What's on the food scene?
During the many trips we took while writing and producing the Bakersfield tour, we developed a deep appreciation for the local food. Bakersfield is a city founded on oil, water, and country music. It’s a city of roughnecks, oilwells, of waves upon waves of immigrants and emergent spirit that’s always seems ready for beer, a taco, or a burger. Whether they came from Spain, Mexico, Italy, or just Oklahoma….they are here and cooking food from their ancestral home. Along the way they also wrote some damn good music….and the spirit here is always ready to rise up like a Buck Owens’ song from the Streets of Bakersfield.
From classic Basque cuisine to innovative modern dishes, Bakersfield’s dining scene offers something for everyone. Here’s a spotlight on some of the best spots you shouldn’t miss.
The BLVD
The Blvd in Bakersfield is where the Wayfarer Bakersfield tour begins, and it’s a fantastic spot for families to eat and play. The atmosphere is lively, and it offers a good mix of dining options and activities. The food is straightforward American fare, making it easy to find something for everyone. What sets The Blvd apart is the variety of entertainment available—bowling, arcade games, laser tag, and mini golf—keeping both kids and adults engaged. It’s a great place to start your Bakersfield experience, offering a relaxed setting where you can enjoy some fun together as a family. 3200 Buck Owens Blvd Ste 300, Bakersfield, CA 93308 (661) 873-4477 https://www.blvdbakersfield.com/menu-2-2/
Luigi’s: The Eternal Return
There is a place in Bakersfield where time stands still, where the past and the present collide in a strange and beautiful dance. This place is Luigi’s, an Italian restaurant that has borne witness to the changing tides of history since 1910. Stepping through its doors is like entering a time capsule, a portal to a world where the simple act of sharing a meal becomes an act of communion with the souls of our ancestors. Luigi’s is famous for its hearty portions and authentic Italian flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic pasta dish, a perfectly cooked steak, or one of their famous sandwiches, you won’t leave disappointed. Don’t forget to try their homemade sausage and ravioli, both of which have earned a loyal following over the years. Luigi’s vibrant atmosphere, complete with checkered tablecloths and family-style service, makes it a must-visit for both locals and visitors alike. 725 E 19th St, Bakersfield, CA 93305 (661) 322-0926 https://www.shopluigis.com/
Wool Growers: The Basque Dream
And then there is Wool Growers, a Basque restaurant that stands as a monument to a people who have always lived on the edge of civilization. The Basques, with their fierce independence and their indomitable spirit, found a home in Bakersfield, far from their homeland but not far from their roots. Wool Growers is more than a restaurant; it is a refuge, a place where the traditions of a forgotten world are kept alive in the clatter of plates and the warmth of communal dining. The meals are served family-style, with generous portions of soup, beans, salad, French fries, and a main course that could include lamb, oxtail, or their famous fried chicken. The red wine served with meals is also a hallmark of the Basque dining experience. Wool Growers offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the family, whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth. 620 E 19th St, Bakersfield, CA 93305 (661) 327-9584 http://woolgrowers.net/
Nuestro Mexico: The Flavor of Memory
At Nuestro Mexico, the air is thick with the scent of chiles and cumin, of slow-cooked meats and freshly made tortillas. For those craving authentic Mexican cuisine, Nuestro Mexico is the place to be. This family-owned restaurant has gained a reputation for serving some of the best Mexican food in Bakersfield. Located in a modest building, Nuestro Mexico is all about letting the food speak for itself. The menu is filled with traditional Mexican dishes made with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The tacos, enchiladas, and chile rellenos are perennial favorites, but you’ll also find more unique offerings like their mole and seafood dishes. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner with friends and family. If you’re a fan of Mexican food, Nuestro Mexico is a must-visit. 716 21st St, Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 637-1343 https://www.nuestromexico.online/
Cafe Smitten: A Flicker of Modernity
With its sleek lines and its modern sensibility, Café Smitten is a beacon of light and innovation. Cafe Smitten is a relatively new addition to Bakersfield’s dining scene, but it has quickly become a favorite among locals. This trendy cafe offers a modern twist on comfort food, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The interior is stylish and cozy, with a laid-back vibe that makes it perfect for a relaxed brunch or coffee date.
The menu at Cafe Smitten is a delightful mix of classic dishes with a contemporary flair. Whether you’re in the mood for avocado toast, a hearty breakfast sandwich, or a fresh salad, you’ll find something to love. The coffee is top-notch, and their selection of pastries and baked goods is hard to resist. Cafe Smitten is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed setting. 909 18th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 843-7305 cafesmitten.com
Jerry’s Pizza and Pub: The Pulse of the City
The pizza maybe good but it’s the Korn that made Jerry’s Pizza and Pub really famous. That’s Korn, the metal band thank you very much. has been serving up delicious pizza and good times since 1992. This laid-back spot is a favorite among locals, known not just for its pizza but also for its lively atmosphere. The pub regularly hosts live music, making it a great place to enjoy a night out with friends. The menu at Jerry’s is all about comfort food, with a variety of pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches to choose from. The pizza, with its perfectly crispy crust and generous toppings, is the star of the show. Whether you’re there for the food, the music, or the friendly vibe, Jerry’s Pizza and Pub is a Bakersfield classic. 1817 Chester Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 633-1000 https://jerryspizza.com/
Happy Jack’s Pie ‘n Burger: The Diner as Myth
Happy Jack’s is more than just a diner; it is a place where the American Dream is kept alive, where the hopes and dreams of a nation are served up on a plate alongside bacon and eggs. It is a place where the past is not just remembered, but revered, where each booth tells a story, each dish a chapter in the great American narrative. The interior is charmingly retro, with booths and counter seating that harken back to a bygone era. The service is friendly and efficient, making it a great place for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. Happy Jack’s is the kind of place where you can relax and enjoy some good old-fashioned American cooking. 1800 20th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 323-1661
Dewar’s Candy Shop: A Sweet Remembrance
In the heart of Bakersfield, there is a place where time has no meaning, where the past and the present are one and the same. Dewar’s Candy Shop, with its century-old recipes and its hand-pulled taffy, is a portal to another time, another world. It is a place where the sweetness of life is distilled into its purest form, where each bite is a journey into the heart of memory. This beloved candy store has been a local favorite since 1909, known for its delicious taffy and ice cream. Dewar’s is more than just a candy shop; it’s a piece of Bakersfield’s history, with generations of families returning for a taste of nostalgia.
The taffy, made with a secret family recipe, is the star of the show, but you’ll also find a variety of other candies and treats. The ice cream is homemade and comes in a variety of flavors that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Dewar’s is a must-visit for anyone with a love for sweets. 1120 Eye Street, Bakersfield, Ca. 93304 661-322-0933 https://www.dewarscandy.com/
Pork Chop & Bubba’s Barbecue: The Smoke of History
The barbecue here is a testament to the power of tradition, to the way that food can carry with it the weight of history, the echo of a thousand meals cooked over open flames.
The ribs, the brisket, the pulled pork—they are not just food, but symbols of endurance, of survival. They are a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can find comfort, we can find joy, we can find a way to carry on. The sides are just as good, with options like mac and cheese, baked beans, and cornbread that complement the barbecue perfectly. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal with family or friends. If you’re a fan of barbecue, Pork Chop & Bubba’s is a must-visit. 700 21st St, Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 520-4227
A Final Reflection
In Bakersfield, the restaurants are more than just places to eat; they are the soul of the city, the heartbeat of a community. They are places where the past and the present collide, where memory and flavor intertwine to create something timeless. To dine in Bakersfield is to embark on a journey, a journey that takes you deep into the heart of what it means to be a Californian….whether you made the journey from Mexico, Basque Country, or just Oklahoma.
My Favorite Things to Do With Kids in Hollywood
Lights… Camera and….Action! Welcome to our Hollywood tour, brought to you by Wayfarer — where the story meets the road. We poured our hearts and insider knowledge into this tour to bring you an exciting exploration of the city of dreams!
- 2 hours
- 26 miles
- Driving Tour
A lot of people come to Hollywood and only go to the Hollywood Highland area and get turned off by the crowds, commercialism, and chaos. But you sort of have to do it once just to appreciate it…and appreciate getting away. Once you’re ready for something else. Get in the car and head over to these great spots.
- Farmers Market and The Grove</a>:
Honestly, the Grove is like an authentic Main Street type type experience that is actually better than Disneyland complete with magical water fountain shows and a trolley that runs through the outdoor more. The oddest thing is that it actually feels authentic…in a Hollywood sort of way, complete with celebrity sightings and high ends stores. But the really authentic special thing is a walk through the Farmer’s Market. It’s got the old style smorgasbord of small establishments including: butcher shops, French foods and cooking supplies, plus interesting restaurants that serve world cuisine….from American diner food to Singaporean plates. Locals and celebrities shop here. Favorite places to eat: Monsieur Marcel Bistro followed by a crepe at the French Crepe Company(two French restaurants!!). Favorite thing to point out to visitors: Across Fairfax from the Farmer’s Market is the Writers Guide of America HQ…a place where I spent months working in the communications “war room” during the 2007 writer’s strike. - La Brea Tar Pits:
Only 5 minutes away from the Grove down and yet a world and era away from modern Hollywood. Aging actors and stars aren’t the only ones who feel trapped by Hollywood….millennia ago there were open pits of tar here in Hollywood where big cats and Woolly Mammoths got stuck. There’s tons of green space for the kids to run around and who doesn’t want to see some dinosaur bones.
- LACMA:
Right next to the Tar Pits and the Academy Museum is the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. There’s something for everyone here. Live jazz is coming back after COVID as well as art classes for kids. Oh – and there’s some fantastic art….plenty of Picassos, Cezannes, etc. - Academy Museum:
An architectural marvel, this brand new addition to museum row just opened in September 2021 after decades of anticipation. Not to be missed! - Universal Studios:
Okay, I confess, I haven’t been here since I was 8 years old. I’m told that it’s not a horrible way to spend an afternoon. Despite not actually going to the theme park since I was a kid, I have been up to Universal City Walk…just outside several times for lunch over the years. Plenty of the usual stuff that kids like…but a little too much overpriced junk and chain restaurants for me. - Griffith Park Observatory:
Ah yes, this is a gem. I would go early in the morning -right at opening so that you miss the crowds rush. It’s hard to overstate the views on a crisp sunny day after a storm. It’s got some great exhibits about space, stars, and gravity. These days it’s open Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Did you visit Hollywood? Tag @wayfarer_journey or #knowtheworld — I’d love to see it!
The Wayfarer blog is a great resource for things to do and places to visit. Check out our post on best date night locations.
Written by Ric Arthur. Besides being a TV writer, Ric is the CEO of Wayfarer Self-Driving Audio Tours, which he considers to be immersive documentaries.
by xotatech.com