Sep 30

Sep 30 TASTEFULLY RELAXED

Lauren Barisic

Fashion & Features, Cover Story

The 2025 Casual Dining Category

Winner

Sam’s Italian Deli & Market

Nominees

Annesso Pizzeria
Heirloom
Mad Duck Craft Brewing Co.
The Patio Cafe

Sam’s Italian Deli & Market

From the day it opened its doors in 1980, Sam’s Italian Deli & Market has been a cornerstone of Fresno’s food scene, celebrated for its authentic flavors, Italian hospitality, and deep-rooted family legacy. What began as a small neighborhood market has grown into a destination beloved by generations, where tradition and taste are always on the menu. More than four decades later, Sam’s continues to uphold the values it was founded on: quality ingredients, warm service, and a passion for sharing Italian culture through food.

The deli’s menu is a love letter to classic Italian fare. Guests can expect piled-high sandwiches made to order, fresh antipasti, signature pasta dishes, imported cheeses, and cured meats straight from the old country. The market side is equally well-stocked, featuring an impressive selection of Italian wines, pantry staples, sweets, and olive oils. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or planning a full-scale Italian feast at home, Sam’s offers everything needed to turn any meal into a celebration.

Known for its towering sandwiches and unbeatable cold cuts, Sam’s has earned a loyal following across the Central Valley and beyond. Locals swear by the hot pastrami sandwich and pasta salads, while visitors often leave with arms full of groceries and bottles of wine, handpicked with the help of Sam’s knowledgeable staff. But Sam’s isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a gathering spot. A place where first-time customers quickly become regulars, and where the quality speaks for itself, bite after bite.

The aesthetic at Sam’s is unmistakably authentic, blending old-world charm with Central Valley warmth. Shelves are lined with imported goods, the deli counter buzzes with activity, and personalized signage guides guests through aisles of curated selections. The interior is simple but nostalgic, with touches of Tuscan inspiration and the hum of conversation all around. It’s not about flash—it’s about familiarity, flavor, and family.

As the 2025 Luxury Award Winner in the Casual Dining category, Sam’s Italian Deli & Market stands apart for its consistency, character, and community. In a world of fleeting food trends, Sam’s remains a timeless favorite, where substance always triumphs over style and excellence is measured in everyday experiences. It’s more than a meal—it’s a tradition, and that’s what makes Sam’s a true culinary icon in Fresno and beyond.

2415 North First Street, Fresno, CA 93703
www.samsitaliandeli.com
(559) 229-9346

Annesso Pizzeria

Since its opening in 2021, Annesso Pizzeria quickly became a standout establishment in North Fresno, offering a refined yet approachable take on modern Italian fare. Their artisan wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, and curated wine list are a favorite in town, as Annesso balances traditional flavors with contemporary execution. The restaurant’s aesthetic reflects its elevated casual dining experience—warm wood tones, sleek industrial finishes, and an open kitchen concept that invites guests into the heart of the action. Beyond the menu, Annesso’s commitment to quality, hospitality, and design-forward atmosphere makes it as unforgettable as it is irresistible.

8484 North Friant Road, Fresno, CA 93720
www.annessopizzeria.com
(559) 981-8995

Heirloom

Founded in 2018, Heirloom has carved out a loyal following with its fresh, ingredient-driven approach to fast-casual dining in the Park Crossing shopping center. Specializing in seasonal salads, grain bowls, burgers, and sandwiches made from locally sourced produce and sustainable proteins, Heirloom pairs health-conscious fare with craft cocktails as well as regional beers and wines. The bright, minimalist aesthetic—marked by clean lines, natural textures, and modern farmhouse touches—creates a welcoming space that reflects the brand’s wholesome philosophy. Its seamless blend of accessibility and elevated quality offers a thoughtfully curated experience that’s as nourishing as it is stylish.

8398 North Fresno Street, Fresno, CA 93720
www.heirloom-eats.com
(559) 228-9735

Mad Duck Craft Brewing Co.

Mad Duck Craft Brewing Co. has been a local favorite for its bold, house-brewed beers and elevated pub fare since 2011. With a rotating lineup of craft beers brewed on-site—ranging from hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts—Mad Duck pairs its pours with a diverse menu of gourmet burgers, tacos, wings, and inventive small plates. The restaurants strike a balance between laid-back and lively, with industrial-chic interiors, exposed brick, and communal seating that invites conversation and connection. Mad Duck stands out not only for its commitment to local brewing excellence, but for redefining what craft casual dining can be—flavor-forward, community-driven, and consistently original.

Campus Pointe
3085 East Campus Pointe Drive, Fresno, CA 93710
(559) 325-3825

Clovis
765 West Herndon Avenue, Suite 200, Clovis, CA 93612
(559) 298-3825

Copper & Maple
1974 East Copper Avenue, Suite 101, Fresno, CA 93730
(559) 319-6207

Northwest
7050 North Marks Avenue, Fresno, CA 93711
(559) 840-3825

www.madduckcraft.com

The Patio Cafe

The Patio Cafe, established in 1995, has long been a much-loved brunch and lunch destination in Fig Garden Village. Serving a vibrant menu of California comfort food—with everything from hearty scrambles and stacked sandwiches to fresh salads and signature French toast—the cafe also offers locally roasted coffee, refreshing mimosas, and seasonal specials. It’s relaxing, sun-soaked patio and welcoming neighborhood vibe can’t help but entice patrons to slow down and enjoy the ambiance, which blends casual elegance with an unmistakable sense of community. The Patio Cafe is a standout for its enduring charm, consistent quality, and its ability to make everyday dining feel like a special occasion.

5138 North Palm Avenue, Fresno, CA 93704
www.patio-cafe.com
(559) 243-1074

Editorial Director Lauren Barisic