Zanavich passed away this week at the age of 41. A Michigan native, he had recently returned from a monthlong journey through Asia, a trip that deepened his love for Vietnamese and Thai cuisine and culture. Zanavich was known not only for his culinary talents but also for his irreverent style, boundless creativity, and commitment to building community through food.
From the moment he opened the first Friendly location on 30th Street in North Park in 2018, he challenged traditional restaurant norms with an unpretentious, high-quality menu that drew foodies and industry insiders alike. The Dirty Flat Top cheeseburger, in particular, became a cult favorite, helping cement The Friendly's reputation as one of San Diego's most innovative casual eateries.
His restaurant empire expanded rapidly but thoughtfully. The Friendly Tavern launched in 2019 in the former Carnitas' Snack Shack space in North Park, followed by locations in Pacific Beach and Kearny Mesa in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Each location maintained the core values of quality, simplicity, and community that Zanavich championed.
Most recently, Zanavich had teamed up with longtime friend and collaborator Joey Quinton to open Ophelia's Raw Bar, a French champagne and oyster house adjacent to the original Friendly in North Park. Named after Quinton's daughter and Zanavich's goddaughter, the concept was close to his heart. It was a full-circle moment for Zanavich, whose original funding for The Friendly stemmed from a private oyster-shucking gig nearly a decade earlier. Although Ophelia's was expected to open last summer, the venue ultimately never launched, and the current status of the project remains unclear.
His restaurant empire expanded rapidly but thoughtfully. The Friendly Tavern launched in 2019 in the former Carnitas' Snack Shack space in North Park, followed by locations in Pacific Beach and Kearny Mesa in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Each location maintained the core values of quality, simplicity, and community that Zanavich championed.
Most recently, Zanavich had teamed up with longtime friend and collaborator Joey Quinton to open Ophelia's Raw Bar, a French champagne and oyster house adjacent to the original Friendly in North Park. Named after Quinton's daughter and Zanavich's goddaughter, the concept was close to his heart. It was a full-circle moment for Zanavich, whose original funding for The Friendly stemmed from a private oyster-shucking gig nearly a decade earlier. Although Ophelia's was expected to open last summer, the venue ultimately never launched, and the current status of the project remains unclear.
A passionate traveler, Zanavich often drew inspiration from his global adventures, bringing back flavors, techniques, and stories that enriched San Diego's dining landscape. Beyond his culinary achievements, Zanavich was a relentless supporter of fellow restaurateurs, chefs, and aspiring entrepreneurs. He fostered a culture of collaboration over competition, frequently hosting pop-ups and giving young chefs a platform at his restaurants.
News of his death has sent shockwaves through the San Diego restaurant scene, with tributes pouring in from chefs, restauranteurs, patrons, and friends who credit Zanavich with redefining the city's approach to casual food. Many recalled his generosity, his humor, and his unwavering belief in the power of food to bring people together. As the community grieves the loss of one of its brightest culinary lights, Zanavich's legacy lives on in the kitchens he built, the people he mentored, and the countless memories made around a burger and a beer at The Friendly.
It was announced Monday morning that all The Friendly locations would be closed on May 12. Plans for a public memorial and more details about the future of The Friendly and Ophelia's Raw Bar have yet to be announced.
News of his death has sent shockwaves through the San Diego restaurant scene, with tributes pouring in from chefs, restauranteurs, patrons, and friends who credit Zanavich with redefining the city's approach to casual food. Many recalled his generosity, his humor, and his unwavering belief in the power of food to bring people together. As the community grieves the loss of one of its brightest culinary lights, Zanavich's legacy lives on in the kitchens he built, the people he mentored, and the countless memories made around a burger and a beer at The Friendly.
It was announced Monday morning that all The Friendly locations would be closed on May 12. Plans for a public memorial and more details about the future of The Friendly and Ophelia's Raw Bar have yet to be announced.
Originally published on May 12, 2025.
