Fri. Jul 18th, 2025

Marshawn Lynch, the former NFL star, has announced the closure of his restaurant, Rob Ben’s, in downtown Portland. The bistro, which was opened in 2019, was a popular spot for foodies and sports fans alike. Despite its initial success, the restaurant struggled to maintain a consistent customer base, leading to its eventual closure. The news of the closure was met with disappointment from the local community, who had grown to love the unique dining experience offered by Rob Ben’s. Marshawn Lynch, who played for the Seattle Seahawks and Oakland Raiders, had invested heavily in the restaurant, which was named after his father. The restaurant’s menu featured a range of dishes, including Southern-style comfort food and gourmet burgers. However, despite the efforts of the staff and management, the restaurant was unable to overcome the challenges posed by the competitive Portland dining scene. The closure of Rob Ben’s has left a void in the downtown area, where it was a staple for locals and visitors. The restaurant’s closure has also raised questions about the viability of celebrity-owned businesses in the city. Marshawn Lynch has not commented publicly on the reasons behind the closure, but it is believed that the decision was made due to financial difficulties. The closure of Rob Ben’s is a blow to the local economy, as it was a significant employer and contributor to the city’s tax base. The restaurant’s staff, who were known for their friendly and attentive service, will be missed by the community. The closure of Rob Ben’s has also sparked a debate about the role of celebrity-owned businesses in the city, with some arguing that they can bring in much-needed investment and attention, while others claim that they can be unsustainable and detrimental to local businesses. Despite the closure, Marshawn Lynch remains a beloved figure in the city, and his legacy as a football player and entrepreneur will continue to be celebrated. The city will likely feel the impact of the closure for some time, as the restaurant was a unique and valued part of the downtown area. The future of the site, which is located in a prime area of downtown Portland, is uncertain, but it is likely that a new business will emerge to take its place. In the meantime, the community will mourn the loss of Rob Ben’s, which was a true original and a testament to the power of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Source