Our local sports stars have one thing in common: the inability to run a business
In a town that worships men in powder-blue jerseys or helmets adorned with arrowheads, it comes as some surprise that sports stars haven’t figured out how to sell us cars or serve us meals. The recent closing of Jared Allen’s Sports Arena & Grill was the latest, if not the shortest-lived, in a string of pro-athlete-owned businesses to fail in Kansas City. Here’s a guide to places that even the city’s profound love for its sports teams couldn’t save.
Marcus Allen
Marcus Allen Broadway Ford
3401 Broadway
Opened: 1998
Closed: 2007
On-field credentials: Regular season and Super Bowl MVP awards
Why business made sense: A future Hall of Famer, Allen had experience in car sales (Marcus Allen’s North Oak Toyota).
Why it couldn’t last: Allen’s retirement and lack of ties to the area; also, the mediocrity of Fords
What it is now: Vacant
Jared Allen
Jared Allen’s Sports Arena & Grill
700 Southwest Boulevard
Opened: March 2008
Closed: May 2008
On-field credentials: 2007 Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections
Why business made sense: Fans related to Allen’s outgoing personality, mullet and alcohol issues.
Why it couldn’t last: Namesake’s incompatibility with Chiefs GM Carl Peterson; bar’s “69” jokes too juvenile even for football fans
What it is now: Vacant
Tony Gonzalez
Baja Fresh Mexican Grill
Four franchise locations
Opened: 2002
Closed: 2005
On-field credentials: Best tight end ever
Why business made sense: Gonzalez became a partner in the operation during the Chiefs’ exciting 13-3 season.
Why it couldn’t last: Chain declined after being purchased by Wendy’s and Gonzalez’ discovery of low-meat diet
What it is now: The Ward Parkway location is now McAlister’s Deli.
George Brett
George Brett’s Restaurant
210 West 47th Street
Opened: 2003
Closed: January 2008
On-field credentials: World Series champion; 13 All-Star selections; pine-tar freakout
Why business made sense: City’s most celebrated athlete opened sports bar and restaurant in the city’s most celebrated shopping district.
Why it couldn’t last: Hit-and-miss menu; superior 810 Zone opened nearby in 2007.
What it is now: Brazilian steakhouse coming soon
