It's tough when they dig their heels in like that. But it is true that no kid will ever starve themselves - and you're doing really well leaving his dinner accessible for him to go back to but not giving in and giving him fruit as an alternative. Keep being consistent, keep offering new foods and variety without making it a big deal.

And it is worth it in the long run, fussy kids miss out on the fun stuff associated with food, the messy and tasty beauty of it.