Cedric the Entertainer: Comedy Legend, TV Star, and Now BBQ Restaurateur
Cedric the Entertainer has long been a household name in the world of comedy and television. From his standout performances on “The Neighborhood” and “Barbershop” to his iconic role on the “Original Kings of Comedy” tour, Cedric’s influence reaches across entertainment genres. In 2025, Cedric the Entertainer is serving up more than just laughs—he’s now bringing authentic barbecue to Los Angeles alongside fellow comedian Anthony Anderson.
A Comedic Duo Turned Culinary Team
With years of comedic chemistry as well as a shared passion for great food, Cedric the Entertainer and Anthony Anderson recently unveiled their highly anticipated barbecue restaurant, AC Barbeque, in the bustling Westfield Century City mall. Their new venture quickly gained attention, drawing hungry crowds eager to taste their spin on classic barbecue recipes.
Despite an early challenge with permitting, the restaurant bounced back almost immediately. According to the Los Angeles Times, the temporary closure was purely paperwork related and not due to any food safety issues. In just a few days, Cedric the Entertainer and his team were fully operational again, much to fans’ delight.
At AC Barbeque, visitors can enjoy a range of mouthwatering options. The menu boasts brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken, St. Louis-style pork ribs, and a collection of Southern-inspired sides such as mac and cheese, brisket baked beans, and sweet potato fries. With help from local pitmaster Burt Bakman, each dish captures the rich flavors and cultural heritage of barbecue.
Highlighting Black Culture Through Cuisine
Cedric the Entertainer is determined to do more than just serve tasty food. AC Barbeque is the first brick-and-mortar extension of “Kings of BBQ,” Cedric and Anthony's A&E TV show, which journeys across America exploring barbecue's history, flavors, and cultural significance. The duo uses both their show and new restaurant to honor Black culture and its profound contributions to the traditional barbecue experience, adding depth and meaning to every meal served.
For more on their restaurant launch and intentions to celebrate Black culinary traditions, visit this feature article.
Beyond Food: Community and Experience
The excitement surrounding AC Barbeque underscores Cedric the Entertainer’s enduring commitment to community. Before their Los Angeles debut, the brand experimented with virtual dining pop-ups at locations like Jackson State University and Howard University. These ventures set the stage for their thriving sit-down restaurant in Century City, which promises to host guest pitmasters, feature special events, and regularly offer new culinary surprises.
As Cedric the Entertainer continues to make audiences laugh, he’s also infusing joy and unity into Los Angeles’s food scene. His new barbecue joint stands as a testament to hard work, creativity, and the power of shared meals.
Visit AC Barbeque
Craving authentic, celebrity-backed barbecue? Head over to the Westfield Century City’s Dining Terrace on Santa Monica Blvd and discover what Cedric the Entertainer and Anthony Anderson have cooked up. For hours, story highlights, and a taste of what’s on the menu, check out the LA Times coverage.
Cedric the Entertainer’s legacy grows with every punchline and every flavorful bite. Don’t miss out on the city’s newest and most talked-about culinary adventure!