The Family Behind LA’s Best Texas BBQ 

You can tell mom and dad did a great job raising those two. This very inspiring. Thanks to the family for sharing their story.

The way this man speaks, putting his mom and brother before himself, alone shows you how humble and grateful he is. Definitely deserves all the business and love.

This restaurant is amazing. I have eaten there for many years. It is as good as it looks. Ray was a great man and it was a hard loss. But the family endured and continues Ray’s legacy. I wish his family continued success and hope someday they can expand to new locations. Well done and I will return soon for that delicious BBQ.

Depression or whatever it is that causes someone to take their own life must be an awful thing. He obviously had loving children and a rock solid wife plus a thriving business. Hearing he took his own life hit hard. RIP and I wish his family continued success.

I worked there for a short time and I can honestly say it’s a great environment. Rene was such a passionate man for his BBQ and his legacy will live on for the city of HP through his family. The food is top tier and the service is amazing. A family owned hole in the wall is just the beginning. If you’re ever in the area stopping by is a must. You’ll be wanting to go back.

How does one type when tears are streaming down your face? Ray started a family business for generations to come but I hope the boys know it is time to create their own legacy together. One can't watch this without being heartbroken and inspired. The every day heroes are those who are left to pick up the pieces, continue on, and thrive as Raul and Sebastian are doing. Family first but don't miss out on living your own lives as well. The Ramirez family is an inspiration to us all. Thank you for sharing your family story.

I expected a story about BBQ and cooking. But instead got a story about love, honor and cooking. What a great family

Ray held on until he created a successful business and knew his kids had the tools to keep it going. That's a warrior in the realm of depression. God bless ya Ray, I hope you are at peace now, especially watching your 2 boys killing it because of you. Be good

What a couple of strong young men, and an even stronger family. The food looks delicious.

I teared up watching this - going to visit Ray's BBQ this year. What an incredible family!

I was not expecting such an impactful story, a family that is fighting against their struggles while acknowledging the pain that they have endured and find passion within it all.

I used to grow weed and live in a warehouse not 2 blocks down the road from this place. I moved away a few years ago, but Ray's brisket was always the best. I am so sad to hear of his passing. Ray used to always be so enthusiastic about bbq. I told him I went to Austin, TX and he got so excited to tell me that he started bbq because of what he'd seen out in Texas. His wife was always slicing the brisket in the back and his sons would get drinks and things like that. So cool to see them continuing things and I wish them the best.

Boys are very well spoken. Wish them much success

It's good to see them honor their father and continue his legacy!

Their dad raised two amazing and strong boys. Im 100% positive he is looking down on them smiling and super proud of how they grew up as amazing adults. their Mother is a very strong woman who became the foundation for her kids.

I'm going to call up and send money to this establishment from the east coast. They can feed the next customers who come in or use it to re-invest in this business. What this family has gone through and how much those two guys have grown up truly is inspiring. I wish this business overwhelming amounts of wealth and prosperity. Thank you for bringing such amazing businesses, stories, and people to us Munchies. Wow.

Strong family. Mature kids. Really rooting for y'all. ♥️🙏🏾💪🏾🔥

I’m born and raised right around the corner from this restaurant and have been going since they first opened. Ray was always super welcoming and loving. This family is amazing. May Ray rest in peace

I would support this place just because of how great these kids are doing. I wish more young kids behave and aspire like these kids. Thank you.

Met Ray and his family at the Houston BBQ Fest. He was a great guy. So passionate about BBQ and happy to be a part of it. Glad that the family is carrying on his legacy. RIP Ray.

Wow man heartbreaking and resilient at the same time. Those boys stepped up for their mom and sister!

What a beautiful family, I'm sure the dad is smiling down at them!

This hurt my heart, especially when the mom started crying. I feel for the entire family. The brothers too. You can tell they’re holding back tears, especially the older one. The father’s legacy lives on through them. It’s a very unfortunate situation. But they’re so strong for continuing the family business. I would love to visit LA and check them out. LONG LIVE RAY 🕊️

*THOSE BOYS DESERVE THE WORLD!!* Oh my God I came to see bbq & totally had my heart shattered & rebuilt by this story. God bless this family & the love Ray had for food & family. I have to try it when Im in LA next

Damn😭 this got me. I lost my bro to suicide and that shit never heals, you simply just learn to cope with it. It’s nice to see a family come together after such a huge loss. Much love and blessings to them❤️🙏🏻

Anyone who has worked in a restaurant knows how much of a grind it is. My father suffered from alcoholism and depression, very brave video to make, I hope to visit Im this restaurant some day. God bless 🙏

Dude no way his father passed 😢 I met that guy before the pandemic.. my condolences brother. 🕊 keep being great at what you guys do!🙏💙

Ray would be so proud to see where his sons are today.. what a story and the food looks amazing

My brother died by suicide in August. It sucks so hard but I'm so proud of this family for acknowledging that fact. The more we are open about it, hopefully the more lives we can save. Best wishes to the amazing Ramirez family.

Me and my friend are coming to LA in April all the way from Germany. We‘re going to this place 100%

Wow…what a story. This needs to be a movie! As a dad of two young men this broke my heart but made me so proud of you two young men. God is using you and your story to inspire others to keep their heads up and fight the good fight!!! I don’t know you personally but as a dad I just want to say “I am proud of you and your mom!!!!! Continue the American dream!

I had the privilege to meet Ray when I went to the restaurant a couple years back. super awesome dude. I did see the same thing his kids and other customers saw too. His passion for his craft and he actually really cared. His customer service was great as well. I wish his family the very best and cheering for them to continue forward.

Señora Ramírez, felicitaciones por formar una familia y un negocio exitosos. Tu esposo estaría muy orgulloso.

I cried when the mom cried. What a beautiful family business, I hope I can make the trip out this summer to try their BBQ.

Rest in peace Ray. I remember when he first opened his shop. It was an instant hit for us locals who love bbq.

RIP Ray. Good job keeping his legacy going. When I'm in LA I'll be stopping by.

So sad to hear about their dad, but he clearly raised two incredible kids who are humble and hard working. I’ll have to visit their shop when I’m down in LA. What an incredible story of perseverance and growth ❤

I wish this family the best! They seem honorable, strong, kind, talented and intelligent. May the next years to come treat them with the love they so much deserve!

Excellent piece. An immigrant family making the American dream happen. My own parents, having left war torn Korea in the aftermath of the Korean War, did the same thing. Both my parents have passed but their love for America and the life they built is a reminder of how the "melting pot of Democracy" still speaks truth. My condolences to the loss of their dad and pray for the family. And if I get out to L.A. again, I will have to stop by and try to barbecue.

God bless the mother. May your business forever flourish

I also lost my father to suicide in 2022. What inspires me most about these young men is their incredible strength, both in their will to carry in their father's legacy and their iron stoicism to get in front of the camera and talk about their life. My dad was also a chef , and I relate to the artisan-ship and passion that both had when it came to their work. It's art that you guys are creating when it comes to making your barbecue. To anyone reading this (even though I have no idea how because this comment was made 2 months after the video's publication), what the men in the video said is correct: everything will be alright. Even after I lost my most important person, even with the financial difficulties my family experienced after his passing, I'm still here on the other side. I still graduated high school, and my family members each still have something to look forward to in their own lives. Nothing in life isn't able to be overcome. To everyone, your loved ones want you alive. And if you think you have no loved ones, I want you in this side of the dirt.

So happy for Ray's. I used to work in Vernon off Soto and Fruitland and would frequent them. Legit best brisket I've ever had and was extremely sad to hear Ray passed. Entire family was always so warm and welcoming. Wish nothing but much continued success as it is more than well deserved.

I live down the block from this place! It’s nice to see them finally get more recognition.

These are the places in America that need to stay open and be supported by the community forever! I’ve never been there but man is it on my list next time I’m in CA! RIP Rene and thank you for your gift and sharing your family with America

Much love to all of you. It hit me seeing him holding back his tears, never hold back your tears - let it all out my man, this journey of life can hit us in weird ways but you never have to do anything alone,. Look at these comments here in this section, so much respect and recognition, you all have been blessed beyond comprehension and if could teleport to you guys and bring you money I would do it on a daily. You my friends are warriors of light, bringing joy through food and your passion for it is not unnoticed. Much love my friends

These guys are AWESOME some of the best barbecue I haver EVER eaten, their dad would be PROUD.

Very strong young men right there. You can tell older brother has to hold back his tears at times and little brother catches on as steps in to save him. The food is delicious because of all that love they put into it 🤌🏽

Sad to hear about Ray, I used to work near there when they opened. Absolutely best bbq I’ve had in LA.

I could not contain my tears from watching Ana. Both Ray and Ana where such and amazing soul. From starting on their backyard to owning their own business. I was glad to have met both. Always so humble and courteous with all his customers. Rene was always so generous even to help others in time of needs or for advice. The BBQ is the best I’ve tested. Blessings to them All Always. 😇🙏❤️

I'm salvi from my mom's side and this here makes me so proud to see. I remember when they would sell BBQ from their house and now own one of the best BBQ restaurants in LA 🇸🇻

I really hope and pray for these kids and their mother. I too lost my father who was the manager of a 16 member Mexican band, which me and my two older brothers were a part of. It was tuff the first year as we tried to manage his business. All I can tell you guys is to always support your mother, she is happy if you are both happy! That is key! It is important to communicate if this business is a passion for both of the kids as they grow older. If its not, then you are not dissapointing eachother or your mother or anyone, you have not let anyone down. May God bless this beautiful family and their business. Thanks Vice.

Awwwwww..... Hugs to mama. And the boys, too. I know the dad is looking down with pride.

I love seeing families work together. The fact they are successful is even better. 👏🏽👍🏽

The boys were forced to grow up way faster than they'd want to due to such an unfortunate event, but I can see that they are doing great & that they're keeping the family together. Good lads.

I also lost my dad around the same age as these two. It's amazing what this family has accomplished especially the two sons who have taken on the business and pushed it to new heights

Man this story touched me so much because I have 2 boys as well. Proud of you boys and y’all mother. God bless y’all Texas has you all in our prayers.

This Famiy is so inspiring. These boys are so strong and I know they are going to go far. I hope this community continues to support them and I will definitely visit one day when I visit California...

I Love The Respect They Have For Their Father. In addition, how they took on the responsibilities of the family business..🖤

Soooo sorry for your loss, I'm impressed with your families determination and strength to carry on your fathers legacy. I see a great future ahead for your family. Blessings to you all....

I’m sure their father is so proud of his boys. they didn’t stop and continued his legacy, they were taught good work ethic, they pull themselves up by their bootstraps. These family made me tear up… blessings.

What a beautiful story. I wish the best for this family.

This is such a bittersweet story. Heartbreaking and heartening at the same time. I wish this mom and two boys continued success.

BEST BBQ IN LA! HANDS DOWN!! IN LOVING MEMORY of Ray Ramirez🙏🏻 These gentlemen stepped up & keep it pushing beyond proud of them!

You men are an inspiration! Your Dad would be proud! I lost my Dad 10 years ago and it's still tough! You will find that the Kitchen in your Restaurant is the best Church! Best of luck to you guys!

Been following these guys for a while even before Rey passed away. It’s so awesome to see them on this channel. Well deserved for sure

The food here is off the scale AWESOME. Try the brisket burrito, it's huge, with giant pieces of mouthwatering brisket. Ray did a great job raising his sons to make excellent Texas BBQ in the heart of L.A.

What an amazing and beautiful family. I can feel the love radiating throughout the video-in the food, in their pride of what they’ve accomplished, and in the way they speak about one another, especially their father. I hope they continue inspiring with their strength! Would love to try their barbecue one day.

This is awesome. So lucky they are not far from me. I’m taking my family and friends there to support this family business and legacy.

You all are so strong. Thank you for sharing your story and I pray you receive peace and comfort eventually.

Wow. I was already crying and then when he said he died from suicide it hit different. I lost my mom to it in 2019. It really is a different type of pain. May god continue to bless this family. I have never been here but im in LA. Definitely going to stop by!

Awesome story and sorry about y'alls loss, may God bless your business and family, very nice to see y'alls family come together in such a hard time, much love from Texas 👋

Wow. This story is so touching. I cried watching the whole time. Sending all my love.

Tears in eyes watching this. It can break you down and build’s you up.

So heartbreaking yet inspiring by far the best munchies I’ve seen in a long time peace and love to ray and the family ❤

Thank you Munchies. Such a beautiful story for a beautiful family. I hope they continue and prosper. Making Ray insanely proud.

The sausages look incredible... The brisket sandwich also looked yum.. I wish it was not so far away... good place to visit one day

Definitely glad i came across this video!! I've been looking for a good bbq spot in the LA area and can never seem to find something as good as Texas bbq. Glad to see this family is working hard to overcome hardships and good to see that their fan base is supporting of them as well!

My sincerest condolences and appreciation to the family for continuing their father's legacy!

What a great story of love, passion, and perseverance. I wish this family all the success in the world!

I love this story. My condolences to mom and the kids. You make dad very proud and I wish you guys much success and happiness ❤

My God, your Father raised 2 incredible sons and I'm positive that he is very proud of the young men he's taught so well. Your mom is an amazing person and I wish your family the best.

These boys are so wise, grounded, and determined beyond their years...god bless 🙏

Keep at it boys, you got this.. Pitmaster Ray is very proud of you!! Greetings from South Texas and God bless you all.

suddenly just started tearing up at the end there. amazing people to continue to work and provide in spite of the struggles they've been through. will have to visit the next time im down in LA.

Respect to the two sons and the wife. 🙏

I came to this restaurant with my dad around the time it opened up and Ray was the nicest guy it. It was empty and he kept asking if we needed anything RIP

AMAZING family story! I wish you all the very best in this life. Thank you for being courageously vulnerable to share such an intensely personal experience. As a father who struggled quietly in this area, my family and I thank you!!❤

came to satisfy visual cravings and proceeded to hold back my tears for 10 minutes straight. what a beautiful and kind family, the soft spokenness of the men made my heart melt. all the power in the world to you!

Ray's BBQ restaurant is very good, the Ramirez family are very strong to open the restaurant a day before Ray passed away. What a beautiful story they shared of there family business. One thing that I would love to share to there son's is that they're still young to live life to the fullest and not to be scared to try out new dishes. Keep ur Dad's legacy going forever.

Those guys are an absolute credit to their parents. Wishing them all the success in the world 🍀

Food looks amazing. Awesome humble personalities the passion and dedication is there. Your Dad is smiling down on you boys he’s always in your heart & soul. Very touching god bless your success ❤️

Bro, I was about to write a very heart felted comment. But I will save it and instead will visit your shop when I come back to LA. Lotta love and respect for your family and business.

Wow. You are all amazing. Thank you for sharing your story so openly. I wish I had known about this store as I was just in the US (I live in New Zealand) but next time I am there I will make sure I visit as you are an amazing family and I love bbq! All the best family. …and thank you to Vice for creating the content and finding these stories.

my first thoughts were "they are so young" even though really i am not that much older than them - but i have nothing but praise for seeing Raul mixing the meat by hand because he knows he will get better results for it, even if it is harder than letting the mixer do it. What amazing dedication to their craft and restaurant and family.

I just found out yesterday and I am still processing the loss… Ray was a beautiful soul; caring, loving, encouraging, compassionate and a light to those around him… In addition, his family is the same. I felt the love in the greetings and through the preparation of the food. I spread the word by “Word of Mouth” on how delicious the food was and the love that just exuded from everyone there.. from Ray greeting, to the boys serving and to Ray’s wife preparing the food.. Yesterday when I found out, I had to read the article three (3) times because I couldn’t believe it… Someone asked me if he was my friend… It was at that point that I realized that Ray was not only everything a friend should be, but he can be considered family. Thank you all for sharing this story to help others and thank you for treating everyone with the love and honor that is so desperately needed. Thanks for treating everyone like FAMILY! Love, respect and condolences to the family, Raquel Jamerson

This was great. What wonderful, strong yet vulnerable people. I too work in food and can clearly see their fathers passion was passed down. What great kids they raised. Keep pushing yall

Ray built a strong and financially sound future for his people while fighting depression. It is not for us to judge how one deals with and experiences pain. Often with suicide, the sudden and traumatic end of one's life overtakes the memory of how one truly lived. Ray lived a lot of life before that last day and by most accounts, lived it well. Ending a long and hard-fought battle does not make one weak. We are all just doing what we can do and it has to be enough- even when it isn't. Ramirez Familia~ thank you for speaking on this and allowing us to share a part of your story. Suicide leaves a thick cloud of shame that lingers and festers until we air it out. My family is Mexican and it is life-saving to hear this family speak about their experience. In homes like mine, this is often never discussed which allows trauma to be passed down from generation to generation like we pass down our recipe box. It is relieving to witness this family break that cycle. For the rest of us who feel the weariness of life in our bones ~ remember that people often commit suicide when they are finally feeling a little better and can function. So when you start to plan and make moves towards that plan - take stock. You might just be feeling better.

After watching this I added this to my list of best food destinations I even teared up may God bless u all

Dad is a legend and you can tell the older son has pride for his family and his craft. 🔥🔥🔥

This family make a amazing BBQ job! 🤩🙏🥩 Greetings from Switzerland 🇨🇭 GOD bless you.