The Stand Opens New Restaurant at Valley Mall
The family-operated eatery opened its 23rd location on October 8, 2026, marking its third outpost in San Diego.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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The Stand officially opened its 23rd restaurant location at the Valley Mall on October 8, 2026. This new site represents the third installment for the brand in the San Diego area.
Why it matters
The opening marks a key milestone in the company strategy to grow its footprint. The expansion reflects ongoing efforts to scale the family-operated concept from its original foundation.
The new facility accommodates 200 guests across indoor and outdoor spaces and features a full bar. This opening is the 23rd overall for the brand and the 3rd to launch in San Diego.
The players
Murray Wishengrad
He is the founder of The Stand restaurant concept who manages the business alongside his sons.
Jason Wishengrad
He is a manager at The Stand who works alongside his father and brother to operate the family business.
Zachary Wishengrad
He is a manager at The Stand who helps oversee the family-operated restaurant concept.
The details
Founded by Murray Wishengrad in 2003, the restaurant remains a family-operated business managed alongside his sons, Jason and Zachary. The location follows a recent remodel of the Mission Valley Mall, which has been rebranded as the Valley Mall.
Timeline
The Stand restaurant concept was founded in 2003.
The restaurant celebrated its grand opening on October 8, 2026.
Market Landscape
The opening follows a broader retail trend of repurposing commercial real estate like the Valley Mall to include high-capacity dining destinations. This addition positions the brand to capture increased foot traffic following the property's recent rebranding.
Local diners can now access the brand's full bar and indoor or outdoor seating options at the new Valley Mall location. The expanded footprint suggests greater availability of the restaurant's services for those in the San Diego area.
The takeaway
The brand is moving toward a goal of 50 total locations as it continues to expand its reach in major markets. Customers can expect a consistent dining experience as the family-run business scales its operations.
Further reading
For more on new businesses arriving in the region, check out our San Diego Openings & Closings.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Times of San Diego.
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