Best-read: Downtown Fresno restaurant closes. ‘Man caves’ in Bekins bldg. Tragedy on the road
Beloved downtown Fresno restaurant Las Mañanitas forced to move
Las Mañanitas, a longtime local favorite known for its chilaquiles and welcoming atmosphere, will close its downtown Fresno location at month’s end. Owner Allen Juárez was given a 60-day notice by the out-of-town property owner, who’s leasing the space to another tenant. Despite recent challenges—including Bitwise’s closure several years ago—Juárez is exploring new locations and remains optimistic about the restaurant’s future in the community. Click here to read full story.
‘Modern-day man cave’ planned for Fresno’s historic Bekins building
Fresno’s iconic century-old Bekins building has new owners and bold plans ahead. Developer Reza Assemi and partner Jaime Gonzalez want to transform the storied structure into a social, car-focused venue, complete with a bar, car storage, and rooftop entertainment. Though details are being finalized, the project aims to honor the building’s legacy while injecting fresh energy into the downtown area, known for its growing creative scene. Click here to read full story.
Mother and child die in devastating crash south of Fresno
Tragedy struck near Easton when a mother, 28, and her two-year-old daughter died in a crash Wednesday morning. Investigators say their Honda Civic ran a stop sign and collided with a Chevrolet Tahoe. Neither victim was wearing a seatbelt or using a child safety seat. Two teens in the Tahoe sustained minor injuries. Authorities await toxicology results but do not currently suspect impairment as a cause. Click here to read full story.
Roll-Em-Up Taquitos and Teriyaki Madness open in northwest Fresno
Two new eateries—Roll-Em-Up Taquitos and Teriyaki Madness—have launched in northwest Fresno’s Marketplace at El Paseo. Roll-Em-Up offers a lively, reggae-inspired setting with taquitos and churro donuts, helmed by former Fresno State player Rodney Davis. Teriyaki Madness serves customizable rice and noodle bowls as a healthier alternative to fast-food, with a grand opening offering promotional pricing. Both franchises aim to provide fresh culinary options for locals. Click here to read full story.
Unhoused pair die in tent trying to stay warm in Fresno
Family and friends are mourning Denise Celis, 52, and Ronald Wallace, 50, who died this month as frigid weather hit Fresno. Believed to be victims of carbon monoxide poisoning from a tent-heating fire, they were remembered as generous souls who helped others despite personal struggles. The tragedy highlights the dangers facing unhoused residents during winter and has prompted community support for funeral expenses and renewed calls for compassion. Click here to read full story.
This story was produced with the help of AI tools, which summarized previous stories reported and written by Fresno Bee journalists. This content was edited by journalists in the newsroom.
This story was originally published December 24, 2025 at 8:31 AM.