Recent Business Reviews: Bakersfield.com

Glinn & Giordano Physical Therapy

Review is for their Gosford/White Ln facility.

These people are so proffesional and at the same time provide a fun-loving atmoshpere. It really shows they love what they do. They really know how to bring out the patient's best efforts while maintaining their highest level of dignity.

The Garden Spot

I loved this place. Great food and salads at a very reasonable price. The turkey chili was awesome. Will definately come here again.

I knocked off one star for their parking lot. If you don't own a Prius, parking is very tight.

All Credit Mortgage

ALL CREDIT MORTGAGE

I GOT A HOME LOAN WITH ALL CREDIT MORTGAGE. AFTER VISITING SEVERAL LOCAL MORTGAGE COMPANIES I FELT THEY WERE THE MOST ETHICAL AND HONEST. THE KEPT ME UP TO DATE ON THE COMPLETE PROCESS. I HAVE REFERRED SEVERAL PEOPLE THAT HAVE HAD THE SAME EXPERIENCE. I WOULD RECOMMEND THEM TO ANYONE THAT DESERVES A HOME LOAN.

Gimme Some Sugar

I wanted my daughter's third birthday party to be very special so I decided to order a special cake for her from here. The cake was supposed to be a three tier cake with pink polka dots and they were supposed to re-create a princess crown that was printed on her invitations as the cake topper. I payed $250 for this cake! When we picked up her cake, I was very disappointed. The cake topper was nothing but a paper copy of her invitation! They made it stand up by putting a glob of white chocolate behind it! It was almost time for her party so I didn't have time to stay and talk to the owner about it. I took the cake to the party, and set it up. The bottom layer of the cake completely crumbled! This was even before the guests arrived. I had set up a special table because I wanted this cake to be showcased with lighting at the party. I ended up hiding the cake. We had to run to the supermarket and buy some white and pink frosting to try to fix the cake. The next day I went to show the owner some pictures and she said that she had not worked on the cake so she had no idea what happened. She promised me another cake for any othe ocassion free. Why would I want to go through that again? This place is definitely not worth your money!

T-Bones Steak House

Disappointing at best!! The steaks werent too bad....but certainly not worth the price!! We were there opening night and after finding "Made in China" and price tags on the bopttom of our plates and bowls, I asked the owner, (Jeremy Tucker) if they had been washed. He assured (lied) me they had and that the "manufacturer recommeneded they not remove the tags as it would leave a residue on the bottom." (CLEARLY ANOTHER LIE) We were also served an appetizer platter of meat and cheese that had spolied GREEN meat and cheese on it. Again, the owner assured us that the platter had just been prepared and it was merely a "reaction" the meat and cheese was haveing with the plate itself. We will be sticking to Tahoe Joes and Outback. Too bad!! I was really hoping it would be good. Just as Mr. Tuckers Amigos failed.....Im afraid he will sadly fail here also!!!

All Credit Mortgage

Folks this is a warning and I cannot stress enough to "RUN and hide" from this organization. The following phrases come to mind: Unethical, unprofessional, and unscrupulous. These are the "good" things I can say about this firm and the people there. Don't take any chances with your loan approval and risk getting your credit damaged. I made the mistake of recomending my clients call for an pre approval for a purchase of their home. This organization promised the world and even offered some rather "questionable" methods.

Look for another organization to do your loan.

Taco Pronto

This place is awsome, 5 star excellent food and service.

Rad Thrift Store

Dingy. Dirty. Dimly lit. Absolute dynamite! The store is jam-packed with used clothing, accessories, and home furnishings. Large fans blow from each corner. Dressing rooms are non-existent. And Saturdays are half-off everything.

I have a dollar in my pocket. Let's go shopping.

Uricchio's Trattoria

This was my first time to this place. It was recommended from the staff at Luigi's as an option because they only serve lunch. We found it looked real busy for a Tuesday night. The only thing I cared for was the appetizer of Calamari. I have tried 4 Italian eateries here in the last 12 months all sub par. I will say this has been the best service of the four though. All seem to have average food quality with average ingredients. Where can I find classic Italian fare in this town? Give me traditional osso bucco with risotto milanes not penne pasta or seaonal vegetables. How about a simple made to order risotto with mushrooms. Is there a restaurant that changes menus at least 4-5 times a year? And uses ingredients grown in the centrall valley?

Gimme Some Sugar

Since my m-i-l is a wedding planner and had ordered many cakes here and had wonderful experiences, we decided to order a cake for my daughter's 2nd birthday party. The theme was Elmo and the lady said she would design a cake of Elmo holding a goldfish bowl and make crayons to put around the cake. It was going to look like those you see on tv. We were very excited with the proposed plan.

The day of the birthday party, the cake was dropped off to my f-i-l before the rest of us showed up at the party. He was given 5 dollars back because they didn't have time to make the crayons. I was very disappointed when I saw that the cake was nothing like we'd been told it would be. They delivered a flat cake and just airbrushed Elmo with the goldfish bowl. The cake was definitely not worth the $150 that was paid. My m-i-l got on the phone and called the owner right away. She said there must've been some miscommunication about the design of the cake and promised a refund for half the price. She was the one who designed the cake so I dont' know what the miscommunication was. We left the cake on the cake table and continued to enjoy the party. About 3 hours after the cake was dropped off, we sliced it to serve it. It was frozen! It was absolutely the worst cake ever. This year, we went with a Costco cake and it was way better.

I would never recommend this place to anyone. Suffice to say: my m-i-l no longer uses them for her business.

Casa Munoz

Casa Munoz is one of the finest Mexican restaurants in town. My family has been regular customers every since they opened. The staff is very friendly and proficient. The food quality and taste is always consistent. The Munoz family are very community connected and always make you feel welcome and like family. The prices are good for the amount of food you get. The margaritas are exceptional and always a bargain on weekends. We love to take out of town family and friends there to eat and we like to introduce Casa Munoz to new friends who have never had the opportunity to eat there. It always becomes their favorite Mexican restaurant as well. I highly reccommened this restaurant to anyone looking for good mexican food at reasonable prices. Paula Bertolucci

Sinaloa

Taco Bell would be a better choice.

Assistance League Bargain Box

This thrift store is so clean and bright, it literally sparkles! Quite a rare thing to find at a thrift store.

They have the store completely organized not only by the standard type of garment, but also by size, which I have never seen at a thrift or consignment store. It makes for fast shopping, but really takes away from that thrift store thrill of the hunt feeling. The selection is limited, but they have overall a higher quality of item than most thrift stores as well. Their great "boutique" section with their nicer, brand name items. The asking prices are very reasonable.

Sub-Station Stockdale

I love Sub Station! I've only gone to the Stockdale location, mostly because I've been going there since High School. Now my Mom and husband are fans too. it's one of the best sandwich shops in Bakersfield, and I've been going there since they opened! My favorite is the #9 cold (Roast Beef and Turkey). Yum, so good! Everything always tastes fresh. Honestly, I've never had a problem with service, and I can see that they hire students, but I'd love it there even if I had to make the food myself, because it's that good. It's a walk up counter, what are people expecting, service like a four star restaurant? I try to stop in whenever I'm back in town visiting, I live in LA now, and wish there was Sub Station there!.

Smith's Bakeries

Smith's is the best bakery anywhere! I try to stop in anytime I'm here visiting my Mom! I was raised in Bakersfield and have traveled quite a bit, nothing I've tried comes close in the USA. Smith's is a regional TREASURE, and it's because their products are consistently delicious. My husband, who is a more recent convert, agrees. Our favorites are the Thumbprint cookies, the Brownies, the Halloween Jack-O-Lantern cookies (and Seasonal decorated), and the Dutch Crunch Bread! That's the four basic food groups right there! And they make the best birthday cakes, beautifully decorated! It's something I still look forward to every year!

Kakes By Karen

Kakes by Karen is the local Gold Standard for wedding cakes and special occasion baked goods. She did our wedding cake 12 years ago, and it was nothing short of breathtaking. Oh, and it was the best tasting wedding cake I've ever had, still. We order a small cake from her every year to celebrate our anniversary. It's that good!

Creative, beautiful results, and actually delicious to eat - what more could you want from a wedding cake or other special occasion? Besides reasonable prices, of course, which she definitely has. The cake was the ONLY thing under budget in my whole wedding! But it sure didn't look or taste under budget!

Rasmussen's Danish Bakery

Here's are review for Rasmussen's:

Try calling the number! It is disconnected. This place has been out of business since at least around March '08 when I tried to call & got the out of service recording, and then went over to the address and there was no business anymore!

Gimme Some Sugar

they made my wedding cake last month and everyone of our guests thought it was great!!!

Smith's Bakeries

Smith's Bakery on Union is one of the best in the nation. I grew up in Bakersfield and everytime I return, I long for their delicious maple bar donuts and their scrumptious holiday buttercream frosting cookies.

If the seasonal cookies are not available, they usually always have stand by "happy face" shortbread cookies which are also a reliable favorite.

For a special birthday, try the banana nut cake with buttercream frosting. Delicious!

34th Street Deli

This is truly the BEST burger in Bakersfield. I can't believe that John's Burgers wins that award every year - they don't come anywhere near the fresh and tasty burgers you get here. You could eat the meat alone, with nothing on it, and it would be wonderful - the meat is that fresh. The price is also reasonable - you can get a burger, fries and drink combo for $7! I've been dining here for many years and have recommended it to all of my friends. I make the drive from the south end of town and wait sometimes 30 minutes to get one of these burgers - and it's always worth it. Come on Bakersfield - try it out - you won't be sorry.

34th Street Deli

I must agree, these are the best burgers that I've ever tasted. I always get the cheeseburger meal w/ fries and the drink. I can never finish it all because of the large portions, but boy do I try. You haven't eaten a real burger until you've eaten here. Once you've tasted one, you'll never want a burger from anywhere else. There's seriously no competition for them in Bakersfield.

Rocket Shop Cafe

This place is awsome they have the best burgers around when they say angus they mean it yum allthe food we have tried has been great.

This place is a diamond in the rough it has been right under our nose and we diden't even smell it not to mention it is a legacy in bakersfield for the Harmon Rocket this is a place you have to visit the people are great and the atmosphere is great you feel very welcome.

We liked it so much we ate there 2 days in one week and considered going back the next day we are looking forword to saturday for karaoke.

Mama Roomba

This is one of my favorite spots in Bako. The Bohemian atmosphere is very stimulating, drinks are delightful, and the menu is small but superb! I give it an enthusiastic 10.

T-Bones Steak House

I went here a couple of weekends ago. We were the first ones to be seated. I thought it was strange that 20-25 minutes went by before our order was taken. It was annoying to see tables across the dining room being served to people who arrived after us, while we were still waiting to give our order. Turns out the waitress for our table was late for work. Couldn't we have been seated elsewhere, or couldn't other waiters cover us until she arrived? I thought that was odd. She worked really hard once she go there there but by that time she was too for behind and couldn't quite catch up to the task.

I wish they didn't have to bring out each individual course one at a time. I'd rather everything be bought out altogether. That's just my personal preference.

The T-bone I ordered was the best steak I've ever had. It was like having a steak for the first time in my life. It had a generous amount of seasoning which is the way I like it.

I'd go back again sometime, just not so early in the day.

The Orchid

We have gone there for lunch and dinner serveral times. The soups are great. Lunch was very good. The regular Thai Ice Tea is very good. We also loved their appetizers and dinners. Loved the Wine Bar too. The service is excellent.

El Portal West

Don't know how someone can write a bad review of the El Portal West. We got our chips and salsa right away. Great Salsa. Presentation of their food is very good especially the dish that they light on fire. They have a fantastic Sunday brunch too. Staff is very friendly!

Pizzaville Usa-Oak

Hands down best pizza in Bakersfield! Been going there since the mid 70's. It's so delicious I burn my mouth every time because I can't wait for it to cool off for a second. All they need is HDTV and I'm moving in.

La Tapatia North

The atmosphere is "o.k." but we go for the food and service. Both have been great everytime we have been there. We have only been going there for about nine months, but we now go about three times a month. If you like Flan for dessert, you have to try it here!!!!! My husband loves the chili verde but I go for the enchiladas or sopas. I don't recommend the camarones al ojo de ajo (spelling is probably wrong, but it's basically a shrimp with garlic.) Oh, and we always get a tootsie roll at the end of the meal!!!! (Fun for the granddaughter.)

KUVI TV-45, My Network TV

Previously, I have been a loyal viewer of this station. But, recent programming has sent me packin'. These are good shows, but... Sunday: 4pm - Desparate Housewives, 5pm, Boston Legal... really now, is this "Sunday" when the kids are coming in to get ready for dinner, appropriate viewing? Do they even consider things like this anymore? Is there anyone with social skills involved in their program scheduling? I don't watch this channel anywhere near as much anymore!!!

Great Wraps

Great Wraps on Brimhall is one of my favorite places to grab a bite to eat while on a bike ride in the area. I'll stop here if I'm going to/from Action Sports or Liberty Park. I also like to go to Daddy O's Yogurt next door after eating at Great Wraps. The food and service are very good, and prices are about what you'd expect for a fast food joint.

All of the wraps I've tried are good, but my personal favorite is the Santa Fe Chicken wrap on any tortilla (especially the spinach one) with the feta sauce, bacon, parmesan, and olives. I'm not a big onion, lettuce, tomato, jalepeno, etc., eater, so I don't get those on my wraps. I've also tried the Buffalo Chicken wrap (spicy, but good nonetheless). Their fries are pretty good, too, made fresh when you order (they take a couple of minutes to cook). They also give you a big portion of fries. And you can season them with one (or more if you want) of the four or five seasonings they have (including chili cheese (my favorite), peppercorn ranch, and two or three others that don't come to my mind right now).

I usually spend less than $8 for a great-tasting wrap with a regular-size drink and fries.

The owners and employees are really nice and friendly and quick, too.

They also have a card where if you get 8 wraps, you get the 9th wrap for FREE!

Pizzaville Usa-Oak

There is no other place I'd rather eat on Mondays. Two item large pizza wit chicken and wedges for $17.50. I can't wait for this stupid Sunday to get over with so I can go get me some Pizza tomorrow.

Plus....this is how pizza USED to taste here in Bakersfield. That thin beer crust is reminiscent of the Pizzavilles and Shakeys of yesteryear.

Rusty's and Magoos are great too, but in a Sam's Pizzaboat kind of way.

Riley's Tavern

Go to the back bar, Dennis will get you set up quick if you tip. Dennis is leaving the place on December 27. THAT should be a party you won't want to miss.

Too Fat Sandwich Shop

I love this place. The flat bread is starting to catch on, but Too Fat was OG in the flatbrerad scene. ;-)

Nile Point Veterinary Hospital

This veterinarian is the oldest practicing veterinarian in Bakersfield. He knows his way around an animal, and has a VERY loyal following.

HOWEVER, as a former employee, I have witnessed things first-hand that force me to withhold my recommendation for this business. I will leave it at that.

Stiern Veterinary Hospital

Top-notch veterinary medicine practiced here. Don't let the older building fool you, Drs Bollier and Rakow are probably the most thorough veterinarians in town. I have used Dr B for ear crops for decades, and he is an artist. The frequent follow ups make this my number one pick in the entire state for crops.

Dr Rakow once saved my big behind right after one show and before another HUGE show. Tara (the fawn bitch in my avtar) needed hidden stitches, and Dr Rose (as I like to call her) exceeded my expectations with an invisible set of stitches.

The only drawback about their thouroughness is that it CAN (not always) cost a tad more. As I said previously this is a top pick for your veterinary care.

Cooke's Veterinary Hospital

Dr Cooke is without question one of Bakersfield's hidden jewels.

If you are after reasonable veterinary medicine, practiced fairly inexpensively--then Dr Cooke is the best choice in Bakersfield if you ask my opinion.

Having been in dogsport/showing for decades, and being president of the Bakersfield APBT Club and the Tri-City APBT Club, and working as a vet tech for several years--I have a unique inside view. From my pit bulls to my pussygato (thanks cookie), Cooke's VH is my first choice.

Trust me on this one--this guy's good. Damn good!

Don Pericos Mexican Restaurant

We have eaten at Don Pericos on Hageman several times since it opened and tonight was the first night it was so bad I couldn't eat it. I ordered Pollo Asado and I believe all they did was cook some pieces of chicken in the microwave and color it orange, It was like eating flavorless chicken jerky wrapped in a tortilla with the side of rice and beans. If this is what I can expect from future visits, we will be ditching this mexican restaurant and try one of the countless others in the area. Not wanting my food to go to waste, I brought it home to my teenager since with a little hot sauce, he will eat anything. I have had better seasoned and cooked chicken at McDonalds. YUCK. And the service was not up to its usual standards either.

VIP Lounge

Back in the day this used to be my Grumpy's alcoholic hangout and it still tends to be a home-away-from-home for older professional drinkers.

In the evenings there is an influx of younger people and can be a fun bar to chill with friends and talk crap. It's dimly lit with surprisingly comfortable sleazy decor: leather (or faux leather) seats and booths, mirror-paneled walls and TVs playing silently in every corner. The drinks are strong and cheap! They also have a stellar jukebox; however, if you don't take control you can expect the same, typical jukebox songs to play over and over again ad nauseam.

Not my fave, but a pretty decent bar.

Bakersfield Music Theatre

The performances are incredible, with VERY talented casts!

Silver Fox

I dug working here with Apryl, Terry, and Mike. They have a pretty stoney crowd, cool place to chill, it may be a lil smokie for some though.

City Sandwich Co

Love this place! Great sandwiches, great sides, great people! One tip...I'm 29, PLEASE don't call me ma'am!

KC Steakhouse

Want to step back into the 1970s? Then the dark atmosphere and vintage decor of the KC Steak House is for you. Want a good steak? Go somewhere else because you won't get one there. As for anyone giving this place more than 2 stars...well you must eat TV dinners the rest of the time. The food is not worth the price and I am sorry but the service can't make up for that.

VIP Lounge

greatest Bar in bakersfield.

Checkers

Had to go try their Checker Burger, (heard it was supposed to be the best in town) $1.39 and tax= $1.49 for a pretty good Burger, but I really do not care for shredded lettuce... the pickle relish made it different, but I still like to Doctor my Burgers to my own taste, not here, outside eating only and no extras of any kind to be found.. Still can't compare to the JJ my way...

Sequoia Sandwich Company

Eh, their sandwiches are good but I always feel like there is something lacking. I've been to Sequoia many times and have tried each variety of turkey sandwich. The bread is mediocre. The ingredients are average, and there is never enough avocado. I usually finish feeling fairly underwhelmed.

I will give it to them on the side dishes - the balsamic broccoli and tomato is a nice, fresh addition. And the sugar cookies are sublime! I'd choose Too Fat or Heidi's over Sequoia any day. Well, besides a day that offers a good coupon.

Chico's

Chico's is a staple fixture in most California malls and here in Bakersfield, it's located in the Marketplace on Ming. It's a "comfort" clothing store for women 35+. It's mostly knit outfits from gym wear to formal- all very tasteful and conservative. The style remind me at times of Southwestern in their choice of colors, prints and the jewelry the sell. I think they do offer some good staples, but would be a bit matronly for anyone in the 20s or early 30s.

Almost Free Alterations

Almost Free Alterations in in the shopping center with the Teriyaki Bowl right near the 99 on Ming. It is an odd shop since they are converting it from being a bottled water business over to a tailor and it's a disaster inside. I have only used them once but I was pleased with the results. The staff is friendly and despite a bit of confusion when I picked up my garment, they did a good job. I paid $7.50 for a pant hem with a 5 day turn-around time.

I am giving them an average score since I am a bit compulsive about organization and atmosphere at a business and they have some room for improvement in these areas.

KMart

I grew up in Santa Barbara where Kmart was our only big box store, so I have a fondness in some sense for Kmart in my heart. When I moved here, I was so happy to have Kmart just down the street from me. I was pretty disappointed. It was dark and dingy feeling.

It has improved this past year though. It has been updated, reorganized and now also sells appliances. In comparision to Target or Walmart, the selection is limited and it seems to attract a lower end clientele. I am always worried that it will close since it is never crowded. This is also a perk since it can be very quick to get in and out of the store if you just want to run in and pick up something. I do always go there every few months just to check out the Martha Stewart collection of home goods, and Christmas is also a great time to go and check out their tree decorations. They aren't as picked over as you would find at other discount stores.

Champs BBQ & Catering

I went to Champs the other day to try out their Spare Ribs, (a 2 bone sample, $3 each) I was surprised as they were very good, I did not really care for the coleslaw that much, a bit of a vinegar taste, as i like it a bit sweeter... but not bad anyway. I will go back for a rack of them great ribs another time... A full rack of Spare Ribs is $23.50 with 2 sides and a roll, Half Rack = $14.50 And! nice Friendly gals working there... I'll be back...

Famous Dave's

Well i finally made it by to try their pork Ribs, (not the Baby Backs), as many have said they thought they were the best in town.. I got the 4 bone sample package, it came with a Cornbread Muffin, that was very good.. The Ribs were also very good, and I am as picky as they come.. they were $3 a bone. a bit less if you get a bigger dinner... So, I would go back for the ribs and Cornbread... They were very friendly as well, they even gave me a free cup of coffee while I waited for my togo order... Not bad for the money...