I normally don't do this, but La Imperial Taco truly deserves some praise…read more
I've always believed people go to restaurants for different reasons sometimes because they don't feel like cooking, sometimes because they're out of town and want a good home-cooked meal. And sometimes... life is just heavy, and you need a moment.
When I looked this place up, Google said they closed at 8:00 PM. But when I got to the door, the hours posted were different. I walked in at 6:47 PM just 13 minutes before closing.
A young lady greeted me with nothing but kindness. No complaints. She simply asked if I'd be dining in or taking food to go. I'll admit, I hesitated a bit... wondering, "Is this going to be fresh? Is it going to be hot?"
To my surprise it was everything.
I'm not from California. My job brings me here often, but I recently moved to Arizona from El Paso, Texas, and I've struggled to find a truly authentic Mexican spot with good salsa. But this place? Hands down, they delivered.
When I asked for salsa, she didn't hesitate she asked, "Which ones would you like? Green, red, or guacamole?" I just smiled and said, "All three." And she gladly brought them out.
I ordered the barbacoa plate three fresh tortillas, rice, and refried beans. When it came out, everything was piping hot, even the tortillas. I paired it with a piña soda, and every bite was full of flavor. The barbacoa was tender, rich in a red sauce, and came with all the sides....onions, cilantro, and lemon. Absolutely delicious.
But what meant the most had nothing to do with the food.
I've been having a tough day. I lost my mom in March of 2025, and today was one of those days where I just felt it heavier. I'd only had three hours of sleep. I walked in carrying that weight... and I left feeling just a little lighter.
They didn't rush me, even though they were about to close. They didn't hover. They just gave me space to sit, breathe, and enjoy the moment.
Before I left, I gave her a $20 tip just a small way to say thank you. Because sometimes the smallest acts of kindness mean everything.
I believe in supporting local businesses, and if you're ever in Bakersfield, I highly recommend stopping by La Imperial Taco. The food is amazing hot, flavorful, and made with care but more importantly, the kindness here is real.
I didn't catch her name, but I want to thank her from the bottom of my heart. You never know when someone needs that kind of warmth.
I come to Bakersfield at least once a year and this will always be my go-to spot for Mexican food.
Thank you.