Best of Kern County
Best of Kern County
Best of Kern County
Antiques
Great American Antiques
For the third consecutive year, this antique store known for its diverse inventory is ranked No. 1 in Kern County.
625 19th St. 322-1776.
Favorites
Five & Dime Antique Mall
1400 19th St. 323-1776.
Central Park Antiques
701 19th St. 633-1143.
Art Galleries
Bakersfield Museum of Art
For more than a half-century, this perennial award winner has been a showcase for local artists and special exhibits of art from outside the area.
1930 R St. 323-7219.
Favorites
Gallery of Art at East Hills Mall
3000 Mall View Road #1045. 872-2806.
Metro Galleries
1604 19th St. 634-9598.
Auto Service
Bill Wright Toyota
It will come as no surprise to our voters that Bill Wright Toyota’s service department has earned Toyota’s Service and Parts Excellence Award. In business for almost 40 years, the business prides itself on making its customers and their satisfaction its No. 1 priority.
5100 Gasoline Alley Drive. 398-8697.
Favorites
Bakersfield Mazda
3201 Cattle Drive. 219-3958.
Pep Boys
Three locations, including 4605 Planz Road. 834-6858.
Bank/Financial Institution
Kern Schools Federal Credit Union
For the 15th year in a row, Kern Schools has been selected as the county’s top bank. This popular institution also has more branches than any other bank in the county.
14 branches, including 2424 Chester Ave. 833-7900.
Favorites
Wells Fargo
Thirteen branches, including 1300 22nd St. 861-9971.
Bank of America
Many branches in Kern County, including 1440 Truxtun Ave. 633-5380.
Bike Shop
Snider’s Cyclery
Quality inventory and service has secured the win for this local business for the 11th year in a row.
2700 New Stine Road. 833-2700.
2700 Union Ave. 324-4759.
Favorites
Action Sports
9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 400. 833-4000.
Finish Line
600 Coffee Road, Suite W. 833-6268.
Bookstore
Russo’s Books
The award goes to the locally owned business this year as Russo’s edges out the competition for the No. 1 spot. The store supports its community by promoting local authors with numerous book signings and events throughout the year.
9000 Ming Ave., I-4. 665-4686.
Favorites
Barnes & Noble
4001 California Ave. 631-2575.
Borders
4980 Stockdale Highway. 328-9800.
Bridal/Formal Wear
David’s Bridal
When dressing for the big day, Kern brides chose David’s Bridal as their favorite for the seventh year in a row. David’s Bridal has more than 280 locations nationwide.
1210 Wible Road. 831-5400.
Favorites
AJ's Tuxedo Junction
2527 F St. 325-2044.
3699 Ming Ave. 831-4114.
Ladies and Gents Bridal Gallery
124 Oak St. 325-7911.
Camera Shop
Henley’s Photo
The downtown business has again been named as Kern County’s top camera store. Henley’s longevity — more than 50 years in business — may account for its popularity.
2000 H St. 324-9484
Favorites
Best Buy
8300 Rosedale Highway. 587-0675.
Costco
3800 Rosedale Highway. 852-2643.
4900 Panama Lane. 398-4750.
Carpet/Flooring
Carpet Outlet Plus
Carpet Outlet Plus is Kern County’s favorite carpet and flooring business for the fourth consecutive year.
4301 Rosedale Highway. 302-4283.
Favorites
Jost Carpet and Flooring
320 Oak St. 327-7701.
Michael Flooring
6500 District Blvd. 833-2444.
Cell Phone/Pager
AT&T Wireless
Kern County’s choice for cellular phone service is AT&T Wireless. And with the new iPhone out in July, AT&T is likely to maintain its spot at the top.
Many locations in Kern County. 800-331-0500.
Favorites
Verizon
Many locations in Kern County. 800-922-0204.
T Mobile
Many locations in Kern County. 800-866-2453.
Children’s Apparel
JM’s
A family tradition since 1979, JM’s knows its market. Kern County residents enjoy shopping at the local children’s specialty store and have awarded it the top honor for the 16th year in a row.
930 Wible Road. 834-7277.
Favorites
Lou Ella’s
600 Coffee Road, Suite Q. 396-9501.
Gymboree
2701 Ming Ave # D10. 836-8175.
Customer Service
AT&T
Previously named a Kern County favorite, AT&T has outshone the competition to take the No. 1 spot. With so many local stores, it’s not hard to find the help you need.
Many locations in Kern County. 800-331-0500.
Favorites
Best Buy
8300 Rosedale Highway. 587-0675.
Urner’s
4110 Wible Road. 396-8400.
Department Store
Macy’s
Macy’s has been a local favorite for everything from clothing to wedding registries since coming to town. This is the department store’s sixth straight victory.
2601 Ming Ave. 832-5550.
Favorites
Gottschalks
Kohl’s
5253 Gosford Road. 664-7410.
9400 Rosedale Highway. 588-4535.
Dentist
Dr. Tom Frank
Smile and the world smiles with you. That’s certainly the case for Dr. Tom Frank and his patients, who voted him the top local dentist.
4101 Empire Drive #100. 324-6511.
Favorites
Western Dental
Four locations, including 1201 24th St # A. 431-1120.
Dr. Joseph Nunez
1957 19th St. 325-6907.
Doctor/Medical Group
Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser Permanente’s “Thrive” campaign continues to be well received after earning its eighth Best of Kern County honor for top Doctor / Medical Group in the past nine years.
Six locations in Bakersfield. 328-9831.
Favorites
Centennial Medical Group
1801 16th St., Suite A. 326-8989.
San Dimas Medical Group
300 Old River Road, Suite 200. 663-4800.
Dry Cleaner
Today’s Cleaner
In business since 1986, the largest dry cleaner in Kern County has maintained its edge, having earned the top honor 16 years in a row.
Ten locations, including 8200 Stockdale Highway. 634-1130.
Favorites
New City Cleaners
Three locations, including 600 Coffee Road # O. 397-8900.
Kleenerz
Six locations, including 2219 Brundage Lane. 328-7000.
Electronics
Best Buy
Open since 2005, Bakersfield’s Best Buy easily captured the hearts of Kern County’s gadget lovers, winning the top electronics store award four years in a row.
8300 Rosedale Highway. 587-0675.
Favorites
Urner’s
4110 Wible Road. 396-8400.
Radio Shack
Various locations, including 2701 Ming Ave # E16. 836-0213.
Fitness/Health Club
Body Xchange Fitness Spa
Founded in 2003, Body Xchange boasts it’s “a gym for every lifestyle.” From the selection of amenities and spa services, residents seem to agree, naming the local chain to the No. 1 spot.
Nine locations (as of June). 837-2639
Favorites
24 Hour Fitness
Three locations, including 3633 Rosedale Highway. 325-3600.
In-Shape City
Four locations, including 4801 White Lane. 398-4970.
Florist
Log Cabin
Bakersfield’s oldest flower shop, Log Cabin has consistently been recognized by the community as best florist. The unique building on 19th Street is easy to recognize and the fresh flowers inside are beautiful.
800 19th St. 327-8646.
Favorites
Conroy
3310 Truxtun Ave # 100. 325-8565.
Christy’s Brundage Florist
3050 Brundage Lane. 323-7924.
Funeral Home
Greenlawn Mortuary & Cemetery
A loved one’s passing is clearly a trying time, and Kern County has found once again that Greenlawn is best at assisting a family’s needs.
2739 Panama Lane. 834-8820.
3700 River Blvd. 324-9701
Favorites
Mish Funeral Home
120 Minner Ave. 399-9391.
Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary
9101 Kern Canyon Road. 366-5766.
Furniture
Ashley
If your home is your castle, then this store has made its customers feel like royalty, naming it as the top local place for furniture.
8915 Rosedale Highway. 395-3400.
Favorites
Mor
2204 Wible Road. 833-4774.
Weatherby’s
620 Chester Ave. 327-2747.
Hair Salon
Essentiels Spa
Essentiels says it offers a true European spa experience, where customers can relax and get away from the world. With a variety of treatments to please customers, it’s been ranked No. 1 in Kern County.
9000 Ming Ave # K7. 654-0321.
Favorites
Paragon Salon Spa
4865 Truxtun Ave. 323-1861.
Via Bella
2800 F St. 322-5474.
Home Appliance Store
Urner’s
In another case of a local beating out the national chains, Urner’s, one of Bakersfield’s oldest and most respected local businesses, wins this award for the 14th consecutive year.
4110 Wible Road. 396-8400.
Favorites
Sears
3001 Ming Ave. 833-5399.
Best Buy
8300 Rosedale Highway. 587-0675.
Hotel
Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center
In the heart of downtown, this is the first full service Marriott in Bakersfield, and it has left quite an impression on guests, claiming the best hotel spot.
801 Truxtun Ave. 323-1900.
Favorites
DoubleTree
3100 Camino Del Rio Court. 323-7111.
Holiday Inn
Four locations, including 4400 Hughes Lane. 877-863-4780.
Jewelry Store
Knight’s Jewelers
Knight’s believes “if you don’t know jewelry, you need to know your jeweler,” and plenty of residents believe in that, having voted the local business to the top spot. A family tradition since 1948, Knight's is known for its top quality fine jewelry and workmanship.
8200 Stockdale Highway #D8. 397-5070.
Favorites
Rogers
9500 Rosedale Highway. 589-5416.
Helzberg Diamonds
2701 Ming Ave #A1. 834-3992.
Men’s Apparel
Macy’s
From suits to shoes, Macy’s has the competition beat this year as the popular department store takes the title of best in men’s apparel.
2601 Ming Ave. 832-5550.
Favorites
Men’s Wearhouse
3006 Ming Ave. 835-9378.
Snead’s Apparel for Men
5127 Ming Ave. 832-4270.
Motorcycle/Off Road Shop
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 sixth straight year.
35089 Merle Haggard Drive. 325-3644.
Favorites
Fred Cummings Motorsports
2211 Chester Ave. 324-9695.
Valley Cycle and Motor Sports
3917 Buck Owens Blvd. 324-0768.
Mortgage Company
Countrywide
In a tough housing market, Countrywide (now owned by Bank of America) was selected as the No. 1 mortgage provider.
Favorites
JPMorgan Chase
10 locations, including 1515 17th St. 395-7795.
Kern Schools Federal Credit Union
4530 Ming Ave. 833-7926.
Music Store
Best Buy
Our favorite spot for electronics has also been voted the best place for music. With an array of classic and modern tunes, Best Buy is a recommendation that’s worth a listen.
8300 Rosedale Highway. 587-0675
Favorites
World Records
1824 G St. 831-3100.
Barnes & Noble
4001 California Ave. 631-2575.
New Car Dealership
Bill Wright Toyota
Recognized by Toyota for its high sales volume, this local dealership has firmly secured itself as Kern’s No. 1 spot for new vehicles.
5100 Gasoline Alley Drive. 398-8697.
Favorites
Family Motors
5300 Wible Road. 834-5300.
Three Way Chevrolet
4501 Wible Road. 578-5456.
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 third consecutive such award for Lennar.
5251 Office Park Drive #200. 326-1141.
Favorites
McMillin Homes
5351 Olive Drive. 399-0239.
Castle & Cooke
10000 Stockdale Highway #350. 664-6500.
Nursery/Garden Store
White Forest
With 45 years of experience, White Forest has cultivated a strong fan base by meeting local gardeners’ needs. A frequent favorite, it’s planted itself this year in the No. 1 spot.
300 Morning Drive. 366-6291.
Favorites
Bolles
1112 Wible Road. 398-8128.
Robby’s Nursery & Landscape Service
13129 Hageman Road. 588-0859.
Office Supplies
Office Depot
With two local locations, this national chain has made quite an impression with meeting Kern’s office supply needs.
5600 Stockdale Highway. 324-5457.
8800 Rosedale Highway. 588-7909.
Favorites
Stinson’s
1108 Baker St. 323-7611.
4500 Stine Road. 323-7611.
OfficeMax
3761 Ming Ave. 397-2666.
2635 Mount Vernon Ave. 871-8342.
Optometrist
Dr. Stephen Ratty
For the sixth year in a row, Dr. Stephen Ratty and his team take the top honor for their dedication to Kern County’s vision care.
2222 E St. #1. 327-2681.
Favorites
Dr. Gary Williams
4900 Commerce Drive. 325-7791.
Dr. Allen Louis
4492 Ming Ave. 837-0581.
Pediatrician
Dr. Tien Khuu
There’s nothing more important for a parent than their child’s health and well-being and more Kern parents put their trust in Dr. Khuu as the best local pediatrician.
2019 21st St. 323-6321.
Favorites
Dr. Sze Ho
500 40th St. 327-3784.
Dr. Madhu Bhogal
3801 San Dimas St. 631-2229.
Physical Therapist
Terrio Therapy-Fitness
With the mantra “there has to be a better way,” Terrio Therapy-Fitness has been finding creative solutions for its patients since 1998. A longtime local favorite, the business has now been named Kern’s best.
Ten locations, including 3400 Calloway Drive, Suite 603. 615-6600.
Favorites
Glinn & Giordano
Six locations, including 1201 23rd St. 327-4357.
Neck and Back Center
4550 Coffee Road #H. 587-8081.
Pool or Spa
Cal Spas
Cal Spas takes this award for the fifth 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 Drive. 396-0811.
Favorites
Rock Bottom Pools
2724 Landco Drive. 859-1702.
W.W. Harper Pools & Spas
2400 K St. 327-0245.
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 Drive. 327-3800.
Favorites
Dr. John Lang
2020 21st St. #A. 325-1212.
Dr. Vipul Dev
2901 Sillect Ave. Suite 201. 327-2101.
Real Estate Agent
Alfredo Bahena
This dedicated professional has impressed local customers who’ve put him at the top of the agent list.
1310 Chamberlain Ave #A. 325-2100.
Favorites
Jon Busby
10000 Stockdale Highway #250. 410-7355.
Mary Christensen
9000 Ming Ave. Suite R2. 663-4501.
Real Estate Company
Watson Touchstone Realty
The extremely popular real estate company has won top honors in this category all 16 years of this readers’ poll.
9101 Camino Media. 327-5161.
9000 Ming Ave. Suite R2. 663-7653.
Favorites
Century 21
5121 Ming Ave. 834-2121.
Coldwell Banker
Three locations, including 9100 Ming Ave. #100. 836-2345.
Shoe Store
Guarantee Shoe Center
If you’ve walked a mile in our shoes, you know we probably got them from this Kern County favorite. Still in its longtime downtown location, Guarantee Shoe Center has won this award 14 straight years.
2101 Chester Ave. 325-8751.
Favorites
Payless ShoeSource
Various locations, including 1201 Columbus St. #517. 871-3094.
Macy’s
2601 Ming Ave. 832-5550.
Shopping Center
Valley Plaza
When shoppers want to part with their hard-earned dollars, this is where they picked as their top local spot to shop.
2701 Ming Ave. 832-2436.
Favorites
Northwest Promenade
8300-8700 Rosedale Highway
The Marketplace
9000 Ming Ave.
Sporting Goods
Big 5
Kern County trusts Big 5 for golf, hunting and all its other sporting goods needs. This is Big 5’s fourth straight year winning this award.
3214 Ming Ave. 832-4161.
3203 Mall View Road. 872-5272.
Favorites
Action Sports
9500 Brimhall Road # 400. 833-4000.
Sports Chalet
5200 Stockdale Highway. 335-7780.
Tile Store
Stockdale Tile
In business since 1987, this local business prides itself on offering the very best products and high-quality customer service. Kern County agrees, naming Stockdale Tile as the No. 1 provider.
6301 District Blvd. 398-6000.
Favorites
Bill Ray Ceramic Tile Center
6301 E. Brundage Lane. 366-3255.
Bedrosians
4301 Ashe Road. 396-0555.
Tire Store
Pacific Tire
When rubber meets the road, Kern’s drivers need a business they can depend on to provide quality tires. Pacific Tire has best met that need this year.
Various locations, including 600 E. Brundage Lane. 327-5063.
Favorites
Big O Tire
Five locations, including 2502 Ming Ave. 831-3349.
Big Brand Tire
Three locations, including 1401 21st St. 327-9921.
Travel Agency
Lambourne Travel
Whether it’s a cruise for two or a trip for the whole family, more residents turn to Lambourne for their travel needs.
1230 17th St. 323-9031.
Favorites
AAA
1500 Commercial Way. 327-4661.
Kern Travel East Hills
3501 Mall View Road #104. 872-3940.
Used Car Dealership
Bill Wright Toyota
Used cars, new car, customer service, you name it — Bill Wright Toyota is tops in covering Kern’s automotive needs.
5100 Gasoline Alley Drive. 398-8697.
Favorites
Family Motors
5300 Wible Road. 834-5300.
Jim Burke Ford
2001 Oak St. 328-3600.
Veterinarian
Cooke’s Veterinary Hospital
When it comes to quality animal care, Cooke’s is the best according to Kern County pet owners.
3232 Landco Drive. 323-1130.
Favorites
Stockdale Vet Hospital
6400 Nottingham Lane. 832-7814.
Southwest Vet Hospital
2905 Brundage Lane. 327-5719.
Western Store
Emporium Western Store
The century-old business “where real cowboys shop” also celebrates its 12th straight victory as best western store in Kern County.
1031 19th St. 325-8476.
Favorites
Boot Barn
3913 Buck Owens Blvd. 327-6770.
Floyd’s
Various locations, including 3650 N. Chester Ave. 327-5105.
Women’s Apparel
Macy’s
For the second year in a row, Kern County residents have deemed this department store No. 1 in women’s apparel.
2601 Ming Ave. 832-5550.
Favorites
Express
2701 Ming Ave #C7 398-5530.
Fashion Bug
9370 Rosedale Highway. 587-3530.
Bar
BJ’s
With a bevy of big-screen TVs, wide selection of beers and happy hour specials, BJ’s offers plenty of reasons why Kern County named it as the No. 1 bar.
10750 Stockdale Highway. 241-5115.
Favorites
RJ’s
9440 Hageman Road #C. 587-4723.
Café Med
4809 Stockdale Highway. 834-4433.
Breakfast
24th Street Café
Pumpkin pancakes? Check. A specials list long enough to make your head spin? Check. When it comes to the most important meal of the day, customers are willing to wait for a spot at this downtown café.
1415 24th St. 323-8801.
Favorites
Denny’s
Twelve locations, including 2627 Buck Owens Blvd. 395-3014.
IHOP
Five locations, including 9220 Rosedale Highway. 587-7090.
Bakery
Smith’s Bakeries
Cookies, cakes and chocolate brownies, oh my! For the 16th straight year, Smith’s has been named Kern County’s best bakery.
Seven locations in Bakersfield. 325-3411.
Favorites
Sweet Surrender
6439 Ming Ave. #B. 835-8530.
Great Harvest Bread Co.
9901 Hageman Road #100. 587-5064.
Barbecue Restaurant
Famous Dave’s
The new restaurant on the local scene has taken the top barbecue title. Is it the five tableside sauces or the feasts served on garbage can lids that keep Kern County lining up for more?
7777 Rosedale Highway. 829-2128.
Favorites
Champs BBQ
35315 7th Standard Road #130. 391-9455.
Fabious’ Corner
13061 Rosedale Highway #I. 587-7302.
Basque
Wool Growers
Wool Growers is one of the few businesses that have claimed victory all 16 years of this readers’ poll. The friendly service, tasty entrees and pickled tongue keep people coming back.
620 E. 19th St. 327-9584.
Favorites
Benji’s
4001 Stockdale Highway. 328-0400.
Chalet Basque
200 Oak St. 327-2915.
Business Lunch
Luigi’s
This is clearly the place to go in Kern County at noon after taking both best lunch and business lunch categories for another year. For finalizing a deal over great food, there’s no place better.
725 E. 19th St. 322-0926.
Favorites
Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks
1203 18th St 324-9441.
Mimi’s Café
4025 California Ave 326-1722.
Burger
In-N-Out
A California classic since 1948, this popular chain has built a better burger and beat out the competition for the No. 1 on a bun (or lettuce, if you’re watching your carbs).
5100 Stockdale Highway. 800-786-1000.
2310 Panama Lane. 800-786-1000.
Favorites
John’s Burgers
1000 Oak St 324-8131.
Happy Jack’s
1800 20th St 323-1661.
Catering
Champs BBQ
From corporate functions to family get-togethers, this longtime local favorite has delivered. Its full-service catering has been ranked as the best in the Kern County.
35315 7th Standard Road #130. 391-9455.
Favorites
Chuy’s
2500 New Stine Road #102. 833-3469.
8660 Rosedale Highway. 587-5750.
Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks
1203 18th St. 324-9441.
Chinese
Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks
Local favorite Bill Lee’s returns to the top of this category after a one-year lapse. And we’re sure the family-owned restaurant will do everything to stay No. 1.
1203 18th St. 324-9441.
Favorites
P.F. Chang’s
10700 Stockdale Highway. 663-8689.
Great Castle
410 Union Ave. 325-3311.
Coffee
Starbucks
Like the rest of the country, Kern County is hooked on Starbucks. With so many locations in the area, you don’t have to go far for a strong cup of joe. The Seattle-based chain has claimed this award 11 of the past 12 years.
27 locations including 9000 Ming Ave. 665-8065.
Favorites
Borders
4980 Stockdale Highway. 328-9800.
Dagny’s
1600 20th St. 634-0806.
Deli
Caesar's Italian Delicatessen
For the fifth-straight year, this home for Caesar’s Specials and pasta plates has been named Kern’s No. 1 deli.
2828 Niles St. 873-0270.
9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 304. 588-7004.
Favorites
Sequoia Sandwich Company
Three locations, including 1231 18th St. 323-2500.
Subway
Various locations, including 2681 Calloway Drive. 588-8030.
Delivery
Rusty’s Pizza
The pizza chain has returned to claim the best delivery title. With a mission to “make you say wow” and seven locations, Rusty’s is ready to deliver.
Seven locations, including 6675 Ming Ave. 835-5555.
Favorites
Pizza Hut
Ten locations, including 4708 Planz Road. 836-2800.
Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks
1203 18th St. 324-9441.
Desserts
Marie Callender’s
With a variety of pies and specials throughout the year, Marie Callender’s has long satisfied local sweet-lovers.
3801 California Ave. 327-0477.
2631 Oswell St. 872-1051.
Favorites
Sweet Surrender
6439 Ming Ave #B. 835-8530.
Dewar’s
1120 Eye St. 322-0933.
9530 Hageman Road #K. 587-2056.
Happy Hour
La Mina Cantina
Whether it’s quitting time or you’re starting your weekend early, this is the place Kern County named as the best to unwind and cut loose.
Various locations, including 1230 H St. 861-9645.
Favorites
Don Perico
Three locations, including 2660 Oswell St. 866-386-7566.
Mauricio’s Grill & Cantina
10700 Rosedale Highway. 589-5292.
6401 White Lane #106. 837-9570.
Health Food Store
Cone’s Health Foods
For a decade, Cone’s has been named top health food store for its wide selection and knowledgeable staff.
1002 Wible Road. 832-5669.
Favorites
Lassen’s Natural Foods & Vitamins
5408 California Ave. 324-1264.
Trader Joe’s
8200 Stockdale Highway #C21. 837-8863.
Italian
Olive Garden
When you’re here, you’re family. That “family” connection has kept Kern County coming back, naming the popular restaurant to the top Italian spot.
1701 New Stine Road. 832-1278.
Favorites
Frugatti’s
600 Coffee Road, Suite L. 836-2000.
Luigi’s
725 E. 19th St. 322-0926.
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. 322-0926.
Favorites
Sequoia Sandwich Company
Three locations, including 1231 18th St. 323-2500.
Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks
1203 18th St. 324-9441.
Margarita
Mexicali
Wherever there’s a bar, you can find a margarita. But when Kern County patrons want the best, they head to longtime favorite Mexicali for its potent potables.
631 18th St. 327-3861.
5601 California Ave. 327-5201.
Favorites
Mauricio’s Cantina & Grill
10700 Rosedale Highway. 589-5292.
6401 White Lane #106. 837-9570.
Red Pepper
2641 Oswell St. #G 871-5787.
Mexican
Mexicali
Mexicali is another Kern County favorite that has made the list for 16 years. Being named the Mexican restaurant in the county is quite a feat considering the plethora of local Mexican eateries.
631 18th St. 327-3861.
5601 California Ave. 327-5201.
Favorites
Mauricio’s Grill & Cantina
10700 Rosedale Highway. 589-5292.
6401 White Lane #106. 837-9570.
La Mina Cantina
Various locations, including 1230 H St. 861-9645.
Microbrew Selection
Lengthwise Brewing Co.
With selections like its Centennial Ale, popular spot Lengthwise has topped this category for seven years in a row.
6720 Schirra Court. 836-2537.
Favorites
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
10750 Stockdale Highway. 241-5115.
Frugatti’s
600 Coffee Road. 836-2000.
New Restaurant
Famous Dave’s
Having beat the competition in the barbecue category, it’s no wonder that this popular Rosedale eatery also lays claim to the title of best new restaurant.
7777 Rosedale Highway. 829-2128.
Favorites
Moo Creamery
4885 Truxtun Ave. 861-1130.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
10750 Stockdale Highway. 241-5115.
Overall Restaurant
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
With a selection of award-winning beers, extensive menu and family-friendly atmosphere, BJ’s takes the leads the pack of restaurants in Kern County.
10750 Stockdale Highway. 241-5115.
Favorites
La Mina Cantina
Various locations, including 1230 H St. 861-9645.
Outback Steakhouse
5051 Stockdale Highway. 834-7850.
Pizza
Rusty’s Pizza Parlor
For the third 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. 835-5555.
Favorites
Plumberry’s
13001 Stockdale Highway. 589-8889.
Pizza Hut
Various locations, including 6300 White Lane. 833-6800.
Restaurant For Kids/Family
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 the perfect spot to take kids.
3709 Rosedale Highway. 859-1111.
Favorites
Chuck E Cheese
3760 Ming Ave. 397-7855.
Denny’s
12 locations including 2627 Buck Owens Blvd. 395-3014.
Romantic Restaurant
Mama Tosca’s
Tucked away in a corner of the popular Marketplace shopping center, Mama Tosca’s sets the mood for romance with its warm ambience and decadent Italian dishes.
9000 Ming Ave. 831-1242.
Favorites
Valentien
3310 Truxtun Ave. 864-0397.
Café Med
4809 Stockdale Highway. 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. 327-3861.
5601 California Ave. 327-5201.
Favorites
Mauricio’s Grill & Cantina
10700 Rosedale Highway. 589-5292
6401 White Lane #106. 837-9570.
La Mina Cantina
Various locations, including 1230 H St. 861-9645.
Seafood
Red Lobster
This massive seafood chain has taken top honors once again, making it six out of six since opening. Delicious seafood and a perfect location make Red Lobster irresistible.
8180 Rosedale Highway. 589-9956.
Favorites
La Costa Mariscos
716 21st St. 322-2655.
Sea Breeze
2500 New Stine Road. 832-5261.
Senior Special
Denny’s
Any time of the day, local seniors know Denny’s offers them a deal that keeps them (and their wallets fuller) longer.
12 locations, including 2627 Buck Owens Blvd. 395-3014.
Favorites
Carrows
Three locations, including 955 Oak St. 322-8541.
Spencer’s
10437 Rosedale Highway. 589-0658.
7800 McNair Lane. 832-3313.
Steak
Tahoe Joe’s
This year, Tahoe Joe’s has the others beat for the best steaks in town. Don’t be surprised if there’s a bit of a wait at this southwest spot that keeps local diners coming back for more.
9000 Ming Ave. 664-5909.
Favorites
Outback Steakhouse
5051 Stockdale Highway. 834-7850.
Hungry Hunter
3580 Rosedale Highway. 328-0580.
Sunday Brunch
Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
Hungry buckaroos know where the good stuff is served, again voting this longtime favorite No. 1 Sunday brunch.
2800 Buck Owens Blvd. 328-7560.
Favorites
Hodel’s Country Dining
5917 Knudsen Drive. 399-3341.
Marie Callender’s
3801 California Ave. 327-0477.
2631 Oswell St. 872-1051.
Sushi/Japanese
Akira’s
This local favorite offers fresh sushi and thrilling teppanyaki dining.
4154 California Ave. 326-1860.
Favorites
Miyoshi
8200 Stockdale Highway. 398-3397.
Tokyo Gardens
4149 Ming Ave. 835-7874.
Wine
Café Med
With monthly local tastings and vineyard bus tours, Café Med pulls out ahead, claiming the best of title. With work under way on a new wine room, the longtime favorite will be remain hard to beat.
4809 Stockdale Highway. 834-4433.
Favorites
Orchid Thai Fusion Cuisine
9500 Brimhall Road. 587-8900.
Valentien
3310 Truxtun Ave. 684-0397.
Community Theater
Stars Theatre
Fine dining combined with outstanding Broadway musicals and comedies has made Stars a Kern County favorite. This marks the theater’s ninth straight win in this category.
1931 Chester Ave. 325-6100.
Favorites
Edwards Cinemas
9000 Ming Ave. 663-3030.
Fox Theater
2001 H St. 635-0543.
Family Attraction
California Living Museum
Home to a variety of native California animals and plants, the California Living Museum has been drawing local families since it opened to the public in 1983.
10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. 872-2256.
Favorites
Kern County Fair
1142 S P St. 833-4900.
Boomers
1251 Oak St. 325-5453.
Free Entertainment
The Marketplace
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
Concert in the Park
Beale Park, Oleander Avenue between Dracena and Palm. 323-7928.
Annual Event
Kern County Fair
This category has only been in existence for five years, but the Kern County Fair has run away with it each time. The county’s September classic is just a few months away.
1142 S. P St. 833-4900.
Favorites
Village Fest (formerly Brews in the Village)
Held at the Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. 323-2739.
Relay for Life
Held at Cal State Bakersfield, 9001 Stockdale Highway. 327-2424.
Best Chiropractor
Neck and Back Center
For their chiropractic needs, more Kern County residents turn to the Neck and Back Center, voting it No. 1.
4550 Coffee Road. 587-8081.
Favorites
Jim Turner
2010 16th St. 327-7838.
Grant Hoffman
712 N. Chester Ave. 399-2525.
Local Magazine
Bakersfield Life Magazine
With an emphasis on what makes our community great, Bakersfield Life is the city’s premier magazine, appealing to longtime residents and newcomers alike who are looking to stay connected.
Favorites
Bakersfield Magazine
Más Magazine
Place To Dance
Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
A longtime favorite spot to cut a rug, the Crystal Palace returns to the top of the list. Put on your boots and dance!
2800 Buck Owens Blvd. 328-7560.
Favorites
Replay Sports Lounge & Grill
4500 Buck Owens Blvd. 324-3300.
Trout’s
805 N Chester Ave. 399-6700.
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. 328-7560.
Favorites
Fox Theater
2001 H St. 324-1369.
Fishlips
1517 18th St. 324-2557.
Weekend Getaway
Pismo Beach
The coast with the most, this cool destination has taken top honors for the ninth year in a row. When the Bakersfield heat becomes too unbearable, everyone heads to the beach.
Favorites
Las Vegas
Santa Barbara
Day Care Facility
Little Red Schoolhouse
The winner for 12 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. 324-5774.
4601 Fruitvale Ave. 588-2227.
Favorites
Child Time
9903 Camino Media. 665-7790.
A Good Time Out
3400 Calloway Drive #501. 410-8463.
Golf Course
The Links at RiverLakes Ranch
Whether practicing their drives or playing a round of 18 holes, The Links at RiverLakes Ranch has kept local golfers coming back for more and voting it Kern’s best.
5201 Riverlakes Drive. 587-5465.
Favorites
Seven Oaks
2000 Grand Lakes Ave. 664-6404.
Bakersfield Country Club
4200 Country Club Drive. 871-4121.
Hospital
Mercy Hospitals
With its community outreach and spiritual care services, Kern County residents have taken Mercy Hospitals to heart and made it their top choice this year.
2215 Truxtun Ave. 632-5000.
Favorites
Memorial Hospital
420 34th St. 327-4647.
San Joaquin Community Hospital
2615 Chester Ave. 395-3000.
Local Web Site
Bakersfield.com
Make it 10 in a row for Bakersfield.com. Averaging about 1 million hits a week, the Web site gives its readers everything it wants to know about the county’s biggest city.
Favorites
KGET.com
Bakersfieldcondors.com
Park
Park at River Walk
The Park at River Walk’s has maintained its hold as Kern’s favorite park. Its location, entertainment events and more have helped cement its status.
11200 Stockdale Highway
Favorites
Hart Park
Alfred Harrell Highway
Silver Creek Park
Harris Road and Reliance Drive
Place For A Birthday Party
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. 859-1111.
Favorites
Pump It Up
2841 Unicorn Road. 392-8800.
Chuck E Cheese
3760 Ming Ave. 397-7855.
Private School
Garces Memorial High School
Kern County’s lone Catholic high school has swept this award year after year. Since 1947, the school has provided an environment where students can develop spiritually, intellectually and socially.
2800 Loma Linda Drive. 327-2578.
Favorites
St. Francis of Assisi School
2516 Palm St. 326-7955.
Bakersfield Christian High School
12775 Stockdale Highway. 410-7000.
Retirement Community
Rosewood Senior Living Community
Far from the shuffleboard stereotype, seniors at Rosewood Retirement Community are spry and full of life. They cruise. They tour. They get together for games and activities in public areas. But they slowed down long enough to vote Rosewood top in the category.
1301 New Stine Road. 834-0620.
Favorites
Glenwood Gardens
350 Calloway Drive. 587-0221.
Kern City
Stockdale Highway and Ashe Road
Place To Worship
St. Francis of Assisi
When it comes to worship, parishioners voted this Catholic church as the best in Kern County. The sense of community and strong leadership are among the qualities that have made St. Francis stand out.
900 H St. 327-4734.
Favorites
Valley Bible Fellowship
2300 E. Brundage Lane. 325-2251.
Riverlakes Community Church
4301 Calloway Drive. 589-9733.