15 perfect restaurants in Bakersfield, United States

Welcome to the culinary wonderland of Bakersfield, where foodies and fork-wielding enthusiasts indulge in the city's finest dining establishments. Prepare your taste buds for a rollercoaster ride of flavors as you embark on a gastronomic adventure through fifteen of the best restaurants this vibrant city has to offer. From finger-licking BBQ joints that'll leave you questioning your vegetarian lifestyle, to elegant fusion eateries serving dishes worthy of a Michelin star, this guide guarantees a non-stop feast for your senses.

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1. Mama Roomba

4.4 (485)

1814 Eye St, Bakersfield, CA 93301, USA

Welcome to Mama Roomba, a lively and vibrant spot nestled in the heart of Bakersfield. This lively eatery effortlessly combines traditional Caribbean flavors with a cozy and quirky ambiance, making it a perfect culinary sanctuary for seekers of tasty adventures. Get ready to indulge in Mama Roomba's mouthwatering dishes, which will have your taste buds dancing salsa before you can even say "arriba!" Mama Roomba, or as locals lovingly call it, the Caribbean gem of Bakersfield, offers an escape from the humdrum routine with its eclectic decor and lively atmosphere. Step inside and be swept away by the vibrant colors, funky artwork, and festive music that instantly transport you to a salsa-infused paradise. As you sit down at the cozy tables, you can't help but smile at the vintage trinkets and amusing knick-knacks adorning the walls – this place sure loves to keep you entertained, even between bites. Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the food. Mama Roomba tantalizes your taste buds with delightful Caribbean cuisine that will make you sing praises and do a little happy dance in your seat. From succulent jerk chicken that packs a punch to delectable seafood dishes that transport you straight to the sandy shores, the menu is a treasure trove of flavors that will make any foodie swoon. So, sit back, relax, and get ready for a culinary adventure that will have you falling head over heels for Mama Roomba's lively charm and mouthwatering dishes.

www.mamaroomba.com

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2. 24th Street Cafe

4.6 (1810)

1415 24th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301, USA

Welcome to 24th Street Cafe in Bakersfield, the place where delicious food and quirky atmosphere come together like peanut butter and jelly, or like the quirky waitstaff and your coffee cup that never seems to run dry. This cozy cafe, nestled in the heart of Bakersfield, is like entering a time capsule, whisking you away to the 1950s with its retro decor and jukebox tunes that still have everyone twistin' and shoutin'. As you slip into one of their red vinyl booths, prepare to be transported to a bygone era where hearty comfort food is king. Indulge in their famous chicken fried steak, a dish so massive it'll make your appetite dance the mambo. And if you think you can handle the challenge, take on the "Hangover Special," a stack of pancakes towering so high, it practically scrapes the ceiling. Just remember, bringing your appetite and a sense of humor is mandatory - the portions here are as generous as their jokes! The 24th Street Cafe is not just about the food, it's about the experience. Chat with the locals who have been regulars since the dawn of time, or challenge the sassy waitress to a game of retro trivia. Don't be surprised if you find yourself immersed in fascinating conversations about which hairstyle Elvis would have rocked today or whether poodle skirts will ever make a grand comeback. So, if you're yearning for a quirky time-travel meal that's guaranteed to leave you smiling and nostalgically satisfied, make sure to swing by 24th Street Cafe; it's the bee's knees!

24thstreetcafe.com

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3. Muertos Kitchen and Lounge

4.2 (27)

10606 Hageman Rd Suite B1, Bakersfield, CA 93312, USA

Nestled in the heart of Bakersfield, Muertos Kitchen and Lounge is a vibrant oasis that serves up tantalizing Mexican cuisine with a side of lively atmosphere. Step into this hip joint and prepare to be whisked away on a culinary escapade, where taste buds dance to the rhythm of mouthwatering enchiladas and tacos as catchy Latin beats fill the air. Whether you're craving a zesty margarita or an explosion of flavor in the form of a sizzling fajita, Muertos is here to fulfill your cravings and keep you coming back for more fiesta-filled fun.

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4. Luigi's

4.7 (1059)

725 E 19th St, Bakersfield, CA 93305, USA

Welcome to Luigi's, the culinary gem of Bakersfield that will transport you to the aromatic streets of a bustling Italian gastronomic hub. Known for its quirky blend of old-world charm and hearty servings, this charming Italian tavern is where you'll find sumptuous pasta dishes fit for the appetites of even the most famished travelers. Brace yourself for a riotous time as you navigate through the maze of crimson-checkered tablecloths, where the boisterous servers, armed with a repertoire of groan-inducing dad jokes, will make you laugh till your belly aches – a true pasta-based comedy show!

www.shopluigis.com

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5. The Padre Hotel

4.4 (1726)

1702 18th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301, USA

Welcome to The Padre Hotel, where elegance meets quirkiness in the heart of Bakersfield! This charming establishment boasts a rich history, much like a wise old lady wearing neon sparkles. With uniquely themed rooms that make even the most stoic traveler crack a smile, this hotel's decor is a pleasing blend of classic Hollywood glam and an eccentric aunt's attic. Plus, if you happen to wander into their bar, be prepared to meet some characters who make the locals look like extras from a Quentin Tarantino movie; the entertainment value alone is worth the visit!

www.thepadrehotel.com

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6. Café Smitten

4.6 (974)

909 18th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301, USA

Welcome to Café Smitten, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee is so irresistible that even self-proclaimed tea enthusiasts have experienced an existential crisis. Nestled in the heart of Bakersfield, this charming oasis offers a cozy atmosphere that embraces your love for caffeine like a bear hug from a highly caffeinated bear. So grab a seat on the mismatched chairs, admire the inexplicably mesmerizing collection of vintage mugs, and prepare to embark on a flavor adventure that will have you smitten in no time.

www.cafesmitten.com

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7. Chef's Choice Noodle Bar

4.4 (807)

9000 Ming Ave Suite J-2, Bakersfield, CA 93311, USA

Nestled in the heart of Bakersfield, Chef's Choice Noodle Bar is like finding a hidden treasure for your taste buds. Imagine a cozy little spot where noodle nirvana is served in steaming bowls of happiness. From the moment you step inside, you'll be greeted with aromas that could make even the snootiest food critic do a little happy dance. So, buckle up for a culinary adventure that will leave you slurping, smiling, and possibly even considering a noodle-themed tattoo.

ccnoodlebar.com

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8. T.L. Maxwell's

4.3 (41)

1421 17th Pl, Bakersfield, CA 93301, USA

Welcome to T.L. Maxwell's in Bakersfield, where the flavors are as bold as the locals themselves. This place is a hidden gem, nestled in the heart of the city, serving up mouthwatering dishes that will make your taste buds dance with joy. From their legendary, finger-licking BBQ ribs to their sinful mac 'n' cheese, you'll find yourself transported to a food lover's paradise faster than you can say "seconds, please!" So, loosen your belt and prepare for a culinary adventure that'll leave you craving for more.

tlmaxwells.com

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9. Wool Growers

4.6 (1488)

620 E 19th St, Bakersfield, CA 93305, USA

Nestled in the heart of Bakersfield, Wool Growers warmly welcomes you with open arms and a flavorful promise. This rustic joint is not just another restaurant; it’s a bona fide ode to Basque cuisine, where mutton reigns supreme and stomachs are forever grateful. As you step through the doors, prepare to indulge in hearty plates while being treated to a joyous symphony of lively conversations and clinking glasses - all wrapped up in a seemingly endless supply of lamb, potatoes, and laughter.

woolgrowers.net

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10. La Costa Mariscos

4.4 (2651)

3401 Chester Ave STE B, Bakersfield, CA 93301, USA

Welcome to La Costa Mariscos in Bakersfield, where seafood meets fiesta! This lively coastal retreat tucked away in sunny Bakersfield is a delicious haven for seafood enthusiasts. As you step inside, be prepared to enter a world where fish jumps right out of the ocean and lands on your plate with a playful splash of flavor. Dive into their fresh seafood fare and prepare for an experience that will leave you exclaiming, "Holy guacamole, this place is shrimply amazing!"

www.lacostamariscosbakersfield.com

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11. Mexicali

4.2 (1068)

631 18th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301, USA

Welcome to Mexicali in Bakersfield, where the sun shines brighter than a glow stick at a rave! This vibrant little corner of Bakersfield will have you feeling as if you've stumbled into a Mexican fiesta. With mouth-watering tacos that can make a grown man weep with joy and a colorful atmosphere that will make your Instagram followers green with envy, Mexicali is a must-visit spot for anyone craving a taste of Mexico without leaving California's heartland.

www.mexicalirestaurants.com

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12. Noriega's

4.2 (54)

4809 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93309, USA

Welcome to Noriega's in Bakersfield, where the food is as big and bold as the cowboy boots you'll see lingering around! This Tex-Mex gem is a culinary oasis, celebrating the perfect marriage of Southern flavors and California cool. Get ready to have your taste buds ride into the sunset with their mouthwatering carnitas, velvety queso, and sizzling fajitas that make you want to shout "yee-haw!"

www.noriegasbasque.com

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13. Uricchio's Trattoria

4.5 (652)

1400 17th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301, USA

Welcome to Uricchio's Trattoria, Bakersfield's hidden gem for those seeking scrumptious Italian cuisine and a unique dining experience. Step into this cozy eatery and be prepared to woo your taste buds with delectable dishes that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy (minus the airfare). So, get ready for a feast fit for a foodie, where your stomach will leave singing opera arias of gastronomic delight.

www.uricchios.com

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14. Lengthwise Pub

4.6 (686)

2900 Calloway Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93312, USA

Welcome to Lengthwise Pub, where the only thing longer than the bar itself is the list of craft beers to choose from. Nestled in Bakersfield, this lively watering hole is the perfect spot to unwind with a pint after exploring the city's quirkiest attractions. With an atmosphere that effortlessly blends friendly banter and refreshing libations, prepare to stretch your taste buds and let the good times flow at Lengthwise Pub.

lengthwise.com

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15. Moo Creamery

4.5 (1943)

4885 Truxtun Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93309, USA

Welcome to Moo Creamery, where dairy dreams come true and you might just moo with excitement! This whimsical Bakersfield gem is more than just an ice cream parlor – it's a pasture of gastronomic delight. Prepare to be udderly impressed by their handcrafted ice creams, scrumptious gourmet burgers, and irresistible milkshakes; a visit here is sure to leave you moorever changed!

www.moocreamery.com

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bakersfield by plane is to fly into Meadows Field Airport (BFL) which is located about 7 miles north-west of the city. Major airlines like United, American or Delta provide daily flights to BFL from major cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver or Phoenix.

Car

Bakersfield is easily accessible via major highways like Interstate 5 or 99. If you're driving from San Francisco or Los Angeles, you can reach Bakersfield by taking Interstate 5 which passes through the western part of the city. Alternatively, you can take Highway 99 which connects Sacramento, Fresno, and Bakersfield.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Bakersfield. The nearest Amtrak stations are located in Fresno and Los Angeles.

Boat

Since Bakersfield is landlocked and there are no ports nearby, boat transportation isn't an option for this destination.

Bus

You can reach Bakersfield by bus by taking greyhound bus services which operate from different cities across California like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Fresno or Sacramento. The Greyhound station is located at 1820 18th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301.

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