Mad Duck soft opened its highly anticipated “baby duck” location at Fresno Yosemite International Airport on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026. Photo credit: SwitchPacket Register & Credit Card
published on February 23, 2026 – 11:23 AM
Written by Ben Hensley
Two locally-rooted restaurants will officially open their doors at Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) this week, marking a milestone in the airport’s continuous expansion of concessions and services for travelers.
FAT will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday in the airport’s secure area celebrating the grand opening of Mad Duck Craft Brewing Co. and Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant in the post-security concourse terminal.
The event, held in partnership with airport restaurant operator SSP America, will feature remarks from Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer, Councilmember Tyler Maxwell, SSP America Regional Vice President of Operations Ed Hartless and Interim Director of Aviation Francisco Partida.
Known for its beer, burgers and wings, Mad Duck Craft Brewing Co. began a phased soft opening earlier this month near FAT Gates 5 – 17.
“This phased approach allows team members to smoothly transition to updated systems and services through a soft opening,” airport spokesperson Vikkie Calderon previously said. “An official opening is planned for later this month and will be announced soon.”
The airport location is the fifth for Mad Duck. CEO Alex Costa also oversees restaurants in Clovis, Campus Pointe, northwest Fresno and near Copper and Maple avenues.
Joining it behind FAT’s secure area is Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant. A Fresno staple for over 30 years, Los Amigos is owned by Ricardo Flores Gaona and features a mariachi-and-folklorico theme, serving a traditional sit-down menu, full-service bar with specialty beverages, a panadería, grab-and-go items and coffee.
“It is with great honor that Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant brings the authentic taste of Mexico to FAT,” Flores Gaona said. “We are thrilled to share our vibrant flavors and culinary traditions with travelers from around the world, providing them with a memorable dining experience during their journey.”
City of Fresno Director of Aviation Henry Thompson previously said that the demand from travelers helped to shape the concept.
“A local Mexican dining concept has been a common traveler request and being able to bring the Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant experience to FAT is timely with initiatives to offer new amenities inspired by our travelers,” Thompson said.
Both restaurants operate through agreements with SSP America, the Virginia-based food and beverage concessionaire selected to expand the airport’s offerings.
The openings are also part of a broader overhaul of the concessions at FAT, including Ike’s Love & Sandwiches and Peet’s Coffee in the post-security area, as well as Einstein Bros. Bagels in the main lobby.
Airport officials say the additions reflect a continued focus on highlighting local brands while enhancing traveler experience at FAT.