The Fresh Monkee Carlsbad will be owned and operated by local franchisee Craig Kilby, marking both his first foray into the food industry and the brand’s official California launch. Kilby, who spent over 30 years in sales with companies like Cisco and ChargePoint, is partnering with his girlfriend, graphic designer Laura, and a small group of local investors to bring The Fresh Monkee to San Diego.
Founded by Judy Flynn in Wethersfield, Connecticut, The Fresh Monkee was launched with a goal of offering nutritious, high-protein shakes using whole food ingredients. The original location operated out of a compact 650-square-foot space but quickly attracted a loyal following, leading to expansion across the Northeast and into Arizona by 2024. As of 2025, the brand is actively expanding through franchising, with additional new markets including Florida, Texas, Georgia, and New Jersey.
The menu at The Fresh Monkee features a variety of made-to-order shakes with natural ingredients like fruits, vegetables, nut butters, and clean protein powders. Popular signature blends include the "Chunkee Monkee," made with banana, natural peanut butter, and chocolate or vanilla protein, and the "Antioxidant Berry," a nutrient-packed blend of mixed berries, spinach, and pomegranate juice. The brand is also known for its "Monkee Ballz" protein snacks, catering to both post-workout recovery and meal replacement needs.
Kilby says he sees strong potential for the brand in San Diego, citing the area’s health-conscious culture and active lifestyle. "San Diego, with its year-round amazing weather and fitness-oriented community, is the perfect market for The Fresh Monkee’s healthy protein shake movement," the brand shared in a recent social media announcement introducing Kilby and his family. The La Costa neighborhood, in particular, is well-known for its golf, tennis, and upscale residential community, providing a fitting backdrop for the company's West Coast introduction.
While this is the first California unit, Kilby has expressed plans to expand The Fresh Monkee throughout San Diego County in the coming years, with more locations expected as the brand establishes itself on the West Coast. The Carlsbad location will maintain The Fresh Monkee’s signature fast-casual layout, with a clean and vibrant interior and a customer-friendly, customizable ordering experience.
The Fresh Monkee is expected to open around Memorial Day weekend at 3427 Via Montebello in San Diego's North County city of Carlsbad. For more information, visit thefreshmonkee.com.
While this is the first California unit, Kilby has expressed plans to expand The Fresh Monkee throughout San Diego County in the coming years, with more locations expected as the brand establishes itself on the West Coast. The Carlsbad location will maintain The Fresh Monkee’s signature fast-casual layout, with a clean and vibrant interior and a customer-friendly, customizable ordering experience.
The Fresh Monkee is expected to open around Memorial Day weekend at 3427 Via Montebello in San Diego's North County city of Carlsbad. For more information, visit thefreshmonkee.com.
Originally published on April 16, 2025. Information first reported by Joey Reams of What Now.
