Nipsey Hussle’s Marathon Burger is still drawing massive crowds, with waits lasting as long as 90 minutes. The restaurant, located on 7507 Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, is already a destination restaurant, honoring the late rapper’s legacy in food, community, and Black business.
Marathon Burger formally opened on March 1, 2025, as a full-scale expansion of the Marathon brand. The opening was nothing less than lavish, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, DJ sets, giveaways, and free meals to the first 100 customers. Celebrity sightings by YG, NLE Choppa, and Ab-Soul put the restaurant on the map.
What was initially an October 2024 pop-up is now a full restaurant. Under the leadership of Nipsey Hussle’s brother, Blacc Sam, Marathon Burger is a manifestation of the entrepreneur’s vision. Hussle, entrepreneur and businessperson and strong advocate for community development, had dreamed of owning a restaurant, and the business is a realization of his vision.
Marathon Burger stands out not only due to being associated with Nipsey Hussle but also due to providing top-notch menu items. The restaurant provides wagyu smashburgers, fried chicken sandwiches, portobello mushroom burgers, hot wings, and milkshakes with Thrifty ice cream. Fresh and organic products are used, and they prepare house-made pickles and have vegan options available. Blacc Sam himself helped develop the signature hot wings, adding his own personal touch to the menu.
The massive turnout to Marathon Burger is a testament to the large community support for Nipsey Hussle’s legacy. Customers have been waiting in large numbers every day, with some waiting as long as 90 minutes to get a chance to dine and honor the late rapper. The restaurant’s popularity is an indicator of the city’s affection towards Nipsey Hussle and his contribution to Black-owned enterprises in the city.
Marathon Burger is just one part of an expanded rollout of The Marathon brand, including The Marathon Rooftop, a high-end shopping destination for The Marathon Clothing collection. Continuing business expansion is part of Hussle’s economic development and community development strategy.
As the culinary scene in Los Angeles keeps growing, Marathon Burger adds an important page to the restaurant’s history. Besides providing gourmet meals, the restaurant is also a symbol of resilience, determination, and Black excellence. To foodies and Nipsey Hussle’s fanbase, a meal at Marathon Burger is more than just a meal, but an experience that is a nod to a legacy built on dedication, perseverance, and the credo that “The Marathon Continues.”
