LUXURY AWARDS NOMINEES REVEALED

THE FUTURE OF LOCAL NEURO CARE
NICK MARZILIANO KEEPING TRADITIONS ALIVE
USE CODE CVLUX10 FOR % SAVINGS ONLINE











Savanna



LUXURY AWARDS NOMINEES REVEALED
THE FUTURE OF LOCAL NEURO CARE
NICK MARZILIANO KEEPING TRADITIONS ALIVE
Savanna
American made solid hardwood furniture. The best solid hardwoods. Perfect hand sanded joinery and time-honored finishes. Heirloom quality furniture made by Amish Craftsman, paying attention to every detail. Smile everytime you set your table. Now available exclusively at Fashion Furniture.
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See and experience the quality of Flexsteel right in our showroom.
The 2024 Luxury Award Nominees are revealed here! Cast a vote for all your favorites starting this month and reserve your seat at the most luxurious night of the year while you still can.
28
See how the Bob Smittcamp Family Neuroscience Institute will revolutionize neuroscience treatment in this region of California.
48
Second-generation owner Nick Marziliano of Sam’s Italian Deli & Market talks about the story behind this Central Valley landmark, what they’re still doing right after over four decades of business, and how he’s maintaining family traditions.
54
Fresno’s favorite family-owned restaurants include Bobby Salazar’s Mexican Foods, Cosmopolitan Tavern & Italian Grill, DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant, and Richard’s Prime Rib & Seafood.
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Efficiency, precision, and perfection are at the forefront with Virgo in the sky. For the September Edition, CVLUX features Nick Marziliano of Sam’s Italian Deli & Market for the Legacy Issue.
Football season is back, and we’ve never been more ready to celebrate its return. Our seven family-friendly parks are practically around the corner from every home, and some are ideal for a little practice or pick-up games. In fact, we can’t think of a better place to raise your future Bulldog (or NFL) superstar. So come join us.
The Lodge
Stylish Homes
Trails & Parks
Stone Creek Elementary
Dog Park
Riverwalk
www.RiverstoneCA.com
@LifeAtRiverstoneCA
Tour the Model Homes
From Fresno, go north on Highway 41, turn left at Avenue 12 and follow the signs.
©2023 Riverstone Development, LLC. Obtain a copy of the Public Report as required by Federal law and/or the Public Report issued by the California Bureau of Real Estate and read them before signing any documents. No Federal or State agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. This advertisement is not a solicitation to purchase or sell property in any state where prohibited by law. The stylized R logo is a service mark of Riverstone Development, LLC. Riverstone and Riverstone Development are trade names of Riverstone Development, LLC. The San Joaquin River and River Park are located approximately six miles from Riverstone.
At the beginning of this year, we decided to recommit ourselves to the Central Valley and spend more time highlighting everything that makes this part of the country so remarkable. So, to continue in this vein, we decided to highlight some of our favorite family-owned businesses and showcase what they provide to our community. This inaugural Legacy Issue acknowledges those who are looking to serve the generations to come.
This edition also marks the start of the Luxury Awards voting season. This year we decided to grow the celebration and include a variety of new categories, 42 to be exact. This allows us the opportunity to recognize
over 200 different businesses. For more information, or to cast your vote, please visit www.cvlux.com. Voting is live and will continue through December 2023, and please remember that there is only one vote counted per email. So, let’s get clicking!
We hope you enjoy this latest edition and give us a follow on social!
DavidLegacy
On the cover of this inaugural Legacy Issue is Nick Marziliano, second-generation owner of the local landmark Sam’s Italian Deli & Market (page 48). The Bob Smittcamp Family Neuroscience Institute will give more than a new legacy to the Central Valley (page 28). Four family-owned restaurants have been feeding the greater Fresno area for generations (page 54): Bobby Salazar’s Mexican Foods (page 56), Cosmopolitan Tavern & Italian Grill (page 58), DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant (page 60), and Richard’s Prime Rib & Seafood (page 62). Cast a vote for your favorite 2024 Luxury Award Nominees starting this month (page 38).
Social Affair covers the Santé Physicians’ 2023 Physician Recognition Awards Presentation (page 24). Fall events are stacking up on the community calendar this September (page 20). Virgo season encourages efficiency, precision, and perfection (page 64).
As the holiday season knocks on our doors, we are reminded to reevaluate priorities. Time with family and loved ones takes center stage with traditional meals, communal activities, and seasonal festivities. Enjoy being present, especially when around the dining table.
DAVID MANNING
Publisher, Sole Owner
EDITORIAL
Editorial Director LAUREN BARISIC Features Contributor COMMUNITY HEALTH SYSTEM, OFFICE OF PHILANTHROPY Astrologer SHARI SCHOPP
ART
Design Director PHENG MOUA Graphic Designer SAMANTHA DEATHERAGE Contributing Photographers DON DIZON, ELLIE KOLEEN COMMUNITY HEALTH SYSTEM, OFFICE OF PHILANTHROPY and HINDS HOSPICE
BUSINESS
Regional Marketing Director CAROL DEFENDIS Sales Executive CAROLINE HOWARD Accounting Director DEE ANN LINKER Legal Counsel GONTORWON BORH
Please submit all advertising inquires to information@cvlux.com.
Letters To The Editor: We want to hear from you. Please submit letters to: CVLUX, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720 or e-mail to information@cvlux.com. Letters must be signed and deemed appropriate for our readership to be considered for publishing. Letters are subject to editing and may be cut for length.
Story Queries: Are you a writer? Please send story queries to lauren@cvlux.com. Please allow six to eight weeks for a response. CVLUX is not responsible for unsolicited material.
CVLUX is published twelve times a year by Modern Living Publishing LLC, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720. Copyright 2014 by Modern Living Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Every effort has been made to ensure the information within this publication is complete and accurate at the time of publication. CVLUX does not warrant such accuracy or the claims of its advertisers. All materials, articles, reports, original artwork, and photos published in this magazine are the property of Modern Living Publishing LLC and cannot be used or reproduced without permission in writing. Modern Living Publishing LLC is not responsible for the opinions expressed within the publication. Prices quoted in advertisements are subject to change without notice.
September 8th
Celebrating Life’s Shining Moments Gala
Hinds Hospice
Clovis Veterans Memorial Building
www.hindshospice.org
The Hinds Hospice annual gala will directly benefits patients and their families across Fresno, Madera, and Merced counties. As the area’s only independent, non-profit hospice, Hinds provides the highest quality end-of-life care and bereavement support to our community. Individual reservations are $150. Hosted tables are $1,500.
September 9th
2023 Dark Sky Festival
Sequoia Parks Conservatory
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park
www.sequoiaparksconservancy.org
The 2023 Dark Sky Festival is a celebration of our night sky. This free family-friendly event takes place both day and night at various locations across Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks from 10:00AM to 11:00PM. Events will be held in the Giant Forest/Lodgepole area as well as the Grant Grove area. Check out the full schedule on the Sequoia Parks Conservatory website.
September 14th to November 5th
The Pirates of Penzance
Good Company Players
Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater
www.gcplayers.com
Set sail in the Tower District with a band of swashbuckling pirates, ditzy fair maidens, bumbling bobbies, lovable villains, and confused heroes at Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater, as the Good Company Players present The Pirates of Penzance. This shipload of fun comes as a rated PG show. Performances are held on Thursdays through Sundays. Tickets range from $37 to $69.
September 15th to 17th
Fresno Greek Fest
St. George Greek Orthodox Church www.fresnogreekfest.com
California’s premier Greek festival returns to the beautiful grounds of St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Fresno. This family-friendly event will run for three days and include tons of food, a Greek market, dancing, drinking, music, art appreciation, shopping, and fun for the kids. Check out the map and schedule online for more details on the planned festivities.
September 16th
46th Annual Fresno Scottish Gathering and Games
Scottish Society of Central California Kearney Park
www.fresnoscottishsociety.com
Enjoy a cultural day of Scottish history with fun, food, family, entertainment, and games at Kearney Park. Heavy athletics, clan rowing, bagpipes, a marketplace, youth athletics, herding dogs, and a living history village will all be on display. Admission is $20 for the general public, $10 for military, seniors, and students with IDs, and free for children under 12.
September 16th
Casino Night
Saint Agnes Men’s Club Stockbridge Estates www.samc.com
Bet on a good time at the epic return of the Saint Agnes Men’s Club Casino Night. The evening will begin with hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction, followed by an exquisite gourmet dinner and a live auction. Casino games and dancing are a highlight of the night! Tables of 10 are $3,000 and all proceeds from the Men’s Club events benefit Saint Agnes’ programs and services.
September 21st
Visalia Chamber of Commerce
Oktoberfest
Vossler Farms
www.visaliachamber.org
Raise your (tiny) steins and embrace the spirit of Oktoberfest at Vossler Farms. This 21+ event in the heart of Visalia features the Central Valley’s best food, beer, wine, and entertainment. Peruse the venue while sampling drinks and snacks from local businesses and community partners. An early bird rate of $55 is available until September 7th.
September 23rd
2023 Distinguished Woman
Artist Lecture & Luncheon
Fresno Art Museum
www.fresnoartmuseum.org
This year marks the 34th annual luncheon and honors Martha Casanave as the Distinguished Woman Artist for 2023. Meet Martha in her exhibition after her lecture in the Bonner Auditorium, followed by a vegetarian lunch in FAM’s Sculpture Garden (weather permitting) or Lobby. This is a fundraising event for the Council of 100. Tickets are $55 each.
September 23rd
20th Annual Harvest of Hope
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Fresno Fresno Convention Center
www.ccdof.org
The Fresno Harvest of Hope continues to bring relief and hope to the Central Valley. This incredibly meaningful evening brings the gift of hope to our neighbors who need it the most. Guests will come together to celebrate the generosity that changes so many lives. This event features live music and dancing, silent and live auctions, and the harvest dinner.
September 23rd to 24th
Fresno Philharmonic Saroyan Theatre
www.fresnophil.org
The Fresno Philharmonic kicks off its 2023-2024 season with French Connections. Referencing 1930s Paris, Francis Poulenc’s Concerto for Two Pianos combines the lyricism of Mozart with the jazzy rhythms popular in this era. Pianist William Eddins joins Rei Hotoda for this Gallic treat, paired with Mozart’s Haffner Symphony and Valerie Coleman’s 2019 composition Umoja
September 23rd to 24th
48th Annual ClovisFest & Hot Air Balloon Fun Fly
Old Town Clovis
www.clovischamber.com
The Clovis Chamber of Commerce and Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino will host the 48th annual ClovisFest and Noble Credit Union Hot Air Balloon Fun Fly. This free family fun will feature a wide range of hot air balloons, unique craft vendors, festival foods, and cultural adventures. Get to the Clovis Rodeo grounds before sunrise to see the hot air balloons readying for takeoff!
September 26th
Central California Women’s Conference
Fresno Convention & Entertainment Center
www.ccwc-fresno.org
The Central California Women’s Conference seeks to “empower women at all stages of their lives.” This year, guests are invited to “Believe in Your Voice” at the one-day event where actress, model, and author Brooke Shields will serve as the 2023 keynote speaker. Over 175 exhibitors offer networking opportunities amongst other offerings at this marketplace.
September 28th
Bert Kreischer: Tops Off World Tour
Save Mart Center
www.savemartcenter.com
Renowned comedian, actor, host, and author Bert Kreischer is bringing his Tops Off World Tour to the Save Mart Center. As one of the best storytellers of his generation, Kreischer seamlessly and sincerely shares anecdotes about his family and fatherhood in virtually every medium he tackles. Get tickets through Ticketmaster or the Save Mart Center Box Office for $39.75 to $99.97 each.
September 29th
Fiesta Around the World Centro La Familia Advocacy Services
Signature Flight Support
www.centrolafamilia.org
Centro La Familia Advocacy Services is celebrating 51 years of service. At “Fiesta Around the World,” attendees will hang out in the Signature Flight Support hangar and enjoy a first-class experience with exquisite cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and cultural entertainment. Live music is by Monsanto and there will be silent and live auctions. Tickets are $100 each.
For more information, contact event organizer as events may be subject to change.
2023 Physician Recognition Awards Presentation
Santé Physicians hosted the 2023 Physician Recognition Awards Presentation on Wednesday, August 16th at Fort Washington Country Club with 80 guests in attendance. This event was held to honor Santé Physicians Primary Care Providers, whose clinical quality and patient satisfaction were the highest in their specialties in the 2022 measurement year. A total of 38 Top Clinical Quality Providers and 10 Top Satisfaction Providers were acknowledged for their outstanding performance and service to the Central Valley community.
For more information about Santé Physicians, please visit www.santephysicians.com.
When the sun goes down, Tesoro Viejo shines—with neighborly gatherings around fire pits, cookouts,
Photos depicted do not constitute an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to purchase real property at Tesoro Viejo. Persons shown do not reflect racial preference. Prices are effective date of posting or publication deadline and subject to change without notice. Based on the information presently available, the developers of Tesoro Viejo understand that Tesoro Viejo will be served by the Chawanakee Unified School District. Buyer should contact the Chawanakee Unified School District to confirm the identity and location of the specific schools planned to service Tesoro Viejo, including the TK-8 Hillside School located adjacent to Tesoro Viejo. Obtain a copy of the Public Report as required by Federal law and/or the Public Report issued by the California Bureau of Real Estate and read them before signing any documents. © 2023 Tesoro Viejo Development, Inc.
and special events. You’ll find night time to be a bright time at the National Community of the Year.
new homes from the $ 400 s to $ 800
Aneurological illness or injury can be life-changing. When these problems strike, time matters. One hour can mean the difference between a swift recovery and long-term damage to the brain or body. That time should be spent getting treatment, not driving to Los Angeles or the Bay Area in search of high-quality care.
Community Health System was founded more than 125 years ago because of the growing need for healthcare access in the Central Valley. From its humble beginnings as a boarding house, Community now serves as the largest healthcare provider in the region. As the Central Valley grows consistently and substantially, Community continues to work diligently to help ensure the availability of top-tier services to families in the area, particularly to those requiring neurological care.
Until a few years ago, Community had approximately 10 to 15 neuroscience physicians supporting a four-county service area with more than 1.7 million people living within its borders. Consequently, patients often had to leave the Valley to get the specialized care they needed. There was a major need for more access to specialists and services.
In 2018, Bob Smittcamp made a transformational gift to help fulfill this need and to ensure the advancement of neuroscience care in the Valley. He wanted the preeminent neuroscience center to exist in his hometown to care for his friends, family members, and neighbors.
“Bob had a vision for world-class neuroscience care to be present in Central California. He knew he could be one of the champions to bring it to people who live here,” says Katie Zenovich, senior vice president for development and external affairs at Community.
Sadly, Bob passed away unexpectedly in 2021 and wasn’t granted the time to see his dream come to fruition. His legacy, however, will live on in the future Bob Smittcamp Family Neuroscience Institute, recognizing his incredible commitment to the people in this region.
Today, Community is home to more than 80 neuroscience providers, and this number is still growing. Under the leadership of Dr. Ian Johnson, medical director of neurosciences, Community now offers almost every sub-specialty within neurosciences—something Bob was passionate about.
“There’s a huge shortage of neurosurgeons that are trained on an annual basis. Recruiting them to Fresno has been challenging, but we’ve been able to do it and bring an extensive amount of talent here to the Valley,” says Dr. Johnson.
Patients who need care for traumatic brain injuries, stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, spinal problems, brain tumors, and a host of other conditions can
turn to Community and trust they will receive top care. Even more programs will be added as additional specialists join the team.
Patients facing neurological illness or injury usually need extensive follow-up care. Such care can be fragmented (imaging at one location, going to occupational or physical therapy somewhere else, and office visits), but this shouldn’t be the case.
That’s why the Bob Smittcamp Family Neuroscience Institute will be a “one-stop shop.” Located on the Community Regional Medical Center campus and adjacent to the region’s only Level I Trauma Center, the institute will offer the majority of outpatient neuroscience care under one roof. Patients can visit their care team and receive services such as infusion and rehabilitation in a single visit.
It’s a big undertaking. This multimillion-dollar project will need philanthropic support to become a reality.
Generous community leaders and the Founders Club (a newly formed, all-female volunteer group) have already invested to further Bob’s vision, raising several million towards this cause. It will take the combined strength of the Valley to make this needed resource a reality.
“Donations to neuroscience have a direct and immediate impact on the level of care that’s being provided for our patients,” says Dr. Johnson.
The choices we make today will impact the healthcare our friends and families receive tomorrow. Our community has the opportunity to ensure that top-tier neuroscience care is available, not only for ourselves but also for future generations.
“We’re at a place where I think Bob would be very proud because we’re right on the verge of making it happen,” says Zenovich.
To learn more, visit www.smittcampneuroscience.com or contact Community’s Office of Philanthropy at 559.724.4343.
Because of the care she received, Riley was able to perform at the inaugural Founders Club gala, Fire and Ice, supporting neuroscience care.We’re in this together. Your community is a place where we take care of each other.
Together, we can improve the lives of people in the Central Valley. Thank you for supporting your Community.
#CommunityProud
CVLUX Magazine is pleased to present the 2024 Luxury Awards. Each year, CVLUX recognizes the Central Valley’s favorite businesses with Luxury Awards. Nominations were submitted in July 2023. The top five in each category have made it to this year’s ballot. The winners will be announced at the Luxury Awards.
Voting is open until Friday, December 29th, 2023—each email address may only vote once and all emails are authenticated at the end of the voting period.
For additional information, contact information@cvlux.com. No refunds or exchanges. All sales are final.
Community Medical Centers
Fresno Surgical Hospital
Kaiser Permanente
Kaweah Health Medical Center
Saint Agnes Medical Center
Hedieh Arbabzadeh, MD WPS Fresno
Carl Askren, MD, FACS
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Pavilion
Mark A. Chin, MD, MPH Valley Institute of Plastic Surgery
James Knoetgen, MD Beautologie
Kaye Riolo, MD, FACS
Riolo Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Diego Allende, DO Allende Centre for Regenerative Medicine & Vitality
Juan G. Bautista, MD Bautista Health & Anti-Aging
Juan Chavez, MD Optimal Medical Group
Ignacio Guzman, MD North Fresno Primary Care
Daria Majzoubi, MD Maj Medical Clinic
Kathleen Behr, MD Behr Laser & Skin Care Center
Carlos Paz, MD, PhD
Paz Dermatology
Babar K. Rao, MD, FAAD Rao Dermatology
Gregory L. Simpson, MD
Central California Faculty Medical Group
Leslie Storey, MD
Valley Skin Institute
A.M. Aminian, MD Allergy Institute
Malik Baz, MD
Baz Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center
Praveen Buddiga, MD, FAAAAI
Buddiga Family Allergy, Skin & Immunology
Richard S. DeMera, MD
DeMera Allergy, Asthma & ENT Center
Rabinder Sidhu, MD
Sidhu Allergy
Anthony Chavez, OD
Fogg Remington EyeCare
Rick W. Ideta, OD
Aloha Family Optometric Group
Jeffrey Krohn, OD, FAAO, Diplomate (ABO and AAO) Fig Garden Optometry
Thomas Shute, MD
Eye-Q Vision Care
Desiree Sison, OD
Eye Medical Center of Fresno
Maziar Bidar, MD
Eye Medical Center of Fresno
Andrew Maxwell, MD, PhD
InSight Vision Center
Eric J. Poulsen, MD
InSight Vision Center
Rodney C. Remington, MD
Fogg Remington EyeCare
Campbell Waldrop, MD
Eye-Q Vision Care
Ryan Dunlop, DMD
Better Life Center Implant & General Dentistry
Bryan C. Fung, DDS
Bryan C. Fung, DDS
Sam Namdarian, DMD
Fresno Smile Makeovers
Gerald T. Shinkawa, DDS
Shinkawa Dental
Surdeep Singh, DDS Clovis Family Dentistry
John Bayrakdarian, DMD
Unique Orthodontics
Ryann Christensen, DDS, MS
Christensen Family Orthodontics
Mark Lowe, DDS
Mark Lowe DDS Orthodontics
Nicole Nalchajian, DDS, MD
Nalchajian Orthodontics
Brian Thurman, DDS
Thurman Orthodontics
Shannon Barnhart, DDS
Fresno Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center
Mehrdad Fay, DDS
Fresno Prosthodontic Centrè
Scott Jett, DMD, MS
Advanced Perio Endo eXperts
Andrew R. Rahn, DDS, PC
Andrew R. Rahn DDS PC
David J. Smith, DDS
Central Valley Dental Implant & Oral Surgery Institute
Ronald Castonguay, MD
Fresno Surgical Hospital
Ian Duncan, MD
Orthopaedic Associates Medical Clinic, Inc.
Don Lester, MD
Community Care Health
Peter T. Simonian, MD
Simonian Sports Medicine Clinic
Connor J. Telles, MD
Sierra Pacific Orthopedics
Green Sports Medicine
Pride Sports Medicine
Sierra Pacific Orthopedics
Simonian Sports Medicine Clinic
Sports & Orthopedic Physical Therapy
London Jones, DC
Feel Good Chiropractic
Thomas Potigian, DC
Sunnyside Wellness & Chiropractic Center
Joshua T. Ritter, DC
Fresno Family Chiropractic
Thomas Schroeder, DC
Schroder Family Chiropractic
Matthew Vinson, DC
Preferred Chiropractic Center
MEDICAL SPA
Aspire Medispa
Body del Sol Aesthetics
Kiss Me Med Spa
The Medical Spa and Laser Center at Fig Garden Village
Revay Aesthetics
DAY SPA
La Peau Spa
Muses Day Spa
PREEN a boutique salon
Serenity Springs Spa
The Spa at Fig Garden Village
HAIR SALON
Gentry Salon
Hungry Hair Salon
La Dama Salon
PREEN a boutique salon
Spectrum Salon, Day Spa & Barber Shop
NAIL SALON
Blush Salon
Head Over Heels Salon
Hitech Nails & Spa
Polish’d Nail Bar
PREEN a boutique salon
Blue Moon Yoga & Juice Bar
Boppilates
The Iron Office
Mayweather Boxing + Fitness
Olympus Fitness
WEIGHT LOSS CENTER
AHK MD Primary + Preventative Medicine
Body del Sol Aesthetics
Body Goal Fresno
Her Body Bar
Restorative Health & Wellness
SHOPPING CENTER
Fig Garden Village
Pavilion West
Riverpark
Riverwalk
Villaggio
The Closet
Daughters of Simone
LOMIE’S
pum bum
Sceptre & Sash Authentic Luxury
Jude’s
Revival 23
RPL. Lifestyle
RSVP Style
Shoppe At The Avenue
Gianni Fine Jewelers
Orloff Jewelers
Rogers Jewelry Co.
Sceptre & Sash Authentic Luxury
The Vault Fine Jewelers
BMW Fresno
Fresno Acura
Haron Jaguar, Land Rover & Volvo
Mercedes-Benz of Fresno
Porsche Fresno
Copper River Ranch
Old Fig Garden
Riverstone
San Joaquin
Tesoro Viejo
Bonadelle Neighborhoods
De Young Properties
McCaffrey Homes
Wathen Castanos Homes
Woodside Homes
Elias Delgado
Guaranteed Rate
Michelle Glass
Union Home Mortgage
Jessica Gonzalez
Affirm Capital
Toby Petrucelli
Premier Mortgage Resources
Tami Rima
Gold Standard Mortgage
Brian Domingos Jr.
Premier Valley Realty
Nico Gentile
Gentile Real Estate
Laura Mather
The Mather Method
Victoria Sherlock
Sherlock Homes Real Estate Group
Paul Tatarian
The Apex Broker
Dodson Builders Construction Inc.
Icon Construction & Design
Imagine Remodeling
Legacy Construction
Trademark
dlb Design
EMID Design Group
Facility Designs
Katie Mendrin Design
Stephanie Catron Design Collaborative, Inc.
4 Seasons Furniture
Amparan Design
Fashion Furniture
RPL. Lifestyle
Shoppe At The Avenue
Elite Landscape Construction
First Impressions
Gazebo Gardens
Pratt Landscape Design
Willow Gardens Nursery
Central Valley Community Bank
Citizens Business Bank
Educational Employees Credit Union
FFB Bank
Premier Valley Bank
Blue Oak Wealth Management
The Coury Firm
Thiesen Dueker Financial Consulting Group
Valley Wealth Management
Whelan Financial
DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance
McCarty Insurance
M.D. Manouel Insurance Agency Inc.
Personal Express Insurance
Professional Benefits Team Inc.
Carter Law Group
Goldberg & Ibarra
Law Office of Miles A. Harris Esq.
Law Offices of Valdez & Valdez
Moran Law Firm
Brent F. Freeman, Jr.
The Garabedian Group
Ratzlaff Tamberi & Wong Accountancy Corporation
SBA Accounting & Tax Solutions
W CPA Group
Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino
Club One Casino, Granite Park
Eagle Mountain Casino
Table Mountain Casino Resort
Tachi Palace Casino Resort
Bella Vino Cellar
Elbow Room Bar & Grill
Cracked Pepper Bistro
Manhattan Steakhouse & Bar
Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar
FIVE
Max’s Bistro & Bar
Parma Ristorante
Sabor Cocina Latina & Bar
Saizon
Bentley’s Barkery & Barktique
Georgio’s
Rejuvenated Living Organizing Services
Resort Life Carts
The Safe Gal
Beal Properties Inc.
Creative Tile
Fresno Coin Gallery, The Showroom
Harris Family Enterprises
Sam’s Italian Deli & Market
embrace the warmth of community in your dream home
Loving where you live starts with a flourishing community—and that’s what you’ll find at Bonadelle Neighborhoods’ newest community, Magnolia at Riverstone. Located in the Park District of the beautifully master-planned community of Riverstone, Magnolia is within walking distance of the award-winning Stone Creek Elementary School.
With public parks and the community lodge nearby, Magnolia makes living the life you’ve imagined a reality with a vibrant community and resort-style amenities you won’t find anywhere else in the Central Valley.
hilltop series homes feature:
• Large pool-sized lots
• Single and two-story plans
• Three and four bedroom plans with loft options
• Advanced smart home technology
• Luxurious standard features
• Five Hilltop Series floor plans ranging from 1,483 to 2,436 sq. ft.
• Three unique exterior elevations
• Eco-logical energy and money-saving green features
In just 12 short months, you’ve made The Legend one of the most listened to radio stations in the Valley.
It’s the music we grew up with that other radio stations left behind.
Garth, Reba, George, Hank, Willie, Waylon, Tammy, Patsy – well, you get the idea. 55 minutes of music every hour of every day. We hope you like it.
Sam’s Italian Deli & Market has been the Valley’s door to Italy for nearly half a century. Founded by Sam and Angela Marziliano, the family’s legacy of making authentic Italian products and cuisine readily available to Central Valley natives and travelers alike is now carried on by their son Nick. The collective efforts at preserving tradition through food help to keep more than culture and heritage alive. Even for non-Italians, Sam’s Italian Deli & Market is transcendent thanks to its commitment and ability to consistently maintain the exceptional quality and authenticity that the generation after the next has come to value, appreciate, and continue to seek out.
Sam, a butcher by trade, and Angela individually immigrated from Italy to Toronto, Canada, where they met, married, and set up their first Italian market together in the late 1960s. It was located in and catered to a little Italian neighborhood and its surrounding community. The family would regularly come out west to visit Nick’s Aunt Stella, who lived in Fresno. “My dad had always wanted to get back to the climate and the agriculture from the province of Puglia, where he was from, so we moved here in 1979, and we opened up Sam’s Deli, right here, same location, in May of 1980,” recounts Nick of the First Street and Clinton Avenue spot.
Nick has been part of Sam’s Italian Deli & Market since its inception. He was 12 years old when the move was made and the store opened, and has been helping with the family business ever since. “My Saturdays—not going to school—I was at work. Spring break and my Christmas breaks were spent here.” Nick upholds the same commitment to quality, authentic ingredients that his parents were so devoted to, all while expanding the offerings of the deli and market. His mother ran Sam’s kitchen like her own at home. His father was “Mr. Personality” behind the counter. “They we’re a great team together because my dad was more of the front of the house, my mom was more of the back of the house. … It was definitely a true partnership between the two of them.”
And they nurtured that same passion and sense of excellence in their own children. “One of the things my dad always instilled in me, and my mom
too, is it’s really easy to make good food out of great ingredients,” imparts Nick. “You don’t have to mask anything; you’re not trying to cover anything up. You use minimal but the best ingredients, and it’ll show up in the food.” Sam’s Italian Deli & Market is renowned for authenticity and “quality products that I would serve to my family, or my family would serve out to yours,” Nick emphasizes of excellence being key.
That is in addition to the service offered at Sam’s. “We do a really good job of it,” Nick exults over their customer service. “I have a really great team that’s been with me, many of them, in the 15 to 20-year range. I’ve had many people retire from here.” You’ll often recognize familiar faces behind the counter, and it’s not uncommon for customers to come in requesting help from a specific Sam’s employee, of which there are about 40. “That means that they’ve developed a relationship and they have that connection,” which Nick is proud to see.
Sam’s has plenty to offer. At the deli counter, guests can savor meats, cheeses, delicatessen items such as pastas, salads, olives, meatballs, or their famous sandwiches—you can even place an online sandwich order on Sam’s website. Many of their ready-made items also come pre-packaged and are displayed in the adjacent cold case to grab-and-go. Their dried and fresh pastas are inexhaustible. Specialty foods such as house-made sauces, cookies, and desserts are prolific, as are imported and domestic market items.
“We make a lot of sandwiches, but it’s only a fraction of what we do here because the deli counter is our mainstay of the business,” Nick acknowledges, noting that Sam’s has many different departments. It’s a great catering option for those looking to pick-up or have food delivered for a crowd, “from charcuterie boards to pans of lasagna,” for which they are famous and make hundreds of monthly. “And the fresh sausage,” he goes on to list. “We make all our pastas here in-house. Meatballs are still rolled by hand. There’re a lot of things we do that draw people in and make them feel like they’re going to have the same meal their nonna made for them.”
Editorial Director Lauren Barisic Photographer Ellie Koleen Wardrobe and styling provided by Patrick JamesAt Sam’s Italian Deli & Market, you’ll find everything you need to cook like an Italian in your own home. Their popular brands include DeCecco, Cento, Anna, Mezzetta, Rummo, Boar’s Head, Alessi, and Rustichella d’Abruzzo, amongst many, many more. Angela’s Kitchen, named for Nick’s mother, and Sam’s Italian Deli & Market are their house labels. Locally, they carry Enzo and Valley Lahvosh, and Busseto is Sam’s house salami. “I will say that we are the Valley’s door to Italy, and it’s true,” Nick boasts proudly. So many local people, he elaborates, “when they visit Italy and they see and eat all the wonderful food, they come right to Sam’s,” where they’ll find everything from traditional to trending items.
Nick, like his father before him, is keen to preserve not only his own but also other families’ food traditions. Italian immigrants are often devoted to specific brands because that’s what their family recipes particularly call for. “I want to make sure that I bring those items in still for those families to keep the tradition,” he attests. “That’s really important to me.” Even if that means having his team make 10 pounds of Mafalda pasta annually, for example, especially for the five families he knows use it for their Christmas Eve meal. “If I don’t have the Mafalda for them, they’re just going to lose that tradition and move on to something else.”
Everything at Sam’s is good, but a handful of dishes stand apart for their popularity: “our Italian sausage, that we make fresh here,” begins Nick, as well as the ravioli. “The Sam’s Special Sandwich is still the number-one selling item from day one in the whole market.” Dine on-site at Sam’s. Eat your lunch in the room tucked behind Nick’s Wine Corner, where self-seating and tables are plentiful and employees are eager to make your meal feel more like a restaurant experience, complete with wine. “You can pick up a bottle off the shelf, sit down and have your sandwich, and we’ll open it for you, get you a glass. You can have it, and then if you don’t drink all of it, we’ll seal the bottle back up into a sealed bag and you can take it home with you.”
“Our wine selection, that’s another part of our department,” Nick enthusiastically adds. “How can you have an Italian meal without wine?!” If you can stay a moment at Sam’s, plan to enjoy a glass either tableside or at the bar counter—Sam’s will open your bottle or pour a tasting for you right there. “We have our wine manager here that will complement each one of those wines with anything that we have,” he refers to the deli. “I try to have a staff that’s very well-trained and educated in helping people with their meals.” Just ask—Sam’s staff is eager to help customers come up with quick and easy spur-of-the-moment dinners, with wine, for a group of any size.
“Nick’s Wine Corner came about probably in the late ‘90s,” he shares. “I just became much more passionate about wine. We started traveling, drinking a lot of different varieties, and wanted to kind of step up the game that we had here in the market for a wine selection and program.” Nick started introducing a lot more Italian wines from all different regions and types. “We became really well-known for our California selection.” The selection changes constantly. “You can pick up your $10 bottle of wine or you can pick up your $500 bottle of wine, and everything in between—the whole spectrum.” Wine club subscribers get an additional 5% discount and notices about special offers.
Yet it’s not just the promos that keep Sam’s customers loyal. “We have been here for 43 years. That definitely says a lot about our staying power, and I think also the community,” believes Nick. “We have been really involved in the community. We try to help out anywhere we can, and I think that pays back. The community definitely understands that, and they like to support businesses that do that.” Proceeds from the sale of the Dogs Dig ‘Em Peanut Butter & Honey Dog Biscuits at Sam’s benefit the St. Francis Homeless Project, and the Animal Compassion Team was honored to confer a special recognition on Sam’s as their partner in rescue.
And then there’s the national recognition for Sam’s. Yelp’s Top-100 Restaurants list for 2023 ranked Sam’s Italian Deli & Market at number 68 nationwide. The list, which has now been around for 10 years, features 28 Californian restaurants, more than any other State, and Sam’s is the only Central Valley establishment that made the cut. “At first, I thought it was a local recognition number and thought, ‘That’s nice, we love all the recognition that we can get.’” It wasn’t until Nick started getting texts, emails, and saw it on the news that he realized what a big deal this was. “It actually took a while for it to sink in. The recognition to us means that our Sam’s formula must be working. I only wished my dad could have been around to appreciate it.”
Sam’s ability, and willingness, to adapt over the years surely contributes to their success. They’ve been a trailblazer in the Central Valley for over four decades now. “I think we stay at pioneer because we try to stay
ahead of all the trends, and we’re bringing new products in all the time,” professes Nick. “Even our menus will change.” Vodka sauce wasn’t really a thing until about 10 years ago, and burrata is a relatively new trend. Now, both are available at Sam’s. “I think you have to change with the times like that.” Nick would love to make their own mozzarella in-house. “But implementing a new item takes a lot longer than it did before,” now that Sam’s is, blessedly, so busy.
With Nick at Sam’s helm, the deli and market seems destined to remain a Central Valley landmark for years to come. “When my dad opened the place up, there probably were a dozen Italian delis around, so he was in a little bit of a competitive market,” reflects Nick. “But I think what made us different from the rest was we were willing to bring in some of the specialty items that were not available in the Central Valley. And then, we also emphasize, again, the quality of the product that we brought in.”
Nick and his wife Kathryn have three children. “We’ll see what the next generation brings,” he wonders. “I think I’ve got some that could do a great job. I think they’ve got the palette and the drive to do it.” But it’s more than that. “You gotta have it. You gotta love it,” Nick says with conviction. “If you work at it, and you love what you’re doing, you’re gonna make a living from it. And you know, you can pass it on to your children, and it can be a family operation without problem. But you got to have it. You got to be passionate about it.” Without a shadow of a doubt, Nick Marziliano has it in Sam’s Italian Deli & Market.
Aisha Shafiq, MD
Amar Siddique, MD
Amitasha Mann, MD
Amy Evans, MD
Anasuya Kulkarni, MD
Armyn Carbonell, MD
Brad Sumrell, MD
Cecilia Galindo, MD
Dianne Hubbard, MD
Ernest Yamamoto, MD
Peter Zaki, MD
Ren Imai, MD
Robert Castillo, MD
Robert Woods, MD
Rokhshana Zaheen, MD
Sami Issa, MD
Shruti Javali, MD
Sukhbir Manjal, MD
Susan Locke, MD
Vivian Hernandez, MD
Gonzalo Urbano, MD
Gurjiwan Gill, DO
Harjagjit Maan, MD
I ntisab Sultan, MD
Jennifer Vradenburg‐Haworth, MD
John Kim, MD
Judy Miramontes, MD
Katayoon Shahinfar, MD
Kimpreet Aulakh, MD
Luis Martinez, MD
Marina Alper, MD
Mary Sadlek, MD
Mydili Maniam‐Mohan, MD
Natalya Malley, MD
Nidhi Mehrotra, MD
Norma Solis, MD
Parminder Janda, MD
Patricia Quintana-Van Horne, MD
Agustin Rubio, MD
Amanpal Gill, MD
Amarjot Rai, MD
Joanna Fabris, MD
John Kim, MD
Mercedes Chapa, MD
Michael Lloyd, MD
Peter Zaki, MD
Veronica Ramirez, MD
Ye Min, MD
What does home taste like? It’s different for everyone, yet the memories meals carry can last a lifetime. Hence, family dinner is sacred. The act of coming together to eat is as symbolic as it is nourishing, both literally and figuratively. Then there are families who have made making dinner for your family their family’s business. They not only feed but facilitate tradition through food. These family-owned restaurants have been part of the Central Valley’s culinary fabric for generations and will hopefully continue to do so for years to come.
If you’ve got to have salsa—or Mexican food, for that matter—it’s got to be Bobby’s. Established in 1990, Bobby Salazar’s Mexican Foods, which consists of restaurants, retail, and food services, is one of a handful of branches that carry on the Salazar family’s legacy and recipes, both of which are many generations old. “Bobby Salazar comes from a long family history of putting smiles on the faces of people with its quality, authentic Mexican food, its friendly employees, and, of course, the loyal customers who have made it all possible,” Bobby Salazar, president and namesake of Bobby Salazar’s Mexican Foods, speaks about its legacy.
The name is highly recognized for its affiliation with serving Mexican food to the San Joaquin Valley and beyond, for decades. The restaurant business is in the Salazar’s blood. “The Bobby Salazar restaurants are all my brand,” explains Bobby. “My youngest brother has his own brand. The restaurant in Selma is still going strong, and it is run by my other brother and sister. My sister is very active in the California Restaurant Association. We all operate independently, but we are all inspired by what we learned growing up.”
This restaurant-based Mexican food company has roots that go back to the 1940s with Bobby’s father and grandparents, who used to make lunch for local farm workers. “My dad and grandparents built a restaurant next door to their home in Selma, California in 1942,” recalls Bobby. “I was raised in the kitchen of that restaurant. At the age of eight, and as the oldest of four children, I began working in the kitchen as a dishwasher. I learned everything about the business, and at the age of 27, I branched off on my own and opened Bobby Salazar’s restaurants.” The location once at Blackstone and Shields Avenues in Fresno was the first.
At its peak, Bobby operated eight restaurants and numerous deli franchises in mini marts. “Then, in 1998, my salsa was available in local supermarkets. The salsa was available in different flavors and degrees
of heat to please everyone’s palate,” Bobby explains about his original recipe. Bobby Salazar’s retail salsa is sold in major chain grocery stores across California and Reno, along with smaller independent markets from Oregon to San Diego, with new stores added daily. “I get emails from people throughout California, Hawaii, Texas, Arizona, and other places where we sell the salsa in grocery stores…people with no connection to Fresno, mind you, who just can’t get enough of it. That’s the biggest compliment ever.”
Initially, Bobby Salazar’s gained fame for their Mexican food and beloved salsas. “Then we became known for our famous party trays that I developed, which include burritos, quesadillas, and taquitos,” he shares. “Our customers love our frozen and hand-shaken margaritas.” The Tower District location, which houses 16 TVs, is one of the best places for sports fans to watch their favorite teams playing. As far as nightlife is concerned, it’s the place to be for good music, dancing, and having a good time. “People associate the Bobby’s brand with good times, and I love that,” cherishes Bobby. “That’s exactly what I’ve been aiming for since the beginning, and it’s what I learned from my parents. You don’t just make the customer happy—you make their day better.”
“There are currently five Bobby Salazar’s restaurants in Fresno and Clovis, but I personally own and operate two,” he says, referring to the Tower District and Shaw and Valentine locations in Fresno. “The other three are owned by trusted franchisees who are also dedicated to the same family traditions that inspired me. My food is also available in mini-marts in Fresno, Clovis, Visalia, Bakersfield, and Tehachapi.” Bobby is dedicated to sharing and maintaining the authenticity he grew up with. “I am humbled when someone tells me that my food reminds them of their mother’s or grandmother’s dishes,” he says. With restaurant dining, party trays, bulk foods, and salsas, Bobby Salazar’s Mexican Foods will continue to make any day a fiesta.
Cosmopolitan is undeniably Downtown Fresno’s original Italian-American watering hole and eatery and it has been that way since the turn of the 20th century. The establishment’s signage says that Cosmopolitan Tavern & Italian Grill was established in 1933, but its story, and the Lanfranco family, put down roots in the Central Valley much earlier than that. “It’s been a very, very rewarding family business,” says Joe Lanfranco, Executive Chef and third-generation owner of the Cosmo as it’s known today.
The Cosmo may no longer stand on the same ground, but even now, after moving to its current location in 2016 due to the high-speed rail, this restaurant continues to foster a deeply engrained sense of community through both food and place.
“My family came from Italy in the early 1900s,” recounts Joe. “They settled in Kerman, California, and purchased a two-story boarding house and bar/restaurant, which was our old location on the corner of Fresno and G Street. … Basically, we catered to Italian immigrants.” The family would provide their newly arrived fellow countrymen with some money, clothes, and shoes in addition to a roof over their heads, repaid for via field or manufacturing jobs, in an effort to help them integrate into the Central Valley community. “We can trace our family back to that location with invoices, property tax, and stuff like that, since 1904.”
Today, the Cosmo stands at the western corner of Ventura Avenue and O Street and remains one of Downtown Fresno’s most bustling dining and bar establishments. “My grandfather started the business in the ‘30s,” Joe speaks of Edward Lanfranco. “And then my father, Gary, started working in the business when he was 21,” in the late ‘60s—he is now semi-retired. Joe joined the business in 1998, just out of high school while going to college, and graduated from culinary school in 2005, which is when the Cosmo started serving dinners again for the first time since the 1960s. “Lunch is still our number-one operation,” attests Joe.
“The Cosmo is known for being the oldest bar in Fresno,” Joe proudly shares. “We have the oldest liquor license in the same family,” in addition to “being probably the busiest downtown lunchtime operation.” Lunch is their bread and butter, and the tri-tip cheesesteaks and sandwiches are definitely their greatest sellers, which is unsurprising given that “We were one of the first to really do tri-tip in Fresno.” Also popular are the pan-roasted halibut with cherry tomato caper sauce, pan-roasted salmon with chardonnay pesto cream sauce, and the Rigatoni Bolognese with burrata, all of which will leave anyone drooling tableside. For a little something to wet your beak, the Brady Manhattan and Milano Margarita never disappoint.
Cosmo’s bar, built in 1937 when prohibition was repealed, is an integral part of its history. When the restaurant was forced to move in 2016, the stained-glass-adorned bar went with it. “We insisted on bringing that with us,” Joe reminisces. “It was very hard to find a craftsman that was able to take it apart and refinish it, and then store it and bring it here,” he speaks of Fresno Woodworking, which happened to be located within walking distance. Refinishing took two-and-a-half months. “When they brought it here, they were worried about putting it on a truck because of the vibrations, so they put it on hydraulic dollies and rolled it down Ventura to this location.” As for the part where you sit, a good portion of the original bar front is now upstairs at the Fresno County Historical Museum, along with an old sign from the building.
In many ways, Cosmopolitan Tavern & Italian Grill is returning home, albeit now down the street. “We’ve kind of returned to our beginnings, because originally we served Italian dinners,” Joe refers to its boarding-house origins. With the new location comes a vastly diverse clientele beyond locals and downtown businesspeople—many come from nearby hotels, convention center events, and ballpark happenings, even farmers and those making a trip to the Valley’s largest city. Yet the Cosmo’s ability to transcend is one of the things that has contributed to its centennial endurance. “Everybody in our family has left it a little better than they found it. So it’s a lot of stress,” admits Joe of what’s to come, “just to keep the legacy going—when I’m done with it, to have it in a better place than it was when I found it.”
DiCicco’s is synonymous with homemade Italian food in the greater Fresno area. Familia is at the foundation of this family-owned and operated establishment, which opened its first location on April 12th, 1956, at Blackstone and Belmont Avenues. Today, there are 13 DiCicco’s Italian Restaurants. “Each is owned and operated by different family members: Enrico DiCicco, Vitorrio DiCicco, Carlo DiCicco, Joanna Vitucci, Greg Vitucci, Marco Santeufemia, Domenico Santeufemia, and Franco Santeufemia,” recounts Enrico DiCicco, a second-generation DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant owner. Now, the third generation of DiCiccos is maintaining the traditions of their Italian forefathers with a modern twist.
“The Four Sons of Italy” started it all. “DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant was born from the collective efforts of four brothers from Italy—Nick DiCicco, Al DiCicco, Frank Vitucci, and Bob Vitucci—alongside their parents, Pasquale and Maria DiCicco.” The brothers practically provided dining entertainment. “They brought more than just delicious food to their restaurant—their vibrant energy and tradition of singing with customers added an authentic, old-world charm to the dining experience,” Enrico elaborates.
New DiCicco’s are still popping up. Enrico and his cousin Carlo DiCicco, together with Enrico’s three kids, recently opened the newest location at Shields and Armstrong Avenues. “My own children Dante, Rocco, and Arianna DiCicco are the first third-generation owners of a DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant,” he shares. All of them worked at DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant in their younger years. “Their participation in the family business demonstrates that the passion and drive that created DiCicco’s in 1956 remains alive. They want to carry on the DiCicco’s legacy and honor what their grandparents created when they immigrated to this country.”
“The heart of DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant lies in its recipes, originally from Pasquale and Maria DiCicco, which are rooted in the peasant food culture of their native Abruzzo,” shares Enrico. “This infusion of traditional Abruzzese cuisine gave DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant its distinctive flavor and contributed to its enduring success.” Each location is similar yet unique. “We all do our own thing. The Cedar and Nees location and this location have pretty much identical recipes,” asserts Carlo. “As for the other locations and relatives, they all have their own recipes. We all have our own little core, regular customers. And that’s kind of how that goes.”
Although the menu, which only offered about 10 items when DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant first opened, has come a long way in nearly 70 years, Scarface Pasta remains the top-selling pasta dish. Especially known for its pizza, pasta, and red sauce, DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant today has expanded its menu to include creative new dishes using the same core ingredients, demonstrating innovation within tradition. Even the Shields and Armstrong cocktail menu includes thoughtfully crafted concoctions, such as “The 1956” signature drink. This and the original location are the only ones with a full bar.
The décor of this new location pays homage to the family’s roots with contemporary touches. One of the customers at the original location was so taken with the founding brothers that they painted “The Four Sons of Italy” as a gift for them. A replica of that painting hangs by the front door. A panoramic image of the DiCicco’s hometown of Pacentro, Italy papers one wall, while a blown-up canvas photo of a Fiat in that town, taken by Arianna on a recent trip, can be seen near the bar. Quintessential checkered tablecloths adorn the tables.
DiCicco’s ability and willingness to move with the times contribute to their stay-power. “We’re more of a new-age DiCicco’s,” says Carlo. “The other ones still have pretty old-school setup—it’s darker with lower ceilings.” The most common comments they get from DiCicco’s customers are “Wow, this doesn’t look like a DiCicco’s!” “This is the 2022 version of the DiCicco’s that started in 1956,” Enrico reiterates. However, if you’re from this corner of California, chances are you’re biased to a particular DiCicco’s location. “The hope is that DiCicco’s will continue to be a place where families gather to enjoy good food, each other’s company, and authentic Italian charm for generations to come,” professes Enrico.
For surf and turf in the Central Valley, you simply cannot beat Richard’s Prime Rib & Seafood. Opened on July 1st, 1969 by Richard Stockle, it remains on Belmont Avenue to this day and is now run by his grandson Ben. “I think we are the oldest restaurant in the same location and one of the top three or four oldest restaurants in town,” Ben says proudly of the Fresno establishment. This summer, Richard’s celebrated 54 years in business, and this Fresno-famous steakhouse continues to remain as relevant, and delicious, as ever.
With over five decades of service, and now in the third generation’s hands, Richard’s is the epitome of a family-run restaurant. “I’m third generation, but technically the second generation in the restaurant business, as my dad worked and lived here for a little while,” clarifies Ben. He now serves as the restaurant’s Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, while his wife Valdosta “Val” is the General Manager and bakes all of Richard’s homemade desserts. Every day, Ben still carrys on his grandfather’s tradition of treating customers like family.
Richard’s, as it’s known today, isn’t the Richard’s it set out to be. The original plans called for a beer bar and pool tables; it was going to offer some gaming on the side. When preparatory expenses became too much, its namesake “decided to scratch the original plans and turn the establishment into a restaurant.” Richard’s became a local hotspot for steaks and seafood, but back then, the restaurant only occupied what’s now the bar side, which seats 40 people. Five years later, he bought the other side of the building (formerly a bank), upping capacity to 115.
Thirty-six years after opening, Richard decided to sell the restaurant, only to regain it a few years later due to the new owners defaulting on payments. The place required extensive repair. The Stockle family fully remodeled Richard’s, making it better than when it was bought in the 1960s. In the remodeled restaurant, the bar was moved from the west side to the east side. The soft lighting and tasteful nude artwork in the building—which has no windows—gives a sultry, speakeasy vibe to Richard’s.
From the décor to the menu, Richard’s is fashioned to emulate an old-school, 70s-era San Francisco steakhouse. “There aren’t too many of us around anymore,” Ben admits of this style of dining. Every meal, since the beginning, comes with an individual shrimp cocktail appetizer. Each slice of succulent prime rib is dunked in jus before plating in a simple manner. Huge steaks and equally large lobster tails come with a signature
baked potato and clarified butter. Richard’s is known for fabulous baked oysters, and their cheesecake is arguably the best in town. Moreover, its bar menu never disappoints.
Ben started bussing tables for his grandfather as a teenager. Now, his son Valentino, who just graduated high school, does the same, while his two younger kids, Richard and Audrey, fold napkins when they’re down at the restaurant. “My wife is my right hand,” Ben says of Val. Besides making all of Richard’s divine desserts inhouse, “She does everything from scheduling to coming up with the new feature drinks.” Richard’s employees are also like family—one of the waitresses has been at the restaurant for 33 years, while its Executive Chef Gonzalo Padilla started out as a dishwasher there at 16 or 17 years old and worked his way up.
Since Ben came to the helm of Richard’s 13 years ago, little has changed. “My grandfather had a hell of a well-oiled machine here,” reminisces Ben. “If it’s not broken, it doesn’t need to be fixed, and nothing here needs to be fixed.” Ben intends “to keep grandpa’s legacy alive” by following his example and always maintaining a personal touch. “I personally go by every table, like what my grandfather did, to make sure every customer is happy.” As for Richard’s future, “Hopefully it’s still here and one of my three kids will be running this place one day.” For great food, a wonderful atmosphere, and a welcoming staff, come to Richard’s Prime Rib & Seafood.
August 23rd to September 22nd
When the sun moves into the sign of the virgin priestess, efficiency, precision, perfection, and work ethics are at the forefront. Projects that were in the works may stall due to Mercury, the ruler of this sign, which is in retrograde for most of this month. Review current strategies and tactfully share them with colleagues. A few wellness tips for this mutable earth sign are to eat locally grown foods, have an herbal wrap, volunteer at the local animal shelter, and get outside to enjoy nature’s harvest.
September 23rd to October 23rd
Mars progresses into the sign of the scales, enhancing collaboration and dynamic energy. Being playful, feisty, and full of witty banter with friends pushes their limits. Stay centered when things get off-kilter.
October 24th to November 21st
Use your intuitive abilities to perceive how people feel. This deeply seeded awareness can be beneficially resourceful when used for good rather than aggravating others’ soft spots and driving them away.
November 22nd to December 21st
Finding healthy communities will reduce the burden of responsibilities. Navigate between business and pleasure to alleviate pressure. You will still have loads of energy to do what you love.
December 22nd to January 19th
Challenging situations may feel overwhelming at times. Draw on the available support and reach out to those you trust who have your back. Strategize your next steps to help you continue your journey.
January 20th to February 18th
Creative and innovative ideas are being downloaded for later. You love being inspired, but this doesn’t always convert into action despite hard work and discipline. Wait until more energy is available to act.
February 19th to March 20th
Compartmentalizing all aspects of yourself doesn’t translate and take into account the larger picture. Accept the parts you dislike and embrace the imperfections that make you extraordinary.
March 21st to April 19th
It’s time to see what was accomplished upon completion of a finished product. Innovative ideas lead the way with the formation of teams built from collaborators. This skillset benefits future efficiency.
April 20th to May 20th
Jupiter retrogrades toward idealism where goals and plans are concerned. If current actions go astray, regroup and rectify alternative perspectives. This accelerates the opening of new and unexpected pathways.
May 21st to June 21st
With Mercury retrograde, create time for editing and detailed analysis of existing projects. This will help you mentally focus when it’s time to start something fresh in your next creative endeavor.
June 22nd to July 22nd
Things from the past come to the forefront. These issues need clarification and clear communication. The opportunity to stand up for yourself gives you confidence and a new way to navigate feelings.
July 23rd to August 22nd
Embrace compassion for radiant self-love and be kind to yourself. These irreplaceable gifts are often forgotten. This training helps develop a strong will and dissolution of personal dissatisfaction.
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Chukchansi Gold's renowned Chukchansi Cares program is recognized for its unwavering commitment to supporting the community. Each year, the program donates thousands of dollars to local nonprofit organizations, amounting to a remarkable total of over $20 million in charitable contributions. These funds are directed towards various community benefit programs and initiatives, making a significant and positive impact on the lives of many.