Murray Wishengrad opens 23rd The Stand location in Valley Mall
The family-run chain brings its American classics with a twist to the newly renamed shopping center, serving 200 guests daily.
By Imani Donovan ·
Murray Wishengrad opened the 23rd location of his restaurant chain, The Stand, in the Valley Mall on Oct. 8. This marks the third site for the brand in San Diego. The establishment sits across from the AMC Theaters inside the shopping center, which recently completed a full remodel and a name change from Mission Valley Mall.
Wishengrad, who is from Encino, started the company in 2003. He described his motivation for launching the business after leaving the workforce. “I failed at retirement. I couldn’t just sit on the couch after I retired; I needed something to do,” Wishengrad said. The family operates the chain daily, with his sons Jason and Zachary involved in creating the dining experience. Wishengrad stated the goal is to expand to 50 restaurants in the coming years.
The new location features indoor and outdoor seating for 200 guests. A full bar offers handcrafted cocktails alongside craft beer, wine, and milkshakes. The menu focuses on American staples with added flavor elements. Current specials include an Apple Cheddar Burger, which features a beef patty, double cheddar cheese, apple julienne, grilled onions, bacon tomato jam, and spicy honey mustard on a pretzel bun. Another option is the Big Shrimp Bowl, containing grilled shrimp in a house-made glaze, avocado, cucumber salad, sesame-pickled carrots, edamame, crispy wontons, green onions, sesame seeds, and steamed rice.
Patrons can also build their own burgers using beef, turkey, vegetarian, or chicken patties. Five bun options are available, including a gluten-free choice. Toppings range from various sauces and cheeses to loaded additions like onion strings. Salad options include Seared Ahi Tuna, Chinese Chicken, and Chimichurri Steak Salad. The menu also lists wraps, hot dogs, and a dedicated section for children.
The restaurant engages with local schools, youth teams, and nonprofits through fundraising events and sponsorships. It aims to act as a long-term partner in every community where it operates. The Stand serves lunch, family dinners, date nights, and larger gatherings. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Parking is free for customers.
The chain maintains a presence on Instagram at @TheStandRestaurants. Additional details are available at www.thestand.com.
Source: Times of San Diego
