Chef Ian Cookson and his family have overcome multiple business struggles since their 2019 launch of Libelula, the popular downtown eatery near Fresno and Broadway streets.
They had to navigate the disruptions of the COVID pandemic a year after opening. Then, there was the damaged roof that caused rain to fall in its kitchen. Through it all, Libelula has cultivated a loyal base of customers who trek to downtown for its sriracha maple chicken sandwich and tater tots.
But this year will bring Libelula’s greatest test of resilience, yet…