08/22/2026
Growing up Portuguese in NJ meant living two parallel lives — the child of immigrants at home, an American everywhere else. That duality shaped everything about who I am, and it’s a calling card I carry wherever I go.
Yesterday proved it all over again. Sat down with two guys I’d never met — comedian Mike Rita (Toronto-raised, Portuguese to the core) and chef/cookbook author David Santos (Jersey, just like me) — and within minutes, strangers became family. Different coasts, different countries even, same roots.
That’s the thing about being Luso. There are millions of us scattered across the globe, and no matter where we’re raised or who raised us, the second we’re in a room together there’s an instant recognition. No introduction needed. Just understanding.
Four guys, one heritage, one incredible sesh before the battle. Wouldn’t trade this identity for anything. 🇵🇹
⚔️ BATTLE OF THE BIFANAS is TODAY at San Jose IDES Hall — come hungry, come proud, come celebrate the community that raised us. See you there. — battleofthebifanas
