24th Street Cafe

If you're looking for a truly legendary spot with a homey atmosphere, then 24th Street Cafe is a must-visit on your itinerary through Bakersfield. This iconic establishment, located in the heart of the USA, has held the title of the region's best breakfast and lunch spot for decades.

Housed in a 1950s building, the cafe embodies the spirit of a classic American diner. Here, every guest is greeted like an old friend, and the huge portions and consistently high-quality products make this place a "happy corner for hungry people." The cafe's history adds to its significance: since 1987, it has been managed by hereditary restaurateur Mark Huggs, who carefully preserves the traditions of hospitality.

The establishment is famous for its traditional American cuisine and cozy interior. Whether you've stopped in for a quick lunch or are planning a long family breakfast, you're sure to feel the unique character of this place, which has been repeatedly voted "best of the best" by locals and tourists alike.

For more details or to inquire about seating (though it's often a first-come, first-served line), you can use the official communication channels. The establishment is active on social media, where it shares the latest monthly specials.

At this establishment, breakfast is served all day, so don't miss the chance to try their famous signature dishes. Special attention should be given to the Reuben sandwich with house-made corned beef, considered one of the best in the area, as well as the unique pumpkin pancakes with cinnamon butter. Those who love hearty meals will enjoy the shrimp omelets or the classic chicken fried steak and eggs.

Beyond the food, it's interesting to observe the rhythm of life in a real American town. The cafe's interior is filled with details that create comfort, and the monthly specials (such as a cold smoked tri-tip sandwich) always add intrigue to the menu. Portions here are truly generous, so feel free to order dishes to share or be prepared for a very substantial meal.

The atmosphere encourages socializing: you can often see large families and groups of friends here. Despite potential lines during peak hours, service remains fast and friendly. If you're in a hurry, you can order takeout on weekdays to enjoy the taste of the legendary cafe on the road or in a park.

Finding the establishment is easy, as it is located at 1415 24th St, right in the city's bustling center. If you are traveling by rental car, there is free parking available next to the cafe, which is very convenient for travelers.

For those who prefer public transport, Kern Transit bus stops are within walking distance. From Meadows Field (BFL) airport, a taxi or Uber ride will take no more than 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic. From most hotels in the downtown area, the cafe is reachable on foot or within a 5–10 minute drive.

The building housing the cafe today has a rich history that began back in 1950. It was originally home to Cy's Coffee Shop—a classic post-war American coffee house that became a favorite gathering spot for locals.

A new chapter for the location began in 1987 when it was purchased by Mark Huggs, a third-generation restaurateur. He transformed the establishment into 24th Street Cafe, preserving its old-school charm while significantly improving the menu and service. It was Huggs who turned the cafe into a true local brand.

For nearly 40 years, this place has consistently been recognized as the best breakfast spot in town. The cafe's iconic status is confirmed by the fact that many families have been coming here for generations, and the taste of its signature dishes has remained consistently high for decades. It is a rare example of an establishment that is "always as good as you remember it."

For a full experience at 24th Street Cafe, it is recommended to set aside 1 to 1.5 hours. This is enough time to leisurely browse the extensive menu, wait for your order, and enjoy your meal in a cozy atmosphere.

Keep in mind that the place is extremely popular: during morning hours and on weekends, a queue may form at the entrance. The wait is usually between 10 to 20 minutes, but it is definitely worth it to taste the local delicacies.

The cafe is perfect for early breakfasts and hearty lunches, operating on a convenient daily schedule. The doors are open to visitors every day from 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM.

Please note that the establishment's format does not include dinner, as the focus is on the morning and afternoon menus. Takeout service is available only on weekdays—from Monday through Friday.

After a hearty American breakfast, it’s worth taking a stroll around the neighborhood to better soak up the city's atmosphere. Within walking distance of the cafe, there are many interesting locations, from colorful bars to cultural spaces.

Below are the most notable nearby spots to add to your travel itinerary: