Chef Big Rube Benefit Menu at Sunrise Social

Philly Stand Up! A Brunch Special With Real Purpose for Chef Big Rube

Chef Big Rube needs Philly’s help right now, more than ever. Sunrise Social has rolled out a limited-time menu item designed to put meaningful support behind a name so many locals already know and love: Chef Big Rube. For February, Sunrise Social is offering the Sunrise Surf N’ Turf, with proceeds benefiting Chef Reuben “Big Rube” Harley as he fights for his life after being diagnosed with stage 4B prostate cancer, while also enduring heart failure and kidney failure. It’s news that stops you cold—and a moment where a neighborhood restaurant can become a rally point for the entire city.

Proceeds from the Sunrise Surf N’ Turf will help cover essential living expenses and the costs associated with treatment that aren’t covered by Rube’s health insurance. There’s no vague promise here—just a clear, tangible way to turn a meal out into real support for Chef Big Rube, one plate at a time, during a month when people are already looking for reasons to gather, connect, and do something that matters.

Cheg Big Rube: The Sunrise Surf N’ Turf and What You’re Ordering

Let’s talk about the food, because Sunrise Social didn’t phone this in. The Sunrise Surf N’ Turf is built to feel like a celebration—bold, indulgent, and comforting in the way a great brunch dish should be. This special features grilled lamb chops and butter-roasted lobster tail served over Sunrise Social’s signature Three-Cheese Grits, then finished with roasted red peppers, aji verde, and fresh herbs. It’s rich, it’s layered, and it reads like a dish designed for that exact moment when you want a “treat yourself” brunch—but also want your dollars to do some good.

The Sunrise Surf N’ Turf is available for $32.99 at both Sunrise Social locations in Philly and in Cherry Hill, throughout February.

Cheg Big Rube: The Man Behind the Menu and the Community Behind Him

If you’ve been around Philadelphia food and culture for any length of time, you’ve likely felt Chef Big Rube’s presence—even if you didn’t realize it at the time. Chef Reuben “Big Rube” Harley is a well-known chef and personality throughout the community, and his creative life extends far beyond the kitchen. He’s also a fashion photographer, a marketing creative, a journalist, and an entrepreneur retailing his own signature BBQ sauce. That blend—food, style, storytelling, hustle—is all Philly. And it’s a huge reason the city is responding the way it is.

Sunrise Social founder Aaron Anderson has a personal connection here, not just a professional one. Anderson is a longtime friend and former business partner of Harley, and his words make the backstory feel lived-in and real. “Big Rube and I first connected after I tasted his food at an event, and it was so good I knew I had to work with him one day,” said Anderson.

“I presented an opportunity for us to partner during the pandemic, and we ended up opening two ghost kitchens in Philadelphia, which operated 5 concepts in each location.” Their partnership didn’t stop there, either—Harley and Anderson also opened Big Rube’s Fried Chicken together at Subaru Park in Chester, the home of the Philadelphia Union soccer team.

Since launching on January 1, 2026, the GoFundMe supporting Chef Big Rube has raised over $16,000—driven by people spreading awareness and donating because they want to help carry him through this fight. Anderson’s hope for the Sunrise Social initiative is as heartfelt as it is direct: “I really hope this initiative coupled with everything the Philadelphia community is doing for Big Rube helps him get through this fight,” he said. “I really don’t think there’s a more beloved person in the City of Philadelphia, and the outpouring of love for him has been nothing short of incredible.”

If you’re the kind of Philadelphian who takes pride in our restaurants, our personalities, our independent creators, and our habit of showing up, this is a moment. Make brunch count. Put a little purpose behind the plan. And let’s keep Chef Big Rube surrounded by the kind of love this city is famous for.

About Post Author

Allan Lane

Philadelphia born and bred, Allan Lane is the Publisher and Editor in Chief of digital magazines. He launched his first publication, SportBikes Inc Magazine in 2010, followed by dosage MAGAZINE in 2019. Recently, Allan launched his third online publication, Club For Man. As a journalist, Allan covers fashion, lifestyle, culture, art, and motorcycles.

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