The Story Behind Bear Down BBQ & Smoked Foods
Roots in the Kitchen
Orlando’s journey with food began in a modest kitchen alongside his mom in Chicago, Illinois. His hardworking, single mother of three somehow managed to create delicious meals out of very little. As the oldest, Orlando took on the responsibility of cooking for his two younger brothers after school—not out of passion, but out of necessity, since their mom worked two jobs.
At the time, cooking felt like a chore. But what Orlando didn’t realize was that those moments were planting the seeds of a lifelong passion. Over time, the kitchen shifted from being a duty to become a sanctuary—a place to create, reflect, and express. Inspired by his mom’s creativity and resilience, Orlando developed a deep love for cooking and the joy it brings when shared with others.
BBQ Memories
with Dad
One of Orlando’s most vivid childhood memories is tagging along with his dad to his favorite BBQ spot on the West Side of Chicago. His dad always ordered a half slab of ribs with potato salad, while Orlando got his own messy, smoky plate of rib tips. That BBQ wasn’t just food—it was a ritual. It was flavor, love, and belonging all wrapped into one unforgettable meal.
Backyard
Experiments
As a teenager, Orlando began trying to recreate those same bold, smoky flavors in his own backyard. With every trial, every mistake, and every breakthrough, he wasn’t just learning how to cook—he was learning how to tell stories through food. Stories of family, resilience, and shared moments.
From Passion to Purpose
Bear Down BBQ & Smoked Foods is the result of that journey. It’s not just about smoked meats and bold sauces—it’s about honoring roots. Every dish carries the legacy of a young boy learning to cook out of necessity, of a mother’s quiet strength, of BBQ runs with dad, and the discovery of purpose through fire and smoke.
Taste the Story
At Bear Down, we don’t just serve food—we serve stories.
We bring people together through flavor, memory, and the kind of soul-satisfying experience that sticks with you… just like sauce clings to smoked meat.