And things come full circle. Marathon Burger—birthed out of slain rapper and activist Nipsey Hussle’s estate—will be opening up its first Long Beach location. Where? Inside the former Johnny Rockets space in DTLB that closed back in July. And why is this a full circle moment? In fall 2024, Marathon Burger started as a pop-up in—you guessed it—Fairfax’s former Johnny Rockets space while they were building out their inaugural brick-and-mortar on Melrose.
Marathon Burger extends the entrepreneurial legacy of Nipsey via “Blacc Sam” Asghedom, Hussle’s brother. Blacc leads the venture along with their family and business partners, carrying forward what they describe as Hussle’s vision for The Marathon brand.
Beyond the food, Marathon Burger is as much about community and legacy as it is about burgers. The dining room features a striking portrait of Nipsey Hussle, transforming the space into a place of homage and gathering. With its opening, the brand takes a tangible step into hospitality. All the while they continue to honor Hussle’s ethos of ownership, uplift, and rootedness in the city he loved.
What to expect food-wise from the first Long Beach location of Marathon Burger
At its core, Marathon Burger presents itself as comfort food elevated by quality ingredients. (A trend in the L.A. burger world with other brands that have moved into Long Beach: think The Win~Dow and StormBurger.) The signature “Marathon Burger” is a double Wagyu smash with grilled onions, house-made pickles, American cheese, Fresno peppers, and a tangy “secret sauce,” all served on toasted brioche. The menu also includes supporting offerings like organic hot wings, fried tail-on shrimp, salads with grilled vegetables…
If you’re not in a beef mood, Marathon also offers vegan options (made in-house) using ingredients like wild rice and potatoes as well as portabella burgers. And the fries get doused with solid seasoning—perfect for dipping to their milkshakes made with Thrifty ice cream, a nostalgic touch if their ever was one.
Marathon Burger’s first Long Beach location will be located at 245 Pine Ave.
