Munchies has taken a bold step into the historic location once occupied by Michelle Chocolatiers on Tejon Street, injecting new life into the long-vacant space with its hearty portions and eclectic menu offerings.
After years of anticipation surrounding the revival of food service at this iconic spot, Munchies has emerged as the torchbearer, despite its relatively humble beginnings as a food truck only a few years ago. Following a successful stint at the Triple Nickel Tavern, Munchies made the strategic move to set up shop in the former Michelle’s location, debuting in late November.
Owners Chuck and MaryAnn Thomas exude confidence as they navigate the challenges of operating in a legacy storefront with higher overhead costs. Chuck, the chef with 17 years of industry experience, leads the charge in the kitchen while also managing the business’s social media and digital presence. Together with MaryAnn, they’ve meticulously designed the space, infusing it with stylish gray tones and vibrant pops of color, paying homage to Michelle’s legacy while putting their own spin on the decor.
The menu at Munchies is expansive, offering a diverse selection of dishes that blend comfort food with innovative twists. Chuck describes it as “old-school diner food with fusion,” emphasizing the use of fresh, scratch-made ingredients and creative flavor combinations. From hearty breakfast options to indulgent burgers and shareable appetizers, Munchies aims to satisfy cravings for salty, fatty, and sweet flavors in generous portions.
Portions at Munchies are notably large, offering excellent value for the price but requiring a hearty appetite to finish in one sitting. The menu features everything from oversized cocktails to decadent desserts, ensuring there’s something for every craving. Highlights include the Roosters Nest breakfast dish, featuring house-cut fries topped with green chile, fried chicken, and eggs, as well as the Blazin Porky Waffle, a savory jalapeño cheddar waffle piled high with shredded carnitas and spicy toppings.
In addition to its food offerings, Munchies pays homage to Michelle’s sweets legacy with a selection of shakes, malts, and sundaes, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth. The Death by Chocolate Brownie, made with Ghirardelli chocolate and topped with caramel and peanut brittle, is a fittingly indulgent end to a meal.
Overall, Munchies delivers a unique dining experience that celebrates the spirit of comfort food while pushing the boundaries of creativity and flavor. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast, a satisfying burger, or a decadent dessert, Munchies promises to leave you fully satisfied and craving more. So next time you find yourself in need of a food fix, head over to Munchies and indulge in a meal that’s big on flavor and portion size.