Bakersfield might be known for its oil fields and country music, but its cocktail scene offers far more than just whiskey neat at a honky-tonk. This Central Valley city hides sophisticated bars where mixologists craft artisanal drinks—from smoky mezcal concoctions in dimly lit lounges to vibrant citrus-forward sips on sun-drenched patios—proving you don’t need coastal glamour for a remarkable night out.
Mimosa Cafe
$ | (661) 695-8271 | WEBSITE
With its sun-drenched windows, rustic wooden tables, cheerful floral arrangements, and aproned servers delivering generous plates to the soundtrack of morning chatter, Mimosa Cafe feels like you’ve stumbled into the perfect neighborhood breakfast spot. Come alone on a weekday for a pre-work mimosa flight before strolling just minutes down the street to the Fox Theater, one of the best historic venues in Bakersfield.
If the biscuits aren’t quite cutting it, order a plate of chicken fried steak that’ll be brought to your table hot and fast from the bustling kitchen. Just don’t turn up with a big group on a Saturday or Sunday morning (you’ll wait forever), and don’t show up after 2 p.m., either. Mimosa Cafe is frustratingly and charmingly closed then, which proves just how dedicated they are to doing breakfast and lunch right.
Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks Restaurant
$ | (661) 324-9441 | WEBSITE
This cozy Chinese restaurant tucked away in Bakersfield is well worth seeking out for a relaxed meal with friends. Arguably one of the best spots in town for casual dining, Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks’ quiet atmosphere, beautiful artwork, and soothing classical music make it an ideal place to unwind over dinner. It’s open for lunch and dinner, and in the evening, this family-friendly restaurant maintains its comfortable vibe with areas of soft lighting that create intimate corners.
Regulars flock here for reliable meals, with tables often filled by groups chatting through their dinners. The BBQ Pork Ribs are the main draw here—even simply prepared, they’re perfectly seasoned, meaty, and tender—and you can easily enjoy more than you planned alongside flavorful fried rice. It gets busy during peak hours, but there’s plenty of seating in both the nicely lit and darker cozy sections, so you shouldn’t have to wait long to settle in.
El Puesto Cocina y Cantina
$$ | (661) 489-3202 | WEBSITE
El Puesto translates to the stand, which explains its open market-like ambiance: rustic wooden tables, woven leather chairs, colorful papel picado banners, and hand-painted ceramic tiles adorn the space. The bar itself feels authentic—like one you might find at a Mexican cantina—but serves an exceptional mango chamoy margarita that keeps the lively crowd satisfied throughout the evening.
The dining area is arranged with generous booths and communal tables that overlook the bustling kitchen, which is an ideal place to savor quesabirria tacos and carnitas on relaxed Bakersfield nights.
The Silver Fox Starlite Lounge
$ | (661) 447-4147 | WEBSITE
Since The Silver Fox Starlite Lounge opened its doors, it’s become a Bakersfield staple. Head straight to the bar to order a strong, expertly crafted cocktail from bartenders like Fausto or Tiny, or grab a spot near the stage to catch whoever’s performing karaoke that night.
Although it welcomes visitors throughout the evening, the lounge is best enjoyed with friends on a weekend night, when music-loving crowds spill out from the stylish packed interior and you might have to find space near the dance floor.
Mariscos Las Cazuelitas #3
$ | (661) 717-3052 | WEBSITE
There’s no better place to kick off the weekend a day early than Mariscos Las Cazuelitas #3. From Thursday through Sunday, this lively and welcoming restaurant on its Bakersfield corner is packed with groups of friends sharing plates of beautifully presented fried shrimp tacos or chicken salad while listening to live music.
Linger for a few hours, making your way through their delicious food and excellent service, with staff like David ensuring everything runs fast and efficient despite the vibrant atmosphere. Keep an eye on the kitchen team for their consistently tasty dishes and the perfect setting for celebrations or catching up.
Moo Creamery
$ | (661) 861-1130 | WEBSITE
Moo Creamery is a Bakersfield institution synonymous with the industrial edge of the city. It draws a casual crowd now, as it did when it first opened in this tucked-away spot. You’ll have to wait for a table and might even be turned away on a weekend afternoon, but this is Bakersfield—were you even here if you didn’t discover a hidden gem?
Once you’re through the unassuming entrance, grab a seat in the cozy main room, with its fun atmosphere, simple décor, and small counter where regulars squeeze in. Don’t bother debating the menu—order the Turtle Shake, since theirs is phenomenal. It’s a bit pricey, so make sure you budget enough for a meal and dessert (you can order ice cream any time, even after your burger).
Tiki-Ko
$ | (661) 493-0006 | WEBSITE
Tiki-Ko, one of Bakersfield’s top cocktail bars, opened in downtown Bakersfield with a vision to create an exotic escape. From its ship-themed layout, the owners crafted an immersive ambiance that still feels cool and distinctive today. The glowing tiki torches and nautical decor signal a night of exceptional drinks, great vibes, and an atmosphere that becomes packed with energy after dark.
We recommend the Ultimo hombre, with its fresh, spicy flavor, or any of the artful cocktails mixed by the skilled bartenders. Tiki-Ko is popular all year round, but has a real buzz on weekend nights, when locals fill the bar, drinks in hand, ready to enjoy the unique experience.
The 18hundred
$ | (661) 493-0442 | WEBSITE
This charming spot in downtown Bakersfield has been serving those looking for a great meal or drink at an unbeatable price since it opened. Between the clean, trendy decor, upbeat atmosphere, and historic department store setting from the early 1900s, The 18hundred is an experience that will linger in your memory longer than the next day’s tiki tiki tembo-fueled buzz. Stepping into the upscale yet affordable space feels like entering a pocket of vibrant downtown life.
You should know by now that when it comes to cocktail bars in this city, there’s a directly proportional relationship between enjoyment level and happy hour value, and The 18hundred boasts incredible deals. If it’s your lucky night, you’ll snag a seat on the dog-friendly outside patio and enjoy phenomenal drinks from their full-service bar.
Mexicali Restaurants
$ | (661) 327-3861 | WEBSITE
You’ll know you’ve arrived at this unassuming Bakersfield spot when you see the warm glow from the small, intimate section near the bar. While the old-school atmosphere isn’t everyone’s preference, if you, like us, crave a cozy change from typical bustling Mexican joints, head to Mexicali with an appetite for comfort. The food is reason enough to visit this welcoming establishment, with delicious enchilada sauce, classic carne asada with rice and beans, and satisfying cheese enchiladas.
You don’t come to Mexicali for a rushed meal, so settle into the wheelchair-accessible seating and enjoy the personalized experience, where you can savor authentic flavors accompanied by the cheerful waitstaff and friendly manager. As the reviews suggest, this is a favorite spot for good prices and tasty food.
Crest Bar And Grill
$ | (661) 833-9998 | WEBSITE
If you’re passing through Bakersfield, it’d be a shame not to swing by Crest Bar And Grill. The RV park hideaway—with its worn wooden booths, neon beer signs, checkered tablecloths, mounted flat-screens, and a jukebox in the corner—is one of the best spots to fuel up after a long drive or unwind with a cold one. It’s cash and card friendly, the vibe is strictly laid-back country, and the bottled Coors Lights are ice-cold.
(That said, the pastrami with jalapeños and avocados disappears almost too quickly.) Crest stays open late enough for campers and locals, so you can easily settle in and fill up before heading back to your site.