North County San Diego's Tip Top Meats is closing its doors later this month after nearly six decades in business with no current plans in place to reopen.
The story of Tip Top Meats began with German immigrant Joachim "Big John" Haedrich, who initially opened a butcher shop in Glendale, CA. In 1967, seeking a new opportunity, Big John moved to Carlsbad and established Tip Top Meats, bringing a taste of European tradition to San Diego's North County. Over the years, Tip Top Meats evolved from a simple butcher shop into a local institution, featuring a full grocery store, seafood counter, European wine shop, restaurant, and catering service.
Big John's vision for Tip Top Meats was to create a place where customers could find high-quality meats and European specialties that were hard to come by in the area. His commitment to quality and service quickly earned Tip Top Meats a loyal following. For many, it became a staple destination for everything from holiday roasts to everyday meals.
In addition to its main grocery and restaurant operations, Tip Top Meats also briefly expanded to include an adjacent fish market called Top Choice Fish. However, Top Choice Fish closed in late 2021, marking the beginning of a series of challenges for the business.
After Big John passed away in January 2023 at the age of 94, his children took over the reins of the business. Despite their best efforts, they announced in June that Tip Top Meats would be closing at the end of September, ending nearly six decades of service to the community.
After Big John passed away in January 2023 at the age of 94, his children took over the reins of the business. Despite their best efforts, they announced in June that Tip Top Meats would be closing at the end of September, ending nearly six decades of service to the community.
Initially, there were hopes of quickly relocating Tip Top Meats after losing their lease. However, it has been confirmed that there are currently no concrete plans to reopen the grocery and restaurant at a new location. While ownership is still exploring options, no updates are expected until 2025. Requests for further details went unanswered, leaving the future of this beloved institution uncertain.
Tip Top Meats will continue to operate under its normal hours at 6118 Paseo Del Norte in Carlsbad through Monday, September 30. For those looking to visit one last time or stock up on their favorite items, now is the time to do so. For more information, visit tiptopmeats.com.
