The Stand opens 23rd location in renovated Valley Mall

The Stand opened its 23rd restaurant on Oct. 8 inside the Valley Mall, a facility that recently completed a full remodel and name change from the Mission Valley Mall. The new location is the third establishment for the brand in San Diego and sits directly across from the AMC Theaters.

Murray Wishengrad founded the company in 2003 in Encino. The owner described his motivation for expanding the business after leaving his previous career. "I failed at retirement. I couldn’t just sit on the couch after I retired; I needed something to do," Wishengrad said. The brand currently operates 23 locations and aims to reach 50 sites within the next few years.

Wishengrad’s sons, Jason and Zachary, assist their father with daily operations. The Valley Mall site features indoor and outdoor seating for 200 guests. The dining room includes a full bar that serves handcrafted cocktails, craft beer, and wine. Management states the space accommodates quick lunches, family dinners, date nights, and large gatherings.

The menu focuses on American classics with added ingredients. 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, served with grilled shrimp in a house-made glaze, avocado, cucumber salad, sesame-pickled carrots, edamame, crispy wontons, green onions, and steamed rice.

Customers can also construct custom burgers using beef, turkey, vegetarian, or chicken patties. Five bun options are available, including one gluten-free choice. Toppings include various cheeses, sauces, onion strings, and bacon tomato jam. The salad section lists Seared Ahi Tuna, Chinese Chicken, and Chimichurri Steak options. A kids’ menu and a list of wraps and hot dogs are also available.

The restaurant operates from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays through Wednesdays. Hours extend until 11 p.m. on Thursdays through Saturdays. Parking is free for visitors. The chain partners with schools, youth teams, and nonprofits through fundraising events, sponsorships, and in-kind donations.

The company maintains a social media presence at @TheStandRestaurants on Instagram. Additional details are available at www.thestand.com.