A “Lofresno Neal” on the go? Steak bites between flights?

Travelers at Fresno Yosemite International Airport have new options with the opening of two more restaurants, with another one firing up the kitchen soon. The additions are part of a massive airport overhaul that included a new security screening area, terminal and parking lot.

City officials held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday for Mad Duck Craft Brewing Company and Ike’s Love and Sandwiches.

“This expansion represents our commitment to enhancing travelers’ experience and creating a space that reflects the heart and soul of Fresno,” Mayor Jerry Dyer said. “These food additions are more than just dining options. They are a way to bring the flavors and hospitality of Fresno directly to our travelers.”

Ike’s is located to the left of the security area. Mad Duck is in the middle of the main terminal — the first sight after passengers ascend the escalator.

SSP America owns the restaurants under licensing agreements with the respective brands.

Mad Duck’s Expansion

Mad Duck took over the John Muir Tavern location in the middle of Concourse A, opening Feb. 6.

It is the first thing passengers see when coming up the escalator.

“The visual impact of coming up that escalator is striking,” Mad Duck CEO Alex Costa said.

Costa said it is important that travelers see Mad Duck when coming and going.

“Having Mad Duck represent our community here is incredibly special to us. We are overwhelmed with pride,” Costa said.

Related Story: Fresno Opens New Terminal as Major Milestone in $150 Million Airport Expansion

Steak bites ($19.25) are the most popular item, but Costa said the restaurant had to adjust the preparation for airport service.

“You’re not allowed to use silverware past security, for example. We’ve had to make sure our chefs worked to condense those into actual bites instead of large chunks of steak that would need to be cut,” Costa said.

The menu features several Mad Duck-brewed beers. A full bar is available when the airport restaurant opens at 5 a.m.

“We believe that people should always know their butcher and they should always know their brewer. Beer is best fresh and food is best fresh,” Costa said.

Another unique feature found only at the airport Mad Duck is a breakfast menu.

Ike’s at the Airport

This is Ike’s third Fresno location. The San Francisco-based chain is known for naming sandwiches after Bay Area and Fresno sports celebrities.

The “LofresnoNeal” ($15.50) is named after Lorenzo Neal — the Lemoore native and Fresno State star who became one of the best fullbacks in NFL history.

His sandwich features steak, pepper jack and honey.

Natasha Samoebj, the area manager, said the most popular sandwich is the “Matt Cain” ($15.50), named after the former Giants ace pitcher.

There is also an FYI exclusive named after the city’s other airport: “The Chandler” ($15.50). It features turkey, roast beef, bacon, Swiss and Ike’s Fresno BBQ sauce.

All sandwiches feature Dutch crunch bread, which stays crisp and holds the ingredients in place.

And there are several meatless options, especially enjoyed by Fresno City Councilmember Tyler Maxwell.

“Best vegetarian sandwiches in Fresno,” Maxwell said.

More Flights?

Dyer hinted there would be more flights added out of FYI, but he wasn’t ready to reveal information yet.

“There’s at least one exciting destination on the horizon. I hope in the near future we’re able to solidify that and make it public. It’s a destination people have wanted from Fresno, and most of the demand is for leisure travel,” Dyer said.

The airport expansion cost $150 million and encompasses 98,000 square feet.

SSP America’s Deal

The city council approved the contract with Virginia-based SSP America in 2023. The 15-year deal gives SSP America the right to operate concessions at the airport, paying for lease space plus a percentage of revenues.

The city estimated annual revenues of $816,436.

Costa said prices will be slightly higher at the airport because of the costs to operate at FYI.

Both Costa and Dyer said it is easier for SSP America to serve as the employer. That helps clear workers through security and handle the unique aspects of operating at an airport. Both Mad Duck and Ike’s train employees on food and drink preparation.

Los Amigos, a Fresno-based Mexican restaurant, is scheduled to open soon. Dyer said a construction mishap caused flooding, delaying its opening in the new terminal.

Peet’s Coffee has already opened. A Brookstone shop is under construction.