Best Fast Food Bakersfield CA: Top Restaurants Ranked!

Craving a quick bite in Bakersfield? The fast food scene in this Kern County hub is a vibrant mix of national chains and local favorites, offering everything from juicy burgers to crave-worthy tacos and everything in between. But with so many options vying for your attention (and your wallet), navigating the Bakersfield fast food landscape can be a challenge. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This guide cuts through the noise to bring you a ranked list of the best fast food Bakersfield CA has to offer, based on taste, value, service, and that undeniable Bakersfield flair.

We understand that defining “best” is subjective, so we established clear criteria for our rankings. Our evaluation considered not just the quality of the food, but also the speed of service, cleanliness of the establishment, menu variety, and, importantly, the overall value for your money. We scoured online reviews, conducted informal polls among Bakersfield residents, and even sampled the offerings ourselves to bring you this comprehensive guide. We aimed to capture the true essence of the fast food experience in Bakersfield, highlighting those restaurants that consistently deliver on quality, convenience, and that quintessential California taste.

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Ranking Methodology: How We Chose the Best

To ensure fairness and transparency, we used a multi-faceted approach to rank the fast food restaurants in Bakersfield. Here’s a breakdown of our key criteria:

Taste (40%): The most important factor! We assessed the flavor profiles, quality of ingredients, and overall deliciousness of the food.
Value (25%): We considered the price of menu items in relation to portion size and quality. Are you getting a good bang for your buck?
Speed of Service (15%): Fast food should be fast! We looked at the efficiency of the ordering process and the average wait times.
Cleanliness (10%): A clean and well-maintained environment is essential for a positive dining experience.
Menu Variety (10%): A diverse menu with options for different tastes and dietary needs is a plus.

Each restaurant was scored on these criteria, and the scores were weighted to determine the final ranking. We believe this methodology provides a balanced and objective assessment of the best fast food Bakersfield CA has to offer.

Our Top Picks for Fast Food in Bakersfield

Here’s our ranked list of the best fast food restaurants in Bakersfield, California.

In-N-Out Burger

It’s practically a California law that any fast food ranking must include In-N-Out Burger. And for good reason. This beloved chain consistently delivers on quality and freshness, with a simple menu that focuses on what they do best: burgers, fries, and shakes. Known for their “secret menu” and friendly service, In-N-Out Burger is a must-try for anyone visiting or living in Bakersfield.

Highlights: The Double-Double, Animal Style fries, and classic shakes.
Pros: Fresh ingredients, consistently delicious burgers, affordable prices, and friendly staff.
Cons: Can get crowded, limited menu for those seeking variety.
Specific Example: The Double-Double, Animal Style, is a Bakersfield staple. The juicy patties, melted cheese, grilled onions, and In-N-Out’s special sauce create a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Price: $
Locations: Several locations throughout Bakersfield.
Rating: 5/5 Stars

Taco Bell

No fast food discussion is complete without Taco Bell. Taco Bell is a cornerstone of fast food Bakersfield CA, offering a diverse menu of Mexican-inspired favorites at prices that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re craving a Crunchwrap Supreme, a cheesy gordita crunch, or a classic taco, Taco Bell has something for everyone. They are consistently innovating their menu and the quick service makes this a great choice for the busy professional.

Highlights: The Crunchwrap Supreme, the Cheesy Gordita Crunch, and the Doritos Locos Tacos.
Pros: Wide variety of menu options, affordable prices, late-night hours.
Cons: Quality can be inconsistent, not the healthiest option.
Specific Example: The Crunchwrap Supreme is a crowd-pleaser, with its combination of seasoned beef, nacho cheese sauce, lettuce, tomato, and sour cream all wrapped in a warm, grilled tortilla.
Price: $
Locations: Numerous locations throughout Bakersfield.
Rating: 4/5 Stars

Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A has become synonymous with delicious chicken sandwiches and exceptional customer service. Their commitment to quality and their friendly staff have made them a favorite among Bakersfield residents.

Highlights: The Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich, waffle fries, and their signature sauces.
Pros: High-quality chicken, exceptional customer service, clean and well-maintained restaurants.
Cons: Closed on Sundays, can get crowded during peak hours.
Specific Example: The classic Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich is a simple yet satisfying combination of a breaded chicken fillet, pickles, and a toasted bun. The secret is in the quality of the chicken and the perfect balance of flavors.
Price: $$
Locations: Several locations in Bakersfield.
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Javier’s Tacos

For a taste of authentic Bakersfield-style Mexican fast food, look no further than Javier’s Tacos. With several locations around town, Javier’s offers a menu packed with tasty and authentic flavors. This one is a local gem, and is very popular among those who live in Bakersfield. The staff is very friendly, the quality is good and the prices are more than fair.

Highlights: Carne Asada Tacos, Street Tacos, and homemade salsas.
Pros: Authentic flavors, fresh ingredients, generous portions.
Cons: Can be busy during peak hours, limited seating at some locations.
Specific Example: Their Carne Asada tacos are a must-try, featuring tender grilled steak, chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Price: $
Locations: Multiple locations throughout Bakersfield.
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

McDonald’s

McDonald’s remains a global fast food icon, and their Bakersfield locations are no exception. Offering a familiar menu of burgers, fries, and breakfast items, McDonald’s is a convenient and affordable option for a quick meal.

Highlights: The Big Mac, Chicken McNuggets, and McCafé drinks.
Pros: Consistent quality, low prices, convenient locations, and 24-hour locations.
Cons: Can be crowded, long wait times during peak hours, less healthy options.
Specific Example: The Quarter Pounder with Cheese is a classic choice, offering a satisfying combination of a juicy beef patty, melted cheese, and classic toppings.
Price: $
Locations: Multiple locations throughout Bakersfield.
Rating: 3/5 Stars

Burger King

Burger King provides a great alternative to McDonald’s, known for flame-broiled burgers and their signature Whopper. Burger King offers a wide variety of menu items, from breakfast to burgers to ice cream. The fast service and plentiful locations make this a great choice.

Highlights: The Whopper, Chicken Fries, and Onion Rings.
Pros: Consistently good, well maintained stores, great locations.
Cons: Can be a bit pricey.
Specific Example: Try a Whopper with cheese and a side of fries.
Price: $$
Locations: Multiple locations throughout Bakersfield.
Rating: 3.5/5 Stars

Del Taco

Del Taco is a beloved chain that finds itself blending Mexican and American fast food styles into one. The chain is known for its tacos and burritos, but they also offer burgers and crinkle-cut fries. This combination of options means Del Taco has something for everyone. You are guaranteed to leave satisfied no matter what you are looking for in fast food Bakersfield CA.

Highlights: The Epic Burritos, Crunchtada, and crinkle-cut fries.
Pros: Cheap prices, fast and friendly service.
Cons: Can get busy at lunch and dinner.
Specific Example: The Epic Cali Burrito is huge and satisfying, guaranteed to fill anyone up.
Price: $
Locations: Multiple locations throughout Bakersfield.
Rating: 4/5 Stars

Other Notable Mentions

Wendy’s: Known for their square patties and Frosty desserts.
Carl’s Jr.: Famous for their thickburgers and Western Bacon Cheeseburger.
Jack in the Box: Offers a diverse menu with something for everyone, including late-night options.
Subway: A healthier alternative with customizable sandwiches and salads.

Conclusion: Your Fast Food Adventure Awaits in Bakersfield

Bakersfield’s fast food landscape is diverse and delicious, offering something for every taste and budget. From the iconic In-N-Out Burger to local favorites like Javier’s Tacos, there’s no shortage of options for a quick and satisfying meal. We encourage you to explore the restaurants on this list and discover your own hidden gems. Do you agree with our rankings? What are your favorite fast food spots in Bakersfield? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And remember, when you’re craving convenience and flavor, Bakersfield has you covered. The next time you’re in Bakersfield, you are guaranteed to find great fast food Bakersfield CA, so good eating!