Emmitt Smith visits Rosco's Burger Inn? Restaurant goes viral for fake visit of NFL player

Aaron A. Bedoya, El Paso Times
·2 min read
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Rosco's Burger Inn sparked excitement and confusion when they announced an unexpected celebrity appearance.

The buzz began when the restaurant, known for its juicy burgers, posted a picture on Facebook March 21 claiming that NFL legend Emmitt Smith enjoyed a meal there.

"All time rushing leader came in to try the best burger in Texas," the restaurant posted.

In the picture, the Smith lookalike posed with owner Jacob Carrasco, holding a Cowboys helmet and flashing the UTEP pick-hand gesture.

Fans and foodies alike couldn't contain their excitement at the thought of rubbing elbows with the former Dallas Cowboys star over a plate of fries.

Emmitt Smith was spotted at Rosco's Burger Inn in Central El Paso.
Emmitt Smith was spotted at Rosco's Burger Inn in Central El Paso.

A Facebook user even commented, "Wow!! How Awesome! Wish I had been there!"

The post quickly went viral, with comments flooding in from eager customers and fans. Some mentioned that Emmitt Smith's looks were off. "Great Value Emmitt Smith," a user posted, hinting at Walmart's store-owned brand that offers lower prices compared to the original brand.

However, Carrasco dropped a bombshell on March 22: the "Emmitt Smith" in question was not the real deal at all. In fact, it was a customer who resembled the football legend.

Dallas Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith runs into LeRoy Butler (36) and Reggie White (92) during the NFL divisional round playoff game at On January 16, 1994 at Texas Stadium. The Cowboys won 27-17.
Dallas Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith runs into LeRoy Butler (36) and Reggie White (92) during the NFL divisional round playoff game at On January 16, 1994 at Texas Stadium. The Cowboys won 27-17.

Carrasco confessed it was all good fun, but it turns out that this wasn't the first time the restaurant had pulled off such a stunt. Carrasco revealed that they also have a Steve Kerr lookalike who visited the establishment, further adding to the playful atmosphere.

Maybe next time, they'll surprise us with a visit from a faux-Tom Brady or a pseudo-LeBron James.

The burger joint recently opened this month after being closed in May of 2023 due to a kitchen fire. The restaurant opened in 1955 and is now run by Carrasco, a third-generation owner.

While some of the "famous" customers turn out to be fake news, El Pasoans say Rosco's burgers are legit.

Customers wait outside for their orders as Rosco's Burger Inn stays busy on Wednesday, March 4, 2024, the second day after reopening. The restaurant was closed in May 2023 due to a kitchen fire.
Customers wait outside for their orders as Rosco's Burger Inn stays busy on Wednesday, March 4, 2024, the second day after reopening. The restaurant was closed in May 2023 due to a kitchen fire.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Rosco's Burger Inn sparks viral buzz with fake Emmitt Smith appearance