From elite sports lounges to national fast-food empires, these NFL athletes are making major business moves and scoring big in the culinary world.
Making the transition from the gridiron to the boardroom takes vision, discipline, and a rock-solid strategy. For a select group of exceptional NFL players, the ultimate post-football game plan includes building a powerful presence in the food and beverage industry. Rather than simply lending their famous names to a brand, these athletes have stepped into roles as visionary founders, franchise moguls, and community leaders. They are using their professional platforms to create local jobs, support mentorship programs, and build multimillion-dollar business empires.
Bring your appetite because this is your VIP pass to some of the most successful player-owned dining concepts in America.
7341 East 6th Avenue, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
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Problem Lounge delivers an ultra-luxurious, three-story upscale dining and nightlife destination right in the heart of Old Town. San Francisco 49ers star wide receiver Deebo Samuel co-founded the multi-story venue alongside his long-time personal chef, Cleashaun Hill. The space moves seamlessly from an intimate first-floor fine dining room to a high-vibe second-floor cocktail lounge and an open-air rooftop lounge. Guests flock to the space to experience its phenomenal energy, stunning panoramic desert views, and high-profile athlete sightings.
Must-Try Item: The signature, fire-grilled $175 Tomahawk Ribeye or the Creole-Cajun influenced lobster thermidor.
1142 Eddy St, South Bend, IN 46617
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Jinya Ramen Bar provides a sleek, contemporary, and incredibly high-energy atmosphere for college students and foodies alike near the Notre Dame campus. Former Pro Bowl NFL linebacker Jaylon Smith acts as the primary franchise partner for this powerhouse Indiana location. Known for its slow-simmered, meticulously crafted broths and sleek industrial interior design, the restaurant brings true culinary artistry to the local community. You should plan a visit because the vibrant spot effortlessly pairs an authentic, soul-warming dining experience with an upscale, trendy cocktail bar energy.
Must-Try Item: The rich, legendary Spicy Creamy Vegan Ramen or the signature Tonkotsu Black Ramen.
Multiple Locations in Texas
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Cookie Society welcomes patrons into a bright, modern, and intensely aromatic boutique bakery that smells like pure nostalgia. Former NFL offensive lineman Jeff Allen and his talented wife, Melissa Allen, founded the exceptionally popular brand together. The powerhouse duo successfully turned a homemade baking passion project into an acclaimed, multi-location luxury cookie empire. It is a necessary addition to your food tour itinerary because their thick, heavy, and perfectly chewy cookies have captured a massive national cult following.
Must-Try Item: The decadent, award-winning Chocolate Chip Cookie or the signature Salted Caramel Pecan.
430 W 4th St, Charlotte, NC 28202
Ten58 Sports Bar & Lounge delivers an elegant, high-definition viewing experience designed for the ultimate sports enthusiast. Carolina Panthers legend and All-Pro linebacker Thomas Davis Sr. owns and operates this premier downtown Charlotte institution. Named after his iconic jersey number 58, the sleek venue boasts dozens of massive flat-screens, custom leather booths, and an unmatched community-first game day environment. It is worth an extended visit because the lounge beautifully elevates the classic American sports bar concept with top-tier Southern hospitality.
Must-Try Item: The legendary, crispy Carolina-style 58 Gold Wings paired with a custom signature cocktail.
Multiple Locations in Maryland
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Sunset Raw Juice Bar provides a refreshing, clean, and vibrant wellness oasis focused on healthy lifestyle activation. Former NFL wide receiver Gerrard Shepherd founded the growing holistic brand to bring premium, plant-based nutrition to his home community. The minimalist, sunlit space radiates positive health energy, serving up completely raw, cold-pressed juices, functional wellness shots, and loaded superfood bowls. You should make this your daily morning destination because Gerrard uses only premium, organic, and locally sourced ingredients to fuel your day.
Must-Try Item: The nutrient-packed Sunset Acai Bowl topped with fresh fruit, hemp seeds, and local organic honey.
If you are traveling through these major urban hubs, make sure to support these incredible player-aligned spots:
New York City & Washington D.C.: PubKey — Former Pro Bowl tight end Eric Ebron is a proud investor in this iconic, tech-forward cultural hotspot with buzzing locations in both NYC and Washington D.C.
Houston, Texas: Quad Houston — Eleven-year NFL defensive veteran Michael Brockers owns and operates this premier, upscale TSU alumni-aligned restaurant and live music lounge.
Boston Area: Veggie Galaxy — Super Bowl Champion defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. acts as a proud part-owner of this legendary, retro-themed vegetarian and vegan diner in Cambridge.
Whether they are crafting gourmet small-batch treats or managing massive multi-state franchise networks, these Black NFL athletes are redefining the modern retirement playbook. They prove that true elite status extends far beyond the stadium walls, using culinary entrepreneurship to anchor communities, create local multi-million dollar economies, and build lasting multi-generational wealth. The next time you plan a night out, score a touchdown for small businesses by buying a meal at one of these player-owned destinations!
Author: Falayn Ferrell
Managing Partner - Operations of Black Restaurant Week
