The sudden closure of The Friendly in PB marks the end of the brand's ambitious foray into San Diego's bustling coastal neighborhood, and while no official explanation has been provided, sources indicate the decision was likely underway even before the recent death of founder Brandon Zanavich. It remains business as usual at the other three locations.
Located at 1344 Garnet Avenue, the Pacific Beach branch was at the time The Friendly's third location, offering a fast-casual tavern concept with smashed burgers, thin-crust pizzas, fries, and a no-modifications policy that had become a signature part of the brand's irreverent identity. The venue featured an open kitchen, glass pizza display, and a 1,000-square-foot patio, serving up Zanavich's now-iconic Dirty Flat Top burgers to locals and beachgoers alike.
The closure follows a difficult month for the restaurant group, which temporarily paused operations for a couple days at all its locations in May after the unexpected passing of Zanavich at the age of 41. Known affectionately as "Buff," Brandon was a beloved figure in San Diego's culinary community and a pioneer of the smash burger trend in the city. A GoFundMe campaign launched shortly after his death to support his family has raised an outpouring of community support.
Meanwhile, rumors have surfaced that Carnitas Snack Shack founder Chef Hanis Cavin may be taking over operations at The Friendly Tavern in North Park. The liquor license for that outpost remains registered to Carnitas Snack Shack ownership, including Sara Stroud and Mike DiNorscia, fueling speculation about potential changes ahead. As of now, however, the tavern continues to operate under The Friendly name.
While The Friendly continues to serve at its original North Park outpost, The Friendly Tavern (also in North Park), and its Convoy-area location, the loss of the Pacific Beach branch leaves a noticeable gap in the coastal dining scene. Whether the space will be revived under a new concept—or if the brand plans any future expansions - remains to be seen.
Located at 1344 Garnet Avenue, the Pacific Beach branch was at the time The Friendly's third location, offering a fast-casual tavern concept with smashed burgers, thin-crust pizzas, fries, and a no-modifications policy that had become a signature part of the brand's irreverent identity. The venue featured an open kitchen, glass pizza display, and a 1,000-square-foot patio, serving up Zanavich's now-iconic Dirty Flat Top burgers to locals and beachgoers alike.
The closure follows a difficult month for the restaurant group, which temporarily paused operations for a couple days at all its locations in May after the unexpected passing of Zanavich at the age of 41. Known affectionately as "Buff," Brandon was a beloved figure in San Diego's culinary community and a pioneer of the smash burger trend in the city. A GoFundMe campaign launched shortly after his death to support his family has raised an outpouring of community support.
Meanwhile, rumors have surfaced that Carnitas Snack Shack founder Chef Hanis Cavin may be taking over operations at The Friendly Tavern in North Park. The liquor license for that outpost remains registered to Carnitas Snack Shack ownership, including Sara Stroud and Mike DiNorscia, fueling speculation about potential changes ahead. As of now, however, the tavern continues to operate under The Friendly name.
While The Friendly continues to serve at its original North Park outpost, The Friendly Tavern (also in North Park), and its Convoy-area location, the loss of the Pacific Beach branch leaves a noticeable gap in the coastal dining scene. Whether the space will be revived under a new concept—or if the brand plans any future expansions - remains to be seen.
For now, the Pacific Beach closure serves as a poignant reminder of a transformative chapter in San Diego's casual dining evolution, one led by a chef whose presence is still deeply felt.
Originally published on June 7, 2025.
