The Galleria in Downtown Fresno will soon see the return of Mediterranean cuisine as Zaatar Euro Bistro prepares to open a second location in the space formerly occupied by George’s Shish Kebab. The previous restaurant, which had been a fixture in the area, closed its doors in August, leaving the spot vacant until now.
Zaatar Euro Bistro first opened in 2024 and is operated by brothers Badih “Buddy” Roy and Rabih “Robby” Nassar. Drawing on their Lebanese heritage, they plan to introduce an expanded menu that includes Mediterranean omelets, baked goods, burgers, and other offerings.
Buddy Roy emphasized the variety of dishes that set their restaurant apart from others. “Whenever you say ‘Mediterranean,’ everywhere in America, your mind always goes to beef kebab, chicken kebab, shawarma, rice pilaf…that’s the traditional Mediterranean restaurant in Fresno,” he said. “But when you go to Lebanon…it’s just a small part of it.”
The original Zaatar Bistro at Champlain and Shepherd avenues in north Fresno features more than 80 items on its menu. Options range from classic chicken wraps and hummus to unique selections such as fatteh and baked desserts.
