Cheeseburgers Go Vegan as Mr Charlie’s Heads Down Under to Redfern

Mr Charlies
Photo credit: Mr Charlie’s/Google Maps

The streets of Redfern are about to get a lot more colourful because Mr Charlie’s, the American plant-based fast food chain known for redefining fast food, is bringing its bright red and yellow branding to Australia for the first time.


Read: Redfern’s Aplenty Elevates Communal Dining To A Whole New Level


The new store, set to open on September 30, marks the first international expansion for the brand founded by friends Taylor McKinnon, Aaron Haxton, and Charlie Kim.

“There are some places in the world that just leave an impression, Sydney is one of those places for us,” the company announced on social media. “The energy of the city is vibrant and fresh, while the heartbeat is pure and kind.”

Mr Charlie’s in Los Angeles (Photo credit: Michael Harrold/Google Maps)

“Why Redfern? Because we are a company on a mission to create change, and where better to start than by aiding our indigenous communities,” the brand explained. The new location will partner with local charities and brands to create job opportunities for Aboriginal people.

Photo credit: Joyce Carter/Google Maps

Mr Charlie’s caused a stir when it launched in 2022 for its resemblance to a certain famous fast food chain, with its red and yellow colour scheme. But instead of burgers and fries, Mr Charlie’s offers plant-based twists like their popular “Frowny Meal Not a Double Double.” The meal contains a Not a Double Double cheeseburger, 4 nuggets, fries and a drink.

Other favourites include the Not Chicken Nuggets, made with plant-based protein, and the Not a Double Double, featuring vegan cheese, pickles, onion, ketchup and mustard on an Impossible burger patty.

Mr Charlies
Photo credit: Joe’d Cook/Google Maps

Whilst the food is plant-based, the founders say Mr Charlie’s is more of a social enterprise than just another vegan restaurant. Kim himself grew up eating a lot of fast food, but since getting married and having a kid, wanted to promote healthier options.


Read: Discover Fontana: Redfern’s Hidden Gem for Italian Cuisine


Stay tuned on Mr Charlie’s Instagram for updates on the new Redfern location leading up to the late September grand opening.

Published 6-September-2023