Shouts to Buns for the Trillest Burger in America
After years of being “fascinated” by the culinary arts, Legendary Houston rapper Bun B has proven himself to not only be an admirer, but a strong contender in the food industry. Just one year following the launch of his pop up restaurant Trill Burgers, Bun B and his head chef Mike Pham have shattered the competition in winning Good Morning America’s United States of Burger’s competition. That’s right fam, Bun B’s OG Trill Burger has been crowned the best in America!
What This Means: The intersection of Black Entertainment and Food is having a big moment of recognition in popular culture, and we are here for it. More and more often we are seeing our faves step forth and diversify their business portfolios in the food space. Check out this list of examples. Whether they are founding food companies, stepping into co-ownership, or in the kitchen whipping it up, these Black celebs are making their mark in a big way.
But aside from supporting some of our favorite celebs, this venture of the Black celebrity into the food and drink industry has a much deeper significance. In our community, food and entertainment have always gone hand in hand. Whether that be family meals after church service, summer BBQs, or potluck parties, us Black folk have always placed an inherent value on food and fun. It’s a way that we’ve been able to connect by emphasizing family and community during hard times and in times of celebration. And historically, we haven’t gotten the due credit that we’ve deserved for pioneering the global tradition of marrying food and entertainment. But Oh how the tables have turned. ‘Cause mama we made it and the news is everywhere!
Black Food in Houston: When discussing tradition, it’s impossible to leave out Houston, Texas. Black folks in Houston have a long and very esteemed history in the culinary arts. Did you know that the earliest instance of barbeque in Texas came from African Americans during slavery? That’s right! We’re all grateful that traditional African meals like this have trickled down to us over time. Episode 4 of Netflix’s High On The Hog traces some of these African food traditions and how they’ve shaped the historical landscape of food amongst Black folks in Houston.
Local Spots: Today, there are roughly 700 Black owned Houston restaurants, food trucks, and bars. Each of these businesses continues Houston’s Black food legacy and honors the city’s rich culinary history with the inclusion of traditional dishes on their menus.
One restaurant that does this is Lucille’s. Like many other establishments, Lucille’s prides itself on being “defined by history” and it is evident that they are heavily inspired by the food traditions of our ancestors. If you’re looking for a few more Black owned Houston restaurants to try out during your next visit, we got you.
Houston’s Black chefs and entrepreneurs continue to put on for the city and Bun B is no exception. Big ups to Bun B on his monumentous achievement and a major salute for driving our history and culture forward on the National stage. Be sure to check out his Houston pop up and be on the lookout for the Trill Burgers brick-and-mortar storefront coming soon.
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