I visited this establishment on a Saturday evening. My wife and I called ahead to see if they were taking reservations. The hostess informed us that there were no more reservations available for the evening but that there was currently no wait time when we arrived We were seated quickly, the establishment itself was pretty full and they did seem a little shorthanded on waitresses. But their service was still fantastic even with being shorthanded. My wife ordered the grilled octopus being that you don't see that on many menus. The presentation was beautiful. Everything tasted fresh and made to order and I didn't get the sense that anything had been sitting around for a while. The octopus was excellent. It was served with grilled Brussel sprouts tossed in a sauce on the side. It also had fresh sliced avocado, pickled onions And Mexican cheese all on the side. My wife did make the comment that she did wish that there was at least one item on her plate that was crunchy just to add some substance. I ordered the chicken taquitos Dorados. Again the presentation was beautiful. The taquitos were perfectly crispy. It was topped with Crema and Mexican cheese, and served with freshly made guacamole on the side. Everything was excellent, and again tasted very fresh. We also ordered the salsa flight which had four different types of salsa, and what tasted like freshly made in house. Chips three of the four sauces were excellent. The only one that we did not care for was the pineapple salsa. It seemed just a bit too watery. For drinks we ordered the margarita flight which was pretty good considering it was only $20. The ambience of this place was pretty loud. They did have music playing in the background. I would say this would be a good spot for a first date. They also had multiple TVs with different sports on which was nice and a nice open bar. My wife and I did find ourselves having to speak a little louder than normal to be able to hear each other. So if you're looking for a quiet sit down restaurant, I would definitely look elsewhere . Overall, it was a nice experience, and I would definitely return read more

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Somehow I forgot to review this place on our first trip. It's the highlight of an old strip mall in the Southwest part of town (formerly Chuys). The outside looks aged and not so welcoming but, once your inside it's a very nice place. The staff are friendly and generally very attentive. The food is great and always made fresh when you order. They have a variety of different appetizers to choose from and they are all quite affordable during happy hour (3-6:00 pm daily). On this particular trip we had several of them starting with Asada Nachos ( they were so good I forgot to take a pic), Asada Tacos, Chorizo & Bean Dip. All of which were hot and flavorful. The Salsa Flight is a must! I'm a huge fan of the Pina Salsa, it's cold, has a refreshing citrus flavor and just the right amount of heat for an old white guy . read more

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I am so excited about this place and it's location. I definitely plan on having some after work cocktails here. The ambiance is spot on. Cute and modern decor! Definitely inspired by Tulum, Mexico. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly and made some great recommendations. My friend and I ordered several dishes and decided to share several plates. We started off the guacamole con chicharrón - delicious! It was seasoned to perfection! We also ordered the: chicken taquitos, shrimp tacos and the green pozole. Every single dish was amazing! The green pozole had great flavor and I loved that nothing was overly spicy. In fact most dishes were on the mild side. I ordered the flight of margaritas and they were all delicious, but I would definitely order the hibiscus margarita on my next visit. The drinks come w fresh squeezed juice and ingredients! A huge plus! I hate bottled mixers. These guys are doing it right! Service is fantastic! Clarissa was our server and she was on point! The owners greeted us and checked on us. Can't wait to return!!! read more

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IF YOU LIKE BLAND FOOD DONT COME HERE! A friend of mine told me about this place and decided to take my wife on a date here. Decor was very nice and the food made we wanna go to the kitchen and slap whoever momma was back there cookin. Didn't get a chance to have any drinks because my wife is pregnant and didn't want her to feel left out but they looked great! Our server was Ariella (I probably misspelled that) and she was awesome despite her working like a Hebrew slave with all the tables she had. She looked like the only waitress there at the time. We'll be back read more

Buena Vida Tapas Lounge - Pulpo - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Bakersfield, California

Came here for my sisters birthday and they did such an amazing job handling a large party of people! This place is super cute and very clean! The food and drinks were so good! I wish I lived in town because I would definitely come often here! This place is great for date night or a large crowd! read more

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I finally got to visit Buena Vida and was not disappointed. The restaurant is lively and colorful. There are many places to take fun photos inside . I came in to try the happy hour menu. I highly recommend because the prices are reasonable and allow for you to try many different things . The staff inside are very friendly and attentive.I ordered a tamarind margarita and also the house. The drinks are delicious and fruity. I also ordered the bean dip. It was so good with huge chunks of chorizo. I enjoyed my time here tremendously. I'm very excited to return and try more items on the happy hour menu . read more

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This place is awesome!! Went here for a quick Taco Tuesday bite. $6 super delish margaritas! $2.50 tacos! And it's not just your average street tacos...they are amazing!! The employees here are awesome!! Always get great service!! The place is decorated so cute. A few places to take selfies. Great music playing! read more

WE LOVE CEASER!!. let me tell you Bakersfield is the most boring place ever... but caesar makes it fun! this is place to go to and escape the summer heat with a nice mojito. DONT FORGET THR JOLLY RANCHER SHOTS HAVE FUN QUICKER read more

Buena Vida Tapas Lounge - passion mojito and jolly rancher shot - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Bakersfield, California

We live close by and our first couple of visits were fantastic.great service,great portions . Came back after a while noticed the menu had expanded and menu items were added . We ordered the aguchile ribe eye which is usually fire this time more about half of is was fat. Also ordered their molcahete 30 $ and the portion was so small it made the molcajete look like an almost empty bowl and to top it off I only got 2 tortillas. Where a minimum of 3 or 4 is expected and have gotten in the past . Not to mention never been to a Mexican restaurant that doesn't have complementary chips and salsa.very dissatisfied and disappointed. This used to be my go to place . Yall need to get it together!!! We spent almost 100$ for 2 and left the restaurant hungry stopped by and got tacos right after read more

What a breath of fresh air for Bakersfield. A great find when you want to enjoy Tapas and shared plates. Foliage dotted interior with creative mixed lighting. Staff was friendly and welcoming. House margarita was fresh light and delicious no cloying sweet sugary mix. Margarita flight lets you sample 4 margarita flavors. All were excellent. We loved the shrimp pasta in green sauce, the Rice side and Salsa flight. We will return to try more selections read more

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Ribeye was overcooked and burnt. Also ordered the ribeye tacos and it was the same.. burnt. Not to mention the amount of steak in the tacos was a joke lol. I don't mind paying a high price for a decent meal but this was overall disappointing. What was more discouraging was the service. When we made the waitress aware of our concerns she was very dismissive. She just picked up the plates and walked away. read more

Buena Vida Tapas Lounge - 2 Ribeye tacos - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Bakersfield, California

The staff is really friendly and enthusiastic and the restaurant's aesthetics is also really nice. The food and drinks are all picture perfectly presented. read more

Buena Vida Tapas Lounge - Fideo sopa it was good. It had a scoop of pot beans in it and meat which is fancier Then the one I grew up eating. - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Bakersfield, California

this restaurant is the worse i've ever came to Their service sucks, bartender brought our drinks and didn't check up on us for 45 minutes with an empty bar. he continued to talk at the corner of the bar and ignore us. We came here for bottomless mimosas and got here at 11am. they advertise bottomless from 11am-2pm but you actually get cut off after an HOUR. Service is slow even when they're fully staffed i wouldn't recommend it. read more

Cute love what they did to the place! Love the music and vibes, we ordered the green chicken pozole. It was pretty tasty the only thing I would have liked to see was some oregano, chili peppers on the side and have it be a bit more hotter. It cooled off very quickly and didn't come out very hot. Other than that great flavor. I'd come back again. read more

We love the food here, so yummy , taste like Asian food... staffs are friendly , love the price because we eat 4 dishes just $97 for 2 person... We will be back read more

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It's been completely remodeled and is so, so beautiful! The flight was a great taster..my fave was the passionfruit margarita. Everything we tried was great--the salsa, bean dip, Fideo, the ribeye...it was all so good. We'll be back! read more

Buena Vida Tapas Lounge - Margarita flight - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Bakersfield, California

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I 10/10 recommend buena vida! Great food, Great customer service And the inside is decorated so beautifully! I will 100% be coming back read more

Buena Vida Tapas Lounge - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Bakersfield, California

It was good food, but difficult to find things that weren't spicy. I liked the cocktails, but I'm not in love. The service was good. It was a little loud for middle aged couples. We'll go again, but will try the patio. read more

Love this for bakersfield!! Such a cute and aesthetic spot perfect for some dinner with friends or a cute date. I had the margarita flight and every margarita flavor was super good. My favorite one was by far the tamarind one. I only had the queso with chips but it was honestly sooo tasty and cheesy. Customer service was wonderful they were very attentive. read more

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It was sad to see one of the original icons go, meaning Chuy's, but times have definitely changed in Bakersfield and we're seeing it every day and since Buena Vida has taken over Chuy's location, they are slowly trying to hit that mark by bringing a little variety to the area. Lots of outdoor seating is what first caught my eye. Can't wait to eat outside when the weather cools down. Inside decorations are on point. Almost Boho with a little tropical flair. The service was exceptionally good. Our waitress was super friendly and had lots of suggestions. She checked on us regularly and was an absolute delight. If only I could remember her name. Now for the food and drinks. To start, we ordered a salsa flight. Four different salsas and crunchy tortilla chips (see menu pic for options). Fun to play with some heat from the Salsa Macha, followed by a cool down chaser of Piña. I ordered a Horchata Colada and it was so refreshing and delicious. My husband ordered a Margarita flight (see pic of drink menu for options) that gave us a chance to taste four flavors. The hibiscus one and the passion fruit were my fave. Food wise, I ordered a Chicken Ponlano Rajas and I was pleased with my choice. Sauce was tasty. Poblanos were cut into thin slices and the sliced chicken was cooked to perfection. The rice was ok. A little overdone, but ok. My husband ordered two tacos, one shrimp taco and the other a ribeye. So you know ahead of time, the menu says grilled shy, yet my husbands was battered. Not a great taco. However, the ribeye was tender, juicy yams full of flavor. All in all it was a good night. We'll be back to try a few different dishes. Personally, I'd be happy with just a Horchata Colada and Hibiscus Margarita. Yummm-E. read more

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Loved it! We probably tried half of the menu. Every single plate that went by us looked absolutely amazing! We couldn't help but go overboard. The taste and the presentation made the food unlike anything I have had locally. I highly recommend getting the salsa flight and trying all of the unique and tasty flavors. This restaurant is more than a meal- it an experience. I will be back. There is actually much more I still need to try! read more

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The food was not exactly what I expected but I enjoyed it. I did like the fried cheese, the chips with the 4 different house salsas, and the pozole. Also the margarita flight was delicious and they had a large beer selection. There was plenty of parking and outdoor seating and the decor was ok. The server was friendly and knowledgeable about the menu items. We did have to ask for silverware and napkins but it did look like they were busy when we first arrived in their defense. read more

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We've been to the restaurant before 2x before last night 3/14/25. And both times were great! Last night we celebrated our friend's birthday and were all very understanding of a slammed busy Friday night. Our server was not so pleasant, there was an issue with one of our cocktail drinks we brought it to her attention and instead of being receptive she got defensive rolled her eyes, took the drink and "added" the missing flavor instead of having someone remake it. At that point that set the mood for the night, our food took a very long time to come out, and it was cold. We didn't have the energy to say anything after we spoke up once. Don't know if any of us will return for a birthday celebration again. read more

First time here. My drink was just ok (pineapple House margarita), but the food was really really good. My husband and I shared bean dip, chicken taquitos, and street tacos. Service was also really good (Maura). read more

Heard a lot of good things about this spot , so had to go check it out on a Friday night. At first glance looks kinda shabby from the outside ; almost like it needs a facelift. The inside though is very nice, relaxing and charming. Seated fast and service was good. Always checking on you , which is much appreciated. Food comes out pretty fast. Easily shareable foods for the whole table. Everything is pretty much tapas. Good especially if your with a group of people or just wanting to try a bit of everything. Ordered the chips and salsa. Four different salsas. The haberno salsa wish was a tad spicer. The queso fundido was cheesy and delicious; nice flavors going on too. I ordered the chicken taquitos; they were very good and very filling. My other half ordered the spicy shrimp; which was pretty spicy and had good flavor. This is a cool place To hangout for sure. The drinks are good, but take awhile to come. Food arrived at times prior to drinks. Ample parking in parking lot. read more

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For starters, the chips & salsa appetizer was amazing! I'm never usually impressed with the salsa that you get at most Mexican restaurants, but this dish blew me away. If you like spice, you won't regret ordering this. Our server, Francisco was absolutely wonderful. He suggested we mix the salsa macha & the habanero salsa and add a squeeze of lemon. It's a masterpiece!! There wasn't a chance to photograph the salsa because we couldn't stop eating it. We both ordered the Tacos de Tuetano (bone marrow) which was another spectacular dish. Pairing all the items into the corn tortilla (and adding a little of that table-made salsa) was an absolute treat to the tastebuds. The bone marrow melts in your mouth. 100000% already want to go back! read more

Buena Vida Tapas Lounge - Tacos de Tuetano (bone marrow) - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Bakersfield, California

Food was actually good, service was very very slow and all our meals came out at different times. Atmosphere or 'ambiance' was great, music was on point. Major downfall is there was no changing table in either bathrooms. Had to go to the car to change our baby, in the rain. read more

Buena Vida Tapas Lounge - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Bakersfield, California

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My husband and I were super excited that there was going to be a Tapas restaurant. We came in for dinner. We ordered a couple of drinks and started to pick our items. The service was horrible. Our waitress was more interested in talking to the hostess. We ordered the shrimp cocktail, chicken taquitos, and ribeye tacos. The food was all very well, flavored and cooked. However, this is not tapas. We only ordered the three items and still took food home. Basically I paid the same for my taquitos that I would have at any typical Mexican restaurant only they didn't come with rice and beans. The name sets the expectation. We should have been able to order four or five different things, and you should never be taking leftovers from tapas. The inside seemed pretty clean, and the bathrooms were clean. Not sure if we will return. read more

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Buena Vida Tapas Lounge has been open for a little over a month now and it's the cutest lounge to check out! Perfect for groups, date nights, Ladies Night out, or any reason really! We had Chris as our server and he provided great recommendations for appetizers, entrees, and drinks! And for the picture pros, so many spots to snap a cute photo! From the patio, to the bar, to the hallway on your way to the restroom, to the restroom! Please make sure to wash your hands after exiting the restroom, soap is your friend. What we ordered: Guacamole with chicarron - So good! And don't fret if you think you don't have enough chips! They will refill your chip stash! Ribeye tacos - It was ok. Seafood molcajete - Damn, this was sooo good! But it was also sooo spicy! Like medium spice level 6.5 (on a 1-10 scale). Worth it tho! Ask for a side of crema like I did and plenty of water! Haha Margarita flight - If you like margaritas and want to figure out your favorite flavor, try this! We tried 4 of the shooters and all were good, Sandia (watermelon) is always going to be a fave! Watermelon margarita - bomb haaaay Churro cheesecake - It was a bit dry for me, but all the shooters made up for it. Would recommend to check this place out if you like good vibes and good dranks! read more

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This place it's pretty amazing and holistic vibes with a an approach to interior design that focuses on promoting the mental, physical, and spiritual well-being for customers that can enjoy a good relaxing time with great people. The service and drink are next level and the food has its own unique tastes of cielo, mar y Tierra (surf and turf). read more

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This place is great to go with friends or on a date night . Food is delicious we love the appetizers and their menu for the weekend brunch . There drinks are delicious. Served is good they need more staff but they work great for what they have read more

Wow! What an amazing place! Just moved here and gotta say we've been real impressed with all the great food and drink we've found here in Bakersfield! We came her in a Saturday and found out they have happy hour on Saturday! What a great find. Great prices on food and drink! All the margaritas my partner tried were amazing! I had beers which were nice and cold. We also ordered the ceviche bowl on happy hour and it was delicious. For dinner I ordered the aguaschles y ribeye and it was AMAZING! My partner ordered the chicken pablano Rojas and holy moly it was also AMAZING! Service was great, ambience was great and it was an all around great vibe! We're definitely coming back! Bakersfield has been good to us! read more

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Group of 8 or more must make reservations, lots of parking, love the decor, nice ambiance. A big thank you to our waiter CESAR. Amazing customer service. Very attentive, food was delicious, love the presentation. Had a great experience and everyone was so attentive to us... Definitely doing date nights with my hubby here and trying out more of these delicious dishes read more

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Was eager to try their happy hour at the suggestion of a friend. This place is an often overlooked gem that I will now frequent. Along with their lively decor, they serve up amazing potato tacos and chicken taquitos. Francisco, our outstanding waiter made the experience even more enjoyable with his attentive service. Don't miss out on their Taco Tuesday trio and unbeatable happy hour! read more

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Good service, food and drinks. We decided on Buena Vida Tapas Lounge on a hot Saturday afternoon. The restaurant was cool and clean, but mostly empty. I don't know if it's the economy, or it was simply too hot for people, but it's their loss. We ordered some small plates, cocktails, and ice water. The Castillos de Elote was cooked well, with some snap left in the corn kernels. The Papas Tacos were crunchy and well seasoned. The Queso Fundido didn't stand out, but had plenty of queso and chorizo and came with tortilla chips and homemade corn tortillas. The cocktails were all balanced and well thought out. Overall, I didn't find anything negative on our visit and will go again. read more

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Taco Tuesdays here are always amazing. Hubby and I came for our wedding anniversary because tacos! And they have amazing drinks. Our souls our old so we came earlier in the evening and it was the perfect speed for us. Our waiter was very attentive and always was on it. I feel like the ambiance is even better than I remember. We ate inside, but they have a lovely covered patio area that is stunning! read more

Buena Vida Tapas Lounge - Pineapple mojito! - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Bakersfield, California

First time here and LOVED IT!! Its decorated so beautifully and insta worthy! Such a fun place for food with friends Every single thing was so dang good and the pina water was amazing! Will definitely be back new hot spot in town! read more

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Love this place! Great food and drinks. Please don't go here. I like not having to wait to be seated. read more

Buena Vida Tapas Lounge - Brunch menu - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Bakersfield, California

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The food was delicious! I got the chicken taquitos dorados and the papa bravas both were amazing dishes! The service was great are waiter was awesome (Francisco I believe was his name)! Highly recommend this place if you haven't been! read more

Buena Vida Tapas Lounge - Papas bravas - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Bakersfield, California

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We visited on a Wednesday evening and the place was pretty busy. The music was loud and the atmosphere was festive. Our server was on top of things and never let us sit too long without attention despite the crowd. We started with a salsa flight. Not my choice, but I wasn't quick enough to decide. The pineapple salsa would have been great with chicken or pork, but was a little too sweet for chips. The habanero salsa was tasty, but spicy. The green salsa was mild but bland. I didn't bother trying the hottest of the four . I'd have rather had one complimentary salsa than this starter. For entrees we both chose ribeye based dishes. My husband's aguachile de Ribeye had a nice flavor, the spice you'd expect from aguachile, but was a bit overcooked. The ribeye on my steak and shrimp skewers was cooked perfectly and had a touch of char. I enjoyed my dish and would order it again. I know I'm going to sound old, but I wish the music volume was way lower. It would have been much more pleasant not to have to lean across the table to try to talk. read more

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