Tip Top Meats is nearly back. After a year of permitting and build-out in the small storefront that formerly housed the company’s Top Choice Fish Market & Eatery (next door to its longtime home at 6118 Paseo Del Norte), the North County institution is targeting an early November opening, pending final inspections.
A new sign is up, floors and ceiling are in, and shelving is being stocked, according to recent on-site observations shared by customers. everal neighbors who’ve peeked inside say the layout appears geared toward a robust to-go program and a butcher/market counter, with dine-in likely limited.
The comeback will be in a footprint that’s a fraction of the original – roughly the size of the old fish market – so expect a tighter operation at launch. Regulars should anticipate a streamlined version of Tip Top’s greatest hits while the team works out flow in the compact kitchen.
Founded in 1967 by the late Joachim “Big John” Haedrich, Tip Top Meats earned a cult following for its in-house butcher shop, German specialties, and famously hearty breakfasts. The brand closed its large Carlsbad complex in 2024 amid a legal settlement, but ownership has maintained that Tip Top remains family-run and here to stay – just in a cozier space. We’ll update with a firm opening date as soon as inspections are cleared…