THE CELEBRITY RESTAURATEURS
When Chris “Ludacris†Bridges purchased a property in downtown Atlanta, the entertainer was just looking to rent out the space. But after meeting Singaporean chef Chris Yeo at a Ludacris Foundation event, the two partnered and opened Straits Atlanta in 2007. While most restaurants fail within their first year, Straits has thrived. “It’s been some of the greatest years of my life,†says Bridges. “I love to be able to provide a service for people in a city that I’m passionate about.â€
B. Smith: B. Smith’s in Washington, D.C., New York City, and Sag Harbor, New York
Michael Jordan: Michael Jordan’s Steak House in Chicago, New York City, and Uncasville, Connecticut; one sixtyblue in Chicago; Michael Jordan’s 23.sportcafe and SolToro Tequila Grill in Uncasville, Connecticut
Gladys Knight: Gladys Knight and Ron Winans’ Chicken & Waffles in Atlanta, and Lithonia, Georgia; Gladys Knight’s Chicken & Waffles Bistro in Union City, Georgia
Jay-Z: 40/40 Club in New York City and Atlantic City, New Jersey
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