Look out McDavid: Another Edmonton Oilers player gets restaurant named after them

The Edmonton Oilers have long been known for their remarkable collection of hockey talent, most notably with the presence of generational players such as Connor McDavid. McDavid’s star power is undeniable, and his reputation as one of the most electrifying talents in the history of the NHL has made him a household name around the globe. Yet, while McDavid may hold the spotlight, another Oilers player is quietly making waves off the ice in a big way.

Recently, Leon Draisaitl, McDavid’s superstar teammate, joined the ranks of players with restaurants named in their honor, marking a significant milestone in his growing presence in the Edmonton community. This new establishment adds another layer to Draisaitl’s ever-expanding influence and signals a shift in the way fans and the city view him—not just as a player, but as a cultural icon and community figure.

In this piece, we’ll take a closer look at how the Edmonton Oilers’ players, particularly Draisaitl, are establishing their names beyond the rink, the significance of restaurant ownership for these athletes, and what it means for the franchise’s relationship with the city of Edmonton.

Leon Draisaitl: From Superstar to Entrepreneur

Leon Draisaitl has been one of the best players in the NHL for several seasons now. Since being drafted by the Oilers in 2014, Draisaitl has been an instrumental part of the team’s offense. Known for his elite vision, playmaking skills, and goal-scoring ability, Draisaitl has developed into a consistent Hart Trophy contender and has helped to elevate the Oilers’ competitive stature. However, his influence extends beyond the rink.

Draisaitl’s quiet, yet fierce, presence on the ice has won him legions of fans, both in Edmonton and around the world. His off-ice persona, marked by humility and a desire to give back to the community, has further endeared him to Oilers supporters. Draisaitl’s rise as a community figure has gone hand in hand with his growing status as a local celebrity, and it’s only natural for him to branch out into other ventures as part of his broader efforts to leave a lasting mark on the city.

Opening a restaurant is no small feat, especially for someone who is so heavily focused on their on-ice career. However, it’s clear that Draisaitl is more than just a player; he is a businessman with aspirations that reach beyond hockey. The restaurant he is involved with provides him an opportunity to cement his legacy not just in Edmonton’s hockey history, but also in its social and economic landscape.

The Rise of Athlete-Owned Restaurants

In recent years, there has been an increasing trend of professional athletes, particularly those with a strong local following, opening businesses, especially restaurants, in the cities where they play. From LeBron James’ involvement in opening a chain of pizza places to Toronto Raptors’ Kyle Lowry’s role in supporting several restaurants, athletes are using their influence and wealth to become entrepreneurs in ways that were previously uncommon.

For NHL players, the idea of opening restaurants or bars is no different. Many have seen their ventures in the hospitality industry succeed, capitalizing on their status as local icons while also fostering a sense of community. Draisaitl’s restaurant is part of this trend, but it is also particularly notable because it highlights the way in which Edmonton has embraced its athletes and their entrepreneurial ambitions.

When an athlete like Draisaitl opens a restaurant, it’s not just about providing another dining option in the city. It’s a statement. It’s about connecting with the community on a deeper level and showing that these athletes care about their cities, their fans, and the long-term cultural and economic development of their hometowns. For many fans, knowing that their favorite players have chosen to invest in their city creates a sense of pride. These restaurants are not just places to eat—they become social hubs where fans can feel closer to their heroes.

Draisaitl’s restaurant, therefore, will likely become more than just a culinary hotspot. It will be a gathering place for fans, a meeting point for members of the Edmonton community, and a further extension of the bond between the city and its beloved Oilers.

The Impact on Edmonton’s Culinary Scene

Edmonton has a rapidly evolving culinary scene, which has seen a rise in interest and development over the past decade. From innovative fine dining to culturally diverse eateries, the city has become a gastronomic destination for food lovers. When an athlete like Draisaitl steps into the restaurant scene, it’s not just a personal venture—it’s a recognition of the growing status of Edmonton as a city of culture, diversity, and culinary importance.

By entering this space, Draisaitl further elevates the profile of Edmonton, helping to cement the city’s position as a place that is not only home to sports greatness but also offers high-quality experiences for people of all backgrounds and interests. The fact that such a high-profile figure is investing in local hospitality is a sign of confidence in the city’s future, both in terms of its economic potential and its cultural relevance.

In addition to supporting local culinary talent and contributing to Edmonton’s economy, Draisaitl’s restaurant could spark a trend in which other athletes and local personalities consider opening their own businesses in the city. The ripple effect could lead to more job creation, tourism, and overall positive economic impact for Edmonton, which continues to be an important city for the Oilers and other major sports teams.

The Significance of Restaurant Ownership for Draisaitl

For Draisaitl, the ownership of a restaurant is an extension of his brand. It’s a way to show fans that he is more than just an incredible hockey player—he is a responsible and forward-thinking individual who is deeply connected to the place he plays. For many professional athletes, business ventures like these allow them to expand their influence beyond the rink, while also providing them with a financial cushion post-retirement.

Athletes are often scrutinized for their financial decisions, but for Draisaitl, restaurant ownership could be a thoughtful move that reflects his desire to have a lasting impact on Edmonton. The restaurant is a legacy-building project, and it is one that could provide Draisaitl with a platform to grow his influence in a new way.

Furthermore, owning a restaurant is not just about the financials—it’s about engaging with fans, hosting events, and possibly being part of the social fabric of the city. Draisaitl’s involvement in the restaurant also gives fans a chance to connect with him on a personal level in ways that go beyond the sport of hockey. If the restaurant becomes a popular spot for fans to congregate, Draisaitl will have succeeded in creating more than just a business—he will have created a space that fans associate with their connection to the team.

McDavid’s Reaction: A Friendly Rivalry

While McDavid remains the face of the Edmonton Oilers, Draisaitl’s move into the restaurant world offers a playful challenge to his fellow superstar. McDavid, known for his humility and focus on the game, has not ventured into similar business opportunities to the same extent as Draisaitl. It’s entirely possible that Draisaitl’s restaurant could inspire McDavid or other teammates to pursue their own off-ice ventures.

At the same time, the friendly rivalry between McDavid and Draisaitl extends beyond the rink. Although McDavid is generally the more public figure, Draisaitl has carved out his own place in the hearts of Oilers fans, both as a player and now as a community figure. In some ways, Draisaitl’s foray into the restaurant business represents his own way of stepping out of McDavid’s shadow and building a unique legacy that will last far beyond his playing career.

The Future of Draisaitl’s Brand

Looking ahead, the restaurant could serve as just one part of a larger brand-building effort for Draisaitl. The success of this venture might pave the way for other business opportunities in the future, perhaps in areas like real estate, sports management, or even further investments in the hospitality industry. For now, though, Draisaitl’s restaurant is an important first step in showing that athletes are capable of building multifaceted careers that go beyond their playing days.

For Edmonton, it’s yet another example of how athletes can influence the community in meaningful ways, creating legacies that contribute to the city’s development and future growth.