What really makes a restaurant historical? It’s the decades of stories shared over meals, the head chefs keeping those original recipes alive, the families that made these spots part of their own traditions, and the owners who stay true to the founder’s vision. Here’s our list of Fresno County’s top historical restaurants that still serve up the real deal in Fresno County.
Piemonte's Italian Delicatessen- 616 E Olive Ave, Fresno, CA 93728
Located in Fresno’s Tower District, Piemonte’s has been dishing out handcrafted sandwiches and freshly cut deli meats for over 80 years. Long before the big supermarket chains rolled in, locals would hit up spots like Piemonte’s to get their meats and cheeses sliced fresh right at the counter. And guess what? You can still experience that same old-school flavor today and enjoy their homemade sausages, meatballs, Italian sauces. Our favorite sandwich order is always the Piemonte’s Special. Their hours are Tuesday-Friday 10:00AM - 6:00PM, Saturday 10:00AM-5:00PM Closed Sunday-Monday. Check out what they are serving up today here.
The Cosmopolitan Tavern and Italian Grill- 625 O St, Fresno, CA 93721
What started as a boarding house for Italian, German, and other immigrants in 1904 has become a Fresno staple. Chef and owner Joseph Lanfranco’s family roots run deep here—his great-great-grandfather Edward Lanfranco and great uncles founded what eventually became The Cosmopolitan Tavern and Italian Grill in 1933, before the end of Prohibition. With a photo of a menu from 1942 priced New York steak dinners for $2 and $0.50 martinis, you'll feel the history the moment you're inside. The original wooden bar is still serving cocktails and some of its original recipes are offered for lunch and dinner at its current home on O Street. Stop by during lunch Monday-Friday 11:00AM-3:00PM or for dinner Thursday 5:00PM-8:00PM and Friday-Saturday 5:00PM-9:00PM. For more details visit here.
Central Fish Company- 1535 Kern St, Fresno, CA 93706
What began as a fish supplier for local restaurants in 1950 has grown into a cornerstone of Downtown Fresno’s Chinatown. By 1979, Central Fish had evolved into a full-scale Japanese grocery store, seafood market, and fast-food spot serving up favorites like fried fish, breaded oysters, and chicken katsu. Located on Kern Street, it sits alongside other historical landmarks, like the Komoto Building and the old Betsuin Buddhist Temple. Now run by the great-nephew of the original founder, Akira Yokomi, Central Fish has kept its legacy alive today. Whether you’re looking to grab the freshest fish in town or savor some classic Japanese fare, head over to 1535 Kern St. Open Monday-Saturday from 10:30AM to 6:00PM, and Sundays 10:30AM-5:00PM. For further details check out their Instagram.
Kogetsu-Do Confectionary- 920 F St, Fresno, CA 93706
While the secret to Kogetsu-Do’s beloved mochi recipe may be closely guarded by owner Lynn Ikeda, one thing customers have known since 1915 is the unmistakable freshness and flavor packed into every bite. Founded by Lynn’s grandfather in Fresno’s historic Chinatown, Kogetsu-Do has been serving up its signature mochi for over 99 years. In recent years, they have added fresh fruit mochi using seasonal fruit flavors like cinnamon apple, apricot, blueberry and raspberry and traditional Japanese mochi flavors like smooth red bean and green tea. In 2014, Kogetsu-Do was recognized as a Fresno Landmark, cementing its place in Fresno's rich cultural history. You can try their original mochi recipe at 920 F St, Fresno, CA, Friday-Monday from 9:00AM-1:00PM. visit here for more details.
Schoolhouse Restaurant and Tavern- 1018 S Frankwood Ave, Sanger, CA 93657
Serving up history with every bite, the Schoolhouse Restaurant & Tavern brings Fresno County’s past to life. The building originally built in 1890 as a schoolhouse, the building later became the Sherman Inn before sitting vacant for 10 years. Thanks to Ryan and Michelle Jackson, it’s been beautifully restored with vintage desks as decor inside, class photos hung on the walls, and even chalkboard platters to keep the old-school vibe alive. If you’re craving meals with a side of local history, make your way to 1018 S Frankwood in Sanger, CA. They’re open for dinner Wednesday-Sunday, and Monday-Tuesday from 4:00PM-8:00PM. For more details visit here.
Sante Fe Basque Restaurant and Bar- 3110 N Maroa Ave, Fresno, CA 93704
Since 1927, Santa Fe Basque has been more than just a restaurant—it served as a lifeline for newly arrived Basque immigrants. Located right across from the Fresno train station, it originally operated as an employment agency and boarding house for newly arrived Basque sheepherders. The owners helped these immigrants find work, medical care, and even provided lodging for children and assisted expectant mothers give birth. Meals were served family-style in the bar area, with hearty dishes like fried chicken and meat stews, recipes still enjoyed today and still served family-style. In 1991, the Santa Fe Hotel was officially entered to the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its status as a significant piece of Fresno’s history. You can make a reservation at their new location, 3110 N Maroa Avenue, Fresno, CA 93704 Monday-Tuesday 12:00PM-7:00PM, and Wednesday-Saturday 12:00PM-8:00PM. For further information visit here.
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