The Extra "E" is for Elegance: Big Papi's Grille

I had way too much fun breaking down Ryan Braun's tragi-comic attempt at a clothing line to stop there. I wanted more. So I spent the better part of this morning scouring the internet for more examples of horrible athlete branding. I'll eventually get to Jim Edmond's restaurant and Carl Crawford's clothing line, but for now let's focus on the ICBM of MLB'er extra-curricular activity: BIG PAPI'S GRILLE

Open since July, Big Papi's Grille caters to the upscale, adventurous foodies of Framingham, Mass. You know, the gastro-nerds who'll try anything. By anything, I mean steaks and pasta dishes. From the horses mouth:

“Meals are a time when my family, like many families, comes together,” said Ortiz.
“It was in the Dominican that I first developed my love of cooking. My hope is that Big
Papi’s Grille will be an integral part of the local community, bringing people together over a
great meal to create unforgettable memories.”

He then added:

"Theo say if I strike out as much next season that I have to play Mexican League ball with Ellsbury and kid with funny shaped head. No mas stike outs, Mr. Theo".

The best part of this story is that, according to the press release, Ortiz ostensibly bought his favorite steakhouse and threw a new name up on the marquee. Not a fan of ribeyes, say you? Quoth the presser:

"The menu will be greatly expanded to offer a wide variety of entrées, including salads, pasta, and gourmet burgers with handcut fries."

So this is obviously for those special Farmingham summer nights when the mall food court just won't do. I'd post a link to the website, but it's currently under construction. Seriously? in 2009 a website can still be under construction?