Photo of Bakersfield Barbecue Co., one of the best restaurants in Bakersfield

Bakersfield Barbecue Co.

4.6/5.0 (1178 reviews)

Bakersfield Barbecue Co. offers a delightful dive into authentic BBQ cuisine, where every bite reflects a passion for flavor. With attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.

Our Expert's Take

Bakersfield Barbecue Co. is a standout in the local dining scene, particularly for barbecue enthusiasts. However, I found my recent visit revealed a significant drawback: the limited menu availability during peak hours, which left me wanting more. It’s a common challenge for popular eateries, but it can dampen the overall experience when key items are sold out.

On a positive note, the service team excelled in addressing dietary concerns, showcasing a commendable commitment to customer care. Despite the wait times, which totaled around 30 minutes, the warm and friendly staff made the experience enjoyable. If you plan to visit, I recommend checking in early to avoid menu disappointments and to fully indulge in their BBQ offerings.

At a Glance

Pros

  • Exceptional service with a focus on customer care.
  • Delicious BBQ flavors that keep patrons coming back.
  • Welcoming atmosphere perfect for family gatherings or casual outings.

Cons

  • Menu items may sell out quickly during peak hours.
  • Long wait times can occur, especially on weekends.

What Diners Are Saying

Rating: 4/5

"We came by at about 3pm on a Sunday and half their menu was already sold out. Therefore, I can't give food a high score. The service was great as I had a good allergy concern. Our wait in line was 10-15 minutes then the food wait was about another 20 minutes. The beef was delicious and so was the mac and cheese. My potato salad was not as much potato as I'd hoped but it was like my mom's recipe so I appreciated it. We ate outdoors as inside was crowded. The neighborhood wind had a bad smell to it and because it was a hot day, the flies tried to take over our food. Utensils and 4 homemade sauces are serve-yourself which was nice because you could take the perfect amount depending on your flavor preference. Staff was hard working and I would come back here again, but earlier in the day."
- Tamara Houser

Rating: 5/5

"I had the 1/2 smoked rib with baked beans and regular mac n cheese with an Arnold Palmer. A root beer float topped off this awesome meal. The ribs were gently spicy and melts in your mouth after it slides off the bones. I'll be back with my better half."
- James Lanier

Rating: 5/5

"Pros - Good fried green tomatoes, pit beef, and Tri tip. The dreamcicle was delightful. Cons - hotter than hell in the establishment and too many flies. Out of brisket and no longer carry burnt ends"
- David Sullivan

Rating: 5/5

"Order up front and they bring your food out to you. Picnic table set up outside, dog friendly. No beer or wine, just sodas and food. Food was great. I pretty much got all the sides that had no meat and I was full and happy. Everyone else seemed pleased with their meat options. Sauces were tasty. Would for sure come back again"
- Leslie Iacono

Rating: 4/5

"The BBQ was great! We enjoyed the brisket and tri tip sandwich. The outdoor seating was fairly big and is dog friendly. The service, however, was not great, the lady wasn't very friendly. Aside from that, everything else was great!"
- Chuck Roast

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there parking available?

Yes, there is ample parking available near the restaurant.

What is the dress code?

The dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are!

What is the best dish to try?

The smoked brisket is a customer favorite and highly recommended!