Perfect old school diner. Biscuits are the highlight of breakfast.
Jabriel Sharp
Very delicious meal and meal choices. The service was grand and pleasant. I really enjoyed my breakfast with a few friends. Temperature of food was great as well. This place as a very homestyle feel.
Tony
What do you do when a place that feels welcoming on the surface quietly tells you that people like you aren’t truly welcome?
As a Mexican American, I’ve lived in Bakersfield long enough to know which local gems carry heart — and 24th Street Café seemed like one of them. Great food. A nostalgic atmosphere. Friendly service. I was seriously considering bringing my family and friends here for a big Fourth of July brunch. I wanted to support local and celebrate in a space that felt classic and rooted in community.
But that all changed the moment I stepped into the restroom and saw a sign on the wall written only in Spanish:
“No orine o miccione fuera de la taza.” (Translation: “Do not urinate or defecate outside the toilet.”)
There was no English version posted — no balance, no effort to deliver the message universally. Just a warning directed in one direction, toward one group.
Let that sink in: a message about bathroom cleanliness, directed only at Spanish speakers.
That kind of selective messaging might seem minor to some — but to many of us, it’s a gut-punch. A quiet signal that says: “We expect less from you. We assume the worst from you.”
I brought this up respectfully to a waitress after complimenting the meal and sharing my excitement about returning with loved ones. She had agreed to be recorded, and at first, the conversation was warm and easy. But the moment I brought up the sign, everything shifted. Her expression tightened, her answers became vague, and within seconds she ended the conversation and walked away — recording and all.
It was disheartening. Not because I expected a confrontation, but because I hoped for curiosity, empathy — some recognition that what I saw might feel wrong to someone like me.
I won’t be returning. And I chose not to bring my family here for Independence Day — because if a place doesn’t feel like it honors all Americans equally, how can I celebrate there?
This review isn’t an attack. It’s a call to awareness.
To anyone reading: language matters. Messages matter. Silence matters. And we all have the right to expect dignity — even in the smallest details, even in the restroom.
Kelly Palmer
Visited for breakfast recently and it was so good we went back for lunch today.Found out we can take our dog to the patio area so will be returning soon.
ela pam
Honestly not a fan of their food. Been their twice and got a burger, other time an omelet. Just bland and mid. Surprised it always seems busy but wouldn't try again after giving it even a second chance.
Joe Reese
Food was excellent, service friendly and professional. Dinner styling atmosphere, with fair pricing. However, at normal meal times this place has lines many times out the door. Worth planning for whatever meal you are looking for! 😄
Tamara Houser
Crystal and her co-workers were great during our 7am visit on a Monday morning this summer. We liked the atmosphere inside but the neighborhood is slightly blighted. We did not order the pumpkin pancakes of Food Network game. We got grilled cornbread and ciabata French toast. Hot chocolate was good and our water glasses were refilled like 6 times. Decor is typical diner antique, which is fun for phone free conversation. Cornbread was dry but the mushroom and drizzled flavored it up nicely. Mashed potato has cheese in it which added some extra flavor there. French toast was as expected with fresh berries on top. A variety of patrons, seating options, and knowledge of food allergies added to this pleasant experience.
Kemoshire
I recently visited 24th Street Café, a beloved local diner known for its comforting, scratch-made meals. The staff were welcoming and attentive, contributing to a pleasant dining atmosphere. If you’re in Bakersfield and craving classic American comfort food in a nostalgic setting, 24th Street Café is worth a visit. Just be prepared for potential crowds and parking challenges during busy hours.
— Kemoshire | Honest reviews. If I visit it, I review it.
David S
I've eaten here about 10 or so times and have never been disappointed! I only wish there was a bit more parking but that's a result of their well earned popularity so what can you do? ?
Side note, this place is really good about keeping your coffee cup full
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mike
Excellent, tasty, huge heated cinnamon roll. Great, tasty eggs. Great gravy. Great coffee.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 3
Recommended dishes: Cinnamon Roll with Whipped Butter, Gravy, Avocado
Pumpkin pancakes are my favorite. But everything looks delicious
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Cinnamon Roll with Whipped Butter, Pumpkin Pancakes, Pastrami Sandwich, Eggs Benedict, Fries, Stuffed French Toast, Salad, Chicken Fried Steak, Avocado, Burger
Brandon Martinez
This place is not worth the hype. At all. Food sat under the warmer for over 7 minutes. My waffle was cold and hard. My chicken tenders were dry and barely hot. Maybe this place was cool 9 years ago when Guy was here, but not anymore. Honestly one of my worst restaurant experiences ever. There are so many other places in Bakersfield that have better food and staff. Save your time and money. Eat somewhere else.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 1
Service: 2
Earl Detrick
Looking for a great breakfast at 6am? You could go to Denny's or IHOP, or you can go to this gem in downtown Bakersfield!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Marilyn Young
It’s changed! Food wasn’t as good. Bacon had no flavor, eggs were good. Biscuits were not fluffy and yummy as in the past. Little jars of jam not on table anymore. You have to ask for Jam and they bring a little in a plastic container. No butter for biscuits. Gravy was still good. Service was excellent. Of course parking is limited but always has been. I think I like Moo and Cafe Smitten better now.
Perfect old school diner. Biscuits are the highlight of breakfast.
Very delicious meal and meal choices. The service was grand and pleasant. I really enjoyed my breakfast with a few friends. Temperature of food was great as well. This place as a very homestyle feel.
What do you do when a place that feels welcoming on the surface quietly tells you that people like you aren’t truly welcome?
As a Mexican American, I’ve lived in Bakersfield long enough to know which local gems carry heart — and 24th Street Café seemed like one of them. Great food. A nostalgic atmosphere. Friendly service. I was seriously considering bringing my family and friends here for a big Fourth of July brunch. I wanted to support local and celebrate in a space that felt classic and rooted in community.
But that all changed the moment I stepped into the restroom and saw a sign on the wall written only in Spanish:
“No orine o miccione fuera de la taza.”
(Translation: “Do not urinate or defecate outside the toilet.”)
There was no English version posted — no balance, no effort to deliver the message universally. Just a warning directed in one direction, toward one group.
Let that sink in: a message about bathroom cleanliness, directed only at Spanish speakers.
That kind of selective messaging might seem minor to some — but to many of us, it’s a gut-punch. A quiet signal that says: “We expect less from you. We assume the worst from you.”
I brought this up respectfully to a waitress after complimenting the meal and sharing my excitement about returning with loved ones. She had agreed to be recorded, and at first, the conversation was warm and easy. But the moment I brought up the sign, everything shifted. Her expression tightened, her answers became vague, and within seconds she ended the conversation and walked away — recording and all.
It was disheartening. Not because I expected a confrontation, but because I hoped for curiosity, empathy — some recognition that what I saw might feel wrong to someone like me.
I won’t be returning. And I chose not to bring my family here for Independence Day — because if a place doesn’t feel like it honors all Americans equally, how can I celebrate there?
This review isn’t an attack. It’s a call to awareness.
To anyone reading: language matters. Messages matter. Silence matters. And we all have the right to expect dignity — even in the smallest details, even in the restroom.
Visited for breakfast recently and it was so good we went back for lunch today.Found out we can take our dog to the patio area so will be returning soon.
Honestly not a fan of their food. Been their twice and got a burger, other time an omelet. Just bland and mid. Surprised it always seems busy but wouldn't try again after giving it even a second chance.
Food was excellent, service friendly and professional. Dinner styling atmosphere, with fair pricing. However, at normal meal times this place has lines many times out the door. Worth planning for whatever meal you are looking for! 😄
Crystal and her co-workers were great during our 7am visit on a Monday morning this summer. We liked the atmosphere inside but the neighborhood is slightly blighted. We did not order the pumpkin pancakes of Food Network game. We got grilled cornbread and ciabata French toast. Hot chocolate was good and our water glasses were refilled like 6 times. Decor is typical diner antique, which is fun for phone free conversation. Cornbread was dry but the mushroom and drizzled flavored it up nicely. Mashed potato has cheese in it which added some extra flavor there. French toast was as expected with fresh berries on top. A variety of patrons, seating options, and knowledge of food allergies added to this pleasant experience.
I recently visited 24th Street Café, a beloved local diner known for its comforting, scratch-made meals. The staff were welcoming and attentive, contributing to a pleasant dining atmosphere. If you’re in Bakersfield and craving classic American comfort food in a nostalgic setting, 24th Street Café is worth a visit. Just be prepared for potential crowds and parking challenges during busy hours.
— Kemoshire | Honest reviews. If I visit it, I review it.
I've eaten here about 10 or so times and have never been disappointed! I only wish there was a bit more parking but that's a result of their well earned popularity so what can you do? ?
Side note, this place is really good about keeping your coffee cup full
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Excellent, tasty, huge heated cinnamon roll. Great, tasty eggs. Great gravy. Great coffee.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 3
Recommended dishes: Cinnamon Roll with Whipped Butter, Gravy, Avocado
Restaurantji Recommends
Pumpkin pancakes are my favorite. But everything looks delicious
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Cinnamon Roll with Whipped Butter, Pumpkin Pancakes, Pastrami Sandwich, Eggs Benedict, Fries, Stuffed French Toast, Salad, Chicken Fried Steak, Avocado, Burger
This place is not worth the hype. At all. Food sat under the warmer for over 7 minutes. My waffle was cold and hard. My chicken tenders were dry and barely hot. Maybe this place was cool 9 years ago when Guy was here, but not anymore. Honestly one of my worst restaurant experiences ever. There are so many other places in Bakersfield that have better food and staff. Save your time and money. Eat somewhere else.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 1
Service: 2
Looking for a great breakfast at 6am? You could go to Denny's or IHOP, or you can go to this gem in downtown Bakersfield!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
It’s changed! Food wasn’t as good. Bacon had no flavor, eggs were good. Biscuits were not fluffy and yummy as in the past. Little jars of jam not on table anymore. You have to ask for Jam and they bring a little in a plastic container. No butter for biscuits. Gravy was still good. Service was excellent. Of course parking is limited but always has been. I think I like Moo and Cafe Smitten better now.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 3
Service: 5
Great breakfast
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Biscuits and Gravy
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