The story of Tip Top Meats began with German immigrant Joachim "Big John" Haedrich, whose vision brought European tradition to North San Diego County. Big John first opened a butcher shop in Glendale, CA, but in 1967, seeking new opportunities and a fresh start, he relocated to Carlsbad. There, he founded Tip Top Meats, which over the years grew into a beloved local institution, known for its exceptional meats, European groceries, and warm hospitality.
From its humble beginnings as a simple butcher shop, Tip Top Meats expanded into a multi-faceted operation that featured a full grocery store, seafood counter, European wine shop, restaurant, and catering service. It became the go-to spot for North County residents seeking hard-to-find European specialties, holiday roasts, or an affordable, hearty meal.
From its humble beginnings as a simple butcher shop, Tip Top Meats expanded into a multi-faceted operation that featured a full grocery store, seafood counter, European wine shop, restaurant, and catering service. It became the go-to spot for North County residents seeking hard-to-find European specialties, holiday roasts, or an affordable, hearty meal.
Big John's dedication to quality and service earned Tip Top Meats a loyal following. Customers were drawn to the shop for its wide selection of imported goods and meats, with many making it their staple destination for everything from sausages to steaks. The restaurant, tucked inside the market, became famous for its generous portions and classic European dishes, like the Big John Breakfast or hearty platters of sausage and sauerkraut.
For a time, Tip Top Meats also branched out, adding an adjacent fish market called Top Choice Fish. This seafood-focused market gave customers access to fresh fish and shellfish, further diversifying the shop's offerings. However, Top Choice Fish closed its doors in late 2021, marking the first signs of significant change for the business.
When Big John passed away in January 2023 at the age of 94, his children took over the business, hoping to continue his legacy. But despite their best efforts, Tip Top Meats faced mounting challenges, including the loss of their lease. In June 2023, the family announced that Tip Top Meats would be closing by the end of September, bringing nearly 60 years of service to the community to a bittersweet end.
For a time, Tip Top Meats also branched out, adding an adjacent fish market called Top Choice Fish. This seafood-focused market gave customers access to fresh fish and shellfish, further diversifying the shop's offerings. However, Top Choice Fish closed its doors in late 2021, marking the first signs of significant change for the business.
When Big John passed away in January 2023 at the age of 94, his children took over the business, hoping to continue his legacy. But despite their best efforts, Tip Top Meats faced mounting challenges, including the loss of their lease. In June 2023, the family announced that Tip Top Meats would be closing by the end of September, bringing nearly 60 years of service to the community to a bittersweet end.
On its final day of business, Tip Top Meats saw a line of loyal patrons stretching out the door, each eager to savor one last meal from the iconic European market and butcher shop. Customers, many of whom had frequented the store for years, came to pay tribute to the beloved institution, stocking up on its renowned sausages, meats, and European groceries. The overwhelming turnout on the closing day was a testament to the lasting impact Tip Top Meats had on the community, with regulars expressing both nostalgia and sadness as they bid farewell to a true North County favorite.
Initially, there was optimism about relocating Tip Top Meats to a new location, keeping the beloved brand alive. However, it has since been confirmed that there are no concrete plans for reopening in the near future. While the family remains hopeful about a return, they have stated that updates on the future of the business won’t come until 2025. Inquiries about more detailed plans have gone unanswered, leaving many loyal customers wondering if they will ever see Tip Top Meats return.
As of now, Tip Top Meats has closed its doors at its longtime location at 6118 Paseo Del Norte in Carlsbad, marking the end of an era. Whether it can find a new home and continue Big John’s legacy remains to be seen, but for now, the community bids farewell to a true San Diego institution.
For more information and updates, visit tiptopmeats.com.
Originally published on October 1, 2024.
