Meet the Founders of Sports Grill:

Celebrating Close to 40 Years of Flavor and Community

Eric and Lori Haas, our founders

Born and raised in Miami, Florida, Eric Haas embarked on a journey that would shape the culinary landscape of the area. He earned his BA in History and Broadcast Communications from Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, where he was initiated into Kappa Alpha Order and served as president. While working construction during summer breaks, Eric discovered his passion for the restaurant industry.

After relocating back to Miami to work as a flight attendant for Eastern Airlines, Eric met his future wife, Lori. In 1987, they opened the original Sports Grill on Sunset Drive, a venture that would soon become a beloved staple in the community.

Sports Grill quickly gained a reputation for its famous “Special Grilled Wings” and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Today, the brand boasts seven locations across Miami-Dade County.

Since 2015, Sports Grill has proudly partnered with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida, raising funds to grant wishes for children in need. Over the decades, all the restaurants actively participate in numerous community events, reinforcing its commitment to giving back.

Beyond his role at Sports Grill, Eric has served as a Diaconate at Old Cutler Presbyterian Church since 1992 and was elected to the Board of Directors of the Deering Estate Foundation in 1998, later serving as president from 2013 to 2014.

Eric and Lori are proud parents of two daughters and continue to call Florida home. As Sports Grill approaches its 40th anniversary, the Haas family remains dedicated to serving delicious food and fostering community connections.

team leaders

our operating partners

MEET christine marques

Christine Marques joined the Sports Grill family in September of 2011 after 33 years with Burger King where she held various positions throughout her career that included operations, purchasing, training & development and global operations R&D. Christine had the opportunity to work internationally on several projects and operations teams including the implementation of a global ordering platform of toys for every Burger King in the world. Sports Grill South Miami was the first location she helped to open with Eric & Spike and quickly understood the power of the brand and the impact it has on the South Florida Community – making things Special Grilled and ensuring the best representation for the brand are paramount to our success. Since 2011, Christine, Eric and Spike have opened an additional 3 locations and have been redeveloping the menu and the branding along with a day to day focus on operations. Christine lives with her family in Miami.

MEET mike (spike) anderson

A Cornerstone of the Sports Grill Team, Mike (Spike) Anderson has been an integral part of the Sports Grill family for more than 20 years, starting at the original Sunset location and playing a crucial role in the brand’s development, including the opening of the Kendall location and other restaurants within the group.

Spike is passionate about delivering exceptional customer service, ensuring that every guest leaves happier than when they arrived—this commitment is a cornerstone of Sports Grill’s mission statement and culture. Currently, Spike leads equipment development, focusing on maintenance and functionality, while also overseeing catering operations and its ongoing development with an emphasis on proper execution and follow-up.

A proud graduate of the University of Miami, Spike resides in Miami with his family. His dedication to both the brand and community continues to drive Sports Grill’s success.