Mendocino Farms, the elevated fast casual known for turning sandwiches, salads and more into an unexpected culinary adventure, has partnered with mushroom-based meat alternative Fable to create a Mendo-fied take on the popular Philadelphia sandwich. Starting Tuesday, Jan. 16, guests can experience the new Philly Shroomsteak, along with the fresh new flavors of the Farmer’s Market Pesto Salad and more. 

“We partnered with Fable because their values align with our own. They prioritize flavor and quality, and have created a craveable product that lives on the leading edge. It’s a protein that’s not meat, and yet the ingredient list is an easy read.  It’s made of only seven ingredients and is mostly shiitake mushrooms,” said Mendocino Farms Executive Chef Jeremy Bringardner. “Our new menu offers adventurous flavors through the Philly Shroomsteak, our Farmer’s Market Pesto Salad and comforting soups meant to keep our guests warm this winter.” 

To read more about Chef’s culinary inspiration, click here. 

🥪 Chef’s Latest Creations  

Mendocino Farms is proud to be the first fast casual restaurant in the U.S. to introduce guests to the umami flavors of Fable with the craveable Philly Shroomsteak sandwich, featuring naturally meaty Fable shiitake steak, roasted red peppers & sweet onions, choice of hot or mild giardiniera, plant-based American cheese and green peppercorn aioli on a toasted sesame roll. 

“This plant-based version of the classic Cheesesteak is packed with flavor – the meaty texture and flavor of the Fable mushroom ‘steak’ works so well with ooey gooey melted plant-based American cheese, the sweetness of the roasted red peppers & sweet onions, and the hits of bright acidity and mild heat from my favorite sandwich condiment, Chicago-style giardiniera, resulting in a scrumptious sandwich that just hits the spot,” said Bringardner. “Introducing more plant-based options has been a priority for us and I’m excited to introduce our guests to what I think is a game changer in our new Philly Shroomsteak.” 

With flavors as fresh as its produce, the Farmer’s Market Pesto Salad brings together fresh mozzarella, marinated peppers, Kumato tomatoes, carrots, red onions, honey roasted almonds, chopped romaine and mixed greens tossed with basil pesto vinaigrette. 

“The Farmer’s Market Pesto Salad is a nod to the local markets where I get inspired by the piles of gorgeous, freshly harvested vegetables. The salad features an array of lovely lettuces and vibrant vegetables, and I think is very likable in its simplicity,” said Bringardner. “I think fans of our Farm Club Sandwich or Chicken Caprese Sandwich would get excited about this salad!”   

From Feb. 1 to Feb. 19, My Mendo members will have the opportunity to try the Philly Shroomsteak sandwich at a special price. Guests who aren’t yet account holders can sign up by Jan. 31 to take advantage of the exclusive offer. 

Also joining the menu are two new limited-time soups to warm guests during the winter season – the Thai Sweet Potato Soup and the hearty Turkey Sausage & Kale Soup. Two new deli salads round out the limited-time offerings: the Spicy Dijon Potato Salad and the Chopped Italian Chickpea Salad 

There’s something new for the youngest members of the Mendo herd, too! Joining the Kids Menu, the Pepperoni Pizza Melt features pepperoni, melted mozzarella and pizza sauce on brioche toast. 

🍴How to “Eat Happy” The new limited-time menu items are available for dine-in, pick-up or delivery beginning Jan. 16 at participating locations. Guests can check the Mendocino Farms website, the Mendocino Farms App or contact their local restaurant to confirm availability.