8/19/26 An update is Way overdue!! Getting lunch at the bar! Plus, getting something different. Arrived!! Been too long!! Wow!! It has really changed in 7 years!! For the better!! Big bar too!! Guitars up and music themed. Music playing! Cool and calm. Tv with baseball playing at the bar.... Greeted by kind worker! Very kind and welcoming. I was telling her how glad I am that they reopened. She got me an iced tea to start. Refreshing & Great!! I ended up ordering the Highly Recommended Santa Maria BBQ Tri Tip sandwich with a side salad with salsa. Order arrived shortly later!! Lunchtime!! Wow!! REALLY GREAT Santa Maria BBQ Tri Tip sandwich! Tender & DELICIOUS!! Fresh & Tasty salad with GREAT salsa too!! The worker is Great!! Checked up on me and refilled tea. Finished & she was happy to give me tea to go & a box for the other half of my sandwich. Paid for it after that & received with good day wishes!! GREAT service & GREAT lunch!! Highly recommended!! They also do weekend brunch! Definitely checking that out soon!! ;D read more

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I ordered a salad that was spinach, feta, strawberries, almonds. I asked to swap mixed greens. It came with maybe 4-5 pieces of strawberry. They left off the other toppings. The server was great to bring them. It was better then. But presentation was lacking. I also got a side of fresh veggies broccolini and carrots. They were ice cold. My friend got steak scampi. She gave me the shrimp and they were delish! She said the steak was great and she got a Cesar salad and said it was good. The service was great the food 6/7. read more

Hadn't been in awhile. Came in today and we got the dog from their dog menu the hamburger and rice and she loved it. We shared the short rib pasta and it was delicious I would love to have more of it. I took a picture after we already dug in on accident and my dog was beyond finished. The patio is so nice and I had a great time! The staff was kind as well. read more

Starving Artists Bistro - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

The owner is very nice . Been here twice . Servicer is great , food was very good . My husband loves the cowboy classic burger. Love seating outside listening to the artists playing. read more

Starving Artists Bistro - Food music and nice evening !! - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

This used to be one of my favorite places. New owner and the menu is horrible. Please bring back the old menu! read more

Starving Artists Bistro - The Salmon salad - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

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FOOD SUCKS! Went with my Mom today for lunch. I ordered the Ahi tostada appetizer with a cup of chicken noodle soup. My Mom ordered a wedge salad with chicken. The ahi tostadas were meh.. you could tell it was just store bought ahi with some sauce.. very small portions but the soup had NO noodles in it. When I asked the server, she said there was a " Miscommunication " between the kitchen and menu . Said she could have the kitchen make some noodles in the back and I could add them. My Mom's salad was equally sad with chicken that was extremely dry. She took the leftover chicken to feed her dog. Not sure how that went. But the server could see I didn't touch the chicken broth. She didn't offer any compensation or even if she would've taken a drink off; or something ! But it was super expensive.. Extremely disappointing. I do not recommend. read more

If you're going here to use your sweet deal certificates, you can only use both if you spend $100. There was no where that this was stated on the website. This is not ok! Food and service was fine. read more

Best place ever. Pistachio salad 10/10 short rib pasta the best one ever had!!! Amazing Vibe

I've been to The Starving Artist twice now, and each time was great! The food and the service were excellent and the prices are what you would expect in that area of town. That being said, I would highly recommend The Starving Artist Bistro. read more

Food is amazing. I'm not a meat eater but I wanted to try the Starving Artist Burger... took me back to a great bbq with such great taste. Hubby ordered the Rib Eye... he devoured it. My dad ordered the Short Rib Pasta... I grabbed some.. pasta was amazing with great tasting sauce. The ambiance is amazing and I highly recommend. This will be on our list as I place we will come back to again. Kudos to chef and waitress was the best. read more

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Service very good, but the food...NO. Sunday noon today May 24th ordered eggs Benedict but eggs were hard boiled and when server offered to bring more eggs, they too were hard boiled! Imagine if I had been Gorden Ramsey. Wow what a fit he would have made. The server took the item off the bill and my wife and I quietly left. Get a new cook immediately! I want this restaurant to be successful. Lot's of potential there. read more

Food was delicious and half of what other places in are charge! Staff were super friendly and nice. Great music and overall great experience and will definitely be coming back!! Glad this place is back! read more

Starving Artists Bistro - Delicious!! - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

My husband and I visited on Friday ! We were greeted right away and our waiter remembered us from a previous restaurant he worked at , the food was amazing and so was the service and I loved that they had a Crow and Wolf product on draft!! read more

Terrible service . 3rd time we have tried to see if it was better . Loved the original starving artist . Lack of service worse every time . Servers are overwhelmed and frankly not the best when they come to the table . Not their fault . No training and not hiring more help is going to cost this restaurant:-( watched 4 tables leave tonight and I doubt return customers of the ones who stayed . Sub par food and dirty patio I can handle , waiting over 30 minutes for a glass of water is hard . read more

We are so glad Starving Artist is back. We ate here 2-3 times/month before they closed. Last night we went for their soft opening. They have updated inside a bit, and it looks very nice. Our waitress was very friendly and attentive. I ordered the steak salad, which was yummy. My husband had the burger, which was also very good. I was SO disappointed that they didn't have the salmon salad, goat cheese bake, or short rib tacos on the menu anymore. I hope they bring those back, along with that amazing seasoning they used to put on the fries. We will be back, hoping those menu items will be back, too! read more

We (a family of 3 adults) really wanted to like this place. It was nice not being in a packed room (we sat outside) and being able to hold a conversation without having to shout over the noise. Unfortunately, the menu had changed since the ones posted on Yelp as photos. The website menu was only available with a scan code and I couldn't access it with my phone, so we were disappointed with the actual menu, but went with the flow. The waitstaff were great, keeping us updated on our order, but then the food came. The clam chowder was good, but a tad salty. The short ribs (with parpadelle and broccolini) were tough and chewy. Short ribs should be falling apart tender, these were not. It did not look like any of the photos of the short rib that I've seen posted in Yelp. Maybe it was a bad night, but whoever cooked or plated the meal should have noticed the problem. The flavor was ok. The burger and fries were good. The biggest disappointment was the Chinese chicken salad. The only part of it that resembled a Chinese chicken salad was the very few almonds and fried rice noodles. It was basically cut up iceberg lettuce with a tiny bit of corn and a cut up fried chicken cutlet which was too dry. I would have expected shredded (I can't remember what the menu said and there is no description on the website menu which I finally accessed). The dressing didn't have that sweetness one would expect. It tasted like it was maybe just a little rice vinegar. There were no mandarins. It was mediocre and way overpriced for the ingredients. My son had a decaf coffee and said it was oddly thick and passed on a refill. This from someone who I have never heard complain about a cup of coffee or pass up a refill. The meal pailed in comparison with others we've had locally of similar cost. Again, the staff were attentive and friendly and we so wanted to find a place we would make into our "regular" place to go. We won't be returning. If I could have given this a 2.5 rating, I would have. Again, it was the food, not the service that merited that low score. read more

I enjoyed the most delicious garlic shrimp appetizer on their lovely patio. Service was great too! I can't wait to go back and try their Gourmet Bistro Burger. I am so happy that they have reopened. read more

Had a very enjoyable Sunday brunch. Food and service were both great! Will be back for sure!

The service was great at Starving Artist Bistro, but the food was just okay. Appreciated the live music. read more

Starving Artists Bistro - Blackberry Honey Pecan Old Fashioned - Highly Recommend - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

Too many fruit flies. I was scared they were going to go to my drink. Which was actually tasty. The environment was sad for a Thursday spring break week. I heard music only as I was leaving. Kinda disappointing. I'll try again.....maybe. read more

Starving Artists Bistro - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

The food was really good. Went for the brunch menu. They had a lot of options and good drinks. The bathroom was cute with the sink design. However, it's right next to the owners office. So, hearing him argue on the phone while I use the bathroom was fun. The place could also use a good dusting too. But I will definitely be back to try their dinner menu. Or catch a live band play read more

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A hidden gem in the fresno area. Focusing on local musicians and their live music, close to 2,200 artists have performed here in their 10 year span. With good food, service, and a large patio, it is a must visit. I would prefer a rotating menu of craft beers, but I am a beer snob so you can take that comment with a grain of salt. Also, they have awesome decor and art for sale inside. Lot to love here read more

Starving Artists Bistro - Live music on the patio on a beautiful friday evening. Not the worst case - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

Such a fun spot in an unexpected shopping center. My bestie and I were at the dog park and got hangry. We looked up the closest dog friendly breakfast and chose the bistro. First of all the outdoor space is Huge and perfect to host multiple dogs (one of our dogs can be a tiny bit reactive sometimes to other dogs). The tables are far enough apart and there are multiple ways in and out so you don't have to run a dog gauntlet through a narrow pathway. It's right next to the parking lot, but they put a low barrier wall up so you don't feel like you're in a parking lot, and if people walk by they're far enough away. The service was great and the food was wonderful. I got the steak salad and it was absolutely delicious. The girls that helped us were so nice and they had a cool wood fire going so we didn't get too cold. read more

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I take it all back, idk why I based my whole review off garlic bread ever and a simple mistake on a busy night. Let's redo this since I've been back a few times since with nothing but great experiences! Such a fun, unique place. LOVE the vibe. Service is always on point, staff is on point. Loved that one night I had dinner with a friend on the patio listening to the live music & the owner came over. Such a cool dude, so personable gave us a run down on who was performing, made sure we were having a good time and taken care of. Food has been lovely. I fall in lust with the tomato bisque & grilled cheese every time. One of my favorite spots in town, just disregard my last review. read more

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The Short Rib sandwich was legit. I don't see this on menus often so I was happy to get it. This was my first time here. I was expecting kind of an arts cafe vibe from the name, but it's more of a pub vibe. read more

Starving Artists Bistro - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

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We came here for lunch today and it was great. They have a nice outdoor patio out front with a fountain. The inside has interesting artwork and guitars all over the wall. The interior has a pub feel to it. We ordered the short rib sandwich and the Cobb salad. The short rib was excellent and was perfectly tender. The Cobb salad was solid with tons of toppings. The service was great and we will be coming back to get a drink and dinner soon! read more

Starving Artists Bistro - Cobb Salad - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

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Dining alone while in town on business, I had a fabulous salmon, rice pilaf and fresh veggies dinner that was lick-the-plate clean good. It was a mild day with a high volume of patio diners, and a live band outside. The end result was slightly less than stellar service at the bar, in terms of engagement. The bartender was very busy slinging drinks constantly. He hit the marks on taking my order Nd getting my "ok" that things were fine but I languished quite a while before I got my bill...which is part of why I like to sit at the bar to avoid the payment doldrums. Nevertheless, this was a lovely experience and I would come back in a heartbeat. Dining alone as a female can sometimes be intimidating depending upon the setting, but I wouldn't hesitate to go alone here. read more

Starving Artists Bistro - Bartop dining: salmon with brown sugar glaze. Absolute perfection. - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

Came here during the week and sat out on the patio because it was such a beautiful day. The menu consists of salads, burgers, sandwiches, pastas, and other entrees. I went with the Western Burger (onion rings, bacon, BBQ sauce) with a side of fries. The portions are generous. Many customers around me were ordering the salmon with brown sugar glaze. They also use the same salmon prep to make the patty for their salmon burger too. I'll be sure to try this the next time I'm here. Our server was quite attentive. The restaurant is a dog-friendly place. Be aware that if you sit outside, there are mosquitoes. read more

Starving Artists Bistro - Western burger - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

I came here for a birthday party and I ordered the salmon with two sides. My first side was a salad with cranberries and blue cheese and yummy pecans. The other side was steamed vegetables. My meal tasted so good that I ate the whole thing. My friend ordered the short ribs. I'm seriously thinking of getting an order to go because it looked so good. If you're thinking of having a party or get together, this is the perfect place. I will definitely be back. read more

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Not sure why anyone would go get a fast food burger combo for $16-$18 when you can pay a buck or two more to have a freshly grilled burger, cooked to your desired doneness, with the most amazing magically seasoned tater tots on the planet, brought to your table by incredibly nice wait staff here at Starving Artists Bistro. This Western Burger combo is $17 (drink not included) and I will happily pay that because it's so delicious & I'm supporting a local business instead of a corporate chain. It was nice & cool inside on this hot day, and while it was too hot to sit on the patio, they have one of the greatest patios in town. I love coming here for dinner & catching the live music that's available every night. My only complaint is I live all the way across town & can't visit more often. If you haven't been here, put it on your list immediately. read more

Starving Artists Bistro - Western Burger with a side of Tater Tots - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

Had a great experience here on a Friday in Feb 2022. I have been here once before, probably back in 2018. Definitely would like to come back more often. Very neat decor/vibe and of course there was great live music. Seems like a very chill place for dinner and drinks. Our waiter was great and checked on us often. We shared two apps as our dinner, the hot dog sliders and the calamari fries. Both were great, I'd like to get the hot dog sliders again as my meal-all 3 were super tasty but the bacon and & cheese one was my favorite. Also enjoyed an excellent jack n coke. read more

Starving Artists Bistro - Calamari Fries with great dipping sauce - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

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My experience here was pretty average. The decor is super cool and unique; they didn't play live music while we were there, but I would love to visit again when they do. For the entire time we were there, only one other table showed up. Service was a bit slow, especially for a slow night, but it didn't look like a lot of people were working that day so no worries there. Our food was good. The presentation was nice and ingredients looked fresh but I felt like it wasn't that flavorful. Overall, just an average experience! If I visit again I'll be sure to try something different on the menu. read more

Hated It!! Food, Service and Atmosphete are MISERABLE!! Waited 15 minutes to have someone even acknowledge our existence to seat us. Then still another 15 minutes to get our table. UGH!! Tried to charge me 2 times for 1 glass of wine. The server needs to learn how to count!! Food took forever while served luke warm at best and the salad was sadly misersble. Even the salad wanted to cry. The music speakers were way too loud. Anyone heard of a Sound check. Check!! Our Server had an attitude, never got a refill for water and then told me I should tip her standard 20 percent. How RUDE!! Server should have been fired on the spot!! The owner's husband is not a nice person imo!! Hate this place and will never be back!! Good bye read more

We came for second time after new years eve to enjoy the live band music. Food was delicious and staff were so friendly and welcoming! We enjoyed everything!!! read more

Starving Artists Bistro - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

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Visited for the first time tonight and I definitely will be back. Give it a shot and you'll get a good meal and good entertainment.

1-2 at best. The food is terrible. Super salty. Ordered the salmon. How can honey glazed be that salty?? Ordered the salmon sandwich with no sauce and butter on the bun...Well, lets just say I used my napkin to soak the butter. And the sandwich is also SUPER SALTY. I ended up drinking 2 glasses of water. Meatloaf wasn't good either. Nice atmosphere, but lack cleanliness. I had to wipe the seats and the hostess had to wipe down table. Keep in mind, we werent sitting outside so it has nothing to do with the dust. read more

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I was told this place has been around for a very long time! I can't believe I have been missing out. I wandered in with two friends on a Friday night, and was immediately greeted by the friendly staff and incredible live music. The restaurant was filling up quickly (it was almost 8:00 pm) but we managed to snag a table. This was before shut down and capacity was only allowed at 20%, so space was filling up quick. We tried the artichoke dip and their cranberry salad. I would say this is my favorite salad I have ever tried in any restaurant in Fresno. You may add a type of protein (chicken, steak) , so we added chicken. Although they have drinks, my friends and I enjoyed the live music accompanied to a nice hot coffee. Their coffee is good for not being a craft type of business. The experience and ambience was just great. It was a nice chill evening. Así, the manager was very polite and well engaged with all customers. I would highly recommend this place. read more

Starving Artists Bistro - Cute patio!! - New American Near Me - Fresno, California

Bob is always hospitable and has the freshest ingredients! Great place to go with kids and family

If you wanna come on a Saturday around 2pm with your significant other and wait almost an hour for mid food, this is your spot! We ordered a chicken sandwich and the hanger steak. Food came out cold.. onion rings were soaked in grease, steak was worse than an Applebees steak. Feel bad for our server because she was the only one working. Kitchen took way too long and I will not be returning. This place is definitely not a "4" star unless I came on a "bad" day. This place should be called Starving artists and customers LOL read more

I love the Starving Artist Bistro for date nights - great food and great live music. Came here last night with my boyfriend and both my dogs. Customer Service: Excellent! We sat outside on the patio and were offered blankets and the server even moved the heater for us. One of the servers even came out to give my dogs a bowl of water and some treats! (5/5) Food: Western Burger: This burger comes with onion rings, bacon, cheese, and bbq sauce ($13.50). Great taste, a little spicy, very filling. Ask for extra bbq sauce if needed. (5/5) Short Ribs: These are "short braised ribs in an herby red wine mirepoix sauce and topped with parmesan" ($20). I was pretty disappointed by these short ribs, and I actually think we were served pork shoulder. The meat was slightly overcooked and a little hard to chew/dry. Flavor, however, was great. I really wanted to like this dish and had high expectations, especially after having their prime rib last time, which was melt-in-your-mouth good. Sadly, the short ribs didn't meet those expectations. (3.5/5) Loaded Mashers: I could eat 3 servings of these loaded mashers as an entree and pass on all other foods. These were SOO good - the perfect amount of cheese and sour cream, flavored to perfection. (5/5) Overall, excellent food, with excellent customer service. Giving 5/5, but really 4.5/5 read more

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