Best of 17 restaurants in Downtown Fresno
Discover our curated list of top-ranked restaurants in Downtown Fresno, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Mediterranean Grill & Cafe, Cosmopolitan | Tavern & Italian Grill, Chef Paul's Cafe, Kikku Japanese Food (Downtown), Richard’s Prime Rib & Seafood. Let's explore together!
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- 1. Mediterranean Grill & Cafe
- 2. Cosmopolitan | Tavern & Italian Grill
- 3. Chef Paul's Cafe
- 4. Kikku Japanese Food (Downtown)
- 5. Richard’s Prime Rib & Seafood
- 6. Libelula
- 7. Shep's Club at Shepherd's Inn
- 8. Rio Acai Bowls
- 9. The Fulton
- 10. Hummus Republic
- 11. Zss place
- 12. Country Kitchen Restaurant
- 13. Kocky's Bar and Grilll
- 14. Grandma Jane's Kitchen
- 15. Las Mañanitas
- 16. Valentino’s
- 17. GG's Food Factory
1. Mediterranean Grill & Cafe
Authentic Mediterranean cuisine using fresh ingredients
Discover a culinary gem in Fresno's downtown area - the Mediterranean Grill & Cafe. Renowned for its tantalizing Lebanese chicken and rice, every bite is a flavorful journey through the Mediterranean. Don't miss out on their signature dish, a true delight for the taste buds.
Despite its early closure at 2:30 pm, the cafe's popularity is undeniable, with a bustling atmosphere even as early as 11 am. Embrace the opportunity to savor authentic Mediterranean flavors in a cozy setting, where each dish is crafted to perfection. Unleash your inner foodie and indulge in a culinary experience like no other at Mediterranean Grill & Cafe.
Despite its early closure at 2:30 pm, the cafe's popularity is undeniable, with a bustling atmosphere even as early as 11 am. Embrace the opportunity to savor authentic Mediterranean flavors in a cozy setting, where each dish is crafted to perfection. Unleash your inner foodie and indulge in a culinary experience like no other at Mediterranean Grill & Cafe.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
2. Cosmopolitan | Tavern & Italian Grill
Features a tavern area with live music and events
Dive into a culinary symphony at Cosmopolitan | Tavern & Italian Grill, where every bite tells a flavorful story. Indulge in the divine combination of freshly picked basil, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, meticulously crafted to tantalize your taste buds. Amidst the bustling lunch rush, the air hums with lively chatter as you savor each mouthful. Immerse yourself in a complete libation experience with a curated selection of liquors that elevates your dining journey. Witness the attentive service staff effortlessly navigate the crowd, ensuring every patron is attended to with a warm and professional touch.
Satisfy your cravings with a heavenly creation – the turkey, bacon, and avocado sandwich that reigns supreme in Fresno's culinary scene. Join the vibrant lunch crowd and opt for a quick pick-up order to relish your meal in the cozy individual seating area. Experience a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on your palate, accompanied by courteous and efficient staff members who enhance your dining experience. Let the enticing aromas and delectable offerings at Cosmopolitan | Tavern & Italian Grill transport you to a culinary paradise where every bite is a celebration of taste and quality.
Satisfy your cravings with a heavenly creation – the turkey, bacon, and avocado sandwich that reigns supreme in Fresno's culinary scene. Join the vibrant lunch crowd and opt for a quick pick-up order to relish your meal in the cozy individual seating area. Experience a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on your palate, accompanied by courteous and efficient staff members who enhance your dining experience. Let the enticing aromas and delectable offerings at Cosmopolitan | Tavern & Italian Grill transport you to a culinary paradise where every bite is a celebration of taste and quality.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
3. Chef Paul's Cafe
Home-cooked meals in a small-town diner setting
Step into the culinary haven of Chef Paul's Cafe, where each bite is a symphony of flavor that transports you straight to the sunny South. The crispy fried chicken, hearty chili beans, and aromatic jambalaya dance on your palate, leaving you craving for more. The charming southern-inspired decor envelops you, creating a warm and inviting ambiance that elevates your dining experience. While it may lean towards the pricier side, the exceptional quality and taste make every penny well-spent. Don't be fooled by its unassuming exterior – inside, Chef Paul's Cafe is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
As you venture into Chef Paul's Cafe, prepare to be enchanted by its laid-back yet trendy atmosphere that beckons you to unwind and savor the moment. However, despite the rave reviews, a disappointing curtain fell on our visit as we encountered subpar service. From a waitress's discourteous demeanor to cold dishes, our expectations were shattered. Nevertheless, every place has its off days, and we remain hopeful that our next visit will paint a different picture. Let's give Chef Paul's Cafe another chance to redeem itself and prove why it has garnered such high praises in the city.
As you venture into Chef Paul's Cafe, prepare to be enchanted by its laid-back yet trendy atmosphere that beckons you to unwind and savor the moment. However, despite the rave reviews, a disappointing curtain fell on our visit as we encountered subpar service. From a waitress's discourteous demeanor to cold dishes, our expectations were shattered. Nevertheless, every place has its off days, and we remain hopeful that our next visit will paint a different picture. Let's give Chef Paul's Cafe another chance to redeem itself and prove why it has garnered such high praises in the city.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
- Budget-Friendly Eats
4. Kikku Japanese Food (Downtown)
Family-owned and operated with a passion for traditional Japanese cuisine
Kikku Japanese Food in Downtown is a delightful gem with a warm and welcoming staff. The menu boasts delectable options such as the spicy crispy chicken and tempura appetizer, all bursting with flavor. Despite a somewhat chilly ambiance, the restaurant is perfect for a quick and enjoyable meal. Payment is convenient with options like Google or Apple Pay, and don't miss out on the charming macaroni ice cream sandwiches for a sweet treat. Perfect for a lunch outing.
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TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
5. Richard’s Prime Rib & Seafood
25 years of serving the community with high-quality food and service
With a legacy of over 50 years, Richard's Prime Rib & Seafood is a culinary gem in Fresno, offering superb dishes and impeccable service. Despite its casual ambiance, the restaurant's quality far surpasses expectations. An unforgettable experience awaits at Richard's, where even dining alone fosters new friendships over delicious food. The bar, manned by a skilled bartender, serves up top-notch cocktails to complement the outstanding fare.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Celebrations
6. Libelula
Authentic Uruguayan cuisine in the heart of Fresno
Hidden in downtown, Libelula is a delightful surprise for the uninitiated. Despite its unassuming facade, this gem offers a culinary experience that tantalizes the taste buds. While service might be a tad slow for the lunch rush, the delectable vegan eggs benedict alone makes it a must-visit destination. Don't overlook this culinary haven based on its unpretentious exterior; Libelula is a true gastronomic delight waiting to be savored.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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7. Shep's Club at Shepherd's Inn
Popular spot for sports fans with numerous TVs and billiards
Shep's Club at Shepherd's Inn offers a delightful dining experience, with outdoor seating and occasional live music performances. Indulge in their irresistible tri-tip sandwich and flavorful potato salad - one serving is simply not enough. Opt for the ribeye with a side, cooked to perfection to satisfy your cravings. While the menu may be on the pricier side, the quality and ambiance make it worth the visit. However, be cautious as not all dishes may meet expectations in terms of flavor and cooking accuracy; coupled with occasional service hiccups, but overall, a charming spot for a relaxed evening out.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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8. Rio Acai Bowls
Uses locally sourced fruit and organic ingredients
Indulge in the irresistible powerhouse of flavors with Rio Acai Bowls. The potency of each bite is a delightful explosion for your taste buds, leaving you craving for more. And it's not just the adults who are hooked – even the young ones rave about the Brazilian bowl, making it a wholesome treat for the whole family to enjoy. In a world full of sugary temptations, it's refreshing to find a spot that offers not only delectable treats for yourself but also nutritious options that the kids will love.
Nestled in Fresno, Rio Acai Bowls is a culinary gem that should be on every acai lover's must-visit list. Having sampled acai bowls in various locations, this place truly stands out with its perfectly balanced consistency and bursting flavors. And that's not all – their menu goes beyond just acai, offering mouthwatering options like iced coffee and poke bowls to cater to every craving. To top it off, the recent remodel has added a touch of charm to the ambiance, making your dining experience not just delicious but visually appealing too.
Nestled in Fresno, Rio Acai Bowls is a culinary gem that should be on every acai lover's must-visit list. Having sampled acai bowls in various locations, this place truly stands out with its perfectly balanced consistency and bursting flavors. And that's not all – their menu goes beyond just acai, offering mouthwatering options like iced coffee and poke bowls to cater to every craving. To top it off, the recent remodel has added a touch of charm to the ambiance, making your dining experience not just delicious but visually appealing too.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
9. The Fulton
Cozy and lively atmosphere with a great selection of craft beers
Experience a culinary journey like no other at The Fulton, a fusion of Mediterranean and Mexican flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. From savory kebabs to zesty tacos, each dish is crafted to perfection, ensuring a dining experience that is nothing short of extraordinary. With a diverse menu curated by the passionate owner, Alex, every visit promises new and exciting flavors to discover.
Step into The Fulton and immerse yourself in a vibrant ambiance perfect for any occasion. Whether you're planning a casual night out or celebrating a special event, this charming restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and top-notch service that will make you feel right at home. Don't miss the chance to indulge in a culinary adventure that combines the best of Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine - a true gem for food enthusiasts everywhere.
Step into The Fulton and immerse yourself in a vibrant ambiance perfect for any occasion. Whether you're planning a casual night out or celebrating a special event, this charming restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and top-notch service that will make you feel right at home. Don't miss the chance to indulge in a culinary adventure that combines the best of Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine - a true gem for food enthusiasts everywhere.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
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10. Hummus Republic
Fresh, high-quality ingredients and flavorful dishes
Step into the modern and spacious interior of Hummus Republic, where minimalist charm meets a welcoming atmosphere. Despite the cold chairs, the friendly employees quickly warmed up the experience. As a hummus enthusiast, I was delighted by the options available - four delectable varieties to choose from, each bursting with delicious, flavorful goodness.
Embark on a culinary journey at Hummus Republic, where the cozy ambiance sets the stage for a delightful dining experience. With a menu brimming with delicious and flavorful dishes, this eatery is a haven for food lovers. Whether you're a hummus connoisseur or simply seeking a satisfying meal, Hummus Republic is sure to leave your taste buds wanting more.
Embark on a culinary journey at Hummus Republic, where the cozy ambiance sets the stage for a delightful dining experience. With a menu brimming with delicious and flavorful dishes, this eatery is a haven for food lovers. Whether you're a hummus connoisseur or simply seeking a satisfying meal, Hummus Republic is sure to leave your taste buds wanting more.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
11. Zss place
Discover the vibrant heart of Fresno at the new Fresno County Records Office location on the corner of Van Ness and Merced. The cozy ambiance of Zss Place welcomed me with open arms, where I indulged in a divine vegetable omelet topped with avocado and bacon - a combination that danced delightfully on my taste buds. Meanwhile, my dad savored every bite of the BLT hot dog. A culinary gem not to be missed - Zss Place is a must-visit for a memorable dining experience that I wholeheartedly endorse.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
12. Country Kitchen Restaurant
Country Kitchen Restaurant offers a cozy dining experience. While my meal didn't quite hit the mark, my companions enjoyed theirs. The friendly service and potential for improvement make me consider returning for a second chance.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
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13. Kocky's Bar and Grilll
Cozy neighborhood bar and grill with a lively atmosphere
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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14. Grandma Jane's Kitchen
At Grandma Jane's Kitchen, the delectable, freshly made dishes are a testament to their commitment to quality. Be sure to arrive early, as their limited daily supply ensures that latecomers may miss out on the culinary delights. The hole-in-the-wall restaurant in town serves up mouthwatering biscuits and sausage, although the scrambled eggs were a bit underwhelming. Don't miss out on the flavorful potatoes, generously studded with bell peppers and onions.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
15. Las Mañanitas
Arriving at Las Mañanitas on a quiet Saturday morning just after they opened, we found ourselves in a bustling, lively atmosphere by the time we left. While parking was initially plentiful, it became scarce as more guests arrived. Despite our experiences in larger cities like Los Angeles and Phoenix, where exceptional Mexican cuisine is abundant, our search for such flavors in Fresno had proven disappointing until we discovered the authentic and delicious dishes at Las Mañanitas.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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16. Valentino’s
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
17. GG's Food Factory
Authentic Southern-style cooking
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch