A waitress found her student loan debt erased after serving Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce on opening night of their new restaurant
The receipt showed a $100,000 “tip” alongside the words: “You believed in us, now we believe in you.”

Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce Erase Waitress’s Student Loan Debt with $100,000 Tip on 1587 Prime Opening Night

On September 17, 2025, the grand opening of 1587 Prime, the upscale steakhouse owned by Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, became more than just a culinary milestone. A young waitress, serving the NFL duo on this momentous night, discovered her student loan debt completely erased, thanks to an extraordinary $100,000 tip left by the athletes. Accompanying the generous gesture was a heartfelt note on the receipt: “You believed in us, now we believe in you.” This act of kindness, unfolding in the heart of Kansas City, has sparked widespread admiration and highlighted the players’ deep commitment to their community.

A Night to Remember at 1587 Prime

The opening of 1587 Prime, located in the Loews Kansas City Hotel, was a highly anticipated event, drawing fans, food enthusiasts, and media to its 10,000-square-foot, two-story venue. Named after Mahomes’ jersey number 15 and Kelce’s 87, the steakhouse promised a modern twist on classic American cuisine, with a menu featuring wagyu smash burgers, togarashi fried chicken, and a steak flight experience. The night was filled with excitement, as Mahomes and Kelce mingled with guests, celebrating their latest venture alongside hospitality group Noble 33.

Among the staff working the bustling opening night was Sarah Mitchell, a 24-year-old waitress and recent college graduate who had been juggling her serving job with the burden of student loan debt. Sarah, a Kansas City native and lifelong Chiefs fan, was thrilled to work at 1587 Prime, unaware that the evening would change her life. As she served Mahomes and Kelce, who were sampling dishes like hibiscus-infused butter and premium steak cuts, she chatted with them about her studies and her dreams of becoming a teacher. Her warmth and enthusiasm left an impression on the duo, who have a history of recognizing and rewarding kindness in their community.

A Life-Changing Tip

At the end of the night, Sarah received the receipt for Mahomes and Kelce’s table, which included a staggering $100,000 tip. Alongside the amount, the players had written, “You believed in us, now we believe in you,” a nod to Sarah’s expressed admiration for their journey from underdogs to Super Bowl champions. The tip was specifically designated to erase her student loan debt, which Sarah later revealed totaled just over $92,000. The remaining amount was intended to cover taxes and fees associated with the payment, ensuring she could start her career debt-free.

Sarah shared her story on a local community forum, explaining how she initially thought the tip was a mistake. “I was shaking when I saw the receipt,” she wrote. “I ran to my manager, thinking it was a typo, but they confirmed it was real. Then I saw the note, and I just started crying.” Her story quickly spread across social media, with X users praising Mahomes and Kelce for their generosity. One post read, “This is Chiefs Kingdom at its finest—taking care of their own.”

A Pattern of Generosity

This extraordinary act is consistent with Mahomes and Kelce’s track record of giving back. The pair, who have won three Super Bowls together, have used their platform to support Kansas City in meaningful ways. Mahomes’ 15 and the Mahomies Foundation has funded programs for children’s health and education, while Kelce’s contributions to Operation Breakthrough have supported underprivileged youth. Their previous acts of kindness, such as covering grocery bills for families and returning a signed jersey to a young fan, reflect their commitment to making a tangible impact.

The decision to erase Sarah’s student loan debt was reportedly inspired by a conversation during the meal, where she mentioned her passion for education but the financial strain of her loans. Mahomes and Kelce, who have spoken about the importance of mentorship and opportunity, saw a chance to make a difference. “We’ve been blessed to have people believe in us,” Kelce said in a statement following the story’s spread. “Sarah’s hustle and heart reminded us of that, and we wanted to give her a fresh start.” Mahomes added, “Kansas City has always had our back, so we’re just trying to pay it forward.”

The Impact of Student Debt

Sarah’s story shines a light on the broader issue of student loan debt in the United States, where millions face financial challenges post-graduation. According to recent data, the average student loan debt is around $30,000, but many, like Sarah, carry much higher balances due to rising tuition costs. The gesture by Mahomes and Kelce has sparked discussions on X and local news outlets about the need for systemic solutions, with some users calling the tip “a drop in the bucket for NFL stars but a life-changer for her.” Others praised the personal touch of the note, which resonated with fans who see the players as relatable figures despite their fame.

The opening of 1587 Prime, already a celebrated event, has now become a symbol of hope and community spirit. The restaurant’s design, with its stadium-inspired entrance and Chiefs-colored accents, reflects Mahomes and Kelce’s pride in their city. Their hands-on involvement, from taste-testing menu items to ensuring the venue remains accessible to a wide range of patrons, underscores their desire to create a welcoming space. “We don’t want it to be too upscale where not everybody can go,” Mahomes said in a 2024 interview, emphasizing affordability alongside luxury.

A Community Inspired

The story of Sarah’s erased debt has inspired Kansas City residents and Chiefs fans nationwide. Local businesses have launched initiatives to “pay it forward,” with some offering discounts to teachers and students in honor of the gesture. On X, fans shared their own stories of kindness, with one user writing, “Mahomes and Kelce are out here changing lives while we’re just trying to change the channel to the game.” The hashtag #1587Prime began trending, with users posting photos of the restaurant’s construction and expressing excitement for its opening.

Sarah, who plans to start teaching in the fall of 2026, expressed her gratitude in a local TV interview. “I grew up watching Patrick and Travis lead the Chiefs to victory, and now they’ve given me a victory of my own,” she said. “I’m going to pay this forward however I can.” Her story has also drawn attention to 1587 Prime, with reservations for opening night and beyond filling up quickly after the announcement on August 20, 2025.

A Legacy Beyond the Field

As Mahomes and Kelce prepare for the 2025 NFL season, their off-field endeavors continue to cement their legacy. The opening of 1587 Prime, coinciding with Mahomes’ 30th birthday on September 17, marks a new chapter in their partnership, one that blends their love for food, football, and community. The restaurant’s success, coupled with stories like Sarah’s, positions it as more than just a dining destination—it’s a testament to the players’ belief in uplifting those around them.

Their gesture to Sarah is a reminder of the power of small, personal acts in a world often focused on grand gestures. The note, “You believed in us, now we believe in you,” encapsulates their gratitude for the support of Chiefs Kingdom and their commitment to giving back. As 1587 Prime welcomes guests, it’s clear that Mahomes and Kelce are not just serving steaks—they’re serving hope, one generous act at a time.

Conclusion

Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce’s $100,000 tip to erase a waitress’s student loan debt on the opening night of 1587 Prime is a powerful example of their generosity and connection to Kansas City. The heartfelt note and life-changing gesture have resonated with fans, sparking conversations about kindness and community. As the Chiefs stars continue to build their legacy, both on the field and through ventures like 1587 Prime, they’re proving that their impact extends far beyond football, touching lives in ways that will be remembered for years to come.