A new concept inspired by New York City bodegas is preparing to take shape next door to the original The Friendly restaurant in San Diego’s North Park, offering breakfast sandwiches, deli classics, and a neighborhood hangout vibe rooted in the spirit of the late founder Brandon Zanavich.
Chef Rob Brouillard, who has been guiding the kitchen and creative direction of The Friendly since Zanavich’s passing in 2025, confirmed that the project moving into the space formerly expected to house Ophelia’s Raw Bar will instead debut as B’s Bodega, a New York-style deli concept designed as both a tribute and an extension of The Friendly family.
“B’s is a NYC-inspired bodega featuring breakfast sandwiches, hot and cold deli sandwiches – no modifications – along with beer, wine, snacks, and coffee,” Brouillard told SanDiegoVille. “While it’s inspired by the classic New York style, it will align closely with the vibe and food style of The Friendly.”…