An innovative barbecue lifestyle brand, AC Barbeque, founded by Anthony Anderson and Cedric the Entertainer, seeks to unite people through flavorful food experiences. This unique venture combines global culinary traditions with a focus on family, heritage, and Black excellence. The actors collaborated with culinary experts to create signature seasonings, rubs, and sauces that have quickly gained popularity. Their product line was featured as one of "Oprah’s Favorite Things" in 2024, and they’ve partnered with Sodexo for campus kitchens at various universities. Additionally, their collaboration with Arby’s introduced two new barbecue sandwiches nationwide. In May 2025, AC Barbeque is set to open its first official restaurant in Beverly Hills. Beyond just food, this brand aims to inspire entrepreneurship among younger generations, particularly within the African American community.
The origins of AC Barbeque stem from the founders’ desire to celebrate a cultural tradition often overlooked in mainstream branding. Recognizing the absence of a national barbecue brand representing African Americans, Anderson and Cedric sought to fill this void. Their journey began with crafting exceptional flavors inspired by both regional and international cuisines. These efforts paid off immediately, earning recognition from influential figures like Oprah Winfrey. Furthermore, partnerships with major corporations such as Sodexo demonstrate their commitment to expanding access to high-quality barbecue experiences beyond traditional settings.
Beyond retail success, AC Barbeque emphasizes fostering connections within communities. One notable milestone occurred when the duo launched their first food truck at Howard University in early May. During this event, Anderson and Cedric shared insights into transitioning from acting careers to becoming entrepreneurs. They highlighted the importance of building sustainable businesses that contribute positively to society while acknowledging challenges faced along the way. For instance, balancing celebrity influence with sound business practices requires patience and strategic planning.
In addition to enhancing grilling techniques, AC Barbeque envisions itself as a comprehensive lifestyle brand. Future plans include developing specialized tools, hosting large-scale events akin to music festivals, and producing media content centered around barbecuing culture. By doing so, they aim to establish themselves not only as leaders in the culinary world but also as advocates for creativity and innovation across multiple industries.
Looking ahead, AC Barbeque envisions an expansive future where their presence extends far beyond restaurants or condiment aisles. With aspirations ranging from airport concessions to interactive backyard experiences, this dynamic duo continues to redefine what it means to embrace a shared love for good food. Through dedication and passion, they inspire others to pursue meaningful ventures rooted in personal values and cultural significance.