Bakersfield isn’t just a Central Valley hub; it’s a destination for smoky, satisfying bar-and-grill fare. Whether you crave a classic burger with a local brew, a sizzling steak after a long day, or a lively patio for watching the game, these spots deliver the goods.
Speakeasy Bar and Grill
$$ | (661) 829-5377 | WEBSITE
The scene here is pure game-day revelry. Speakeasy Bar and Grill is a bright, bustling space with a pool table in one corner and a karaoke setup for weekends. It’s a full bar-and-grill spot, and you often see a crowd gathered for 49ers games or wedding celebrations. Come here to belt out some tunes, or stop by for a lively match. The main area will fit maybe fifty people comfortably. Be one of those fifty people.
Just Wing It – The Marketplace
$$ | (661) 847-9464 | WEBSITE
If you’re in Bakersfield and haven’t made your way to Just Wing It – The Marketplace yet, you’re seriously missing out. This spot is genuinely friendly and welcoming (without being overly sweet), laid-back but never dull, and comfortable enough for just about anyone. There’s a noteworthy beer selection, the bacon cheese fries are a pleasant surprise, and the whole place feels like a lively sports den with all those TVs.
The tables near the bar are great for catching a game, although the booths along the wall are technically the best place to settle in. Grab a few friends, and make it your regular Thursday spot for that hamburger special.
Highland Pizza & Pub
$ | (661) 679-7739 | WEBSITE
Part family-friendly pub, part neighborhood grill, part pizza joint, and part pool hall, Highland Pizza & Pub is easily one of the most welcoming spots to hang out in Oildale. It’s a cozy, long-standing space, so if your priority is to settle in for an evening of eating and relaxing and pool-playing, show up ready to enjoy. That said, if you stumble into Highland Pizza & Pub under any other circumstances, you won’t be disappointed.
There’s free pool every night, and you can count on the friendly staff like Trip and Lacey to make you feel right at home.
Crest Bar And Grill
$ | (661) 833-9998 | WEBSITE
This list isn’t ranked, but Crest Bar And Grill deserves a spot near the crest (and not just because of the name). It’s the most unique setting on the list and probably our favorite for bar food. Technically this is a hole-in-the-wall bar, but it’s more welcoming than your average spot. The same friendly and helpful staff have been going above and beyond for customers, and the decor consists of some campground charm, a good amount of RV park memorabilia, and a secure dining area behind gates.
Overall, it feels like someone turned their RV park into a bar and refused to complicate it with anything but tasty meals and excellent service.
El Patron Bar and Grill
$ | (661) 834-5834 | WEBSITE
El Patron Bar and Grill is just down the street from a few other spots, and you might wonder how another bar and grill fits in. Well, those places have their regulars, and El Patron has servers who remember yours. This longtime favorite has a patio out back where they serve up relaxed meals, flavorful dishes, and that familiar neighborhood vibe.
The food is reasonably priced, and it generally won’t break the bank—and if you’re not looking for a full meal, you can just grab a quick lunch at the counter.
Casa Grande Bar & Restaurant
$ | (661) 800-5765 | WEBSITE
Casa Grande serves some killer Honduran and Salvadoran dishes, and you can enjoy those generous portions in the fun neighborhood spot with karaoke nights and a dance floor on Fridays. Inside, it kind of feels like a place you’d find in a vibrant Central American neighborhood. By which we mean, there’s a lot of warm colors and lively energy. They make a solid desayuno salvadoreño and other Central American specialties, both of which are best enjoyed during those Friday nights with lots of dancing.
If you’re in the market for a flavorful meal at reasonable prices, they also do some great service.
J & M’s Bar & Grill
$ | (661) 589-3042 | WEBSITE
We find every possible excuse to go to this cozy spot on a lazy Sunday. Need a place for families with kids who need to run off some energy? Head to the patio at J & M’s Bar & Grill. A spot for a satisfying breakfast that keeps you full all day? Order the chili verde omelette at J & M’s Bar & Grill. And a place to feel welcomed by friendly, attentive service? Ask for Alexis, who keeps coffee cups full and tables clean. Just don’t bring your grumpy friends here.
You don’t want your new favorite brunch spot ruined by someone who might complain.
Ethel’s Old Corral Cafe
$ | (661) 873-7613 | WEBSITE
We once rolled into Ethel’s Old Corral Cafe around 8pm on a Friday, and the hostess looked at us like we’d just ridden in from the wrong side of the tracks. It might have had something to do with the fact that there were only about six other people in the whole place. Whatever the reason, we’re into this spot. Ethel’s has a charming western theme, with rustic wood paneling, wagon wheel decor, a jukebox playing country tunes, and a view of the Tall Indian landmark out the window.
The (mostly classic) burgers and sandwiches occasionally come with crinkle-cut fries piled high, and there’s a buffalo burger on the menu that someone will probably order every single time.
Sonder
$$ | (661) 247-0000 | WEBSITE
If you’re into warm atmospheres, half-off wine, and bourbon cocktails that taste like a celebration, Sonder is for you. This Bakersfield spot feels like the kind of place you’d choose for a special occasion—a birthday dinner, maybe, or Mother’s Day brunch. There’s a welcoming vibe that makes you want to linger, attentive staff who remember your name, and a Wine Wednesdays deal where a bottle is half off.
Despite all of the praise for the food and drinks, we feel a need to clarify that the music can be a bit loud at times. (Our server mentioned that some guests love the energy, while others might find it a touch overwhelming.)