The grand opening of Marathon Burger on March 1, marked a significant milestone in Los Angeles, celebrating the enduring legacy of the late rapper and entrepreneur, Nipsey Hussle.
Located at 7507 Melrose Avenue, the ribbon-cutting ceremony attracted a diverse crowd, all eager to honor Hussle’s vision and the expansion of The Marathon brand into the culinary world.
Samiel “Blacc Sam” Asghedom, Nipsey’s brother and business partner, played a pivotal role in bringing Marathon Burger to fruition. Reflecting on their shared aspirations, Blacc Sam told KCAL News, “Me and Hussle worked together cooking and so we always said, ‘Man, we need to get a restaurant. We know how to run it.’ So, this would align with his vision for the Marathon brand and expanding the brand.”
Demonstrating hands-on leadership, Blacc Sam was in the kitchen during the ceremony, emphasizing that true leadership involves active participation. He shared with the L.A. Sentinel, “Our whole team is willing to adapt, learn, and figure out how to further the brand. The vision is Hussle. The community always rallied behind us ever since we were selling T-shirts on the corner. It’s a testament; every time we do something big, the people show up.”
The event drew a remarkable turnout, with lines stretching down Melrose Avenue as attendees eagerly awaited their chance to experience the new eatery. The first 100 guests were treated to complimentary burgers, a gesture that underscored the community-centric ethos of The Marathon brand.
Jorge Peniche, a longtime business associate of Nipsey Hussle, highlighted the significance of this new venture. He told the Sentinel, “This is another milestone in the brand’s history. To be able to launch another threshold in a space and category—restaurant and hospitality.
“When Nipsey first kicked off his Marathon brand with the Marathon music mixtape in 2010, the whole vision was to always enterprise around his brand, and to see it happen, to see it have different branches and participate in different categories… is something special.” The ceremony was graced by notable figures, including Los Angeles’ iconic radio host, Big Boy. He praised the event’s energy and lauded Blacc Sam’s integrity and meticulous business approach, stating, “Nothing too fast and everything done right. Beautiful. Look how beautiful this is. This is amazing.” Big Boy also commended Blacc Sam’s ability to adapt and thrive in his role, noting his seamless transition into the restaurant industry.
Sarah Harris, president of the Black Business Association, expressed her pride in Marathon Burger’s affiliation with the organization. Emphasizing the importance of unity in uplifting Black enterprises, Harris said, “We’re glad that Blacc Sam chose to recognize that we need to stand together in solidarity and what it means to uplift Black enterprise.
“This is an example of us coming together, working together, and supporting one another. We’re so proud of the legacy that is built by Blacc Sam and his brother Nipsey Hussle, and the whole Marathon team. We stand with Marathon.”
Throughout the event, Blacc Sam’s genuine appreciation for the community’s support was evident. He engaged warmly with attendees, reinforcing the notion that Marathon Burger is not just a business venture, but a continuation of Nipsey Hussle’s legacy of community empowerment. Blacc Sam expressed his enthusiasm for the quality of the offerings, stating that the burger is top-notch, and he is excited for everyone to try it.
L.A. City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson, who represents the district where Nipsey’s original store on Slauson Avenue is located, also attended the ceremony. Lauding The Marathon Family and The Hussle legacy as one of the city’s premier brands, Harris-Dawson declared, “We’re proud of you, thank you for what you have done for us and what you will continue to do for our community.”
Nipsey Hussle, born Ermias Asghedom, was renowned not only for his music but also for his entrepreneurial ventures and dedication to uplifting his community. His vision extended beyond entertainment, encompassing initiatives in fashion, technology, and now, the culinary arts.
Social media: @marathonburger, @themarathonclothing
