Elite athletes once celebrated solely for their prowess on the pitch, are now making bold strides into the restaurant business, transforming their competitive spirit into gastronomic triumphs. From cricket legends to global sports icons, these stars are leveraging their fame, discipline, and personal flair to create dining experiences that resonate with fans and food lovers alike. Their ventures are more than just eateries—they’re extensions of their personalities, blending athletic grit with culinary creativity. Whether it’s a cricket hero serving up nostalgic regional flavours or a football titan crafting health-conscious menus, these athletes are redefining entrepreneurship. Restaurants like Shikhar Dhawan’s Flying Catch in Dubai or Virat Kohli’s One8 Commune across India showcase how sports stardom fuels innovation, drawing crowds eager for a taste of their idols’ vision.

Cristiano Ronaldo to Virat Kohli: Top Athletes Making Waves in the Restaurant Business

Novak Djokovic - Novak One

Novak Djokovic’s Novak One, located in Belgrade, Serbia, is a health-focused restaurant reflecting his commitment to wellness and nutrition. Opened to promote balanced living, it offers a menu rich in organic, gluten-free, and plant-based dishes, inspired by Djokovic’s dietary philosophy. Djokovic’s personal touch ensures authenticity, making Novak One a haven for those seeking flavorful, wholesome meals.

Shikhar Dhawan - Flying Catch in Dubai

Shikhar Dhawan’s Flying Catch in Dubai is a vibrant sports-themed restaurant that blends culinary excellence with cricket fervour. Launched to cater to Dubai’s cosmopolitan crowd, it offers a diverse menu featuring Indian, Asian, and continental cuisines, appealing to families and sports enthusiasts alike.

Cristiano Ronaldo - CR7 Bar & Bistro

Cristiano Ronaldo’s CR7 Bar & Bistro, part of his expansive business portfolio, embodies his flair for luxury and style. Located in select high-end destinations, the bistro offers a modern fusion of Mediterranean and international cuisines, catering to a sophisticated clientele. The sleek, upscale ambience, infused with Ronaldo’s personal branding, features sports-inspired decor and premium cocktails.

Suresh Raina – Raina Indian Restaurant, Amsterdam

Suresh Raina’s Raina Indian Restaurant in Amsterdam brings authentic Indian flavours to Europe. Launched to showcase India’s rich culinary heritage, it offers classics like butter chicken, biryani, and regional specialities, tailored to global palates. The cozy, vibrant decor reflects Raina’s dynamic personality, with subtle cricket-themed accents.

Shaquille O’Neal - The Big Chicken

Shaquille O’Neal’s Big Chicken is a fast-casual chain serving bold, flavorful comfort food, with locations across the U.S., including Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Launched in 2018, it specializes in oversized chicken sandwiches, crispy fries, and indulgent milkshakes, reflecting Shaq’s larger-than-life personality. The menu, inspired by his childhood favorites, includes unique items like the “Shaq Attack” sandwich with spicy mayo. Vibrant, basketball-themed decor and a fun, family-friendly vibe draw diverse crowds. O’Neal’s hands-on approach and marketing savvy have fueled rapid expansion, making Big Chicken a slam-dunk in the competitive fast-food scene, beloved for its hearty portions.

Virat Kohli - One8 Commune in multiple cities

Virat Kohli’s One8 Commune is a premium dining chain across cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, embodying his passion for fitness and flavour. Offering a global menu with Indian, Asian, and European dishes, it caters to health-conscious diners with nutritious yet delicious options. The chic, modern ambience, paired with Kohli’s personal branding, attracts a trendy crowd. Known for its craft cocktails, live music, and vibrant vibe, One8 Commune balances indulgence with wellness.

Yuvraj Singh – KOCA, Gurugram

Yuvraj Singh’s KOCA in Gurugram is a trendy dining hotspot that mirrors his bold and charismatic style. Focusing on modern Indian and global fusion cuisines, it offers inventive dishes. The sleek, contemporary decor, infused with subtle cricket references, creates a vibrant atmosphere for young professionals and families. KOCA’s lively vibe, with live music and events, makes it a social hub.