Within my FresYes blogs, I frequently focus on highlighting new businesses in town, shining a spotlight on them and helping more folks discover them and give them a shot. I love how many local businesses open every month in our city, and I feel like I never run out of cool places to share with you!
That said, there’s also magic in places that have been around for a long time. These are spots that those in the know visit regularly, making it part of their routine, while others simply aren’t aware of what they’re missing. These spots are so good they always have a steady flow of business, often driven by loyal regulars, and rightfully so.
In this new series, I’m going to share some of these places, starting with fantastic spots to grab a workday lunch. They exist in every part of Fresno, and I’m excited to take you along on this lunch food tour!
Spot #1: Castillo’s Fine Mexican Food
Castillo’s is located on Ventura just east of Orange Avenue, near the Fresno Fairgrounds and just east of Downtown Fresno. It’s nestled in a small strip mall and unassuming on the outside, but those who frequent this spot know it offers consistent, affordable, generous plates for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Just note that they close at 5pm, so plan accordingly early if you’re thinking of dinner.
Their menu is expansive: a full, wide page, smaller font, front and back, filled with Mexican comfort food and favorites. My coworkers and I went today for lunch, and it was bustling! We grabbed the last booth available on the right side of the restaurant (there’s also a dining room with tables on the left), and the whole room was filled with people of all backgrounds, and both dressed up and dressed casually. It was a great mix of folks on their lunches, all excited to dig into Castillo’s consistently delicious food. Seasoned chips and fresh salsa was on the table within seconds of us being seated.
Most plates are right around $15 and offer enough food to box up for later. (My favorite kind of meal: a 2-for-1!) My coworkers both ordered chimichangas, and they were gigantic, literally the size of my forearm.
Service is kind, warm, and efficient. You’ll be able to get in and out within an hour, as long as you don’t spend too long deliberating over the massive menu. The tables and booths are clean, cushy and comfortable, and drinks come in those big red plastic cups like the ones the best, nostalgic pizza places use.
Castillo’s is a family-run restaurant that has been in Fresno since 1955 and is currently operated by its third generation of owners. It seems each generation has done a solid job of preparing the next, keeping this restaurant a beloved go-to for as long as I can remember.
If you haven’t been to Castillo’s before, or it’s been a while since your last visit, and you’re craving Mexican comfort food in generous portions, it’s time to plan a stop soon. You won’t regret it!
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