The King of Fresno Restaurants dies at 96 

One stroll through Fresno and you’ll find many local diners and restaurants. From Joe’s Swedish Creamery to Perko’s Café or Brooks Ranch. All these places are very distinct parts of Fresno, however, there is one fact that you may not know about these restaurants: they were all founded by one man, the local legend, H.T. “Chic” Brooks.  

H.T. “Chic” Brooks, the man who lifted the Fresno restaurant scene on his shoulders passed away at the age of 96. The legend was combating dementia during his last days. Brooks was one of the biggest names in the Fresno restaurant scene, and hearing of his passing brought sorrow to many. 

(Shown here: Brooks speaking with kitchen manager Alex Dias at Country Waffles whilst passing along ingredients.) 

It may come as a shock, but this prestigious man did not have a very prestigious start. He never got beyond the 10th grade. He was pulled into the heat of the Second World War to be a merchant marine, delivering supplies and soldiers alike into battlefields. Tragedy struck as his ship was sunk by a kamikaze during one mission, but in a miraculous turn of events he was able to swim about two miles until he was eventually rescued. 

After buying and selling his first neighborhood market with money borrowed from his father, Chic would go on to find many noteworthy restaurants, some of which still stand today. Among these is Happy Steak, arguably his most noteworthy success. To those who were wondering why this is such a big deal, it’s mostly due to the fact that the idea of chain restaurants in a small town was alien at the time. A small town such as Fresno receiving 4 restaurants in the same chain was considered huge. 

Brooks’ legacy will live on in restaurants around the Central Valley like Country Waffles. His lasting legacy and impact will continue to color the local restaurant scene for years to come.