TheStory Behind The Grinder’s Fresh Food Legacy

Brodey and Tyler have been best friends since the 7th grade. Growing up together, they always shared the dream of one day starting a business side by side. That dream started to take shape during their senior year of high school when Tyler began working at The Grinder, a beloved East County sandwich shop that had already been serving the community for decades. Shortly after, Tyler helped bring his best friend Brodey on board, and the two quickly fell in love with the business.

Two years into working at The Grinder, the previous owner, Margaret, began preparing for
retirement after 40 years of serving the East County community. 

Recognizing the opportunity and the responsibility that came with it, Brodey asked Margaret if she would consider passing the torch so that he and Tyler could continue the legacy of The Grinder.

Before that conversation ever happened, Tyler and Brodey had always talked about starting a
business together. When this opportunity presented itself, they knew it was something they had
to pursue.

For the next two years, the pair worked closely with Margaret, learning every detail about the
shop — from the day-to-day operations to what made The Grinder such an important part of the community. They took pride in understanding the history and traditions of a sandwich shop that
had been around for generations.

On January 3rd, 2025, at just 22 years old, Brodey and Tyler officially became the proud new owners of The Grinder.

Their partnership goes far beyond business. If Tyler is somewhere, chances are Brodey is right
there beside him — and vice versa. Their friendship has been the foundation of everything
they’ve built together. They both feel incredibly fortunate to have a bond and partnership that many people never experience, and it’s something they never take for granted.

Today, their mission is simple: honor the legacy of The Grinder while building an even bigger future for it.

A Message From The Owners

 “We plan to keep this legacy going for another 62 years, and eventually expand throughout San Diego when the right time comes! Thank you to everyone in the community who supports a local business like ours and helps us pursue our dream of having the #1 sandwich shop in San
Diego.”

 — Brodey & Tyler