25 Athletes Who Also Own Restaurants
John Elway – Elway’s
Denver Broncos legend John Elway brought his competitive edge to fine dining with Elway’s, a celebrated steakhouse in Denver. Known for premium cuts, fresh seafood, and a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, it has become a top destination for fans. The restaurant reflects Elway’s winning mindset and long-standing ties to Colorado.
Michael Jordan – Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse
Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse in Connecticut delivers prime steak and modern American dishes with an elegant flair. Just like Jordan’s NBA career, the restaurant is built on precision, attention to detail, and excellence. It’s a must-visit for fans wanting to pair fine dining with the aura of basketball’s greatest player.
Conor McGregor – Black Forge Inn
UFC superstar Conor McGregor owns Dublin’s Black Forge Inn, a gastropub blending Irish comfort food with modern flair. Known for hearty meals, craft cocktails, and live music, it mirrors McGregor’s bold personality. Fans worldwide flock to experience both authentic Irish dining and the fighter’s unshakable charisma under one roof.
Ray Bourque – Tresca
Boston Bruins Hall of Famer Ray Bourque co-owns Tresca, an Italian restaurant in Boston’s historic North End. Known for pasta, fine wines, and cozy ambience, Tresca celebrates Italian tradition with local flair. Bourque’s post-hockey venture continues his legacy in the city he proudly represented on the ice for decades.
Gary Payton – The Kingfish Café
NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton co-owned The Kingfish Café in Seattle, a soul food spot beloved for Southern classics like fried chicken, gumbo, and pecan pie. Though it eventually closed, the restaurant was a cultural landmark, embodying Payton’s family roots and Seattle’s unique blend of sports and community spirit.
Arnold Palmer – Arnold Palmer’s Restaurant
In La Quinta, California, Arnold Palmer’s Restaurant merges fine dining with the legendary golfer’s personal touch. Featuring steak, seafood, and American favorites surrounded by golf memorabilia, it reflects Palmer’s warmth and charm. The restaurant became a local staple, offering fans a chance to enjoy food while celebrating “The King’s” legacy.
Nate Kaeding – Short’s Burger and Shine
Former NFL kicker Nate Kaeding built a hometown hit in Iowa City with Short’s Burger and Shine. Specializing in farm-to-table burgers and local beer, it became a gathering place for locals. Kaeding’s focus on Midwestern authenticity and community spirit shines through, showing his business instincts matched his football precision.
Greg Norman – Greg Norman’s Australian Grille
Greg Norman’s Australian Grille in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, showcases the golf legend’s roots with a mix of seafood, steaks, and Aussie-inspired dishes. With waterfront views and an extensive wine list, the restaurant delivers sophistication and relaxation, reflecting Norman’s global persona as both a sports icon and lifestyle tastemaker.
Al “Bubba” Baker – Bubba’s Q
NFL star Al “Bubba” Baker made his mark beyond football with Bubba’s Q in Avon, Ohio. Famous for boneless ribs, even pitched on Shark Tank, the restaurant is a BBQ powerhouse. Baker’s love for smoked meats and innovation helped Bubba’s Q become a regional favorite and a nationally recognized brand.
Vince Young – Vince Young Steakhouse
In Austin, Vince Young’s steakhouse pairs Texas hospitality with fine dining. Known for prime steaks and contemporary American dishes, the restaurant embodies Young’s star power. It balances upscale dining with a local touch, offering fans a chance to enjoy a luxurious meal inspired by the former Longhorns quarterback’s legacy.
Mike Alstott & Dave Moore – Island Way Grill
Tampa Bay Buccaneers favorites Mike “A-Train” Alstott and Dave Moore teamed up on Island Way Grill in Clearwater Beach, Florida. Specializing in fresh seafood with a waterfront view, it’s a staple for locals and tourists. The laid-back vibe mirrors the duo’s approachable personalities and love for Florida’s coastal lifestyle.
Mike Ditka – Ditka’s
NFL Hall of Famer and coach Mike Ditka’s restaurant empire, Ditka’s, featured locations in Chicago, Pittsburgh, and Oakbrook, Illinois. Serving hearty steaks and classic American comfort food, the venues doubled as shrines to his fiery career. For fans, Ditka’s offered more than meals — it was a slice of football history.
Clyde Frazier – Clyde Frazier’s Wine and Dine
In New York City, Knicks legend Walt “Clyde” Frazier opened Clyde Frazier’s Wine and Dine, a stylish restaurant blending upscale dining with a sports lounge vibe. Known for its eclectic menu and bold décor, it channels Frazier’s fashion sense, charisma, and unforgettable presence both on and off the basketball court.
Brett Favre – Brett Favre’s Steakhouse
Green Bay’s Brett Favre Steakhouse combines hearty Midwestern meals with Packers nostalgia. Guests enjoy premium steaks while surrounded by memorabilia from Favre’s Hall of Fame career. Located near Lambeau Field, it’s a destination for fans eager to relive memories of the legendary quarterback while sharing food in a spirited atmosphere.
Fred Smerlas & Steve DeOssie – Fred & Steve’s Steakhouse
Former NFL teammates Fred Smerlas and Steve DeOssie co-own Fred & Steve’s Steakhouse in Lincoln, Rhode Island. Offering fine steaks, seafood, and wine in an elegant setting, the restaurant reflects their big personalities. With sports décor and upscale dining, it bridges football culture and refinement, drawing both fans and foodies.
Randy White – Randy White’s Hall of Fame Barbeque
Dallas Cowboys legend Randy White brought Texas pride to Frisco with his Hall of Fame Barbeque. Known for smoked brisket, ribs, and classic sides, it’s a true Southern BBQ joint. The restaurant’s down-home atmosphere embodies White’s grit, making it a staple for both Cowboys fans and BBQ enthusiasts alike.
Dan Majerle – Majerle’s
Phoenix Suns icon Dan Majerle opened Majerle’s Sports Grill, a lively spot in Phoenix featuring burgers, wings, and pub favorites. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and sports-friendly vibe, Majerle’s quickly became a go-to hangout. It reflects “Thunder Dan’s” approachable style and his enduring connection to Suns fans and the community.
Wayne Gretzky – Wayne Gretzky’s
Hockey’s greatest player, Wayne Gretzky, opened his namesake restaurant in Toronto. Featuring Canadian-inspired dishes, steaks, and an attached sports bar, the restaurant showcased Gretzky’s memorabilia. For years, it was a landmark for hockey fans, allowing them to dine in the presence of “The Great One’s” legendary career highlights and legacy.
Billy Sims – Billy Sims Barbecue
Heisman Trophy winner Billy Sims launched Billy Sims Barbecue, now with locations across several states. Known for slow-smoked meats and hearty sides, the chain reflects Sims’ Oklahoma roots. Combining sports nostalgia with Southern hospitality, it’s grown into a popular brand where football fans and BBQ lovers gather in droves.
Joe Theismann – Joe Theismann’s
In Alexandria, Virginia, former NFL quarterback Joe Theismann’s namesake restaurant serves American classics in a family-friendly setting. With an extensive menu and casual vibe, it’s a local staple. Sports fans enjoy memorabilia from Theismann’s career, making it both a community hub and a destination for celebrating football history over food.
Aaron Rodgers & Ryan Braun – 8-Twelve MVP Bar & Grill
NFL star Aaron Rodgers and MLB slugger Ryan Braun co-owned 8-Twelve MVP Bar & Grill in Brookfield, Wisconsin. The restaurant focused on farm-to-table dishes and Wisconsin-inspired comfort food. While the partnership eventually dissolved, it reflected the pair’s superstar status and gave fans a unique dining experience tied to local heroes.
Tobias Dorzon – Huncho House
Former NFL player-turned-chef Tobias Dorzon opened Huncho House, blending fine dining with modern creativity. Known for its upscale, chef-driven menu, the restaurant highlights Dorzon’s culinary talent post-football. With a sleek atmosphere and bold flavors, Huncho House stands as proof that athletes can shine just as brightly in kitchens as stadiums.
Emmitt Smith – Emmitt’s Las Vegas Restaurant
NFL rushing king Emmitt Smith ventured into the Las Vegas dining scene with Emmitt’s, a restaurant blending fine cuisine and entertainment. Offering premium steaks and elevated American fare, it quickly attracted buzz. Like his Hall of Fame career, the restaurant reflects Smith’s consistency, vision, and star power on a grand stage.
Dan Marino – Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza
Miami Dolphins great Dan Marino partnered with Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, helping expand the chain across the U.S. Known for its signature coal-fired pies and wings, it became a hit nationwide. Marino’s business savvy paired perfectly with Anthony’s concept, proving his winning formula extended well beyond the football field.
Michael Irvin – Playmakers88
Cowboys legend Michael Irvin launched Playmakers88, blending sports culture with food in a vibrant setting. Featuring hearty meals, drinks, and an atmosphere fit for football fans, it embodies Irvin’s larger-than-life personality. The restaurant represents both a gathering place for Dallas faithful and a celebration of the Hall of Famer’s impact.
