More and more celebs are joining the food service industry. One of which is former NFL player Rasheed Simmons. Found on Jersey Shore, the restaurant called "Simply Southern Cuisine" on Belmar is "headed" by Rita Simmons - Rasheed's mother and the restaurant's chef.
Rasheed Simmons even compares the pressure of owning a restaurant to being a professional NFL player. "[The pressure's] equally about the same. Playing professionally, you could be here today, gone tomorrow. Being in a restaurant, you could be here today and gone tomorrow," said Simmons.
Looking for a good deal? Come in today for some awesome lunch specials!! || $6 fish & chips || $6 fried chicken & fries...
Posted by Simply Southern Belmar on Wednesday, June 3, 2015
He added, "I run the business with that same type of, I'm not going to say fear, but that same type of passion."
The former Carolina Panthers player boasts to the Asbury Park Press that a number of fried food can be expected from the menu. However, Simmons says that "This is not KFC, this is not Popeyes."
Come in on this beautiful day and try a slice of Momma's homemade sweet potato pie!!! It's everything you've ever wanted and more, we promise.
Posted by Simply Southern Belmar on Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Rasheed further distinguishes his restaurant as something far from fast food restaurants in spite of the similarity of friend menu items. The establishment, in fact, doesn't even "start cooking your food until you actually order your food," says the former NFL player.
Obviously, the name suggests what to expect from the food fare. With a completely Southern concept, the menu also carries favorites like oxtails and smothered chicken.
Simply Southern Team! #simplysouthern #belmar #jerseyshorerestaurants
Posted by Simply Southern Belmar on Sunday, May 24, 2015
Consumers can also expect to find traditional comfort food like "meatloaf, fried green tomatoes, peach cobbler, and hush puppies on the menu," as cited by Eater.
Best hush puppies in town!! Come in and beg to differ, we dare ya. ;)
Posted by Simply Southern Belmar on Friday, May 29, 2015
But the restaurant is more than just food; fans can also expect a wide array of sweet tea drinks on the menu.
Rasheed Simmons seems to be straying away from an ongoing trend. Many professional athletes have also chosen to open shops in the food industry.
However, majority of these athletes opt to invest in restaurant chains and franchises, unlike Simmon's risky move of opening his own restaurant.
In fact, basketball legend LeBron James invested in the "Chipotle of pizza," Blaze Pizza.
On the other hand, Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning owns 21 branches Papa John's Pizza.