25 Essential Bakersfield Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Bakersfield.
Sizzler
California
Longtime casual restaurant known for its steak, burgers & seafood, plus a salad bar.
Sizzler
California
Longtime casual restaurant known for its steak, burgers & seafood, plus a salad bar.
California Burger Express
California
an everyday essential favorite for readers tracking Bakersfield's most persuasive hamburger restaurant rooms, anchored by a Beam Score of 87.7.
Milt's Diner
Bakersfield, California
Storied, comfy neighborhood fixture offering homestyle American meals for breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Firestone Grill
Bakersfield, California
Meat-centric American grill serving steak sandwiches, burgers & ribs in a sports-bar setting.
Mauricio's Grill & Cantina
Bakersfield, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service.
Jakes Original Tex Mex Cafe
Bakersfield, California
Eclectic, cafeteria-style joint since 1986 with BBQ plates & Mexican staples, plus beers & desserts.
Rubio's Coastal Grill
Bakersfield, California
Beach-themed chain known for Baja-style fish tacos & Mexican-inspired seafood entrees.
Juicy Burger
Bakersfield, California
Quick-serve burger joint offers variety of options including 10 sauces, sweet potato fries & shakes.
Jun BBQ
Bakersfield, California
Service options: Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
La Costa Mariscos Fine Mexican Food
Bakersfield, California
Hacienda-style eatery serving Mexican mains, seafood & margaritas amid nautical-themed decor.
Salty's BBQ
Bakersfield, California
Tri-tip, pulled pork, ribs & chicken doled out in a converted railcar with indoor & outdoor seating.
Sancho’s Tacos
Bakersfield, California
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible seating.
Bakersfield Pizza Co. & Bar
Bakersfield, California
Unique signature pizzas & wings alongside craft cocktails & draft beer in industrial-inspired digs.
Pita House Restaurant & Catering
Bakersfield, California
Small, down-to-earth option with a mural serving gyros, kebabs & other familiar Mediterranean fare.
Miyoshi Japanese Restaurant
Bakersfield, California
Unassuming Japanese eatery with modern decor & classic fare including teppanyaki, sushi & udon.
Barrington's Jamaican Kitchen
Bakersfield, California
Identifies as Black-owned. Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Serves local specialty. Popular for.
Prime Time BBQ, Butcher Shop, and Catering
Bakersfield, California
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible restroom, Wheelchair accessible seating.
Coconut Joe's Beach Grill
Bakersfield, California
Upbeat counter-serve with a patio serving fish 'n' chips, burgers & more amid funky Hawaiian decor.
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Bakersfield, California
Family-friendly chain outpost pairs familiar pub fare with an extensive list of house brews.
Renegade Room
Bakersfield, California
Service options: Dine-in. Highlights: Great coffee. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance.
Black Bear Diner Bakersfield
Bakersfield, California
Easygoing chain serving familiar all-day comfort food & desserts in a woodsy setting.
Blue Elephant Thai Cuisine
Bakersfield, California
White-tablecloth destination offering spiced-to-order Thai dishes with beer, wine & desserts.
Mexicali Restaurants
Bakersfield, California
Mexican spot with a big menu covering all the basics & a comfy lounge serving beer, wine & tequila.
Denny's Restaurant
Bakersfield, California
Casual diner chain dishing up classic American comfort fare, including all-day breakfast favorites.