Styled by Allison Smith

The Vibe: Ah, Bakersfield. The popular spot in Over-the-Rhine where people from all walks of life can come to celebrate the ubiquitous joy that is: tacos. No surprise in the décor here—as a quintessential OTR locale, exposed brick and rustic wooden table tops are expected and delivered. From his perch on the flat screen TV, John Wayne eyes the bar patrons buying $3 shots and swilling tart margaritas from mason jars. Everyone from Emilio Estevez (really) to infants to grandmas to enviably trend-savvy young women flock to Bakersfield to savor small bites of affordable Ameri-Mexican glory.

Style Profile: Everyone is welcome here. For some, Bakersfield will be the first stop and their little black dresses and heels confirm that grabbing some guac is just the beginning of an epic night. Most women, however, are casual and pretty: maybe a loose top with some polka dots and a pair of dark jeans. Maybe a skirt that sweeps the floor, hair knotted on top of your head. And maybe, maybe, just jeans, a t-shirt, and a Bud Light.

Must order: The margaritas are fresh, sour, and strong—nothing like the syrupy and sickly yellow concoction you’ll find at a typical Mexican restaurant. The guacamole is garlicky and generously laden with chunks of avocado. You could stop there but you’d be foolish not to try the tacos—Huitalacoche and Pastor are my favorites.

Must Do: Look around! As I mentioned before, we saw Emilio Estevez enjoying a beer at one of the cocktail tables here once. You never know who’s in town and has a mad craving for tacos.

Must Know: Be ready for a wait. This place is popular, especially on the weekend. My advice is to eat something small at home, put your name in, and have a drink somewhere nearby. When you leave your name, they ask for a cell number, so you don’t have to stand awkwardly in the doorframe for two hours while you wait for a table. They’ll call when they’re ready.

Some people stake a claim at Bakersfield, sit around, and hang out for a few hours. I’m going to be that person and say please don’t do that. The wait on a Friday night can be a long as three hours—give someone else a chance at tacos and go hang out somewhere else.