The Friendly Tavern Bestows More Burgers on North Park

The highly-anticipated burger bar collaboration between chef Hanis Cavin and Brandon Zanavich of North Park pizzeria The Friendly has arrived. Announced last month, The Friendly Tavern is now offering a straightforward menu of grilled patties topped with mushrooms, bacon, onion rings, and more out of the walk-up University Avenue locale.

The menu at the new eatery is based on the burger specials offered at The Friendly’s original shop on 30th Street, which began with a breakout flat-top cheeseburger. Sides include fries and onion rings.

The space had been Carnitas’ Snack Shack’s first location since 2011, and most recently a short-lived rework called The Porchetta Shack. Refreshed with plants and shade sails, it now features a renovated back patio with park benches for seating and a revamped bar pouring beers from North Park-based Fall Brewing Company and mixing select cocktails.

Open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from noon to 9 p.m. on Sunday, The Friendly Tavern is an extension for Zanavich’s brand and allows chef Cavin to remain connected to the original space in which Carnitas’ Snack Shack made its name.

Mario A. Cortez