An American burger chain that American foodies have dubbed the “vegan version of McDonald’s” is coming to the Australian capital this month.
Mr Charlie’s is set to open its first ever Australian store in Redfern, a southern suburb of Sydney, on September 30.
Although Mr. Charlie’s is not affiliated with McDonald’s, it has been satisfying the fast food cravings of plant-based and meat-free takeout fans across the United States since opening in Los Angeles in 2022.
Cope Street in Redfern will soon feature Mr Charlie’s bright red storefront with the cheeky yellow scowling face logo.
Australia is home to 2.3 million vegans and vegetarians, more than half a million of whom adhere to a strict plant-based diet, according to Searcher, and Mr. Charlie’s burgers and indulgent meals should make your mouth water.
American burger chain Mr Charlie’s, which American foodies have dubbed the vegan version of McDonald’s, is set to open its first-ever Australian store in Sydney on September 30.
Although Mr. Charlie’s is not affiliated with McDonald’s, it has been satisfying the fast food cravings of meatless takeout lovers across the United States since it opened in Los Angeles in 2022.
The menu features vegan versions of McDonald’s favorites including the ‘not a burger’, ‘not a chicken sandwich’, ‘BigChuck burger’, fries and nuggets.
There is also the “Frowny Meal” offering customers the choice of Not a Hamburger or Not a Cheeseburger with two nuggets, mini fries and a drink.
Although Mr. Charlie’s is known in the United States for its sad-face logo, its motto says the food aims to “turn that frown upside down.”
The fast food chain has received rave reviews from vegans, vegetarians and even celebrities, including singer Lizzo.
In a statement posted on Instagram, Mr Charlie’s team said Sydney’s energy was “vibrant and fresh” and they were excited to open their doors in the heart of Redfern.
“Why Redfern?” Because we are a company whose mission is to create change, and where better to start than by helping our Indigenous communities,” we read.
The menu features vegan versions of McDonald’s favorites including the ‘not a burger’, ‘not a chicken sandwich’, ‘BigChuck burger’, fries and nuggets.
The fast food chain has received rave reviews from vegans, vegetarians and even celebrities, including singer Lizzo.
“We’re proud to team up with incredible charities and brand partners who are creating opportunities for Indigenous people.”
They added that the store is built and the team is assembled and ready to see “all the nice humans of Australia” soon.
The news excited hundreds online, but Melbournians complained the store should have been opened in the Victorian capital.
‘IT’S SUPER EXCITING!!!! Welcome to Sydney, Mr Charlie,” one woman exclaimed.
“Oh man, you chose wrong, it should have been Melbourne,” one man groaned and another agreed: “Sydney and not Melbourne?” It’s a weird choice.
“It’s very exciting, I live over an hour away but I’ll make the effort to work around it!” a fourth responded.
