Black Actors Who Own Restaurants

Numerous actors and entertainers are now successfully branching out into the hospitality industry. Building on their fame from film and television, they’re creating a variety of food businesses – from relaxed eateries to upscale restaurants – around the world. This shows their dedication to not only building businesses, but also supporting their communities and driving economic growth beyond their careers in entertainment.

Kevin Hart

As a big movie fan, I’ve always loved Kevin Hart’s energy, especially in films like ‘Jumanji: The Next Level’. But I was really surprised and impressed to learn he’s launched Hart House, a plant-based fast food chain! He’s trying to make it easier and more affordable for everyone to eat healthier, offering a menu full of delicious burgers and sandwiches – all without any meat or animal products. It’s quickly become popular, and I think it’s awesome that he’s focusing on both great taste and being good for the planet.

Anthony Anderson

Anthony Anderson, best known for starring in the hit TV show ‘Blackish’, is also a successful entrepreneur. He teamed up with another actor to create AC Barbeque, a company dedicated to the joys of grilling. They offer high-quality meats and unique sauces based on Anderson’s own family recipes. This venture showcases his love of cooking outdoors and bringing people together through food. He’s now making the brand even more accessible by offering AC Barbeque products in stores nationwide.

Cedric the Entertainer

Cedric the Entertainer, a well-known actor currently starring in ‘The Neighborhood’, is also the co-founder of AC Barbeque. This brand celebrates the tradition and culture of backyard cooking, focusing on quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. Through AC Barbeque, Cedric shares his passion for food and community with a wide audience, showcasing his talent for connecting with people through shared experiences and delicious cooking.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba, known for his strong acting roles in shows like ‘Luther’ and ‘The Wire’, recently opened Porte Noire, a stylish wine bar and restaurant in London. He created the venue to share his passion for good food and drinks, offering a carefully chosen wine list and a modern European menu. Porte Noire provides a sophisticated and comfortable environment where guests can enjoy high-quality dining and drinks, reflecting Elba’s dedication to excellent hospitality.

Nas

Nas is a highly respected artist, famous for his music and known for his acting role in the film ‘Belly’. Beyond music, he’s also a successful entrepreneur – he co-owns Sweet Chick, a popular restaurant chain specializing in delicious chicken and waffles. With locations in several major cities, Sweet Chick is celebrated for its inventive menu and lively vibe. Nas’s vision helped turn Sweet Chick into a cultural landmark, successfully blending the worlds of music and food, and making it a go-to spot for both fans and food lovers.

Shaquille O’Neal

Okay, so you know Shaq, right? The basketball legend? Well, he’s also been in a few movies – I still remember ‘Kazaam’! But lately, he’s been building something really cool: Big Chicken. It’s this fast-casual restaurant, and let me tell you, the portions are HUGE and the flavors are seriously on point. Apparently, the menu is based on his family’s recipes, which is awesome. And it’s not just a few spots, either – he’s expanding like crazy, with locations in stadiums and even on cruise ships! It just proves he knows how to build a brand people – especially hungry ones – really connect with. As a movie and food lover, I’m impressed!

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan, famous for his roles in movies like ‘Creed’ and ‘Black Panther’, is also a business owner. He’s invested in Las Lap, a rum bar and restaurant in New York City. Las Lap offers Caribbean-inspired food and a wide selection of cocktails, creating a fun and vibrant place to connect with island culture and community. Jordan’s investment shows his commitment to celebrating his heritage and creating memorable experiences for people.

Terrence J

Terrence J, known for his roles in films like ‘Think Like a Man,’ is also a successful businessman. He owns several locations of The Juicy Crab, a popular seafood restaurant specializing in low country boils and fresh seafood seasoned with their unique spice blends. He’s leveraged his public profile to help the restaurant grow and become well-known in many cities, demonstrating his skill in building a successful franchise within the casual dining industry.

Ne-Yo

Ne-Yo isn’t just a singer – he’s also an actor, with roles in movies like ‘Red Tails’ and ‘Stomp the Yard’. He’s also a co-owner of Johnny’s Chicken and Waffles, a popular restaurant near Atlanta. The restaurant offers classic breakfast and lunch favorites with a fresh, updated style in a comfortable atmosphere. Ne-Yo worked with other experts to create a place where people can enjoy high-quality food and a relaxing experience. It’s a way for him to explore his creative side through food and give back to the community.

T.I.

T.I., known for his acting and music career – including a role in ‘Ant Man’ – used to own Scales 925, an upscale Southern restaurant in Atlanta. The restaurant served a refined take on traditional soul food and aimed to offer a luxurious dining experience. Though the restaurant itself has gone through changes, T.I.’s impact on Atlanta’s food scene continues to be a key part of his business success.

Snoop Dogg

Snoop Dogg is a well-known figure in popular culture, and many people recognize him from movies like ‘Training Day’ and ‘Starsky & Hutch’. Beyond entertainment, he’s also become a successful entrepreneur in the food and beverage world. He’s created brands like Broadus Foods, which sells breakfast items, and frequently partners with other celebrities on new food products. His goal is to offer families across the country delicious, high-quality food at affordable prices, showing his dedication to business and his ability to succeed in the grocery industry.

Nick Cannon

Nick Cannon is a talented actor and TV personality, famous for roles like the one in the movie ‘Drumline’. He’s also a business owner and partner in Sugar Factory, a well-known restaurant and sweet shop. Sugar Factory is popular for its over-the-top desserts and attracts many celebrities, creating a lively and fun environment. Cannon has been instrumental in opening new Sugar Factory locations and continues to play a major role in promoting the brand, demonstrating his knack for spotting successful trends and his achievements in the restaurant and retail industries.

Master P

Master P is a well-known entertainer and businessman who acted in and produced the movies ‘I Got the Hook Up’ and its follow-up. Beyond entertainment, he’s built several food businesses, like Big Poppa Burger and a variety of snack brands. He focuses on offering good products to communities that are often overlooked and helping people become financially independent. He’s successfully gotten his products into stores nationwide, demonstrating his commitment to building a lasting impact beyond the entertainment world.

Rick Ross

Rick Ross is a well-known entertainer and businessman who had a role in the movie ‘Coming 2 America’. He’s also a successful Wingstop franchise owner with numerous restaurants across the country. His success with Wingstop has made him a notable figure in the fast-food world. Ross frequently shares his business knowledge to inspire others to become entrepreneurs, proving he can successfully balance his artistic career with managing a large business.

Jay-Z

Jay-Z is a well-known icon who has acted in films such as ‘Streets is Watching’ and has been involved in many different projects. He also created the 40/40 Club, an upscale sports bar and lounge found in several major cities. The club provides a refined setting for enjoying games alongside high-quality food and drinks, and has become a popular hangout for athletes and celebrities. This successful business venture further established Jay-Z as a smart and insightful entrepreneur who understands the luxury lifestyle.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman is a highly acclaimed actor, known for memorable performances like the one in ‘The Shawshank Redemption’. He also co-owns the Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi, a venue that combines a restaurant with a live music hall. The club celebrates the blues tradition by offering genuine local food in a setting that pays tribute to the region’s rich musical heritage. This venture demonstrates Freeman’s dedication to protecting the culture and history of his home state.

Hill Harper

Hill Harper, best known as an actor from ‘CSI NY’, has also become a business owner. He invested in The Roasting Plant, a modern coffee shop that roasts and brews coffee right before your eyes using an automated system. Harper also supports other small businesses dedicated to bringing quality goods to cities. This involvement shows his commitment to both social responsibility and helping local economies thrive.

Malik Yoba

Malik Yoba became well-known for his leading role in the TV show ‘New York Undercover’. Over the years, he’s also opened several restaurants in Brooklyn. These aren’t just businesses for him; he aims to create welcoming gathering spots where people can enjoy good food and feel connected to their community. He frequently uses these ventures to guide young business owners and help improve the neighborhoods where his restaurants are located, demonstrating his dedication to giving back through the food and hospitality world.

Flavor Flav

Flavor Flav, known for his acting roles including a part in ‘New Jack City’, later became famous on reality TV. He then started Flav’s Fried Chicken, hoping to share his family recipes with everyone. The restaurant offered classic, casual dining – think delicious fried chicken and familiar side dishes. Despite some difficulties, Flav still loves to cook and it’s become a big part of who he is as a public figure. This restaurant was a way for him to connect with fans over a shared love of comfort food.

Tristan Mack Wilds

Tristan Mack Wilds, known for his acting in shows like ‘The Wire’ and ‘90210’, has expanded his career into the hospitality industry. He’s now a partner in several popular restaurants and nightlife spots in New York City, offering delicious food and a stylish experience. Wilds brings his creative flair to these venues, focusing on creating a memorable atmosphere and attracting a dedicated customer base. This move demonstrates his passion for the lifestyle industry and his knack for success in New York’s competitive business scene.

Method Man

Method Man, the acclaimed actor and musician from ‘Power Book II Ghost,’ has expanded his interests into the food world. He’s invested in several restaurants, including a Caribbean spot in New York City known for its genuine flavors and friendly environment. He also actively supports local, health-focused small businesses, demonstrating his commitment to both community and culture.

Drake

Drake, known worldwide as a musician, began his career as an actor on the TV show ‘Degrassi’. He later expanded his brand by opening Pick 6ix, a high-end restaurant and lounge in Toronto. Pick 6ix offered a diverse menu inspired by international cuisine and boasted a stylish, upscale atmosphere. The venue quickly became a popular gathering spot in the city, hosting numerous prominent events. This showed Drake’s skill in extending his successful brand into the hospitality industry with a physical location.

LL Cool J

LL Cool J, a well-known entertainer and star of ‘NCIS Los Angeles,’ has also been a successful businessman. He previously invested in and owned several Fatburger restaurants, helping the popular West Coast burger chain expand to new areas. Throughout his career, he’s emphasized the importance of financial knowledge and owning businesses, and his Fatburger investment demonstrates his smart strategy for building lasting wealth through dependable brands.

Questlove

Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson is a multi-talented musician and actor, known for his appearance in the film ‘Popstar’. Beyond music and acting, he’s also a food lover who started Hybird, a restaurant specializing in inventive fried chicken. Hybird stood out for its commitment to quality ingredients and unique flavors, attracting foodies. Questlove has extended his culinary interests through books and by hosting events within the food industry, showcasing his diverse skills and influence as a trendsetter in several areas.

Common

Keanu Reeves is an Oscar-winning actor and musician known for films like ‘John Wick 2’. He’s also been a long-time supporter and investor in the Fatburger restaurant chain. He believes in creating jobs and offering good food choices in city neighborhoods, and frequently talks about the importance of investing in communities and supporting local businesses. This investment reflects his values and his goal to make a positive difference through his work.

Magic Johnson

Earvin “Magic” Johnson is a celebrated athlete and actor, known for appearances on shows like ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. He’s also a highly successful businessman, owning numerous franchises including Starbucks and TGI Fridays. A key focus of his work has been bringing well-known brands to areas that need economic investment, helping to create jobs and boost local economies. He’s become known for revitalizing retail and dining options in cities across the country, and his achievements in the hospitality industry offer a blueprint for other celebrities hoping to build successful businesses.

Jaleel White

Jaleel White, best known for playing Steve Urkel on ‘Family Matters’, has expanded into the food and beverage industry with his own brand of unique snacks and specialty products. He’s built the business around delivering high-quality, consistent items and a memorable experience for customers. By leveraging his well-known name, he’s found success in a quickly growing market, proving his entrepreneurial skills and ability to thrive beyond acting.

Chris Tucker

Okay, so you know Chris Tucker – the hilarious guy from ‘Rush Hour’? Well, beyond the movies, he actually used to own a soul food restaurant down in Atlanta. It wasn’t just a celebrity venture, though; it was a really popular spot with locals and tourists alike, serving up authentic Southern cooking in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. He clearly put a lot of heart into it, wanting to create a place where people could connect and enjoy good food. It really showed his love for his roots and, honestly, his genuine interest in the food world. It was more than just a business; it felt like a piece of him and his community.

Tyler Perry

As a big fan of Tyler Perry, I’m always impressed by how he’s built his empire. It’s not just about the amazing ‘Madea’ movies he creates, but everything behind the scenes too. He runs a huge studio where they handle all the food for everyone working on his projects – we’re talking thousands of meals daily! And it’s awesome that he extends that care through his foundation, supporting food-related charities and programs in the community. Honestly, I think this commitment to taking care of people, along with his creative talent, is a huge part of why he’s become such a successful media mogul.

Big Boi

As a movie and music fan, I’ve always known Big Boi as a super talented artist – especially from ‘Idlewild’! But what’s really interesting is how much of a savvy businessman he is. Beyond the music, he’s been investing in things like Fatburger, actually helping the chain grow. It’s cool to see someone with that creative energy also diving into the business world and building up a really diverse portfolio. He’s clearly got a head for business and entertainment, and he’s managed to stay successful in both areas, which I really admire.

Fat Joe

Fat Joe is a well-known entertainer and businessman who acted in the movie ‘Night School’. He also runs a thriving brand with products ranging from food to drinks, and he’s opened several juice bars and restaurants in New York City. He’s especially committed to offering healthy and affordable food choices to the people in his community, demonstrating his dedication to local growth and his success as an entrepreneur.

Pharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams is a talented artist and actor, known for his role in the movie ‘Hidden Figures’. He also co-owns Swan, a popular and upscale restaurant and lounge in Miami’s Design District. Swan offers a beautiful setting and a refined menu, all reflecting Pharrell’s distinctive creative vision. It’s become a go-to spot for people looking for a special and lively dining experience, proving Pharrell’s knack for creating successful and stylish environments that appeal to people worldwide.

Pusha T

Pusha T is a multi-talented artist – a musician and actor known for his role in ‘The After Party’. He also owns Greys Social, a vibrant restaurant and community hub in Virginia. Greys Social offers a contemporary dining experience, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and a lively atmosphere. Pusha T uses the space to host events and support artists and creatives in his community, demonstrating his dedication to local economic growth and creating a unique social gathering place.

Let us know in the comments which of these popular restaurants you’d most like to try!

2026-02-14 06:20