Noriega's

Noriega's is keeping a Basque tradition alive that started at the original Noriega's in 1940, right down to the same long tables and vintage dishware. There are a few things to remember if you're coming for a Basque meal. First of all, you're going for a feast, especially if it's your first time. You'll want to mention as soon as you get there that you'll be having the full setup, especially if the restaurant isn't busy, as everything is made from scratch and they'll need to start cooking. What will follow is a parade of simple, fresh, and delicious dishes that would seem more at home in a 19th century shepherd's tavern than a modern European restaurant. But the simplicity is rewarding and you'll want to put the garlicky salsa on everything.You can order al a carte but if you don't specify when ordering the setup they'll bring you their soup and entrees of the day. For us that was clam chowder, fried cod with an excellent tartar sauce, and sliced tri tip. Again, it was all simple fare, but executed well and delicious. As a lunch for two people we were full beyond imagination, and the setup also comes with a bottle of the house chilled red wine, from the same vineyard as the original Noriega's. It was smooth and refreshing on a hot day and paired well with the food. The owner was more than happy to talk to us about the history of the original restaurant and treated us like she was serving family. She also made an excellent pecan punch, a boozy American-Basque traditional cocktail that was the perfect pre-meal wake up call for the taste buds. All in all, you need to know what you're getting into when you go to Noriega's (unless you're planning on ordering from the soul food menu, which seemed like a popular choice for takeout). But if you have a party of two or more, have at least an hour or more to spend, and enjoy California history, Noriega's setup is a must-try.

The staff was great. The catfish was perfect. The fries and onion rings were good. The BBQ was yummy. The ribs were tender , the chicken had an excellent fry , the sausage was spicy.

Had the best experience ever, from the moment I walked in, I was greeted with the most warm and friendliest vibe and totally liked the atmosphere immediately. I next called my daughter on her cell to come in from the car. I was ordering to go for the first time and observed they had a full bar area to sit and wait at. My daughter placed an order also, she too was impressed with the menu selections and atmosphere. We ordered to go and got home and tasted some of the best soul food in Bakersfield. The hostess filled us in on their many event nights and live music nights too. This restaurant is amazing and what made the experience ever better was the outstanding customer service from the hostess/server who shared she was a Bakersfield native. I did not get her name, but she was fabulous toward us on 4/30/24 a hour before closing and we will be back soon. Love It!!!

Went here with a buddy for lunch for my first time, and quite the experience... We show up 5 minutes after they open, doors locked, and finally a few minutes later the waitress shows up (obviously very late). She had to turn the lights and TVs on for us before even getting seated. I ordered a beer, and to all of our surprises all they had was a 7 oz in a bottle with lemons... I attempted to order their basque lunch, which come to find out after the fact they can't serve that until noon. So, we weren't sticking around for another hour so had to switch up the order. I ordered the fish meal, and it was not very good. Over cooked, burnt, and looked like a cheap meal to be honest. I am sure we just happened to experience "one of those days", and I totally understand that. Our waitress, although very personable, was not very professional and it wasn't deserving of another visit in my opinion.

For years, I had scheduled every trip through Bakersfield so I could have dinner at Noriega's, so I was heartbroken to hear that the original restaurant had closed. Fortunately, a local family decided to continue the legacy at a new location. I was apprehensive at first, but I can confirm that they're doing a great job: perfect service, and the same huge servings of Basque favorites, including wine, at a very reasonable price. The modern new space isn't the same as the original vintage building, but everything else is what you'd hope for.

I love the new Noriega's! Celebrated with friends here and we enjoyed every bite! First of all...that bar though! It's gorgeous! Talk about eye candy! Beautiful crystal chandeliers, marble bar and beautiful lighting! This area is where you wait until you are seated. My only complaint is - saw kids at the bar. Didn't like that. Bars are for adults. Both parents and staff should regulate that. I don't want to sit and enjoy a dirty martini with a 5 year old. The dining room takes on a whole different look. But i love how they hung up the wooden panels from the original Noriega's. Food was delicious! We had fried chicken and oxtail...nice portions and great original flavor. I'd definitely bring back the gang and have huge celebrations here. Ohhhh and service was amazing!!!!

I LOVE this place. Went there at 4pm on a Thursday to grab a solo meal. Was in Bakersfield for an event and wanted to try some Basque cuisine. I had read that the custom is for large groups of people to experience a multi-course feast, so I figured as a single diner, I would just order something a la carte. I told the woman who waited on me that I wanted the garlic fried chicken. She suggested that I "treat myself" and get the whole set, with soup etc. I said ok why not! And WOW was I glad I did. I got the full Basque meal experience: cabbage stew, salad, beans, salsa, bread, a tiny square of cheese, two pieces of crispy garlic fried chicken, and two pieces of juicy, fall-off-the-bone short ribs. They even included red table wine, which they generously refilled. Everything was SO DELICIOUS I was in heaven. I had plenty leftover for a delightful lunch the next day. I thought to myself that I was probably going to get hit with a big tab, but I didn't care. Imagine my shock when the bill came out to only $33. Whaaaat!? I gave them a generous tip because they had been so kind and welcoming to me. On my way to the bathroom, I stopped to chat with a gentleman who turned out to be the owner--I believe the woman who served me was his partner. The two of them had purchased the restaurant from the actual Noriega family, who started the restaurant during what looked like pioneer times, judging from the vintage photos on the wall. They bought the family recipes and are doing their best to carry on their traditions. I'd say that they're doing a SPECTACULAR job. If you're looking to sample Basque cuisine in Bakersfield, I can't recommend Noriega's enough!!!

The fried catfish plate is my absolute! I love all the sides they had to offer, from greens, yams, cabbage, and much more! I decided to go with the Mac n cheese and the chili beans and of course it is served with a fresh piece of corn bread!

Hello, Went to Noriega last night...Friday night Dinner. 7pmReservations .There was only the Three of USEating in the Dinning Room.They Told Me there was a Choice option .On the Menu Friday Dinner is Beef Stew and lamb.Also Calm chowder.What we Were served was Reheated Lunch Tri TipAnd Cod fish ....It was un edible.We did not Get any Calm Chowder.The Potato salad came straight from Smart and final!Lunch is $29 per person.It Cost Me $ 190 for three to not be able to eat because it was so BAD!!!Will tell everybody I know to not go there .Enjoy That $190 dollars Because It's The last Dollar U wil get Out of three of US.

Ambiance is nothing special. You walk into a small bar with cafe seating. Very plain. The room in back where I happened to be today was nicer with some pretty lighting in the middle. The floor is tile so it is very loud in there. I was there following a funeral. The French bread was a little warm but crunchy hard like it wasn't fresh!! The potato salad was good but we couldn't get enough of it!! The garlic chicken was warm. At the very end they brought the French fries??!! No ice cream??? My friend paid a lot of $$ to have the lunch there. And the kicker is, because they over estimated the attendance, Noriega only sent home plain chicken. No set up like fries or beans, potato salad. No, Woolgrowers has always been my favorite and it will remain.