● Tickets: Available online at fwfwf.org, starting at $55. Ticket covers all of the food and beverages you can (responsibly) consume at the event, so come ready to eat.

EVENTS: 

Tacos + Tequila – The city’s hottest couple promises lots of sizzle.

■ April 4 

■ General Admission: 8-10 p.m. | $55 

The Main Event – The signature event promises bites from the culinary community’s best.

■ April 5

■ Early Entry: 5:30-9 p.m. | $199 

■ General Admission: 6:30-9 p.m. | $135 

Rise + Dine – This ultimate brunch experience includes a taste of Lil Boy Blue BBQ. 

■ April 6 

■ Early Entry: 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | $89 

■ General Admission: Noon – 2:30 p.m. | $65 

Burgers, Brews + Blues – Celebrate a trio of all-American classics at this rockin’ party.

■ April 6

 ■ Early Entry: 5:30-9 p.m. | $129 

■ General Admission: 6:30-9 p.m. | $85 

Ring of Fire – Enjoy the cookout concept on a whole new level. 

■ April 7

■ Early Entry: 1-5 p.m. | $129 

■ General Admission: 2-5 p.m. | $85 

● For an exclusive festival experience, Weekender Passes are available for $649, including early entry to all five signature events and VIP area-access throughout the event (limited availability of 50 passes). Or go all-in with The Kit, a discounted package with general admission access to all signature events at a 10% discount.