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Thai Cuisine
Jasmine & The New Taste
0.15 mi — 3 min walk
1823 Chester Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 432-7945
Thai · Yellow Curry · Tom Yum · Pad Thai · Lunch Specials · Moderate
A downtown staple for over seven years, Jasmine & The New Taste is beloved for its legendary yellow curry — rich, creamy, and deeply spiced — and a near-magical Chicken Tom Yum soup that devoted regulars swear cures colds. Lunch specials offer outstanding value, tofu appetizers are perfectly crisped, and the Thai iced tea is a must-order. The owner and staff are genuinely warm and hospitable. The first two hours of the nearby parking garage are free, making a leisurely visit easy and convenient.
Hours: Mon–Fri 11:00 AM–9:30 PM · Saturday 12:00 PM–9:30 PM · Sunday Closed
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Chinese
Rice Bowl
0.3 mi — 6 min walk
1119 18th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 323-2901
Chinese · Lemon Chicken · Garlic Pork · Beef & Broccoli · Moderate
With over 2,000 reviews and a steadfast local following spanning decades, Rice Bowl is a genuine downtown institution. Portions are extraordinarily generous — the lemon chicken arrives as three large, lightly breaded breasts that easily feed two. The garlic pork is savory and deeply satisfying, and the beef and broccoli is a timeless, perfectly executed classic. The waitstaff are efficient and genuinely pleasant, and the atmosphere carries an old-school Chinese-American charm that Bakersfield has treasured for generations.
Hours: Monday Closed · Tue–Thu 11:00 AM–9:00 PM · Fri–Sat 11:00 AM–9:30 PM · Sunday 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
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Chinese · Family Restaurant
Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks
0.3 mi — 6 min walk
1203 18th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 324-9441
Chinese · Paper Chicken · Peppered Beef · Fried Rice · Egg Rolls · Moderate
A Bakersfield family favorite since long before most people can remember, Bill Lee’s serves classic Chinese-American comfort food that hits every note. The Paper Chicken is a genuine standout — a longtime fan favorite — the peppered beef is salty, hot, and deeply satisfying, and the house spicy mustard delivers a sinus-clearing kick that is half the fun. Server Lorena is widely praised for her warmth and attentiveness. The timeless atmosphere feels like coming home.
Hours: Mon–Thu 11:00 AM–8:45 PM · Fri–Sat 11:00 AM–9:45 PM · Sunday 11:00 AM–8:45 PM
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Mexican · Lounge · Banquet
Mexicali Restaurants
0.5 mi — 10 min walk
631 18th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 327-3861
Mexican · Enchiladas Suizas · Margaritas · Banquet Hall · Moderate
A beloved Bakersfield institution, Mexicali serves authentic Mexican cuisine in a warmly decorated dining room that feels festive on any occasion. The Enchiladas Suizas are consistently outstanding — rich, cheesy, and sauced to perfection — and the margaritas on the rocks are fresh and perfectly balanced. Manager Santos runs the floor with genuine pride and care, and the welcoming staff ensure every guest feels valued. An excellent choice for group dinners and celebration meals.
Hours: Monday Closed · Tue–Thu 11:00 AM–8:00 PM · Fri–Sat 11:00 AM–9:00 PM · Sunday 11:00 AM–8:00 PM
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Pizza · Pub · Live Music
Jerry’s Pizza & Pub
0.15 mi — 3 min walk
1817 Chester Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 633-1000 · jerrysbakersfieldpizza.com
Pizza · Burgers · Craft Beer · Live Music · Events · Moderate
Jerry’s Pizza & Pub is one of downtown’s most energetic destinations — part neighborhood pizzeria, part live music venue, and entirely beloved. The pizza achieves a perfect balance of crisp and chewy, and Pappi’s Hangover Burger has developed a devoted cult following. The two-level venue hosts regular live acts, comedy nights, and painting events. Beer-and-a-slice specials offer great value any day of the week. A genuine downtown landmark that keeps the neighborhood lively and fun.
Hours: Mon 10:00 AM–10:00 PM · Tue 10:00 AM–11:00 PM · Wed 10:00 AM–12:00 AM · Thu 10:00 AM–11:00 PM · Fri–Sat 10:00 AM–1:00 AM · Sunday 10:00 AM–10:00 PM
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American Diner · Historic
The Woolworth’s Luncheonette
0.25 mi — 5 min walk
1400 19th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 520-1276
Diner · Burgers · Reubens · Soup · Shakes · Bar · Budget-Friendly
One of Bakersfield’s most talked-about recent restorations, The Woolworth’s Luncheonette brings the beloved historic building back to life as a wonderfully nostalgic diner experience. The renovation preserved the soul of the original lunch counter while adding a full bar. The Reuben is one of the city’s best — expertly stacked and generously filled — and the seasoned fries are a crowd-pleaser. A dedicated historic display lets guests connect with the building’s remarkable past. Conveniently connected to Reverb Coffee for a post-lunch espresso.
Hours: Mon–Thu 11:00 AM–3:00 PM · Fri–Sat 11:00 AM–8:00 PM · Sunday Closed
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Japanese · Ramen · Sushi
Hon Ramen
0.2 mi — 4 min walk
1419 19th St Suite A, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 558-4000
Ramen · Sushi Rolls · Japanese Fried Chicken · Soju · Moderate
With a near-perfect 4.8-star rating from nearly 800 reviews, Hon Ramen has rapidly become one of downtown’s most exciting dining destinations. The Spicy Tonkatsu Ramen features a deeply rich, perfectly seasoned broth with tender noodles and beautiful toppings. The Rattlesnake Roll is creative and delicious, and the Japanese fried chicken arrives hot, crispy, and irresistible. The vibrant atmosphere, attentive service, and soju cocktail selection make this ideal for date nights and team dinners alike.
Hours: Mon–Fri 11 AM–2 PM, 4:00–8:30 PM · Saturday 12:00 PM–8:00 PM · Sunday Closed
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Hawaiian · Poke Bowls
Killer Poke
0.35 mi — 7 min walk
1002 19th St A, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 404-5086
Poke Bowls · Ahi Tuna · Custom Bowls · Fresh Daily · Moderate
Killer Poke earns its remarkable 4.8-star rating the hard way — with consistently fresh, beautifully presented poke bowls that make every other option pale by comparison. The custom bowl experience lets you choose exactly what you want, with a sauce selection that is genuinely outstanding. The staff are gracious, energetic, and clearly take pride in every bowl. A perfect pre-show option for Mechanics Bank Arena events. Locals call it better than any chain — and they’re right.
Hours: Mon–Thu 11:00 AM–6:00 PM · Fri–Sat 11:00 AM–3:00 PM · Sunday Closed
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Breakfast · Lunch · American
Tina Marie’s
0.25 mi — 5 min walk
1534 19th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 631-1188
Chicken Fried Steak · Omelettes · Biscuits & Gravy · Budget-Friendly
A downtown Bakersfield breakfast and lunch treasure with a relaxed, genuinely welcoming atmosphere and portions that are almost comically generous. The legendary Giant Chicken Fried Steak — available for one or two — arrives with eggs, biscuits and gravy, and potatoes, easily feeding three people. Prices are remarkably fair for the quality and quantity served. The cheerful, festive décor makes every visit feel like a special occasion, and excellent service keeps regulars returning week after week.
Hours: Mon–Sun 7:00 AM–2:00 PM
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Brewery · Homemade Pasta · Craft Beer
Centro Cali Brewing
0.45 mi — 9 min walk
716 19th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 348-4060
Craft Beer · Homemade Pasta · Pizza · Cocktails · Moderate
The only restaurant in Bakersfield making fresh homemade pasta in-house, Centro Cali Brewing punches well above its weight in every category. The vodka rigatoni is sensational — silky, rich, and deeply satisfying. The craft beers are excellent and pair beautifully with the pizza menu. Bartender Alex M. delivers knowledgeable, enthusiastic service. The Carajillo — a Spanish espresso cocktail — has developed its own devoted following. A proud gem of the downtown dining scene.
Hours: Mon–Thu 11:00 AM–9:00 PM · Fri–Sat 11:00 AM–10:00 PM · Sunday 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
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Latin American · Upscale
Zama Latin American Cuisine
0.3 mi — 6 min walk
1623 19th St Suite 100, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 432-7835
Latin American · Steaks · Mole · Seafood · Cocktails · Upscale
Where downtown Bakersfield goes to celebrate. The atmosphere is immediately transportive — dim lighting, vibrant cocktails, and sophisticated Latin cuisine that impresses even well-traveled diners. The chicken flautas are extraordinary, the mole is complex and deeply satisfying, and the legendary Tomahawk Tuesday ($99 for a 2-lb cut) draws devoted crowds weekly. Bartender Manny knows every cocktail and every wine on the list. A connected club space makes Zama a one-stop evening destination.
Hours: Monday Closed · Tue–Wed 4:30–10:00 PM · Thursday 4:30–11:00 PM · Fri–Sat 4:30 PM–1:30 AM · Sunday 4:30–10:00 PM
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Brunch · Bistro · Bar
The 18hundred
0.2 mi — 4 min walk
1800 Chester Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 493-0442 · the18hundred.com
Brunch · Philly Cheesesteak · Milkshakes · Coffee Bar · Moderate
A downtown institution beloved for its creative brunch menu and family-friendly atmosphere. The Philly cheesesteak with crispy onion rings is phenomenal, and the milkshakes — topped with full-size brownies — are legendary. The Bee’s Knee Latte from the in-house coffee bar is a perfect midday pick-me-up. Charming dĂ©cor, a welcoming vibe, and one of the most distinctive menus in the area make this a perennial favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Hours: Mon–Thu 8:00 AM–9:00 PM · Fri–Sat 8:00 AM–10:00 PM · Sunday 8:00 AM–9:00 PM
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Italian · Fine Dining
Uricchio’s Trattoria
0.2 mi — 4 min walk
1400 17th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 326-8870
Italian · Pasta · Seafood · Wine · Romantic Dining · Moderate–Upscale
Bakersfield’s most treasured Italian dining experience, Uricchio’s has been bringing authentic Italian family-kitchen warmth to downtown for decades. The sausage rigatoni and sand dabs are perennial favorites. Quiet back dining rooms are perfect for business dinners or date nights. The remarkable Claire and her colleagues bring genuine hospitality to every reservation. An exceptional wine list and generous portions complete one of downtown’s finest dining experiences.
Hours: Mon Closed · Tue 5:00–8:00 PM · Wed–Thu 12–2 PM, 5–8 PM · Friday 12–2 PM, 5–9 PM · Saturday 5:00–9:00 PM · Sunday Closed
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Cocktail Bar · Modern Kitchen
The Botanist
0.4 mi — 8 min walk
930 18th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 374-4807
Plant-Forward · Craft Cocktails · Brunch · Outdoor Patio · Moderate
Artsy, fresh, and utterly delightful — The Botanist feels like a portal to a hipper neighborhood. The food is plant-forward without being preachy: halloumi salad, dukkah fries, and a vegan smash burger that even dedicated carnivores rave about. The Earl Grey Martini and Encanto cocktails are outstanding. One of downtown’s best outdoor patios. The kind of spot that makes you genuinely proud of your city.
Hours: Monday Closed · Tue–Thu 11:00 AM–11:00 PM · Fri–Sat 11:00 AM–12:00 AM · Sunday 11:00 AM–10:00 PM
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Latin Fusion · Date Night
LUNA Bistro & Cafe
0.45 mi — 9 min walk
1230 H St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 827-7895
Latin Fusion · Ceviche · Shrimp Tacos · Creative Drinks · Moderate
LUNA is a beautiful escape from the ordinary, with lush living plants, creative décor, and a menu borrowing the best flavors from across Latin America. The ceviche is a showstopper — bright, citrusy, and unlike anything else in town. The tempura shrimp tacos and gobernador tacos are equally impressive. The Triple Berry Hibiscus agua fresca and specialty cocktails complete a dining experience perfectly suited to date night or a celebratory team lunch.
Hours: Mon–Thu 9:00 AM–10:00 PM · Fri–Sat 9:00 AM–11:00 PM · Sunday 9:00 AM–10:00 PM
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Bar & Grill · Cantina
Rooster’s Cantina
0.3 mi — 6 min walk
1623 19th St Suite 300, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 322-7665
Mexican · Nachos · Ceviche · Burgers · Cocktails · Moderate
With a near-perfect 4.8-star rating and a staff that genuinely loves what they do, Rooster’s Cantina has quickly become one of downtown’s most exciting dining spots. The ceviche starter is bright and beautifully seasoned, the nachos are generous and satisfying, and the house margaritas are expertly crafted. Servers Brooklyn and Conrad bring infectious energy to every table. Sunday brunch and weekend late-night are especially popular.
Hours: Monday Closed · Tue–Wed 4:30–10:00 PM · Thursday 4:30 PM–12:00 AM · Fri–Sat 4:30 PM–2:00 AM · Sunday 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
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Bar · Gastropub · Tacos
Two Goats & The Goose
0.25 mi — 5 min walk
1514 Wall St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 324-2557
Duck Carnitas · Burgers · Craft Mules · Margaritas · Moderate
Tucked into a lively downtown alley, Two Goats & The Goose is one of Bakersfield’s most charming small-plate spots. The duck carnitas tacos and pineapple Serrano margaritas are outstanding, and the homeboy burger disappears from the plate far too quickly. The bartender/server is exceptionally knowledgeable and friendly, and the intimate setting with large-screen TVs makes it ideal for both a casual lunch and a spirited game night.
Hours: Mon–Tue Closed · Wed–Sat 11:30 AM–8:00 PM · Sunday Closed
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