Menu of Kings Drive In in Bakersfield, California, USA

Menu Overview

Kings Drive In, located at 800 Norris Rd in Bakersfield, stands as a nostalgic yet vibrant takeout spot that masters the art of comfort food with undeniable heart. This humble drive-in, despite its somewhat unassuming exterior and tight drive-thru, delivers food that clearly favors quality and freshness over speed—each order cooked to perfection on demand.

The pièce de résistance here is undoubtedly their wings, especially the Buffalo Sauce variety. These wings strike a delicate balance—tender, juicy, and imbued with the traditional spicy tang that fans of classic Buffalo wings crave. Customers consistently praise their texture and the authenticity of the sauce, a testament to Kings’ dedication to flavor. The limited but well-crafted wing options, including a noteworthy lemon pepper flavor, let the ingredients shine without overwhelming the palate.

Complementing the wings are the Zucchini Sticks, a standout appetizer. These crispy, golden bites offer a satisfying contrast in both texture and flavor, making them an ideal choice for those seeking something lighter yet flavorful. Their zucchini sticks exemplify how Kings Drive In elevates simple ingredients into memorable dishes through precise preparation and seasoning.

For those craving heartier fare, the menu’s burger and sandwich combos provide ample variety. The Western Burger, with a ¼ lb Harris Ranch beef patty, Swiss and American cheese, crispy onion rings, and sizzling bacon, is a robust offering that layers texture and smoky, savory flavors impressively. The Crispy Chicken Sandwich, dressed with fresh mayo, lettuce, tomato, and onions, delivers crispness in every bite paired with the juicy tenderness of the chicken. Vegetarians aren’t left out either: the Veggie Burger, featuring a Gardenburger patty and a secret sauce, embraces freshness with thoughtfully balanced veggies and textures.

Beyond sandwiches and wings, Kings Drive In also excels in baskets and dinners. The 6-piece Shrimp Dinner, with its jumbo shrimp, side salad, Texas toast, and seasoned crinkle-cut fries, offers a full palette of flavors and satisfying portion sizes. The seasoned fries here deserve special mention—they are consistently hot, crisp, and impeccably seasoned, elevating even the simplest meal into a delight.

Customer feedback underscores the care and consistency Kings brings to each plate. From the rave reviews about tender, well-crafted wings and excellent sauces to the praise for fresh ingredients and reasonable pricing, it’s clear the kitchen honors tradition and quality. Their jalapeño poppers and ranch dip receive particular acclaim, praised for their harmonious and piquant flavor pairing.

While the facility itself might feel retro and a bit cramped, the experience—whether dining in the outside seating area or grabbing a quick, well-made drive-thru meal—feels genuine and satisfying. The team’s fast, friendly service and attention to detail round out the appeal, making Kings Drive In a true Bakersfield treasure for anyone hungry for classic American comfort food done right.