Frankly, Steven and I were quite disappointed when we awoke one morning on our recent California vacation and found out the highway leading East was impassable, thanks to a major snow storm. We altered our plans, headed south towards Death Valley and decided to spend the night in Bakersfield, at the northern entrance to the park. We arrived in the early part of the evening, checked into the motel and headed right out for dinner. From previous experience, we knew that it was getting near to closing time for many restaurants.
It was 8:45 when we arrived at Benji's, an eatery that had caught our attention as we were driving into Bakersfield. At that time, we had turned to each other and exclaimed in unison: a French Basque restaurant!
We spent several hours at the Sacramento Wildlife Refuge on our way south.
Even with closing time in 15 minutes, we were welcomed with open arms by the staff. They couldn't have been more gracious, nor could the dinner have been more varied or delicious. There were a multitude of flavors and textures offered in the several side dishes which ranged from cabbage soup with beans and salsa to pickled tongue. For an entree, I ordered the rack of lamb which may have been one of the tastiest preparations I've ever had. Steven opted for a veal and pronounced it delicious. Given the generous size of the portions, we had ample food left over to form the basis of a delightful picnic lunch the following day as we drove around Death Valley.
Oh, I shouldn't forget to mention the house wine. We found it a perfect beverage for the meal. Frustratingly, we stopped at several wine shops in California in an attempt to bring home a case but with no success. No one seemed to know anything about it. Hum, guess we'll just have to head back to this lovely Basque restaurant someday soon just if only for the house wine!
Benji's French Basque Restaurant
4001 Rosedale Highway
Bakersfield, CA 93308
661.328.0400