Cuban Cafe-Rincon Cubano — Restaurant in Bakersfield

Oringinal Cuban food here Bakersfield. Located at the corner of Oak and Truxtun, it’s kind of a little hidden spot... it’s actually in an alley next to the flower shop. Park next to it and you’ll have to walk a bit to find it...

I have to say, I have been to this location twice. The first time, I was there with my gf with whom we’ve had a delightful experience. The waitresses were on it, there was no issue other our food, recommendations were just absolutely on point. I gotta say, pretty much, everything was on point. The papa rellana, the ropa vieja, and yuca was good too! We had nothing but praise.

But on the second visit, everything just went downhill... service was just terrible. I called them the morning of to try to place an order, an no one picked up... forcing me to drive all the way there to order. Then, just to make sure I gave them enough time, I get there 2 hours before the try and place an order. I’m told we’re short staffed today but we should be able to get your order done in about 1 hr. So I say ok. I come back in an hr, and nothing is done... they are still working on the previous customer who was actually already there when I walked in. I asked him if his order was big... it’s a 4 item order for just 2 people... so I make my way to the same waitress and ask her... Nd the response I get is “we’re working on it”. Another hour goes by and it’s now time for the event I was catering for... and I’m still there... another 30 mins goes by... and now my food is ready and the same girl who took my order, is now taking her precious time bagging things... picture a panda eating its bamboo shoots... I’m standing right there checking the items and she’s not even hurrying...

I’m sorry to say but this place really deserves a 2/5 stars. I’m not one to not give credit where it’s due because this place actually has some very decent food. But customer service is also a part of the restaurant business. I would’ve been fine if she told me it wasn’t possible and I would’ve gladly gone somewhere else and cater a different food. I understand when you’re short staff, I really do, that’s why a little candor and honesty goes a long way. At this point, I would recommend going there when you know you have ample time because your time is not valued unfortunately but because their food is good, it’s still worth going. Take...

First time going in their new location and I really hope they didn't shoot themselves on the foot by making this move. This place is not much bigger than their old place, the big difference, their service, it SUCKS!! One waitress, one bus boy. We walked in and there were about four tables filled, took about 10-15 minutes to get drinks, and an additional 45 minutes or so to get our food. There were only 4 of us, one of my kids had their ropa vieja sandwich, another one of my kids had their classic Cuban sandwich, and my husband had their torta cubana, all delicious! I had their pollo a la criolla and I didn't really care for it, I filled up on rice, beans and platano. FYI they give you this delicious buttered bread and they do not let you know that you get charged if you order more. I won't be going back anytime soon but I really hope they work on their customer service, atleast work on getting drinks out faster. Food for the most part is really good, takes a while, but it's worth it, but service is really important in this business so please up your game or it's going to affect your restaurant, especially in that area, people don't want to wait 20 minutes for their drink, and remind people it's an extra charge for bread, sometimes it's the little things that...

Short and sweet version at the bottom.

Myself and my family have visited this resturant several times before writing this review. They do have a facebook page where they update the public with any changes or closures of the business so for those who just want to be sure go check that out. That being said, I was born and raised in Miami, Fl and am Cuban myself. This food is as close as you can get to "authentic" cuban food in Bakersfield! Every plate is outstanding and tastes just like the food back in Miami (or very close to it). Its a very small business with only a handful of employees, including one waitress. Everyone there is always polite and eager to make you feel as comfortable as possible. Small location tucked away in a unusual surrounding area so i never wouldve known this place existed if someone hadnt told me about it. Very family friendly! If they were located somewhere closer to the downtown or high traffic areas, basically anywhere more in the public eye, there would be no doubt that they would always be swamped and eventually have to expand.

Short and sweet: Family friendly, cozy, amazing food, cheap, hidden jem...