Grab Your Hot Date! We’ve got the best recommendations for your Valentine’s Celebrations…

It’s February and you know what that means: heart-shaped chocolates and red roses catch your eye in almost every store. And, those who are part of a romantic couple may be starting to fret about how to celebrate in a memorable way with the person they love.

Fear, not Fresnans, there are a number of fantastic events slated for Valentine’s week this year, and I’ve rounded up some of the best for you to choose from and impress your special someone with.

Ziveli Valentine’s Dinner

When: Thursday, February 14^th at 6 p.m.

Where: Ziveli – 5840 N. Biola Ave in Fresno

What: A fantastic 5-course dinner with Ziveli wine parings prepared by Chef Angelique Trevino, served at the beautifully lit and rustic Ziveli Winery

Cost: $90 per person

Click for tickets/more info

Moravia Wines Valentine’s Dinner

When: Thursday, February 14^th from 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Where: Moravia Wines – 3620 N Bishop Ave in Fresno

What: A delicious 4-course dinner complete with sweet starter and wine parings prepared by Executive Chef Kati Hill, served at the picturesque Moravia Winery

Cost: $85 per person or $75 for wine club members

Click for tickets/more info   

Valentine’s Dinner at Kings River Winery

When: February 14^th at 6 p.m.

Where: Kings River Winery – 4276 S. Greenwood in Sanger

What: A tasty four-course meal with sparkling wine pairing prepared by Chef Aaron Neilson of Southern Hospitality Company, served in the beautiful events center at Kings River Winery.

Cost: $59.95 (or $53.95 for wine club members)

Click for tickets/more info

Dinner for Two at Trelio

When: February 12^th through 17^th between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. (multiple options available)

Where: Trelio – 438 Clovis Ave. #4 in Clovis

What: A decadent three course meal prepared by one of the Valley’s best chefs featuring additional dessert, beverage, specialty and cheese items to customize your dining experience further.

Cost: $64 per person for the three-course meal, additional options at varying prices

Click for reservations/more info

Dinner for Two at Tobachines Cocina

When: February 14^th, 15^th or 16^th (multiple reservation times available)

Where: Tobachines Cocina 6755 N. Palm Ave. in Fresno

What: An upscale dining experience featuring three courses bursting with Latin flavor. Drink pairing are available for an additional charge. Menu highlights include seared Diver Scallops, Poblano Pepper and Corn Soup, Roasted Rack of Lamb or Chilean Sea Bass and Tres Leches cake. If you wish to have a table for more than two guests, please call us at 559 473 1077 and select option 1.

Cost: $75 per person

Click for tickets/more info

Valentine’s budget feeling a bit tight this year? Never fear. Have fun and celebrate the day of love affordably with these two fun options:

Pizza + Wine at Kings River Winery

When: February 9^th from 12-5 p.m.

Where: Kings River Winery – 4276 S. Greenwood in Sanger

What: A relaxed, affordable yet still romantic and incredibly enjoyable option – handmade, woodfired pizzas will be prepared by the wine-maker and served with a glass of wine all afternoon  for just $10.

Cost: $5 for pizza, $10 for pizza and a glass of wine

Click for tickets/more info

Valentine’s Brunch at Common Space on Fulton

When: February 16^th from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Where: Common Space on Fulton – 1252 Fulton Street in Downtown Fresno

What: A fun and casual way to enjoy time with your date Downtown while enjoying amazing waffles from Wafflicious (you KNOW you want one) such as their…

• Californian (egg, cheddar cheese, avocado, bacon, sour cream)
• Stella (strawberries, Nutella, whipped cream)
• Green Machine (egg, cheddar cheese, arugula, avocado, salsa)
• Henry (syrup, strawberries, whipped cream, powdered sugar)
• Cookie Monster (banana, cookie butter, Oreo, whipped cream, graham cracker) OR
• Chocolate Wasted (Nutella, chocolate sauce, Oreo, whipped cream)

Plus, you can also enjoy Café de Olla (a Mexican Coffee infused with cinnamon and brown sugar flavors) or Mexican Hot Chocolate from Café Alchemy or mimosas provided by Common Space on Fulton.

Cost: No entry fee, pay direct to vendors per item

Click for tickets/more info

I hope one of these seven local celebrations fits your idea of Valentines, or Galentines just right.

Wishing you and yours a delightful Valentines day celebration this year!

Welcome to the Neighborhood, In Style Nail Spa!

Getting a pedicure is one of life’s little luxuries that is so enjoyable. Whether you are someone who’s lifestyle allows for regular trips to the nail salon, or only indulges for special occasions, it’s always good to have a go-to place where you know the pedicure will be relaxing, the environment clean and the prices reasonable.

I’ve had a difficult time finding a “go-to” nail salon near my home that meets my criteria for being a favorite. For me, those elements are:

• Ideally within 5 minutes from home
• Plenty of pedicure stations, to easily accommodate walk-in customers with minimal waiting (as my pedicures tend to be a surprise special occasion when I can squeeze in the time between responsibilities, and often happen somewhat last-minute)
• Friendly, professional nail technicians
• A variety of manicure and pedicure services including affordable options
• A clean, relaxing environment

Until recently, the only place I knew of that met all of my preferences was a solid 20-minute drive from home (the minimal wait time/lots of chairs thing has always been the toughest to meet), but alas, last weekend I discovered the ideal nail salon less than 5 minutes from home!

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For my fellow Northwest/North Central Fresnans – may I introduce you to the new salon on the block, In Style Nail Spa located on the northeast corner of Palm and Herndon. In Style opened just one month ago, semi-quietly, in the new strip mall that houses the latest Fresno Dutch Bros and Butter Fish locations. (That’s right, you can enjoy a healthy lunch, walk a few doors down for a coffee, and enjoy sipping it while you get a relaxing pedicure – all without moving your car.)

When I walked into the salon this past weekend, it had that sparkling brand-new look and was absolutely spotless. The décor is tasteful, and the friendly staff immediately greeted me and ushered me to a comfortable pedicure station with new massage chair. My nail tech, Lynn (who I would highly recommend) was warm, friendly and perfectionistic in her work. I will ask for her in the future, and I’d recommend her to you, as well!

Everyone in the salon was just SO friendly and nice, I really wanted to give them a shout out here because A) I LOVE supporting awesome, new, local businesses who offer great customer service and B) though it’s not a need to get a pedicure, it’s a really nice way to unwind during stressful times, and in a crazy, busy, responsibility laden-world – you deserve it sometimes and now you can do it conveniently at Palm and Herndon! #treatyourself

P.S. If you do stop by Butterfish (who we’ve featured here on the FresYes blog) for lunch and Dutch Bros (also featured here) for coffee before your pedicure, you’re supporting local business, as both are operated by Fresno families. 😉 #eatlocal #shoplocal

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For those who want to go out and party:

1. Strummers and Love the Captive will co-host a NYE party from 9pm – 1:30am at 833 E. Fern in the Tower District. DJs DJKase, LX$, Cheeks and Hunts will keep the music going and the cover charge is only $5. (21 and over).
2. Famed local musician Richie Blue and Friends will be playing live jazz, blues, rock and ballads all night at DiCicco’s in Old Town Clovis. This party, taking place at 408 E. Clovis Ave. will begin at 9:00 and go until 12:30am. A $20 cover includes appetizers and champagne toast at midnight.
3. The Pines Resort in Bass Lake with host a Glitz and Glam New Year’s Eve Party in their lodge overlooking Bass Lake from 8pm – 12:30am. Tickets are $15 per person (or free with the purchase of a four course dinner at Ducey’s Restaurant) and party favors, light snacks, a photo booth, champagne toast and awesome view of fireworks over the lake at midnight are all included. (Ages 12 and up welcome.)
4. Celebrate the New Year with Full Circle Brewery in its new location at Audie’s Olympic (1426 N. Van Ness) from 5pm on for just $5. All ages are welcome at this 2019 NYE party. (Brews available for 21 and over only of course.) Music from Boha and Boom Boom Brady throughout the evening.
5. Campagnia will host its annual New Year’s party as well from 9pm to 1am. Party favors, satellite bars, music by DJ Trey and a complimentary champagne toast will be provided.

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For those who want to celebrate with their whole family:

1. An all ages buffet and gaming party will be offered at Dave & Busters from 11am to 2pm at a special price. For $34.11, each guest will enjoy Bar Burgers, Crispy Chicken Bites, Four Cheese Pizza Bites, Baked Mac & Cheese, French Fries, a Churro Station, Unlimited Soft Drinks and a $20.00 power Card- Tax and Gratuity are also included.
2. No Surrender Laser Tag and Adventure Park in Clovis will offer special family or individual packages for their NYE party, taking place from 8pm to 1am. Packages will include: appetizers and dinner buffet, unlimited laser tag, adventure course use and VR and arcade gaming. The cost for a family of 4 will be $160 or for an individual, $45.
3. Tiny Tots Playground will offer a special noontime celebration for the littlest party-goers and their family members. Tiny Tots is a child-focused indoor play place that hosts regular activities throughout the week. Memberships are available, but this “Countdown to Noon” party is also open to drop in guests. The cost per child is $10 for the first child and $5 for additional siblings. There will be a balloon drop when the clock strikes noon, and plenty of fun things to do and snacks to enjoy throughout the celebration. Tiny Tots playground is located at 2930 E. Nees, Ste. 105.

For those who want to stay in:

1. If you’re staying in but hosting guests – consider purchasing a Murder Mystery kit online and playing a themed game with your crew! My Mystery Party is a website offering games and all the info you need to set them up, via instant downloads for around $40. Check them out here.
2. And finally, the easiest way to ring in 2019 – order your favorite take out food and have it delivered via Uber Eats, Door Dash or your favorite pizza delivery driver and watch the latest hit movie on Netflix that everyone and their dog is talking about, Bird Box staring Sandra Bullock. This celebration requires no real pants, so it’s clearly an excellent option.

Whatever you decide to do, remember to always designate a driver if you’ll be drinking. Be safe and have fun! See you next year! (Had to do it. 😉)

New Tapas Restaurant Offers Tasty Fare at Hotel Piccadilly

As someone who loves trying new restaurants, I often search Yelp’s “New and Hot” section and scan the Fresno Bee for anything Bethany Clough writes. I’ve learned there are a few menu items that particularly appeal to my personal food tastes, and when these items are featured, adding the restaurant to my must try list is a given. My personal menu favorites are anything with a balsamic reduction, homemade bread or pasta, generous use of a variety of cheeses, garlic or better yet — roasted garlic. I love any sort of mac n cheese that offers a modern ingredient twist as well.

Recently, when searching for a new restaurant to try for a date night with my husband, I came across a “New and Hot” restaurant on Yelp with few but exceptionally high ratings. Mochuelo (Spanish for “Little Owl”) is a new tapas (small plates) restaurant located in the lounge of the Hotel Piccadilly on West Shaw Ave.

In the images posted online, I immediately spotted an awesome mural that no doubt was created by talented local artist Quinn Bowman. (Using a local artist always scores additional points in my book.) The menu also featured Brussels sprouts (My second favorite food next to elegant Mac and Cheese) with balsamic reduction and multiple cheese dish so, the decision to go was finalized.

The hubby and I walked into Mochuelo on a Saturday night during the busy holiday season around 7pm, but had no trouble getting a table. The walk from the parking lot was a little lengthy compared to most restaurants, simply because the restaurant is in the lobby of the sprawling Hotel Piccadilly grounds, and it was clear multiple large parties and events were taking place, so there was only room in the far back part of the lot to park.

The beautiful Mochuelo mural is located on the exterior side wall of the restaurant, in the patio area – which looks like it will be an amazing place to hang out, grab a bite and a drink or two with friends, come warmer weather.

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Ambiance

Once you enter Hotel Piccadilly’s lobby, to the right is the large mirror bar that serves as the back wall of the restaurant area and sleek black and white cushioned chairs set around glossy, black table tops serve as the dining area in front of it. A bright and shining chandelier like fixture hangs above the entire area and is made up of gold utensils hanging from a giant branch. It’s a statement piece for sure, and though now actual lighting is part of it, it reflects light from around the room and catches your eye. To the left if the hotel’s front desk, which is visually separated by a line of planters and taller snake plants.

Though the aesthetics were upscale, the vibe was comfortable and relaxed. The bartender was making friendly conversation with several patrons at the bar and three other tables were seated. (The entire dining area is on the smaller side, though as I mentioned before – I think the patio seating will be a big draw in the warmer months of the year). Our server was professional and helpful but did not linger and all the food we ordered came out relatively quickly.

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Menu

For our first round of ordering, we tried the Roasted Brussels Sprouts with goat cheese crème fraiche, balsamic reduction and shaved Parmesan cheese (very good), the Patatas Bravas fried potatoes with spicy Parmesan sauce (excellent, a little spicy and reminiscent of good breakfast potatoes) and the Egg Yolk Ravioli made with house made pasta dough, spinach, ricotta white wine cream sauce and a fresh yolk filling served at exactly 63 degrees (my husband’s favorite dish).

For our second round, we ordered the Grilled Flank Steak with smoked paprika and cumin rub and cilantro lime chimichurri (the chimichurri was SO good and the steak was tender and perfectly cooked) as well as the Potato Croquettes which were made with Havarti cheese and herbs and served with a poblano pepper and crème fraiche dipping sauce (crispy, not at all greasy, but not quite as flavorful as the Patatas Bravas – if you prefer less spice you’ll like them a lot).

Other menu offerings receiving rave reviews on Yelp include the paella, roasted carrots with burrata and the sous vide filet mignon.

We chose to finish our meal by sharing the Salted Caramel Bread Pudding, which was delicious. It was drizzled with just enough caramel, crispy on the edges, soft in the center and not at all mushy or soggy. It reminded me of a perfect Christmas morning French toast.

For drinks, I enjoyed a glass of Prosecco (I’m boring, I almost always order that) and my husband had an Old Fashioned and a signature cocktail “Blood and Sand” (I do not get the name, but he really enjoyed the drink!).

Final Thoughts

Overall, we really enjoyed the food and drinks, and the service was excellent. What was a little challenging was the atmosphere, as there was a large party in a banquet room behind the Mochuela dining area, and the music and noise from that group filtered into the otherwise quiet dining area.

If you’re looking for delicious tapas, you’ll no doubt enjoy Mochuela. And come spring and summer, you’ll definitely want to go back and enjoy their patio – I know we will!

If there are young children in your life, chances are this time of year Santa is a big topic of conversation. If the little ones in your life could use a close encounter with the big guy himself (or some of his merry-making associates) to make their Christmas season extra special, you are in luck!

Fresno has some really special events taking place just for families over the course of the next week, and here at FresYes.com we’ve done the work to list them in one place for your enjoyment – read on for all the details!

Family-Friendly Holiday Events This Week (Featuring Santa!)

Nightly from 5-8pm: Zoo Lights at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Come enjoy holiday music, special drinks and snacks and all the glittering lights of the Zoo, decked out for the holidays! Free photos with Santa will be available, too! Tickets for this annual, much-cherished local activity can be purchased online here.

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Tuesday, Dec. 11^th from 6-10pm: 2^nd & Last Christmas Tree Lane Walk-Only Night

Walking Christmas Tree Lane is an annual tradition for many Fresno Families. The second and final night of the year in which the lane will be closed to vehicle traffic will be Tuesday, Dec. 11^th. A shuttle is available if you start at Gazebo Gardens if you prefer not to walk the full length of the lane in both directions. You can also start from Fig Garden Village Shopping Center. Whichever way you go, the glittering lane is sure to delight, and you’ll even see the big guy himself near the halfway point of your walk. Need additional info? Click here.

Thursday, Dec. 13^th from 4-6pm: Cornerstone Coffee Open House

Santa & his buddy Rudolph will be happy to greet little ones for photo ops while grown-ups enjoy a delicious coffee for a cause. Cornerstone Coffee is located Downtown on the SW corner of Fulton and Stanislaus, and the café provides job training and employment opportunities for women who are part of the programs from Light-House Recovery Program. This event is free, coffee is available for purchase and 100% of funds raised benefit Light-House and their community work.

Thursday, Dec. 13^th from 4-7pm: Holiday Extravaganza at Pavilion West Shopping Center

Shoppers can enjoy free food and drink samples, sugar cookie decorating at Boo Boo Bean Bakery, special sales, holiday music and of course a meet and greet and photo session with Santa himself this Thursday night in the Pavilion West Shopping Center on the SW corner of Bullard and West in NW Fresno.

Friday, Dec. 14^th from 5:30-8: Ride the Train to the North Pole at Santa’s Sleighland in Playland

This Friday night enjoy unlimited Playland rides a train ride to the North Pole, a visit and photo with Santa and a candy cane all for one price. Tickets are available online (at a discount of $2) or at the gates.

Saturday, Dec. 15^th from 11am – 4pm: Free Train Rides and Cookies & Cocoa with Mrs. Claus in Riverpark

Kids can enjoy live music and free train rides around the Riverpark Shopping Center between 11am and 4pm this Saturday, and from 3pm – 6pm kids can enjoy cookies and cocoa with Mrs. Claus. Look for signs and information near the front of Edwards Cinema.  

Saturday, Dec. 15^th or Sunday, Dec. 16^th from 1pm – 3pm: Free carriage ride and photo with Santa in Fig Garden Village

Families can enjoy a free ride around Fig Garden Village Shopping Center followed by a visit with Santa and free photo by meeting the carriage in front of the big Christmas tree next to Pottery Barn. (Subject to cancelation due to heavy rain, just FYI.)