Ethel's has an nice, outdoor patio area in the back. Tonight, we went for dinner and we had the pork chops, and the steak. Both were flavorful, and well portioned. Both came with a potato and one side (salad, french fries, or soup). The service was attentive, and the waitress did an excellent job of getting our food to us in a timely manner. Ethels is a true Bakersfield treasure, and deserves your consideration & attention as a possible lunch or dinner location. At the date of this posting, they only accept cash. We are going to be going back to try there Friday fish and chips special. read more

Food was really good. Menu is bigger now that Copes has take over. The service was a bit lacking. Once we got our food, which had one wrong item, we didn't see our waitress again. Even so, I'd go back for the food and atmosphere. read more

Anybody with a good appetite and good company should check out Ethel's. All the lunch specials or should I say daily specials are awesome if you like chili verde they have the best I've tried to live are they all over town & Ethel's has it every Tuesday and sometimes on Wednesdays and Thursdays. The staff agree check it out you won't be disappointed read more

Lunch today at Ethel' with a big crowd that they were supposed to be prepared for. We arrived early, but our order wasn't taken for nearly two hours. Some in our group had finished their meal long before ours arrived at our table. The food was fine, but we won't be back due to poor service. read more

Cycling through the area and stopped by for ice old refreshing beer ! Bartender and owner were extremely friendly and nice! Definitely gonna stop by here again when cycling in the area! read more

Ethel's Old Corral - American Near Me - Bakersfield, California

Took an Uber from my hotel to the Old Corral, it's Saturday night in Bakersfield!! When we arrived via a deserted dusty road, we discovered a roadhouse with a half-working neon light, straight out of American Horror Story or a David Lynch movie. Turns out that the place was CLOSED, on a Saturday night, 2-23-19. That's my old corral experience. read more

Will A has it right: Ethel's is certainly off the beaten path. It's not someplace you're likely to stumble upon, unless you're headed out to CALM or Hart Park. You may have even missed this landmark as you zoomed on past. Just look for the giant Indian! Ethel's is your standard bar food. Fried eeeeeeeeerrrrrything. My favorite being the fried okra. There's not too many places in town where you can find these delectable treats. Sweet slimy okra dipped in batter and fried to perfection. Is there any other way to eat okra? Burgers are the name of the game here. Big and juicy - they're what all burgers strive to be. Most folks here are oil field workers, motorcycle guys, or cowboys (there's even hitching posts nearby!). It's a motley mix of Bakersfield's blue collar workers. All of them are friendly and courteous, just give it back and you're good! Make it a point to try this hidden gem. It's definitely not fancy, but I wouldn't have it any other way. read more

Service is 4 star. Food is 2 star Water is not available unless bottled 1 star Afternoon Band 3 star This Cash only place is not advertised as cash only until it's time to pay. You'll need to use your ATM card where you'll be fined $2.25 from the ATM machine and another $2-3 fine from your bank. This really is unfair to the wait staff. It should be noted that it's only a cash business unless you have a business credit card. My first experience there was upbeat until the fines via ATM fees. Plan ahead or pass by. read more

That's some awesome food and the service was exceptional. Comfortable, great outside dining experience. Gaint Indian. It's all good. The deep pit was very flavorful and not greasy or heavy. I had it on a pair of tacos with fresh veggies and a crisp, perfectly fried shell. My neighbor was having the steak and it was cooked perfectly. He was damn near crying. I'm coming back for sure. read more

Ethel's Old Corral - American Near Me - Bakersfield, California

We went on Wednesday night for the senior karaoke, man those folks take that karaoke very seriously. It was a fun experience, good crowd. Drinks were a little watered down. Once I'm a senior I might consider going back in Wednesday nights. Would like to try it on a Saturday or Sunday, when the crowd would be a little Different. read more

I wasn't that impressed but for a little bar that's out of the way it's ok. The service on the floor wasn't great but the food was good, despite small portions. I wouldn't frequent Ethels but for an occasional place to hangout just to get out of the house for an hour or so is cool read more

Ethel's is the place every great movie try's to recreate!! Small town bar, Local hang out, Lots of history and all walks of life. You never know what crowd you'll find hanging out at Ethel's but you can count on everyone getting along. Everyone from Cowboys who literally just rode in and their horse is tied up back, to Bikers, while the seniors are sitting around the bar. The service is always friendly, Smiling and cheerful. The food is what's to be expected at a Bar but I think a little step up being that so many items are homemade and not preordered frozen junk. You can always count on live music one day threw out the week (Check their web site) They have a weekly special dinner menu that's delicious, Everything is reasonably priced, and the beer is always cold. Only downfall is it's CASH only....If your looking for another great Bakersfield Kept secret make sure you stop in on the weekend and grab a cold one!!! read more

Ethel's Old Corral - Weekly Specials - American Near Me - Bakersfield, California

Ariel is the most sweetest server! I never do these reviews but I just had too. She's so nice and lets you know about all the upcoming events going on and is so observant of the table she's serving about what they need!! Definitely will come back to see her read more

Love going out on a ride, very welcoming, usually a good band playing, keep it up Ethel's!!

Anybody looking for quality service and great food; this is the place to go. Clean and well kept as well. I loved the deep pit sandwich and the waitresses were accommodating and friendly. Great food and super fun! read more

French burger was excellent and cooked to order. My beer was HUGE. Big ass fireplace too. Can't wait to come back for the arm wrestling I've heard so much about read more

I went there today and had clam chowder, cod fish and chips. Absolute stellar. Natalie is holding the line on excellent quality.

In my Bakersfield explorations I came across this bar- Live country music in the bar, a row of Harley's out front, and koozies autographed and stuck to the walls: On of those perfect roadside bars where the name of the game is having a few brews and losing track of time. The food was a-ok, nothing special although I had the slow roasted tacos that is supposedly whats up on the menu. The have a sampler platter of veggies, all gods goodness, fried right up and made bad for you-It's bar food at it's finest, but bar food none the less. The back patio is where you should hang out, and the staff was friendly but not overly attentive. Cash only, be aware! Hit it up for tunes and twirl your lady while you two-step and you'll ahve a 5 star time. read more

Ethel's is a wonderful place well off the beaten path. The place is a slice of Western Americana without the Hollywood glitz and glam. It is real western. Established around 1964 by Ethel (last name unknown) the place was sold to the current owners in the 80s. They didn't change much. The best thing about Ethel's is the food. Crazy good burgers and other American food is what they do here. You haven't lived until you try their fried string beans, okra, and jalapeño medallions. Seriously, you're missing a bucket list good treat if you fail to try them. The fries are tasty long after they were set down at the table. The food is so love filled, home cooked, stick to your ribs filling, and worthy of guttural moans of foodie ecstasy you will lose yourself in the moment. The place is clean and sanitary. Bathrooms are old but clean. Waitress was efficient and nice. Food spectacular. Beer well chilled. Iced tea very good. Ambiance western. Clientele mostly local Cowboys and oil field workers. Guy Fierri missed the boat when he came to Bakersfield, because Ethel's is a hidden gem few people know about. The customers are loyal for a reason. I suspect the regulars are just fine with Guy's fans not stopping by. They like it the way it is and so do I. You might too. Give them a try! read more

The BEST of EVERYTHING: Food, drinks, music and PEOPLE !! Bakersfield's live music tradition is alive and well at Ethel's read more

If you don't mind driving a bit to avoid the chain-restaurant experience, visit Ethel's Old Corral bar, which often has a band, especially on Sundays. Call ahead and ask. It's just a little hole in the wall in the middle of nowhere, but the burgers are among the best ever, and it has hitching posts for those who ride in on horseback. The best part is the people you'll meet there. Real folks. read more

Fun place!! This old Bakersfield and you'll probably see actual cowgirls and cowboys here while enjoying an ice cold beer on a damn hot Bakersfield day. read more

I made my first visit to Ethel's today, Sunday, for several hours to hear the band play and get in a few dances. As I approached Ethel's, the first thing I saw was a huge statue of an Indian (excuse me - Native American); yeah, I have no idea what that is about. The next thing I noticed was a large number of motorcycles parked outside and horses tied up to railings out back. Yes, this is a motorcycle / cowboy bar but these two groups seemed to coexist with no outward obvious friction. The inside was cool and well airconditioned, but we headed right on out to the back porch because that is where all the action was happening. There was a band playing; I believe someone said that they have different bands on Sunday afternoons from around 3:00-7:00. This band, sorry - can't remember the name - was pretty good; everything they played was danceable. There is a small concrete slab dance floor right in front of the band which was crowded but still serviceable. I hadn't brought my dance shoes with me since it didn't really look like that kind of place, so I ended up dancing in my open backed sandals - not the best for spinning or turning but we had fun. Most of the patrons appeared to be drinking Bud or Coors, but they also served Corona, Blue Moon, and other beers more to my taste. I honestly don't know if they had a full bar or just beer and wine since I only saw people drinking beer or water. Anyway, it wasn't too hot and the outside area was covered so we had a lot of fun listening to the band and alternately watching the dancers and the horses tied up out back. They serve food, but we didn't order any, so not sure what kind. I think I'll probably make it back for more Sundays enjoying the music. There's no cover charge, so why not? read more

Great little place. Good eats, good company, and good surroundings. Lots of history in the place which is pretty cool too.

What a fantastic dive bar! From the outside you would think it is just a watering hole. The first Saturday of the month, The Road Dawgs play. They are fantastic! We have driven 2 hours each way to see them perform here. The food is decent, drinks are good as well. read more

This place is cash only. Their food is average. The live music is a plus. This place gets one star because of the service. The staff is not very friendly. We've been twice and I don't plan on going again. read more

It was Sunday -- I was regretting going to work the next day and was kind of depressed. I wanted to go hide out at a dark bar and be with people who were in the same mood as me. I love dive bars and honky-tonks and heard there was a great place in the North East called Ethel's. I saw a shirt once that said "no bra Sunday's -- panties optional." I knew I had to check this place out. The minute I pulled up I was disappointed. There were expensive trucks in the lot and the property was well maintained. I went inside only to observe that the place was filled with regular looking people. I went outside to the huge patio and noticed what appeared to be expensive horses and some bad ass Harley's. A great band was playing and I couldn't help but notice I started to dance so I went back inside. I was hoping to have a warm beer, bad food and meet a server with a bad attitude and was once again disappointed. The beer was iced cold, the food was great and the service was fabulous. The owner actually came up and introduced herself which I thought was pretty cool. I do think she should wear a bra though -- but, then again, it was Sunday and I remembered it was "No Bra Sunday." As I was getting ready to leave I met a really cute guy who had a good job, a nice truck and all of his teeth. We have been dating ever since. So much for me trying to remain depressed by going to Ethel's... read more

Everything here was :) !!!!! I stopped in for lunch with my friends on my way back to Tehachapi from calm (animal place). I got a cheeseburger, fries and wings. The wings were ok, they were hot and tasted like beer. The burger was great, as was the cheese. The fries were UNBELIEVEABLE, they had some seasoned salt and made me locking the plate clean. The waitress was nice, as were the others there. A truly great surprise for the middle of nowhere! Definitely the best meal of my vacation (I actually live in Northern California) Come here whenever! You're guaranteed to enjoy read more

Normally the food is really good. Service is polite and helpful. But the last time I had lunch there it took forever. About an hour. And the fries were dry as a bone. They tried to make it right by removing a dish from the order and giving us free beer coins which is better than nothing. I'm not sure if I would eat there again. Maybe just to drink. read more

Although the food is not great the place is awesome:) it is unlike any restaurant in town. If you decide to hang out in the patio you will see people arrive on horseback. The place is kid friendly and the staff has always been nice. read more

Ethel's is awesome if you are looking for a chill atmosphere and authentic local bar. Live music is excellent on most days. Beer is served very cold, it's awesome that people ride their horses and motorcycles up to the bar. A Bako Must. read more

Great place to listen to musicians. Get there early to get a seat on the patio. Food just ok, drinks higher priced. Fun atmosphere on Sunday afternoon. read more

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Pretty inexpensive good 'ol American food. Half restaurant, half bar. Service is pretty quick and compliant. The waitresses are willing to work with your orders. However they do charge you for water so that was the only thing. Bonus.. pretty good sized TVs and an upgraded modern music jukebox. read more

Ethel's Old Corral - Menu - American Near Me - Bakersfield, California

This is a pleasant surprise. Who would have thought a bar, identified by the 50 ft Indian standing guard, would be so great! Cute cozy family friendly ... and full of hometown country flare. Complete with live band, ice cold drinks and simple bar/grill type food that hits the spot. The service was excellent. Id definitely come back again. read more

The most awesome place to go in town if your looking for the original Bakersfield feel. Nothing fancy about this place other then great service, amazing staff, and a even better atmosphere. They have live bands on Friday's & every Sunday! Sundays are the best out there(No kids on Sundays!) Great food at a great price! (I love their shredded beef sandwich!) Beer is always ice cold! You will catch people line dancing at this place that is a for sure! Its where the old dance with the young and everyone forgets their worries! Its my absolute favorite place in town! Taco Tuesdays are always fun when I can make it! Its a small place with a BIG heart only wish it was bigger, another bathroom would be nice, and didn't get so hot in the summer! I would have to say nothing beats Ethel's Old Corral! read more

This place is a shithole. Came here after a ride to eat and hang out. I ordered a margarita and the fish and chips. After waiting 15 minutes for the margarita, it tasted TERRIBLE. I'm not picky. Especially when it comes to anything with tequila in it. But this drink was absolutely the worst. I asked to switch it out with an 805. Something that can't be fucked up, right? Wrong. The bartender made a huge deal about it and ignored me for another 15 minutes. (Still no food.) Finally, a brand new waitress had another server pour me my beer. Then I was informed they only do fish and chips on Fridays. Would have been nice to know thirty minutes ago when I ordered it. So I order a sampler platter. Just a little of everything and it sounded great. Another thirty minutes later it comes. Missing some of the food that comes with it and what came was cold, so I sent that back and gave up. I'll go home and make a sandwich and my own margaritas! Haha. Next, I went to pay the tab and what I assume is the manager comes up to me and says "Is there something I can clarify, because you are walking around here looking really pissed off." What?? So I tell her no, that I just won't be back and she says "Well good." Okay? Overall it's trashy. Girls that work here need to dress better, unless I'm unaware of this being a strip club? read more

This place was exceptional! Great service, great food, cheap drinks and a rocking band out back. It's in the middle of nowhere, but worth the trip for the experience. read more

Went there on 3/2/13 busy day in only the cook and a bartender/waitress and she did an excellent job waiting on everyone, while making sure she was to get the food orders out quick. We had to wait in line to get a drink and order food, but it was worth it. We ate outside and she came to check on us, clear tables and bring more drinks. I can't say enough about her. She was professional and friendly. We'll be back. read more

This place is great!! Originally from Texas and I felt right at home. Good Burgers, cold beer, friendly service and a covered patio...what more could you ask for?!?! We will most definitely be back. This is a cash only establishment, just FYI. read more

I fell in love with this place back when Ethel ran it. Kept going when Donna and Tommy had it and still love it now that Natalie is running things. Over the years the only changes have been to improve on what makes the place great. Nothing like stopping here on a hot Saturday afternoon for a cold beer and some deep pit tacos, or regular tacos when I can talk them into getting me 3. Ethel's is one of the things that makes the real Bakersfield real. read more