Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion Year-Round
As Pride Month kicks off, Dan DeFossey, CEO of Pinche Gringo BBQ, speaks about how diversity and inclusion have been integral to their recipe since day one. While thousands prepare for marches on June 28th in Mexico City, Pinche Gringo BBQ is already celebrating – with their grill fired up and a clear stance in favor of inclusion and diversity.
The restaurant has dedicated its programming to Pride events this week, but their commitment goes beyond seasonal celebrations; it’s structural. “We’re not a gay place; we’re a place for everyone,” asserts Dan DeFossey, co-founder and CEO of the brand. “Here, everyone is welcome. What I’m most proud of is that our tables are filled with diverse people: different genders, orientations, stories, and accents. That’s the magic of BBQ.”
From Drag Shows to Live Music: Safe Spaces for Authenticity
Pinche Gringo BBQ has transformed its spaces into safe havens where authenticity is not only respected but celebrated. According to Dan, this isn’t a marketing campaign; it’s a statement of principles.
“Diversity isn’t a trend. It’s one of the fundamental values of our business, and we’ve upheld it for 12 years,” DeFossey emphasizes.
Including Deportees: Breaking Barriers for Reintegration
Beyond celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, Pinche Gringo BBQ’s inclusive employment has also extended to deportees from the United States. The idea emerged when, while hiring deportees who spoke English, Dan noticed that many shared a common background: they had been expelled from the U.S. and faced barriers reintegrating into Mexico.
“We hired people with tattoos, those who spoke Spanish differently or hardly at all, who came with strong cultural shock. Instead of judging them, we welcomed them,” DeFossey recounts.
The restaurant has been a sanctuary and growth platform for many of these individuals, with a clear hiring policy from day one: merit above all.
“Here, your origin, weight, or accent don’t matter. We measure everyone by their performance and commitment. This way, we’ve built an incredibly diverse and solid labor community.”
From a Food Truck to CDMX’s Best BBQ
What began as a smoker trailer parked in Narvarte in 2013 is now a must-visit for those seeking authentic Texan BBQ in Mexico City. Pinche Gringo BBQ offers smoked brisket for 14 hours, ribs, pulled pork, turkey, and even BBQ-style pizzas, all cooked using artisanal smoke and time techniques.
“We sell between 15 and 20 tons of meat a month,” Dan assures. “We have two main restaurants, five quick-service locations, and a Pinche Bar with a live music stage. The experience goes beyond the plate.”
DeFossey’s Texan influence dates back to his time with Teach for America in Texas, where he lived for three years, learned to smoke brisket from a neighbor, and absorbed the essence of Southern U.S. culture. After working at Apple and becoming the Latin America marketing director, he decided to venture in Mexico and bring a piece of Texas with every bite.
A Smoke-Filled Party with Music and Community
On July 4th, Pinche Gringo BBQ will host its annual Independence Day celebration, considered the largest outside the U.S. Over 2,500 attendees are expected, with live music, fireworks, and the legendary brisket contest, where the record stands at 32 servings in 8 minutes.
“This year is particularly special. We’re not only celebrating 248 years of independence but also standing up for values we believe are threatened: democracy, inclusion, and freedom. We want this party to serve as a reminder of that,” Dan reflects.
Though rooted in American traditions, the celebration is deeply embedded in Mexican soil. Most attendees are Mexican, some having lived in the U.S., others marrying Americans or sharing cultural affinity. “Here, they experience an authentic party they couldn’t have had back there,” DeFossey smiles.
More Than a Restaurant: A Community Hub
Pinche Gringo BBQ doesn’t just serve meat; it serves community. In times of polarization, their commitment to inclusion, second chances, and shared culture has turned them into more than just a restaurant. Their tables embody diversity, not just a discussion but daily practice.
“For 12 years, we’ve celebrated what makes us different. That’s the secret recipe of Pinche Gringo,” Dan concludes.
Key Questions and Answers
- What makes Pinche Gringo BBQ unique? Their commitment to diversity and inclusion, extending beyond seasonal celebrations and into their hiring practices.
- How does Pinche Gringo BBQ support deportees? By providing employment opportunities and a welcoming environment, helping them reintegrate into Mexican society.
- What is Pinche Gringo BBQ’s connection to Texas? Dan DeFossey’s time living in Texas, learning to cook brisket, and absorbing Southern U.S. culture.
- What events does Pinche Gringo BBQ host? Annual Independence Day celebrations, live music nights, and brisket contests.
- How does Pinche Gringo BBQ define success? By their commitment to merit-based hiring and fostering a diverse, solid labor community.
