As a featured blogger here at FresYes.com, I take my job of exploring our awesome city with fresh eyes pretty seriously. I’m a big fan of my hometown, and I love how it continues to develop and grow with new places to go, things to do, and people to see. And though I do my best to check out as many of these spots and events as possible (if not just for myself, then on your behalf!), sometimes my list piles up faster than my free time.
It got me wondering, are you also keeping your own list of cool Fresno/Clovis places you’re looking forward to visiting when time and budget allow? I thought I’d change things up and share what’s on my near-future Fresno “to-do” list. Maybe you’ll beat me to some of these places, and if you do, let me know what you think! Either way, I’ll report back once I’ve had the chance to experience them myself, and I’d love for you to share your list in the comments, too.
5 Local(ish) Places & Events I’m Looking Forward to Checking Out Soon
Fresno’s Underground Suppers
I’ve been wanting to check out an Underground Supper for way longer than I care to admit — it’s been on my Fresno bucket list for quite some time! If you’re not familiar, Fresno’s Underground Suppers are a pop-up supper club that’s been creating immersive dinner experiences since 2016. The idea is you don’t just eat you travel (sometimes literally) to unexpected spots (think: in the woods, at the Underground Gardens, even in the middle of a river) for hyper-seasonal and specially curated, chef-prepared meals you won’t find in a standard restaurant. Tickets are released first to members (membership is free), and the secret location is revealed about 48 hours before the event. Each one is intimate, themed, and designed for people who love food, ambience, and an element of surprise all rolled into one night out.
Sanger Lotus Farm
I just learned about this beautiful lotus farm located just outside of Fresno/Clovis in neighboring Sanger. Open on Friday and Saturday evenings, the farm offers a truly unique and stunning setting to enjoy your weekend, take photos, and even sing karaoke. During the summer months, the lotus ponds bloom with gorgeous flowers (though they’re slowing down now), and visitors can also enjoy authentic Thai and Lao cuisine — everything from noodle dishes and soups to fresh fruit and salads. They’re open from 5–11 pm at 2374 N Del Rey Ave in Sanger, and I can’t wait to go.
Willow Osteria
I’m counting down the days until Willow Osteria opens in Clovis this October. It’s the newest Italian restaurant from Jimmy Pardini (the man behind The Annex Kitchen and Annesso Pizzeria). If it’s anything like his other restaurants, it’s bound to become a fast favorite of mine and many other locals, too. I’m always drawn to handmade pasta, and Willow promises to have a robust fresh pasta program. The space sounds like it will be incredible as well, with cozy dining nooks, a full bar, and a wood-fired grill for steaks, seafood, and more. Located at Willow and Shepherd in the Avenue at Heritage Grove, I think this spot is going to be one of the most talked-about openings of the year. (Check out this recent Fresno Bee story for more on Willow here.)
Monstera Coffee Studio
Monstera Coffee Studio just opened inside The Backyard Social Club at 1542 Clovis Ave in Clovis, and their daily hours are 7am–2pm. Their menu has already caught my attention. Beyond the classics like cortados, americanos, lattes, cappuccinos, cold brews, and mochas, they’re serving up some really tempting specialty drinks. A chantilly berry latte with almond cold foam sounds like summer in a cup, while the banana bread latte (made with real banana, brown sugar, and cinnamon) sounds super cozy. They’ve also got a salted caramel shaken espresso made with oat milk, which sounds very tempting, too!
Neat & Noir
I love supporting Downtown businesses, and I also love a good craft cocktail — so Neat & Noir is definitely on my list. They opened at the start of summer in the former St. Joaquin Wine Bar location at 1755 Broadway (Suite 106). Their menu is described as a relaxed, coffee-inspired approach to cocktails. With regular drink specials and in-house events, It sounds like a great new addition to Downtown Fresno that I can’t wait to experience.
With so many great new spots and experiences popping up around town, my list just keeps growing. But that’s the beauty of living here, there’s always something to look forward to. I’ll be making my way through these places soon, and of course, I’ll report back so you can decide which ones to add to your own Fresno “must-try” list.
In the meantime, I’d love to hear from you! What places or events are on your local to-do list? Drop them in the comments so we can all add a few more adventures to our calendars!
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