Compton's Culinary Clash: How Kendrick Lamar's Music Video Impacted Local Businesses

When Compton rapper Kendrick Lamar's music video for his hit song "Not Like Us" showcased the popular Tam's Burgers No. 21, the fast-food restaurant experienced a significant boost in sales. However, the video shoot's impact on nearby businesses was not as positive, with some Compton restaurants claiming they lost thousands of dollars in revenue due to the influx of Lamar fans and the resulting overcrowding.

Uncovering the Ripple Effect of Kendrick Lamar's Viral Music Video

The Tam's Burgers Boom

Kendrick Lamar's decision to feature Tam's Burgers No. 21 in his "Not Like Us" music video proved to be a boon for the Rosecrans and Central Avenues fast-food restaurant. According to the Los Angeles Times, the establishment experienced a 30 to 40 percent increase in sales following the video's release. This surge in popularity is not uncommon for businesses that receive prominent exposure in a viral music video, especially one from an artist as influential as Lamar.

The Neighboring Businesses' Lament

While Tam's Burgers reaped the benefits of the video shoot, other Compton restaurants were not as fortunate. Soul food restaurant Alma's Place and adjacent businesses claim they lost thousands of dollars in revenue due to the video shoot's impact on the area. As hundreds of Lamar fans flocked to the central area around the Compton Courthouse, where the video was filmed, Alma's Place's parking lot became overcrowded, and customers were unable to access the restaurant. Owners Alma and Corina Pleasant were forced to close the restaurant early, estimating a loss of $1,800 to $2,200 that day.Another nearby establishment, Sunny Express Gourmet Fast Food, also reported losing approximately $2,000 due to the overcrowding caused by the video shoot. The Pleasants and other affected businesses are now seeking compensation from Lamar, his production company pgLang, or the city of Compton for the lost sales on the day of the shoot.

The City's Role and the Businesses' Plea

According to the affected businesses, the city of Compton did not provide adequate notice about the video shoot, leaving them unprepared for the influx of Lamar fans and the resulting impact on their operations. The Pleasants and other restaurant owners argue that better communication and coordination from the city could have mitigated the disruption to their businesses.As the Compton community grapples with the aftermath of Kendrick Lamar's music video, the affected businesses are calling for a resolution that addresses their financial losses and ensures better support for local establishments in the future. The situation highlights the delicate balance between the success of a high-profile artist and the well-being of the surrounding community, underscoring the need for greater collaboration and consideration when major events take place in urban neighborhoods.

Momed's Milestone and Immigrant Chef Celebrations

In a separate development, the Atwater Village restaurant Momed is celebrating its 10th anniversary in September. To mark the occasion, owner Alex Sarkissian and chef Vartan Abgaryan have launched a series of special Monday night dinners featuring immigrant chefs. On September 16, Badmaash chef Nakul Mahendro will be the featured guest, followed by Ka'teen chef Wes Avila on September 23 and Vivian Ku of Pine & Crane on September 30.

Alimento's Farewell in Silver Lake

Meanwhile, in Silver Lake, the beloved Italian neighborhood restaurant Alimento has closed its doors after more than a decade of operation. Chef and owner Zach Pollack appeared on the KCRW show Press Play to discuss the restaurant's final week, which included a power outage on one of the hottest days of the year.

Happy Ice Expands to Northridge

On a more positive note, Melrose's dairy-free, gluten-free, and nut-free ice cream shop Happy Ice has opened a new location near Cal State Northridge. Both the original Melrose store and the new Northridge location are now open from 12 p.m. until 10 p.m.

Cucumber Salad Craze at La La Land Kind Cafe

TikTok fans who follow Logan Moffitt can now find one of his personal cucumber salads for purchase at La La Land Kind Cafe's five locations throughout Southern California. The cafes are also selling Moffitt's signature salmon bagel recipe, allowing customers to recreate the viral sensation at home.