Freeport Cop Looks Toward 'Lifetime Number 2' With New BBQ Restaurant

FREEPORT, NY — Bobby Ford is a longtime resident of Freeport. He has been a Freeport police officer for nearly 18 years, after more than a decade in the NYPD, including eight years as a detective.

But Ford is also a chef, and he is preparing for life after law enforcement.

He recently opened BBQ joint number two in Freeport-- Bobby Q's Jus Like Mama's. Like his original eatery that debuted in 2017 on North Main Street, Ford offers comfort favorites such as macaroni and cheese, barbeque chicken, turkey wings and seafood.

"The community has been very supportive," Ford told Patch. "That's what been the turning point."

Having both restaurants in Freeport is not just feeding his neighborhood, it's a convenience while remaining on the force "and having to be available."

The restauranteur is literally hands-on as the chef at the new place.

"It was kind of the right situation at the right time," he said.

As for taking over the restaurant work full-time, Ford didn't skip a beat. "Yeah, in two years," he laughed.

Ford will have a full pension with the Freeport police after 20 years.

"We've got to secure our future and then move on to lifetime number two," he said.

His love for cooking came from his family, who was known for catering. His mother had a dream to open a restaurant, but she didn't live long enough to see her son begin his new business.

"I've always had a passion for cooking," Ford said. "[It's] the same type of food that we make at home to people that can enjoy that mama made it."

Once Ford retires from policing, he also hopes to expand his BBQ restaurant.

Just Like Mama's is located on 365 Sunrise Highway.