The Lime Lite
A 55-year-old Fresno institution serving upscale New American cuisine with farm-to-fork freshness and innovative cocktails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
The Lime Lite
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 55-year-old Fresno institution serving upscale New American cuisine with farm-to-fork freshness and innovative cocktails.
Make Reservations
The restaurant can get busy; reservations are recommended, especially for weekend evenings.
Try Signature Appetizers
Popular choices include calamari strips, surf and turf, and melted cheese (fondue).
Quick Facts
Cuisine
New American
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Exceptional Steaks and Seafood
Indulge in perfectly cooked ribeye, prime rib, and fresh seafood dishes like salmon and halibut, consistently praised for quality.
Old-School Manhattan Steakhouse Ambiance
Experience a welcoming, dimly lit atmosphere with classic decor, reminiscent of a bygone era of fine dining.
Attentive and Friendly Service
Staff are consistently noted for their attentiveness, helpfulness, and making guests feel welcome and well-cared for.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Make Reservations
The restaurant can get busy; reservations are recommended, especially for weekend evenings.
Try Signature Appetizers
Popular choices include calamari strips, surf and turf, and melted cheese (fondue).
Outdoor Patio Options
The patio offers a great setting, with heaters for cooler weather, making it enjoyable year-round.
Ask for Recommendations
Staff are happy to suggest dishes and cocktails; ask for their favorites.
Tips
from all over the internet
Make Reservations
The restaurant can get busy; reservations are recommended, especially for weekend evenings.
Try Signature Appetizers
Popular choices include calamari strips, surf and turf, and melted cheese (fondue).
Outdoor Patio Options
The patio offers a great setting, with heaters for cooler weather, making it enjoyable year-round.
Ask for Recommendations
Staff are happy to suggest dishes and cocktails; ask for their favorites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Lime Lite is a long-standing Fresno establishment praised for its exceptional steaks, seafood, and old-school ambiance. Diners rave about the attentive service, delicious cocktails, and classic American dishes. While most reviews highlight a consistently positive experience, a few past guests have noted a departure from some traditional menu items.
"Brought my parents here for their anniversary and it did not disappoint! The Surf & Turf appetizer, butternut ravioli, & seared scallops were all incredible. They gave my parents a complimentary dessert for their anniversary that was delicious and we also shared a key lime cheesecake that was perfect. Our waitress Esmeralda was so great & gave us excellent service as well - thank you! Can’t wait to come back!"
Regan Scaife Photo & Film
"Incredible experience from start to finish. Immediate seating (not busy and had a reservation), very efficient ordering, drinks, and paced meal service. First time here and we'll definitely be back!
Photos are a lemon drop and old fashioned, seasonal spring salad with strawberries, fried garlic, and Green Goddess dressing, wood fired ribeye with mash and brussel sprouts, and the chocolate souffle."
Jamie
"This is my third time at Lime Lite and it was amazing as usual. The service is top notch here. They come around to make sure everything is fine and on time. There’s no time wasted among any of the staff! I had the wood grilled salmon and it was a great pair of smoky salmon and fresh cucumbers. For an appetizer we had surf and turf and it was the best appetizer we’ve had in Fresno. I’ve also had the Calamari strips which were great as well. The drinks here are strong and very well done. The lemon drop is so good! All in all this place is a 5/5 🔥"
G Rueda
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially for weekend evenings, as the restaurant can become quite busy.
Diners frequently praise the steaks (ribeye, prime rib), calamari strips, surf and turf appetizer, and fresh seafood options.
Yes, they have a patio that is enjoyable year-round, with heaters available for cooler temperatures.
Absolutely! The classic, dimly lit ambiance and excellent service make it a popular choice for celebrations.
Yes, the cocktails are noted as being strong, well-made, and innovative.
They serve New American cuisine, focusing on farm-to-fork principles with locally-sourced ingredients.
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Featured in these publications
Best of 34 outdoor dining in Fresno
The Lime Lite @ Shaw and Palm is one of Fresno's top dining destinations, offering exceptional service and delicious food, drinks, and desserts. Patrons can enjoy their meal in a variety of settings, including the patio, indoor dining area, or at the bar. The patio was recently renovated and now provides a more welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to socialize with friends or conduct business meetings.
7 Locally Owned Places to Eat in Fresno/Clovis | Blog | California Relocation Network
A Fresno staple for 55 years, Lime Lite offers “good vibes, stiff drinks & delicious food showcasing the best” of what the valley offers. Tucked away near Shaw and Palm, the Lime Lite offers classic cuts of meat and fresh seafood entrees. CRN client Bria O’Brien says of the restaurant, “Lime Lite has an intimate, classy environment with beyond exceptional service.
Savor the Flavors: Where to Eat in Fresno, California
If you're in the mood for classic American comfort food, The Lime Lite is the place to be. This iconic Fresno establishment has been serving delicious meals since 1960, delighting locals and visitors alike. From juicy burgers and mouthwatering steaks to hearty sandwiches and flavorful seafood dishes, The Lime Lite offers a menu that satisfies every craving.
The Best Cocktail Bars In Fresno, California I 2020
Owner Brandon Smittcamp has continued the tradition into our 50th year of providing fine dining and enlightened hospitality that the Milutinovich Family preserved for decades. Brandon has added his own touches, too, to keep his prominent establishment in the “Lime Lite,” including offering new and exotic libations from the bar and farm-fresh menu treat.
5 Best Valentine's Day Restaurants Fresno Has to Offer
For over fifty-five years The Lime Lite has served upscale “farm-to-fork” cuisine long before it was chic to do so. With locally-sourced ingredients from the valley and nearby farmer’s markets, every carefully-cultivated dish has a unique freshness. But what makes this one of the best Valentine’s Day restaurants Fresno has to offer?
Things to do in Fresno for couples — 3-day Itinerary
To finish off the second day, you can enjoy an elegant dinner at The Lime Lite. It is one of Fresno’s top-rated restaurants with New-American menu offerings, and innovative cocktail options. They have a very romantic ambiance with dim lights and exquisite decor where couples can while the night away.
Are these the best restaurants in Fresno?
– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (80 reviews)– Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)– Type of cuisine: American– Price: $$ – $$$– Address: 1054 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93711-3701– Read more on Tripadvisor
Highest-rated Restaurants in Fresno, According to Tripadvisor
- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (80 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: American- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 1054 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93711-3701- Read more on Tripadvisor
6 Of The Best Places To Eat In Fresno Today
The Lime Lite serves New American fare with organic produce. This upscale dining spot has been open for some 55 years, led by current owner Brandon Smittcamp. Many of the ingredients come from Smittcamp's family farms.
Fresno restaurant named one of California’s 101 best restaurants by L.A. Times
They are also behind the popular Fresno restaurants Lime Lite, Heirloom, Mayd Modern Mediterranean and Butterfish. They described its culinary interpretation as “Napa Valley meeting Mexico City.
U-D Thai restaurant in Fresno has near perfect Yelp rating
U-D Thai Restaurant outranks some heavy hitting fine dining restaurants in town, including Cracked Pepper Bistro and The Lime Lite.
20+ Date Ideas in Fresno: Romantic things to do for Couples
The Lime Lite – One of the most popular places for couples in the area. Dim lights with a touch of classic decor.
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