Best of Fresno: My Favorite Local Gems of 2024 As 2024 winds down, I find myself reflecting on the incredible local businesses that shaped my year. From hands-on creative experiences to fantastic meals and unique shopping finds, this list is a love letter to the places in Fresno & Clovis that made my days brighter, tastier, and more fulfilling. Whether you’re looking to try something new or just want to support more local spots, I can’t recommend these businesses enough. Let’s dive into the highlights of my 2024, and don’t forget to click the business names to revisit my full articles for all the details! 1. Scarab Gallery & Creative Arts Studio Discover the Joy of Ceramics Early in the year, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and sign up for ceramics classes, and I can confidently say it was one of the best decisions I made. Scarab Gallery gave me space to be imperfect, which, as a bit of a perfectionist, was a refreshing and necessary challenge. There was something therapeutic about working the clay on a wheel, watching it take shape under my hands. The instructor managed to strike the perfect balance between guidance and freedom—offering tips when I needed them but letting me explore and create in my own way. What really blew me away was the value. For the price, I not only got hands-on experience but also all the materials and firings included, making it an accessible way to dive into ceramics. If you’ve been looking for a creative outlet that feels rewarding, I highly recommend checking into ceramics classes at Scarab. 2. Five & Two Jewelry Image credit: Five and Two 5 Local Businesses You May Not Know It’s rare to find jewelry that blends durability with delicate, on-trend design and affordability, but Five & Two Jewelry nails it. This locally based company has transformed my daily accessorizing. In fact, I’d say the majority of the jewelry I wear on a regular basis now comes from them. Despite long summer days filled with sweat, heat, and the chaos that comes with life, every piece still looks as good as the day I bought it. Not a touch of tarnishing. The owner consistently releases new collections that feel fresh and exciting, so there’s always something new to discover. One of my favorite perks? Free in-town pickup, which saves on shipping and gives that extra sense of community when I swing by to grab a new pair of earrings or a dainty necklace. If you’re someone who loves supporting local artisans and wants jewelry that stands the test of time, Five & Two is where it’s at. 3. Bookish A Novel Experience I’ve always had a soft spot for bookstores, but Bookish is more than just a place to browse shelves—it’s a community hub. The moment you walk through the doors, you’re greeted with the warm, inviting atmosphere that you’d hope to find in a local bookstore. This year, Bookish became one of my favorite spots to find hidden literary treasures, both new and used. The owner has poured her heart into making Bookish not just a store, but a space that uplifts other local businesses and authors. From book signings and author events to collaborations with nearby shops, Bookish embodies what it means to foster community. Need a specific book? They’ll track it down for you. And the prices are refreshingly reasonable, making it easy to walk out with an armful of new reads. 4. Zataar Bistro A Unique Culinary Gem Zataar Bistro served up some of the freshest, most unique dishes I had all year. Their Mediterranean-inspired menu is packed with flavor, and every bite tastes like it was made with love and high-quality ingredients. I first discovered them for brunch, but their recent dinner expansion has solidified their spot as a year-round favorite. One of the things that stands out most is their consistency. Every visit feels like a treat, and the staff goes above and beyond to make you feel at home. They take time to explain the menu, suggest options, and genuinely appreciate returning customers. If you haven’t experienced Zataar Bistro yet, make it a priority. 5. The Third Place Why The Third Place Is a Must-Visit Spot The Third Place is the perfect blend of community, food, and fun. With a diverse selection of restaurants and drink counters, there’s something to please every palate. From international bites to sweet treats and refreshing drinks, you’ll leave happy (and full). What sets The Third Place apart is their commitment to evolving based on customer feedback. The owners truly listen to their guests, and it shows in every detail, from seating arrangements to food options and improvements they made to their main menu over time. The vibe is laid-back, and the space feels like a gathering place for friends and family. If you’re looking for a casual spot to relax, eat well, and maybe meet some new people, The Third Place has you covered. 6. Thai Wok & Café A Flavorful Addition to NW Fresno Of all the new restaurants I discovered in 2024, Thai Wok & Café is the one I returned to most frequently. Their dishes are hot, fresh, and packed with authentic Thai flavors that instantly transport you. I’ve lost count of how many fruit teas with popping boba I’ve ordered during Fresno’s hottest months, and I’m not even sorry about it. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a dinner with friends, the service is consistently kind and efficient. The portions are generous, and the pricing feels fair—something that’s not always easy to find these days. It’s become my default recommendation whenever someone asks for Thai food, and everyone I’ve sent there has left just as impressed. 7. Let Me Take a Look/The Charm Bar Experience Fresno’s First Charm Bar Let Me Take a Look is one of those boutiques that surprises and delights every time I visit. The Charm Bar, in particular, adds a whimsical and personal touch to the shopping experience. I’ve found so many perfect gifts for friends and family there, and the owner’s knack for curating unique items makes every visit special. The personal service and thoughtful customer appreciation make it clear this shop is more than just retail—it’s a passion project. 8. Fragrance Bar at Zaytoona Discover Fresno’s Custom Fragrance Bar The Fragrance Bar at Zaytoona offers one of the most unique and special experiences I had this year. Creating my own custom perfume was not only a fun way to celebrate my mom and my birthdays, but it felt like such an indulgent treat. The process was simple, and the generous bottle size means I’ll be enjoying the scent for months. It’s an easy, affordable way to do something special for yourself or a loved one. Closing Thoughts As I reflect on the past year, I feel grateful to live in a community filled with such passionate, creative, and talented business owners. These eight local gems have brought joy, comfort, and connection to my life, and I hope this list inspires you to explore more of what Fresno has to offer. Here’s to another year of supporting local, discovering new favorites, and celebrating the incredible small businesses that make our city shine.