If you had told me a few years ago that I’d be craving a burger made with a plant-based patty, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. But after visiting Mr. Charlie’s Hillcrest during its soft opening, I completely understand why people are talking about this chain.
The Concept Behind Mr. Charlie's
At first glance, Mr. Charlie’s Hillcrest might remind you of a familiar fast food restaurant. The menu is focused on classic comfort food favorites like burgers, nuggets, fries, shakes, and breakfast sandwiches, but every protein and cheese is made from plant-based ingredients.
The restaurant also has a mission beyond serving great food. Mr. Charlie’s is committed to creating employment opportunities for people who have faced barriers to finding work, including those rebuilding their lives after difficult circumstances.
It has a playful menu with names like the “Not a Cheeseburger” and “Frowny Meal,” a colorful décor, and an upbeat atmosphere. Mr. Charlie’s Hillcrest doesn’t take itself too seriously, as it is supposed to be a place where you can enjoy a great meal, have a few laughs, and leave with a smile.
A Friendly Welcome
The moment I walked into Mr. Charlie’s Hillcrest, I was greeted with a warm welcome. The employees were all friendly, helpful, and genuinely excited to be there. As new customers walked in, I watched team members proudly explain the menu and answer questions with huge smiles. That kind of customer service is hard to find, and it immediately made a great first impression.
The restaurant officially opens on July 11, and I have a feeling it’s going to become one of Hillcrest’s most talked-about new restaurants.
The Menu
I ordered three of the most popular items on the menu: the Mr. Chuck, fries, and the Not Chicken Nuggets.
The Mr. Chuck
Mr. Chuck comes with two plant-based patties, plant-based cheese, lettuce, pickles, onions, Mr. Chuck Sauce, and a sesame triple bun. The plant-based patty is both gluten-free and dairy-free, and you can substitute a gluten-free bun if needed.
Not Chicken Nuggets and Fries
The crispy Not Chicken Nuggets were another highlight. They have the familiar crunch you expect, making them perfect for dipping. Of course, no burger meal is complete without fries, and these were the perfect companion to everything else on the tray.
Don't Skip The Sauces At Mr. Charlie's Hillcrest
One of my favorite parts of visiting Mr. Charlie’s Hillcrest was trying all four dipping sauces. The options are Green Sauce made with jalapeño and cilantro, BBQ Sauce, Sweet & Sour Sauce, and Mr. Chuck Sauce, their take on Thousand Island dressing. I’d recommend trying all four and deciding which one is your favorite.
Surprisingly Affordable Prices
One thing that really surprised me about Mr. Charlie’s Hillcrest was the prices. So many restaurants serving plant-based burgers charge a premium, but that isn’t the case here. The menu is priced similarly to what you’d expect from a traditional fast-food restaurant. A great way to try plant-based comfort food without spending a fortune.
They also offer daily deals that make the menu an even better value:
- Monday: Buy one, get one free Mr. Muffin or Mr. Muffin Deluxe
- Tuesday: Free Not Burger with a purchase of $15 or more
- Wednesday: Mix and match any two burgers or sandwiches for $10
- Thursday: Free Frowny Meal with a purchase of $15 or more
- Friday: UnHappy Hour from 2 to 5 p.m. with free fries and a drink when you purchase any burger or sandwich
- Saturday: Family Pack with 4 burgers, 4 fries, and 4 drinks for $38
- Sunday: Family Pack with 32 nuggets, 4 fries, and 4 drinks for $38
If you’re curious about trying something different, or you’re already a fan of plant-based comfort food, mark your calendar for July 11 when Mr. Charlie’s Hillcrest officially opens its doors. Go hungry, order plenty of sauces, and don’t be surprised if you leave smiling.
