The new chapter for Tip Top follows the business's closure in October 2024 and the subsequent sale of the longstanding property at 6118 Paseo Del Norte, where Tip Top Meats operated for nearly six decades. That property was previously owned by Top Choice Investments, LLC - a separate entity formed in 2002 as a joint venture between Tip Top founder Joachim "Big John" Haedrich and longtime associate Steven Reid. While Reid was a longtime employee who assisted in Tip Top’s meat department, he was never an owner or operator of Tip Top Meats itself, which has always been owned and operated solely by the Haedrich family.
Reid and the Haedrich family were involved in a complex legal dispute for years, which likely resulted in the closure of the store in 2024. The lawsuit ended with a Stipulation for Settlement, finalized on May 30, 2024, which granted Reid complete ownership of Top Choice Investments, LLC. That entity ultimately sold the property at 6118 Paseo Del Norte in December 2024 for a reported $4.6 million to 6118 Paseo Del Norte LLC, operated by Robert and Masako Burggraf of R&B Wholesale Distributors.
The Haedrich family has made clear that their decision to reopen the business is entirely their own and not connected to past legal proceedings. They have parted ways with Reid and recently confirmed via Tip Top's social media that a new lease has been secured and tenant improvements are underway. "The new space is 20% of the size of the previous space so we will have a challenge managing expectations,” the company posted on social media, "but we are coming back!"
Founded in 1967 by German immigrant Big John Haedrich, Tip Top Meats became a fixture in Carlsbad for its old-world charm, European grocery offerings, hearty restaurant fare, and in-house butcher services. Known for its generous Big John Breakfast and authentic sausages, the business was revered by locals and tourists alike.
Founded in 1967 by German immigrant Big John Haedrich, Tip Top Meats became a fixture in Carlsbad for its old-world charm, European grocery offerings, hearty restaurant fare, and in-house butcher services. Known for its generous Big John Breakfast and authentic sausages, the business was revered by locals and tourists alike.
The brand's closure in October 2024 marked the end of an era, drawing huge farewell crowds as customers lined up to enjoy one last schnitzel or stock up on imported goods. For many, the absence of Tip Top Meats has left a void in North County’s culinary scene.
Despite a tumultuous legal journey - including lawsuits and questions over ownership and future plans -the Haedrich family's commitment to Tip Top Meats remains steadfast. With a new, smaller space under construction and a targeted reopening date in sight, the legacy of Big John may soon be revived for a new generation of San Diegans.
This article was initially published without input from Tip Top ownership and has been updated as additional information was made available. Stay tuned for updates on the confirmed address and official reopening details.
Originally published on May 15, 2025. Updated on May 18, 2025.
Originally published on May 15, 2025. Updated on May 18, 2025.