Mexican Food in Bakersfield (2025)

A Bakersfield landmark since the 1950s, Mexicali helped shape California‑Mex cuisine with its atrium vibes, signature margaritas, and party‑ready platters. Featured by SFGATE for its enduring legacy and third‑generation stewardship.

Old Town Kern’s breakfast‑and‑lunch staple where the Ramirez family hand‑preps chile verde and crisp hard‑shell tacos. Spotlighted by SFGATE for seven decades of no‑frills tradition and deep neighborhood roots.

Downtown’s lively spot for Mexico City‑leaning sauces, seafood specials, and a popular patio. Recognized by Visit Bakersfield for earning best‑in‑state taco honors from national tastemakers; recent hours confirmed via Toast ordering.

Beloved for trompo‑carved al pastor, fish tacos, and a help‑yourself salsa bar, this long‑running taquería channels true street‑style flavor. Active hours and updates are consistently posted and echoed across local listings.

Family‑owned and Kern County–born, La Imperial hand‑presses tortillas and offers 11 meats—from tripa to barbacoa—plus aguas frescas. Verified open via the restaurant’s site and county listings; Bakersfield’s location stays busy.

Started as a family‑run truck, now a local sensation for quesabirria, consomé, and playful specials like birria ramen. Profiled by SFGATE for its $2 tacos and community momentum toward a permanent home.

A small Oaxacan kitchen turning out tlayudas, cecina, and hearty memelas—foods you rarely see elsewhere in town. Praised by local diners, with recent hours and crowd‑favorites visible on review platforms.

Locally owned cantina known for hefty molcajetes, fajitas, and weekend breakfast plates. Current hours and menus are maintained on the official site; regulars highlight its friendly staff and generous portions.

West‑side, family‑run spot for classics—think chile verde burritos, seafood enchiladas, and a solid molcajete. Recent hours and diner feedback confirm steady service and a loyal neighborhood following.

A quirky, independent counter next to the auto mall known for birria ramen, consomé‑dipped tacos, and hearty breakfast burritos. Recent reviews note quick service and punchy salsas—perfect between errands.