Bakersfield Life
The 2008 Best of Kern County Results
The 2008 Best of Kern County Results
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Anonymous user Fri Jul 18, 2008 13:09:09 PDT
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The results of The Bakersfield Californian’s Best of Kern County poll.
The tension builds every year as the month of May arrives. Will Mexicali continue to dominate the best margarita, salsa and Mexican restaurant categories? Who will win the best overall restaurant category this year? Can anyone knock off Kern Schools Federal Credit Union as top bank? Will Doubletree win again for best hotel or will Holiday Inn Select take its top spot back?
The answers to those questions (which are, by the way: yes; Tahoe Joe’s; no; and Holiday Inn Select) and more will be answered as you, the public, have voted and made your voice heard. The results of The Bakersfield Californian’s Best of Kern County poll are in and the number of votes for residents’ favorite businesses and individuals set records. The popularity of this poll is clear as more votes came in this year than any time in the 15-year history of the poll.
Speaking of the 15-year anniversary, special notoriety goes out to businesses such as Today Cleaners, Watson Touchstone Realty, Wool Growers and, of course, Mexicali. These four are a sort of the best of the best among Kern County businesses. They have all swept their respective categories all 15 years of this poll, and such dominance only shows their top-of-the-line service and products they offer our community.
Simply browse through what has developed into the most anticipated poll in Kern County every year.
So without further ado, Bakersfield Life magazine presents the 2008 Best of Kern County awards.
Antiques
Great American Antiques
Great American wins this award for the second consecutive year. It boasts what many customers consider to be the most diverse inventory of any antique store in the country.
625 19th St. (661) 322-1776
Favorites
Five & Dime Antique Mall
1400 19th St. (661) 323-8048
Golden Carousel
1407 19th St. (661) 326-8252
Auto Service
3-Way Chevrolet
A five-time winner this year, 3-Way continues to be Kern County’s favorite choice for a variety of automotive needs. This is the fourth straight year that 3-Way has taken this honor.
3800 California Ave.
4501 Wible Road (888) 231-4621
Favorites
Jim Burke Ford
2001 Oak St. (661) 328-3600
Motor City
3101 Pacheco Road (866) 492-0236
Bank
Kern Schools Federal Credit Union
Once again, Kern Schools is Kern County’s choice as its top bank. Winning for the 14th year in a row, Kern Schools also has more branches than any other bank in the county.
14 branches including 2424 Chester Ave. (661) 833-7900
Favorites
Wells Fargo
Eight branches including 1300 22nd St. (661) 861-9971
Washington Mutual
10 branches including 1515 17th St.
(661) 395-7795
Bike Shop
Snider’s Cyclery
When Kern County finds a favorite, it is loyal to that favorite. Snider’s has used quality inventory and service to win this award 10 consecutive years.
2700 New Stine Road (661) 833-2700
2700 Union Ave. (661) 324-4759
Favorites
Finish Line
600 Coffee Road Suite W (661) 833-6268
Action Sports
9500 Brimhall Road Suite 400
(661) 833-4000
Book Store
Barnes and Noble
The first of Bakersfield’s big book stores remains its favorite. Barnes and Noble, the perennial winner of this honor, has a great selection in a comfortable atmosphere.
4001 California Ave. (661) 631-2575
Favorites
Borders
4980 Stockdale Highway (661) 328-9800
Russo’s
Three locations including 1416 17th St. (661) 323-READ
Bridal / Formal Shop
David’s Bridal
When it comes to finding a bride’s attire, Kern County chooses David’s Bridal as its favorite for the sixth year in a row. David’s Bridal has more than 280 locations nationwide.
1210 Wible Road (661) 831-5400
Favorites
AJ’s Tuxedo Junction
2527 F St. (661) 325-2044
3699 Ming Ave. (661) 831-4114
Ladies and Gents Bridal Gallery
124 Oak St. (661) 325-7911
Camera Store
Henley’s Photo
Locally owned Henley’s Photo has been in business for more than 50 years, and that longevity has led to Henley’s earning Kern County’s vote as top camera store once again.
2000 H St. (661) 324-9484
Favorites
Southside Camera
3504 Ming Ave. (661) 835-0280
Best Buy
8300 Rosedale Highway (661) 587-0675
Carpet / Flooring
Carpet Outlet Plus
Is it the jingle? “Carpet Outlet Pluuus, every day is sale day.” Jingle or not, Carpet Outlet Plus is Kern County’s favorite carpet and flooring business for the third consecutive year.
4301 Rosedale Highway (661) 302-4283
Favorites
All American Carpet
2718 Chester Ave. (661) 325-3767
Jost Carpet One
320 Oak St. (661) 327-7701
Cellular Phone
AT&T
Kern County’s choice for cellular phone service is AT&T Wireless. AT&T was already Kern County’s choice before the iPhone, and Apple’s super-phone has solidified AT&T’s hold at the top.
Many locations in Kern County
(800) 331-0500
Favorites
Verizon
Many locations in Kern County (800) 922-0204
Sprint
Many locations in Kern County (888) 211-4727
Children’s Apparel
JM’s
JM’s is just another example of Kern County residents preferring to shop at local stores. This business knows babies and it shows after earning this honor 15 straight years.
930 Wible Road (661) 834-7277
Favorites
Babies R Us
9280 Rosedale Highway (661) 587-0423
Children’s Place
2701 Ming Ave. (661) 397-5377
Customer Service
3-Way Chevrolet
One of five Best of Kern County awards in 2008, customers love the service that 3-Way offers. The Bakersfield Chevrolet dealer has now won this award four years in a row.
3800 California Ave. and 4501 Wible Road (888) 231-4621
Favorites
Motor City
3101 Pacheco Road (866) 492-0236
AT&T
Many locations in Kern County (800) 331-0500
Department Store
Macy’s
Macy’s has been a local favorite for everything from clothing to wedding registries since coming to town. Macy’s is building a powerhouse, taking the honor for the fifth straight year.
2601 Ming Ave. (661) 832-5550
Favorites
Urner’s
4110 Wible Road (661) 396-8400
Best Buy
8300 Rosedale Highway (661) 587-0675
Dentist
Dr. Thomas Berry DDS
Unlike many other categories, the top dental honor has changed hands each of the past four years. Dr. Thomas Berry DDS has kept the most Kern County mouths happy this year.
500 Old River Road Suite 255
(661) 663-4451
Favorites
Dr. James Sullivan DDS
210 S. Montclair St. (661) 398-1539
Dr. Thomas Hall DDS
3612 Coffee Road #C (661) 587-6453
Doctor / Medical Group
Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser Permanente’s “Thrive” campaign continues to be well received after earning its seventh Best of Kern County honor for top Doctor / Medical Group in the past eight years.
Six Locations in Bakersfield (661) 328-9831
Favorites
Dr. Calvin J. Kubo
9500 Stockdale Highway Suite 203
(661) 664-0252
Dr. Vincent Maddela
2701 Chester Ave. (661) 716-1070
Dry Cleaner
Today Cleaners
Taking in dry cleaning by 11 a.m. and having it ready at 4 p.m. gives Today Cleaners the edge over the competition in Kern County. It has earned this honor 15 years in a row.
10 locations including 8200 Stockdale Highway (661) 634-1130
Favorites
Sparkle Cleaners
121 Monterey St. (661) 634-1130
New City Cleaners
Four locations including 1201 24th St. (888) 381-9414
Electronics Store
Best Buy
When Bakersfield’s Best Buy store opened in 2005, it immediately took over as Kern County’s favorite electronics store and has now won three years in a row.
8300 Rosedale Highway (661) 587-0675
Favorites
Urner’s
4110 Wible Road (661) 396-8400
Circuit City
4230 California Ave. (661) 327-9977
Fitness / Health Club
24 Hour Fitness
Being able to work out at night has become a demand of many local residents, and night-and-day accessibility earns 24 Hour Fitness this award for more than a decade straight.
Three locations including 4302 Gosford Road (661) 398-1111
Favorites
Body Xchange Fitness Spa
Seven Locations in Bakersfield (661) 837-2639
Total Woman
5329 Truxtun Ave. (661) 325-0208
9815 Hageman Rd. (661) 588-8931
Florist
Log Cabin
Log Cabin has consistently been Kern County’s choice for best florist. The unique building on 19th Street is easy to recognize and the fresh flowers inside are beautiful.
800 19th St. (661) 327-8646
Favorites
Garden District
8200 Stockdale Highway #H1 (661) 834-9200
Conroys
3310 Truxtun Ave. #100 (661) 325-8565
Funeral Home
Greenlawn
A family member passing is clearly a trying time, and Kern County has found once again that Greenlawn is best at assisting a family’s needs. Greenlawn has two Bakersfield locations.
2739 Panama Lane (661) 834-8820
3700 River Blvd. (661) 324-9701
Favorites
Mish
120 Minner Ave. (661) 399-9391
Basham Funeral Care (tie)
3312 Niles St. (661) 873-8200
Hillcrest Memorial Park Cemetery (tie)
9101 Kern Canyon Road (661) 366-5766
Furniture Store
Weatherby’s
National chains might come to town, but local Weatherby’s continued quality products and service have made it Kern County’s top choice for furniture for the sixth year in a row.
620 Chester Ave. (661) 327-2747
Favorites
Mor
2204 Wible Road (661) 833-4774
Ashley
8915 Rosedale Highway (661) 395-3400
Hair Salon
Paragon
For the third year in a row, Paragon has been picked as the top spot in Kern County for hair. In addition to stylish hair, Paragon handles nails, pedicures, massage and more.
4865 Truxtun Ave. (661) 323-1861
Favorites
Serenity
3900 Coffee Road (661) 587-9222
Cutting Edge
9000 Ming Ave. #E5 (661) 665-2882
Home Appliance Store
Urner’s
Here’s another case of a local beating out the national chains. One of Bakersfield’s oldest and most respected local businesses, Urner’s has won this award 13 straight years.
4110 Wible Road (661) 396-8400
Favorites
Sears
2701 Ming Ave. (661) 833-5300
Best Buy
8300 Rosedale Highway (661) 587-0675
Jewelry Store
Rogers Jewelers
This superstore has become Kern County’s answer for its jewelry needs. Earning its third straight top honor, Rogers’ huge showroom on Rosedale Highway has quality gems throughout.
9500 Rosedale Highway (661) 834-6920
Favorites
Wickersham Jewelers
6521 Truxtun Ave. (661) 324-6521
American Jewelry Company
3200 21st St. (661) 325-5023
Men’s Apparel
Men’s Wearhouse
After a two-year hiatus, Men’s Wearhouse has returned as the Best of Kern County for men’s apparel. For suits and accessories, Men’s Wearhouse guarantees it quality.
3006 Ming Ave. (661) 835-9378
Favorites
Snead’s Apparel For Men
5127 Ming Ave. (661) 832-4270
Macy’s
2601 Ming Ave. (661) 832-5550
Motorcycle / Off Road
Bakersfield Harley-Davidson
Quickly becoming the standard for quality in the local motorcycle scene, Bakersfield Harley-Davidson’s spectacular showroom is key to its winning for the fifth straight year.
35088 7th Standard Road (661) 325-3644
Favorites
Valley Cycle and Motor Sports
3917 Buck Owens Blvd. (661) 324-0768
Lusaak Motorsports
2305 Chester Ave. (661) 327-4340
Mortgage Company
GMAC
Still a newcomer as the Best of Kern County mortgage company, GMAC sits atop the rest for the second straight year for its quality in an otherwise tough housing market.
Numerous locations in Kern County
Favorites
Kern Schools
14 branches including 2424 Chester Ave. (661) 833-7900
Washington Mutual
10 branches including 1515 17th St.
(661) 395-7795
Music Store
Stockdale Music
Most anything regarding music can be found at Stockdale Music. Amazingly, Stockdale Music is a first-time winner in this category despite its wide selection and quality service.
4903 Stockdale Highway (661) 836-1236
Favorites
California Keyboards
100 Oak St. (661) 327-5397
World Records
1824 G St. (661) 831-3100
New Car Dealership
3-Way Chevrolet
With its beautiful new showroom at the Bakersfield Auto Mall, high-volume dealer 3-Way is now Kern County’s top new car dealer for the fourth straight year.
3800 California Ave.
4501 Wible Road (888) 231-4621
Favorites
Motor City
3101 Pacheco Road (866) 492-0236
Bill Wright Toyota
5100 Gasoline Alley Dr. (661) 398-8697
New Home Builder
Lennar Homes
With new home communities throughout Bakersfield, Lennar has turned into Kern County’s favorite new home builder. It is the second consecutive such award for Lennar.
8700 Stockdale Highway (866) 670-8381
Favorites
Castle and Cooke
10000 Stockdale Highway #350 (661) 664-6500
McMillin Homes
5351 Olive Dr. (661) 399-0239
Nursery
Las Palmas
Las Palmas is Kern County’s favorite nursery for the second straight year. The northwest Bakersfield nursery offers everything from trees and plants to landscaping and even koi ponds.
1100 Coffee Road (661) 588-1790
Favorites
White Forest
300 Morning Dr. (661) 366-6291
Robby’s
13129 Hageman Road (661) 588-0859
Office Supply Store
O’Leary’s
For the second straight year, O’Leary’s is Kern County’s choice for office supplies. O’Leary’s local service places it above the big national chain stores among consumers.
4550 Easton Dr. (661) 325-6677
Favorites
Stinson’s
1108 Baker St. (661) 323-7611
Office Depot
5600 Stockdale Highway (661) 324-5457
8800 Rosedale Highway (661) 588-7909
Optometrist
Dr. Stephen Ratty
For the fifth year in a row, Dr. Stephen Ratty and his team take the top honor for thier dedication to Kern County’s vision care.
2222 E St. (661) 327-2681
Favorites
Dr. John Hawley
8150 Hageman Road (661) 588-8222
Dr. Gregory Stainer
4649 Planz Road (661) 825-2199
Pediatrician
Dr. Hitesh Shah
A kind staff and short waits are key to busy parents, and that – along, of course, with quality care – are what have given Dr. Hitesh Shah the honor for best pediatrician in Kern County.
6001 Truxtun Ave. #180 (661) 322-8687
Favorites
Dr. Suresh Kumari
1524 27th St. #305 (661) 322-7337
Dr. Sue Poh
1524 27th St. #305 (661) 322-7337
Physical Therapist
Glinn & Giordano
Recovering from injury is never pleasant, but when it happens, Kern County chooses Glinn & Giordano to get back to health. It is the third straight year that it has won top honors.
Six locations including 1201 23rd St.
(661) 327-4357
Favorites
Terrio Therapy-Fitness
11 locations including 6001C Truxtun Ave. Suite 280 (661) 638-0643
Pair & Marotta
Five locations including 5337 Truxtun Ave. (661) 324-0122
Place to Buy a Pool / Spa
Cal Spas
Cal Spas takes this award for the fourth straight year not only for its exceptional spa selection but also for the ability to make every backyard a more enjoyable place.
2700 Auto Mall Dr. (661) 396-0811
Favorites
W.W. Harper Pools
2400 K St. (661) 327-0245
Rock Bottom Inc.
2724 Landco Dr. (661) 859-1702
Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Darshan Shah
With offices in Bakersfield and Beverly Hills, Dr. Darshan Shah has proven himself to be at the top of his game making national television appearances on “Today” and “Dr. Phil.”
4850 Commerce Dr. (661) 327-3800
Favorites
Dr. Gordon Mitts
2525 H St. (661) 324-7208
Dr. Vipul Dev
9300 Stockdale Highway #300 (661) 665-0505
Real Estate Agent
Jon Busby
It really comes as no surprise to see Jon Busby at the top of this category. Team Busby’s front man has been named Kern County’s top real estate agent 10 of the past 11 years.
10000 Stockdale Highway #250 (661) 410-7355
Favorites
Diana Williams
9101 Camino Media (661) 632-6190
Andrea Cruz
5701 Truxtun Ave. Suite 100 (661) 327-5161
Real Estate Company
Watson | Touchstone Realty
It’s a clean sweep! Or actually, it continues to be a clean sweep for Watson | Touchstone Realty. The real estate company has won top honors in this category all 15 years of this reader’s poll.
Various locations around Kern County
Favorites
Bakersfield Premier Realty
10000 Stockdale Highway Suite 250
(661) 847-8000
Coldwell Banker
Various locations around Kern County
Shoe Store
Guarantee Shoe Center
When it comes to shoes, Kern County has a clear favorite. Still in its long-time downtown location, Guarantee Shoe Center has won this award 13 straight years.
2101 Chester Ave. (661) 325-8751
Favorites
Famous Footwear
8920 Rosedale Highway (661) 589-7650
Shoe Pavillion
4310 California Ave. (661) 336-0332
Sporting Goods Store
Big 5
For quality sporting goods at quality prices, Kern County trusts Big 5 for golf and hunting and everything between. This is Big 5’s third straight year to win this award.
3214 Ming Ave. (661) 832-4161
3203 Mall View Road (661) 872-5272
Favorites
Sports Authority
4821 Ming Ave. (661) 397-7373
Sport Chalet
5200 Stockdale Highway (661) 335-7780
Tile Store
Bill Ray Ceramic Tile Center
After a three-year absence from the top of this list, Bill Ray Ceramic Tile Center returns in 2008 as Kern County’s favorite tile store. Bill Ray last won this award in 2004.
6301 E. Brundage Lane (661) 366-3255
Favorites
Stockdale Tile
6301 District Blvd. (661) 398-6000
Carpet Outlet Plus
4301 Rosedale Highway (661) 302-4283
Tire / Accessories
3-Way Chevrolet
Seemingly always at the top of other car categories, 3-Way has now reached the pinnacle of the Tire/Accessories department. This is 3-Way’s second straight honor in this category.
3800 California Ave.
4501 Wible Road (888) 231-4621
Favorites
Motor City
3101 Pacheco Road (866) 492-0236
Big O Tires
Five Locations including 2502 Ming Ave. (661) 831-3349
Travel Agency
Cloud 9 Travel
This newcomer to the top spot of the travel agency category certainly isn’t a newcomer to Bakersfield. Cloud 9 Travel’s top-notch service has been in Bakersfield for 20 years.
8200 Stockdale Highway #H3
(661) 836-8181
Favorites
Kern Travel East Hills
3501 Mall View Road #104 (661) 872-3940
Uniglobe Golden Empire Travel
1820 Chester Ave. (661) 323-1213
Veterinarian
Four Paws Pet Hospital
Four Paws combines superior care with quality service and it shows, earning best vet for the second straight year. It is the first repeat winner in this category since 2004.
4201 Mexicali Dr. (661) 397-3767
Favorites
Mount Vernon Veterinary Hospital
2120 E. California Ave. (661) 327-7536
Coffee Road Animal Hospital
3534 Coffee Road (661) 587-1976
Western Store
Emporium Western Store
As Emporium Western Store nears its 100-year anniversary, this place “Where Real Cowboys Shop” will celebrate its 11th straight victory as best western store in Kern County.
1031 19th St. (661) 325-8476
Favorites
Boot Barn
3913 Buck Owens Blvd. (661) 327-6770
Western Warehouse
2701 Ming Ave. #53 (661) 837-9744
Women’s Apparel
Macy’s
With plenty of smaller, high-end boutiques around, Kern County residents have chosen the large selection of Macy’s as their top pick. It is Macy’s first win in this category.
2601 Ming Ave. (661) 832-5550
Favorites
Gap
2701 Ming Ave. #B1 (661) 396-8451
Kohls
5385 Gosford Rd. (661) 664-7410
9400 Rosedale Highway (661) 588-4535
Breakfast
IHOP
For the first time in the history of this reader’s poll, IHOP takes over as Kern County’s favorite place for breakfast; maybe because it is just so rooty tooty fresh ‘n fruity.
Five locations including 9220 Rosedale Highway (661) 587-7090
Favorites
Donna Kaye’s Cafe
212 Oak St. (661) 322-1875
24th Street Cafe
1415 24th St. (661) 323-8801
Bakery
Smith’s
Who can resist one of Smith’s happy-face cookies? Apparently no one locally, because for the 15th straight year, Smith’s has been named Kern County’s best bakery.
Seven Locations in Bakersfield (661) 325-3411
Favorites
Rasmussen’s Danish Bakery
5470 California Ave. (661) 323-9449
Pyrenees French Bakery
717 E. 21st St. (661) 322-7159
Barbecue
Champs BBQ
Champs made its debut at the top of the list last year and repeats in 2008. Champs’ unique flavor comes from its secret recipe of apple and citrus woods in its smoker.
35315 7th Standard Road #130 (661) 391-9455
Favorites
Fabious’ Corner
13061 Rosedale Highway #I (661) 587-7302
Mr. Tibb’s Ribs
3508 New Stine Road (661) 397-4030
Basque
Wool Growers
Wool Growers is one of just a handful of businesses to sweep all 15 years of this reader’s poll. The unique environment, tasty entrees and pickled tongue keep people coming back.
620 E. 19th St. (661) 327-9584
Favorites
Maitia’s Basque Café
4420 Coffee Road #A (661) 587-9055
Benji’s
4001 Stockdale Highway (661) 328-0400
Business Lunch
Luigi’s
Luigi’s is clearly the place to go in Kern County at noon after taking both best lunch and business lunch categories this year. For finalizing a deal over great food, there’s no place better.
725 E. 19th St. (661) 322-0926
Favorites
Coconut Joe’s
4158 California Ave. (661) 496-7945
Jake’s Original Tex-Mex Cafe
1710 Oak St. (661) 322-6380
Burger
John’s Burgers
Kern County loves John’s Burgers, which has earned top honors in this category for nine straight years. The delicious burgers and unique menu keep this a local treasure.
Three locations including 1000 Oak St. (661) 324-8131
Favorites
In-N-Out Burger
5100 Stockdale Highway (800) 786-1000 2310 Panama Lane (800) 786-1000
Happy Jack’s Hamburger and Pie
1800 20th St. (661) 323-1661
Catering
Curtis’ Catering Affairs
Curtis’ Catering Affairs has been around for decades and it has been a staple in local catering for just as long. As always, it reminds us that “every event is an affair to remember.”
916 18th St. (661) 326-4800
Favorites
Champs BBQ & Catering
35135 7th Standard Road #130
(661) 391-9455
Coconut Joe’s
4158 California Ave. (661) 496-7945
Chinese
PF Chang’s
For the first time in this poll, Bill Lee’s is not at the top in this category. The unique blend of classic Chinese and modern preparations make PF Chang’s a fresh addition to local cuisine.
10700 Stockdale Highway (661) 663-8689
Favorites
Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks
1203 18th St. (661) 324-9441
Rice Bowl
1119 18th St. (661) 323-2901
Coffee
Starbucks
Kern County isn’t different from the rest of the country when it comes to the popularity of Starbucks. The Seattle-based chain has claimed this award 10 of the past 11 years.
27 locations including 9000 Ming Ave. (661) 665-8065
Favorites
Supreme Bean
10 locations including 4108 California Ave. (661) 326-1634
Java Detour
3623 California Ave. (661) 322-5388
Deli
Caesar’s Italian Delicatessen
Since 1970, Kern County residents have enjoyed Caesar’s Specials and other specialties from the local deli. This is the fourth straight year that Caesar’s has won this award. 2828 Niles St. (661) 873-0270 9500 Brimhall Rd. Suite 304
(661) 588-7004
Favorites
Sequoia Sandwich Company
Three locations including 1231 18th St. (661) 323-2500
Subway
47 locations including 2681 Calloway Dr. (661) 588-8030
Delivery
Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks
Bill Lee’s returns as the top delivery for the second straight year. Hot Chinese food delivered to home is great, but the fact that it is some of the best local Chinese food is even better.
1203 18th St. (661) 324-9441
Favorites
Rusty’s Pizza Parlor
Seven locations including 6675 Ming Ave. (661) 835-5555
Pizza Hut
10 locations including 4708 Planz Road (661) 836-2800
Desserts
Dewar’s
There are few in Bakersfield who haven’t been to local legend Dewar’s, and even fewer walk away disappointed. Let’s face it, who can say no to a George’s Special?
1120 Eye St. (661) 322-0933
9530 Hageman Rd. #K (661) 587-2056
Favorites
Rosemary’s
2733 F St. (661) 395-0555
Cold Stone Creamery
9000 Ming Ave. #H2 (661) 664-4950
9160 Rosedale Highway (661) 588-5707
2625 Mount Vernon Ave. (661) 871-6402
Happy Hour
Chuy’s
Happy hour? At Chuy’s, it should be called festive hour. This happy hour runs weekdays from 2 to 7 p.m. and coupled with good weather and fish tacos, it just can’t be beat.
8660 Rosedale Highway (661) 587-5750
2500 New Stine Road #102 (661) 833-3469
Favorites
Amigo’s Mexican Grill and Cantina
8020 District Blvd. (661) 398-1300
Mauricio’s Grill & Cantina
10700 Rosedale Highway (661) 589-5292
6401 White Lane #106 (661) 837-9570
Health Food Store
Cone’s
Kern County loves its local businesses and Cone’s is no exception. For nearly a decade, Cone’s has been named top health food store for its wide selection and knowledgeable staff.
1002 Wible Road (661) 832-5669
Favorites
Lassen’s
5408 California Ave. (661) 324-1264
Trader Joe’s
8200 Stockdale Highway #C21 (661) 837-8863
Italian
Rosa’s
Rosa’s has been an eastside favorite since it opened its doors 35 years ago, and now it is Kern County’s pick for best Italian restaurant for the first time. It’s certainly worth the drive.
2400 Columbus St. (661) 872-1606
Favorites
Olive Garden
1701 New Stine Road (661) 832-1278
Urrichio’s Trattoria
1400 17th St. (661) 326-8870
Lunch
Luigi’s
When it comes to lunch, there is no place like Luigi’s. The pictures on the walls read like a history of Bakersfield and great food and the always-packed bar are second-to-none.
725 E. 19th St. (661) 322-0926
Favorites
Sequoia Sandwich Company
1231 18th St. (661) 323-2500
9160 Rosedale Highway (661) 587-1600
9500 Ming Ave. (661) 665-9990
Coconut Joe’s
4158 California Ave. (661) 496-7945
Mexican
Mexicali
Mexicali’s being named best Mexican restaurant for 15 straight years is impressive enough, but even more so when considering the abundance of Mexican eateries in Kern County.
631 18th St. (661) 327-3861
5601 California Ave. (661) 327-5201
Favorites
Mauricio’s Grill & Cantina
10700 Rosedale Highway (661) 589-5292 6401 White Lane #106 (661) 837-9570
Don Perico
Three locations including 2660 Oswell St. (866) 386-7566
Microbrew Selection
Lengthwise
Make it six years in a row for Lengthwise in this category. The clear choice for microbrews in Kern County, Lengthwise offers selections such as its Triple Hop Red Ale.
6720 Schirra Ct. (661) 836-2537
Favorites
BJ’s Brewhouse
10750 Stockdale Highway (661) 241-5115
Chuy’s
8660 Rosedale Highway (661) 587-5750
2500 New Stine Road #102 (661) 833-3469
New Restaurant
PF Chang’s
Don’t be surprised that PF Chang’s has been named Best New Restaurant in Kern County for the second straight year. The previous winner took the honor five years in a row.
10700 Stockdale Highway (661) 663-8689
Favorites
BJ’s Brewhouse
10750 Stockdale Highway (661) 241-5115
Elephant Bar
10100 Stockdale Highway (661) 663-3020
Overall Restaurant
Tahoe Joe’s
This southwest Bakersfield restaurant is typically packed because of its mouth-watering steaks and enjoyable patio. Tahoe Joe’s returns to the top spot here for the first time in three years.
9000 Ming Ave. #P (661) 664-7750
Favorites
Elephant Bar
10100 Stockdale Highway (661) 663-3020
BJ’s Brewhouse
10750 Stockdale Highway (661) 241-5115
Pizza
Rusty’s Pizza Parlor
For the second year in a row, Rusty’s has been named Kern County’s favorite pizza. All fresh ingredients combined with hot and fresh delivery make for the best pies in the county.
Seven locations including 6675 Ming Ave. (661) 835-5555
Favorites
Pizza Hut
10 locations including 4708 Planz Road (661) 836-2800
Plumberry’s
13001 Stockdale Highway #E (661) 589-8889
Restaurant for Kids
John’s Incredible Pizza
This category has been no contest since its inception in 2000 with John’s winning each year. All you can eat pizza and video games all under one roof make John’s heaven for kids.
3709 Rosedale Highway (661) 859-1111
Favorites
Hodel’s
5917 Knudsen Dr. (661) 399-3341
Chuck E. Cheese’s
3760 Ming Ave. (661) 397-7855
Romantic Restaurant
Sorella
Dim lights, tasty Italian food and live vocals have made Sorella this year’s pick for top romantic restaurant in Kern County. Its hidden location might even make it more romantic.
7800 McNair Lane (661) 396-8603
Favorites
Hungry Hunter
3580 Rosedale Highway (661) 328-0580
Cafe Med
4809 Stockdale Highway (661) 834-4433
Salsa
Mexicali
They did it again! It’s almost getting to the point where the votes in this category don’t even need to be counted with Mexicali taking top honors year after year.
631 18th St. (661) 327-3861
5601 California Ave. (661) 327-5201
Favorites
Mauricio’s Grill & Cantina
10700 Rosedale Highway (661) 589-5292 6401 White Lane #106 (661) 837-9570
Que Pasa
Five locations including 2701 Ming Ave. (661) 832-5011
Seafood
Red Lobster
This massive seafood chain has taken top honors once again, making it five out of five since opening. Delicious seafood and a perfect location makes Red Lobster irresistible.
8180 Rosedale Highway (661) 589-9956
Favorites
La Costa Mariscos
716 21st St. (661) 322-2655
Sea Breeze
2500 New Stine Road (661) 832-5261
2311 R St. (661) 323-7936
Senior Special
Carrows
Seniors know that when it comes to senior specials in Kern County, there is simply no beating Carrows. Any one of Carrows’ three locations can help any senior to a great meal.
Three locations including 1300 Easton Dr. (661) 322-4644
Favorites
Denny’s
12 locations including 2627 Buck Owens Blvd. (661) 395-3014
IHOP
Five locations including 9220 Rosedale Highway (661) 587-7090
Steak
Outback Steakhouse
The best steak in Kern County comes from Outback. The thick, juicy steaks have obviously been popular in the area, earning this honor now for the third time in four years.
5051 Stockdale Highway (661) 834-7850
Favorites
Tahoe Joe’s
9000 Ming Ave. (661) 664-8723
Hungry Hunter
3580 Rosedale Highway (661) 328-0580
Sushi / Japanese
Akira
After a one-year hiatus, this category returns and Akira comes directly back to the top. This previous nine-year winner offers fresh sushi and thrilling teppanyaki dining.
4154 California Ave. (661) 326-1860
Favorites
Shogun
5498 California Ave. (661) 325-0007
Tokyo Garden
4149 Ming Ave. (661) 835-7874
Wine Selection
Trader Joe’s
While a restaurant might be the obvious choice, grocery store Trader Joe’s takes the honor this year. The huge selection of wine has something for every palate and budget.
8200 Stockdale Highway #C21 (661) 837-8863
Favorites
Café Med
4809 Stockdale Highway (661) 834-4433
Tahoe Joe’s
9000 Ming Ave. (661) 664-8723
Community Theater
Stars Theatre
Stars offers dinner theater and the combination of live theater and gourmet dining has made it Kern County’s favorite. It marks Stars’ eighth straight win in this category.
1931 Chester Ave. (661) 325-6100
Favorites
Gaslight Melodrama Theater
12748 Jomani Dr. (661) 587-3377
Spotlight Theatre
1622 19th St. (661) 634-0692
Family Attraction
Kern County Fair
The best place to take a family is the Kern County Fair according to our readers. Winning for the second straight year, the fair offers entertainment, animals and art for the whole family.
1142 S. P St. (661) 833-4900
Favorites
Condors Hockey
1001 Truxtun Ave. (661) 324-PUCK
CALM
10500 Alfred Harrell Highway (661) 872-2256
Free Entertainment
Marketplace Concerts
There’s nothing close in Kern County when it comes to free entertainment. Live music on a warm summer night in a beautiful setting combine for a great evening at an even better price.
9000 Ming Ave.
Favorites
Park at River Walk
11200 Stockdale Highway
Local Parks
(Bakersfield Parks and Recreation) 1600 Truxtun Ave.
Annual Event
Kern County Fair
This category has only been in existence for four years, but the Kern County Fair has run away with it each time. The county’s September classic is just around the corner this year.
1142 S. P St. (661) 833-4900
Favorites
Brews in the Village
(at Kern County Museum) 3801 Chester Ave. (661) 323-BREW
Relay for Life
(at Cal State Bakersfield) 9001 Stockdale Highway (661) 327-2424
Radio Personality
Scott Cox
Scott Cox is never one to hold back on his opinions, and he wouldn’t disagree with this poll. The local talk-show host is outspoken and has built his popularity from it.
On KERN Newstalk 1410
Favorites
Dirty Sanchez
On HOT 94.1
Christina Martinez
On Groove 99.3
TV News Anchor
Jim Scott
Now a five-year winner of this award, Jim Scott has built his reputation as a trusted local newsman over the years which has resulted in being named Kern County’s favorite once again.
On KGET 17
Favorites
Kurt Rivera
On KBAK 29 and FOX 58
Kiyoshi Tomono
On KGET 17
Place to Dance
Club Odyssey
The hot spot in Kern County for dancing is Club Odyssey. Despite being a first-time winner in this category, Club Odyssey has been a popular dancing destination for years.
At Doubletree Hotel, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court (661) 323-7111
Favorites
Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
2800 Buck Owens Blvd. (661) 328-7560
Replay Sports Lounge and Grill
4500 Buck Owens Blvd. (661) 324-3300
Place to Listen to Live Music
Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
There shouldn’t be any surprise that the Crystal Palace won this award again. Any place that has been named best country music nightclub in the U.S. should clearly earn this award.
2800 Buck Owens Blvd. (661) 328-7560
Favorites
Rabobank Arena
1001 Truxtun Ave. (661) 852-7777
Fishlips
1517 18th St. (661) 324-2557
Weekend Getaway
Pismo
Sometimes referred to as Bakersfield West, Pismo has now won this honor for eight consecutive years. The cool ocean breezes make Pismo irresistible for local residents.
Favorites
Santa Barbara
Morro Bay
Day Care Facility
Little Red School House
The winner for 11 years running, Little Red School House is a quality academic-based facility. The structured environment motivates children with positive reinforcement and love.
4601 California Ave. (661) 324-5774
4601 Fruitvale Ave. (661) 588-2227
Favorites
Childtime Learning Center
9903 Camino Media (661) 244-5384
Child Life Learning Center
2515 Church Ave. (661) 871-0868
Hospital
Bakersfield Heart Hospital
In just 10 years, the Heart Hospital has gone from brand new to Kern County’s favorite. The state of the art facility provides technologically advanced care for its patients.
3001 Sillect Ave. (661) 316-6000
Favorites
Mercy Southwest
400 Old River Road (661) 663-6000
Bakersfield Memorial
420 34th St. (661) 327-4647
Local Web Site
Bakersfield.com
Make it nine in a row for Bakersfield.com. Averaging about one million hits a week, the Web site gives its readers everything it wants to know about the county’s biggest city.
Favorites
3-Way Chevrolet
www.3waychevrolet.com
Motor City West
www.motorcitywest.com
Park
The Park at Riverwalk
Kern County’s favorite park has been moved west. The Park at Riverwalk’s general youth combined with its location, a pond and more have made it the new favorite for local parks.
11200 Stockdale Highway
Favorites
Yokuts
Empire and Bahamas drives
Hart
Alfred Harrell Highway
Place to Have a Birthday
John’s Incredible Pizza
It makes sense that the best place to take kids would also be the best place to have a birthday, and that’s the case here. John’s Incredible Pizza takes both honors again this year.
3709 Rosedale Highway (661) 859-1111
Favorites
Chuck E. Cheese’s
3760 Ming Ave. (661) 397-7855
Pump It Up
2841 Unicorn Road #103 (661) 392-8800
Private School
Garces High School
Since 1947, Garces has been Kern County’s lone Catholic high school and has developed into the area’s favorite private school. Quality education helps Garces sweep this award year after year.
2800 Loma Linda Dr. (661) 327-2578
Favorites
Stockdale Christian School
4901 California Ave. (661) 327-3927
Bakersfield Christian High School
12775 Stockdale Highway (661) 410-7000
Retirement Community
Glenwood Gardens
This retirement community has now won its third straight award. From resort-style amenities to a full schedule of activities, Glenwood Gardens is senior living at its best.
350 Calloway Dr. (661) 587-0221
Favorites
Rosewood
1301 New Stine Road (661) 834-0620
Columbus Estates
3201 Columbus St. #A (661) 872-5855
Place to Worship
Valley Bible Fellowship
Valley is a first-time winner in this category. The church’s hope is that everyone enjoys the great music, encouraging messages, friendly people and casual atmosphere that is Valley.
2300 E. Brundage Lane (661) 325-2251
Favorites
Canyon Hills Assembly of God
7001 Auburn St. (661) 871-1150
St. Francis
900 H St. (661) 327-4734
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