There are numerous chain restaurants throughout the city and in its shopping centers, but there are also plenty of delicious local places to sample. Good Basque food is easy to find. Bakersfield has what is most likely the largest single cluster of Basque restaurants in California. --try Maitia's, Noriega's, Benji's, Narducci's, The Pyrenees or Woolgrowers. Italian food fans might enjoy Joseph's, Rosa's, Luigi's, or Uricchio's. Cafe Med is known for its Mediterranean flair and excellent wines. There are several Thai restaurants that have opened in the last couple of years, while Japanese and Indian cuisines are popular as well. More unusual offerings include Mama Roomba's Caribbean and Flames & Skewers middle eastern, both downtown. Of course, hearty American food is everywhere, especially at the 24th Street Cafe a favorite breakfast spot and Mr. Tibbs Ribs a local barbecue institution.Bakersfield is also home to Dewar's Candy Shop, a local ice cream parlor and candy shop that has been featured on the Travel Channel on several occasions. Make sure that you try one of their famous black and whites and don't forget to buy a box of Dewar's chews on your way out!
