Fargo-Moorhead Ribman returns for 20th year of smokin’ ribs

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — “It’s got the perfect blend of flavor, it’s amazing…I don’t think there’s anybody out at Rib Fest that has ribs as good as his,” said Joshua Rector.

Robert Byrd, or “The Ribman,” has been serving the Fargo-Moorhead metro for about 20 years. But the business of cooking ribs has been in his family long before he was even born.

“I remember being hauled all over the country with my father and his brother doing large events. And they built this. And we got what’s better known as Meals on Wheels. And it’s the best smoker in the world, it don’t never fail. I mean this one was built in 06’, and it’s still kicking,” said Robert Byrd, Rib Supreme Caters.

While his family has retired from the business of rib making, Byrd has made his own ventures throughout the area.

“I smoke these ribs, and that’s the art of learning how to do it. Real, good, smoked ribs. Just smoke them. It’s the difference between barbecue and smoking ribs,” said Byrd.

Many of Byrd’s customers are those who have been coming back for years. While Byrd is doing all the cooking, prepping, and serving, he says this is what he enjoys doing.

“To have people appreciate me for doing what I do, you know. And I appreciate them for letting me do what I do. So, that’s what it is all about. Being honest, being legit, you know we got a fair meal for a fair pay, that’s it,” said Byrd.

So how did he get the name Ribman?

“It was a customer. He couldn’t remember my name was Robert. But he remembered, I smoke ribs. So he just start calling me Ribman, and I said well, might as well put it on a license plate, so I did it,” said Byrd.

Juliana Pelaez KVRR Local News 1:58

You can find the Ribman set up shop outside of Used-a-Bit Sales & Pawn on Main Avenue throughout the summer.