The Fresh Monkee, a franchise specializing in handcrafted shakes made with high-quality protein, whole fruits and veggies, natural nut butters, and other real ingredients, is preparing to make its California debut in Carlsbad at 3427 Via Montebello.
The company’s first West Coast location is set to move into the former home of Jamba Juice in the La Costa Town Square, according to the company’s website. Company president and founder Judy Flynn tells What Now San Diego that this location will be owned and operated by first-time franchisee Craig Kilby, who hopes to open the site with his partner, Laura, in about a month or so, aiming for a Memorial Day opening. Customers can expect a clean, vibrant space with a fast-casual vibe and friendly staff ready to customize high-protein shakes to their liking. The menu is clearly displayed, with plenty of options for nutritious, whole-food blends tailored for meal replacement or post-workout fuel.
Flynn founded The Fresh Monkee in 2014 in Wethersfield, Connecticut, starting in a modest 650-square-foot space, focusing on high-protein, whole-food shakes. By 2017, the brand expanded regionally with additional Connecticut locations and a food truck, followed by stores in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Arizona by 2024. As of April 2025, The Fresh Monkee is actively franchising and plans to open new locations in Florida, Texas, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, California, North Carolina, and Georgia.
The Fresh Monkee offers a menu of high-protein shakes made with whole, natural ingredients, perfect for meal replacements or post-workout fuel. Signature options include the “Chunkee Monkee,” a banana, natural peanut butter, chocolate or vanilla protein blend, and the “Antioxidant Berry,” made with mixed berries, spinach, and pomegranate juice. Customers can also enjoy protein-packed snacks like homemade Monkee Ballz.
“Introducing our newest Area Developer/Representative for San Diego, CA – Craig Kilby, alongside his kids, Katharine and Parker, and his partner, Laura,” according to the company’s social media. “With 30+ years of sales experience in the Corporate world, including Cisco, NetApp, and Chargepoint, Craig is excited to finally pursue his passion for franchising in the quick-serve restaurant industry. It just so happens that Craig has been making healthy protein shakes for himself for the last 5 years – so it’s truly a match made in business! Joining Craig in this adventure is his girlfriend, Laura, who is a graphic artist in San Diego, as well as a handful of other investor friends who bring their own unique experience to the business. Craig and his team feel that San Diego, America’s Finest City, is the perfect market for The Fresh Monkee’s Healthy Protein Shake movement with year-round amazing weather and an overall fitness-oriented lifestyle. While he plans to develop the entire San Diego market, Craig has already identified his first location in a “North County” area called La Costa, known for amazing golf and tennis. Fingers-crossed, the first location should open by Memorial Day!”
