It’s not enough for some celebrities to eat at the best restaurants. They also want to own their own restaurants. Just ask Bad Bunny. This month, he and nightlife impresario David Grutman opened a Japanese steakhouse and sushi concept, Gekko, in Miami. A string of celebrities — including Karol G, Future, Lil Wayne, Joe Jonas and David Beckham — attended the glitzy opening to the high-end restaurant, which features table-side presentations such as flame-seared steak and a six-seat omakase bar.
For artists such as Bad Bunny, the restaurant industry provides an opportunity to scratch that entrepreneurial itch and extend their brand. Just look at what it did for Gloria and Emilio Estefan, who have been involved in the restaurant business since before Benito was even born. The restaurants themselves benefit from the partnership because having a big star — or in the case of Bad Bunny, the biggest star — attached often means more press and a more famous clientele right out of the gate.
With Gekko, Bad Bunny joins a long list of Latin music artists who have invested in eateries. But these stars don’t all own the sort of upscale restaurants that you would associate with the celebrity lifestyle. One reggaetonero owns a bakery. Another invested in a fast-casual franchise. And then there is the música popular singer whose restaurant has its own farm on site.
In other words, the restaurants vary — and Benito is in good company. Below, see 10 other Latin music artists who are filling both arenas and stomachs, so to speak.