Our city’s plant-based scene is getting another major upgrade! Just months after making its highly anticipated local debut in Pacific Beach, the viral vegan fast-food chain Mr. Charlie’s is officially opening its second San Diego location. This time, they’re heading to Hillcrest.
Mr. Charlie’s opens its second SD location
The second location comes with a bang. Mr. Charlie’s is throwing a grand opening party on Saturday, July 11, and they’re pulling out all the stops. The new Hillcrest outpost is inviting everyone to come hang out, meet the team, and score some freebies.
The grand opening: details & freebies

If you love free food and celebrity sightings, you’ll want to get in line early. From 1 PM to 2 PM on July 11, Mr. Charlie’s will be giving away a free Not a Hamburger, Not a Cheeseburger, or Not a Chicken Sandwich to everyone who stops by. Hurry – it’s only while supplies last.
Moreover, the event will also feature a special appearance by legendary Blink-182 drummer and prominent vegan, Travis Barker. The grand opening festivities will run from 1 PM until 5 PM, giving the community plenty of time to enjoy the great food and fun atmosphere. Find the new location at 3896 Fifth Ave, San Diego.
Meet Mr. Charlie’s
If you’re not already familiar with the chain, here’s the scoop. Founded in L.A. in 2022, Mr. Charlie’s has cultivated a cult-like following across social media. The brand pairs a nostalgic, classic American fast-food aesthetic with a 100% plant-based menu. With their iconic red and yellow branding and cheeky menu items, like the “Mr. Frowny Meal”, the restaurant intentionally evokes traditional drive-thru nostalgia while serving food made entirely without meat or dairy.
Rather than positioning itself as health-food, Mr. Charlie’s leans fully into indulgence. Their menu centers around vegan interpretations of familiar fast-food staples. Think crispy vegan nuggets, classic fries, breakfast sandwiches, burgers, and dairy-free soft-serve and sundaes.