Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace

Our server was great although most of them walked around w/​a sour face. The sampler platter was very good w/​generous size of samples, however my chicken fried steak sandwich was dry & over powered by the bread. Drinks were pricey especially when there couldn’t of been much alcohol in them!!! We enjoyed the music & watching the dancing. The best part was ALL the wonderful old pictures & memorabilia… Everywhere you looked on the walls there was something to see & smile at. I wouldn’t go back for the food or drinks however, they weren’t worth the money you pay & even if it had been, the servers just didn’t look welcoming or inviting. «I’m glad we were lucky enough to have gotten the friendliest server I saw!!!»

The food isn’t that great for 25 bucks a head. It’s a cool nostalgic place. The atmosphere is actually better than the food. We had a sixty dollar bill for my wife and 6 year old eating Sunday Buffett. My wife put a 20 dollar bill and a credit card in for our bill. The waitress came back with our receipt and she had charged the full sixty to the card. When my wife asked her about the 20 bill, the waitress was surprised that it wasn’t her tip. The waitress asked my wife if she wanted her to credit our card back for the 20. She said no just give the 20 bill back. 20 dollar tip for eating a buffet? But we got the 20 back and still left her a tip. Just not 20, for refilling water and tea.

This was my first time here & it was such a great experience.
Taryn was my server and she was awesome. She checked on my table frequently and always had a smile on her face.
The food was exceptional & the music was great. I will definitely come again!

Good food and music, nice place to hang out… food is priced on the experience side tho.

I’ve been looking forward to trying Buck Owen’s for a month or so after reading good reviews. I ordered the kabobs – well done… and boy was it very well done. The prices are quite high plus you pay a $ 5 fee after 7pm for the live music. Atmosphere was great and so was the service.

Best venue in Bakersfield. As a kid, I loved watching re-​runs of Hee Haw and Buck Owens with Roy Clark. Love the nostalgia!

I had reservations this past Sunday for brunch with a friend and his daughter. This is a very cool place. The atmosphere is very authentic and the service was good. The brunch selections were plentiful and the quality was fine.

Easter Brunch at the Crystal Palace… Starts off great but ended a little sour…
We had reservations for 11:30am. This being Easter Sunday we were expecting to be waiting, even with the reservation. We arrived around 11:10ish walked up to the host and were told they were able to seat us right away. This was great. Part of our party was already here and they were already seated upstairs.
We were a party of 12 so they put us at 2 tables that sat 6. This was fine. The brunch was a buffet and I was worried that we would have to travel up and down stairs to get food, especially since my wife was pregnant I knew I would probably have to do lot of stair climbing.
To my surprise they had a full buffet station upstairs as well. So there was no need to go downstairs (unless you needed to use the restrooms)
The atmosphere was nice. They had some great music playing in the background video ran on the monitors of pictures from past events and I’m guessing patrons.
The food was good. Although I was expecting a little better than good the way my wife talked up the place. The main part of the buffet, eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, biscuits and gravy and a whole bunch of other stuff was really solid. Well stocked. Servers kept coming in and replacing them. Omelet station was really good. Waffles station was a hit with the family. And they also had ribs and ham… also a hit with the family.
And this is where the review goes a little south…
The table service. While they did have servers going back and forth there seemed to be selective attention. As before, I said we had 2 tables. One table had great table service, Drinks came out, plates were bused and refills came at a steady pace.
THE OTHER TABLE (the one I was at) Received very little attention. Had to hound the servers just to get a condiment, never received 1 refill on a table of 6(ok we got 1 and this was after we received the check). My mother received the wrong drink that she ordered. And as for busing plates we had to put plates on the table behind us since that party already left.
The upstairs area was a little warm… probably due to all the people and the fact that they had heating stations upstairs that aren’t typically there, but it would have been nice if my pregnant wife could get more than a single glass of water during her meal!
This was the first time my father has been to the Crystal Palace in the 23 years we have lived in Bakersfield and I don’t think it made a lasting impression on him. While the food was good, the atmosphere was great, the service that my table received was pretty poor. The value that we paid for the food I would say was about average. Again, I did not have high expectations since this was a holiday at a restaurant, It was hard to ignore the difference in service between 2 tables that were next to each other.
Last thought… probably won’t return with the family any time soon.

Food was ok at best. Service was horrible. We had probably 6 – 7 staff pass our table at least a combined total of 20 times and none of them picked up dishes… nothing. we had to scout down server to refill drinks and clear table. For so-​so food and poor service the price is not justified. Should have stuck with Hodels! Ironically there was a manager with earpiece overseeing dining room and seemed to be managing but failed to check on tables which would have enlightened him on what was really going on.

Bakersfield’s hidden gem! With breathtaking atmosphere that has surprises in every corner, the Crystal Palace is a magnificent palace that provides more than you’d expect. The décor is aesthetically pleasing throughout every inch of its walls, rich with history and character. On entertainment days, the Crystal Palace transforms from a fine dining restaurant into a concert hall in a blast with a generous dance floor to show your moves! They’re food is fantastic, rich with flavors in every dish, you can really taste the passion the chefs have in every plate. Although the crystal palace has it all, their strongest weakness, and the reason I rated it so low, is their service. Their service is below mediocre. My party was not served for more than an hour, and not for food, for drinks. From all our waiters I’ve had here, none had a smile, except the hostesses. Overall, the Crystal Palace is a great place with amazing food, just prepare yourself with long wait times and lackluster service.
–the hidden critic

I LOVED THIS PLACE! except the service they are slower than turtles and a tiny rude.
We made a reservation specifically because we wanted to seat near the dance floor because it was personally my first time, but NOOOOO. We sat like in the furthest table next to the entrance of the bar. Which it was fine since my sister had warn me that they do that, they never seat you where you ask them even calling well ahead of time. It was fine, but then why make a reservation. Just a heads up for people that make future reservations.
Food
The portions are HUGE, I would personally share if i go again or take it home! So we had,
two salads, the house and cesar. Really fresh and tasty. We also had the half rack of ribs and the fish and chips. Both were cooked well.
Drinks
I got an 805 tall glass and boy was it tall. Lol loved their glassware
Dancing
There is an included cover charge if you dine or don’t dine. But it’s definitely worth it. Even if you are not a fan of country all the bands that come up, have such good vibes you will love it and even start dancing. I loved that people were dancing very early on at night and kept going ’till they closed.

Tonight was my first time visiting the iconic Crystal Palace. The décor is western and quite interesting. The palace is a museum as well as restaurant. The glass cases around all of the walls are the museum portion. You can feel free to wander around and look at all of the displays.
I had the New York steak cooked medium. It was cooked beautifully and was tasty. My baked potato was a little underdone so I didn’t finish it. The green beans were over cooked so I didn’t finish them either. We were there for the steak though and the steak was good.
I felt our service left a little to be desired. Our water was left empty and we had to flag our server down for more drinks. She was attentive until we put in our food order, but then not so much. We also didn’t receive our dinner bread. We were told policy is if you order appetizers or salad you don’t get bread. Now I’ve worked in restaurants… you generally don’t get your bread until you order appetizers. That I get. However since I spent more money on appetizers I don’t receive bread? I think maybe the server was incorrect. We got the bread at the end of our meal after we inquired about it.
There was live music tonight and couples two stepping and line dancing to the music. That was fun to watch. However all and all… I don’t think we will be back.

Service is table side. Concert menu is simple and fast. Great atmosphere. If you love country you will love it here!

What a cool place. Went for the first time, and outside took note of the live acts happening this week and went inside.
We were greeted by 3 young gals eager to let us know about this place and that we were welcome to look around.
The museum starts as soon as you walk in, so you can see artifacts, letters, clothing and awards behind glass of various people. I loved the huge statue best of Johnny Cash in all his glory at the front door.
Brunch was winding down as we stopped in at 1:40pm but a manager that saw us taking a peek was more than welcoming in that we could still join in to eat if we would like. We declined as we had other plans and did not want to rush but this is one place I will keep in mind given the food choices and all the friendly prep staff. The waffles looked amazing! I bet the food would be a 5! It was hard to walk away from the incredible looking bacon.
We continued looking around, went back to the bar to see Elvis’ old car that was mounted up there in a very cool angled way. Even though the bartender was closing up for the day (closed here for dinner Sundays and Mondays) he still took some time to tell us some neat facts and showed us Elvis’ signature on the car. The bar is long and inviting.
The place, as old as I think it is was spotless. Immaculate really and everything smelled new and clean.
Th shows they play here — I did not recognize any of the bands (not even a little) and I love music. I am hoping they are good/​popular enough here to draw in some more well known bands. I am positive we will be back to get the full experience.

One of my coworkers who has been living in Bakersfield for years recommended this restaurant (after all it is a Bakersfield landmark). Overall I thought the food was surprisingly delicious and I had an enjoyable time while I was here.
Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is a local favorite steakhouse in Bakersfield with live country music band performances, a dance floor with ladies doing the line dance, and various showcases with country music memorabilia (a bit like a mini country music museum). Some Unilocalers mentioned that there’s a $ 5 cover charge per person, but I actually didn’t have to pay any cover charge for some mysterious reason.
I came here for a weekday dinner without any reservation and I was able to grab a seat within five minutes. Due to the occasional low lighting, it could be somewhat difficult trying to read the menu. Not a lot of young diners with mostly local and older diners. Feel free to do the line dance on the front stage and I am still amazed on how these ladies were able to synchronize their dance movements.
***
Two complimentary biscuits: Okay biscuits, but very interesting butter (tasted a bit sweet).
Chicken fried steak (tender ‘southern chicken fried’ sirloin hangs over the platter. Smothered in old fashioned country gravy with mashed spuds + a choice of green bean or coleslaw, $ 22.99): I got green bean as my side and both green bean and gravy were «crack» lickin’ good. This giant piece of chicken fried steak was flavorful and mashed potato wasn’t too shabby either. (4.5÷5)
***
I had a fun local experience and service was VERY friendly. If you happen to visit Bakersfield for a day or stay here overnight, give this place a try and you can immediately immerse yourself in the Bakersfield’s culture.
P. S. — Supposedly the Crystal Palace has one of the brunch best in town and Buck Owens is a really famous county music singer, look him up.

We ate here on a whim for our 3 year anniversary and because my fiancé and I work different shifts so we don’t get a lot of time alone. We had planned to eat elsewhere but it was Mother’s Day weekend on a Saturday and everywhere was packed! We were across town and called at 6:30 for a 8 reservation and were accommodated with no hassle. We arrived way early at 7 and were seated at the back bar (but still facing the stage) right away.
Everyone was so nice and accommodating!!! Smiles and constantly asking if we needed anything as soon as our drinks were empty, but not too often to be annoying. Our waitress was right on point and my glass was never empty for more than a few seconds.
The prices are pretty high but it is what is expected for this type of venue. But watch out! Once the food came the price was not just on point but actually pretty decent. The portions are BIG! We got an appetizer and two entrees. We could have done with an app and shared an entrée.
We ordered the sample platter app, my fiancé had a steak, I got a flat bread. Yummmmmy! Nothing was bad. It was all good. Too good! I was stuffed and wished
I hadn’t eaten so much when we went to dance.
Now onto the dance floor! It’s a little small but it works for the venue. We are country folk and had a great time two stepping to some good music. The band was great and interacted with the audience. My favorite part is that we love to dance to country music but are so over the bar scene. This is the perfect place to go! It’s not a bar it’s a restaurant with live music and a dance floor.

We came here for the Sunday brunch, and wow, it was amazing. They had a full omelet bar, and when I say full, I mean they had every topping I’ve ever seen at any omelet bar. That alone was worth the price (and it’s not cheap).
They also had a great waffle bar/​ice cream sundae bar. Great idea combining these since they have so many of the same toppings. Also, they had freshly sliced tri-​tip, ham, and ribs!!!
They also had all of the normal breakfast buffet staples, which were great. They had 4 – 5 different types of potatoes (ranch style, hash browns, mashed, cheesy casserole, and on other I think). They also had great chicken fried steak that came with very good sausage gravy. They also had a great variety of dessert baked goods.
The only thing missing was more breakfast breads, but there was enough of everything else to make up for that times 10.

I don’t know how I have not written a review sooner.
Let me start by saying I dream about the fried catfish dinner. It is divine.
We have been here for dinner, for Sunday brunch, and for the Brett Eldridge concert. Each time has been spectacular.
The best part is the atmosphere. Between the band, the memorabilia, and the down home southern food, you cannot go wrong.
Prices are steep, so it’s definitely a treat, not a regular weekly restaurant.

We recently came here to try the Sunday Brunch I had heard so much about. It was delicious.
The omelette station was fully loaded with every filling you could want. My husband was impressed that they had sour cream, salsa, and guacamole self service to top them with.
The carving station had three choices: ham, tri-​tip, and ribs, all were good.
The waffle bar was great too. There were so many toppings including my favorite peanut butter! Ice cream with all the fixings were in the same area too.
They also has a regular buffet section with the regulars like eggs, bacon, sausage, and potatoes. It also included chicken fried steak, two other types of potatoes, biscuits and gravy, and rice pilaf and veggies. The bread/​dessert section had peach cobbler, cinnamon rolls, muffins, brownies, cheesecake, scones, and croissants.
Overall this place was great. I wish they had a few other options such as hot or cold cereal and more bread choices like toast or bagels. I will say the quality of the food was top notch and is one of the best buffets outside of Las Vegas.

I write this review after having been a weekend visitor to Bakersfield. Hands down, the Crystal Palace is THE place to go have dinner if you are a Bakersfield tourist. This statement is especially true if you have even the tiniest fondness for country music.
I had no clue what I was getting into when my friends and I headed to the Crystal Palace with a recent transplant to Bakersfield. All I knew was that it was a food place that was also a country music museum of sorts. Both those statements are true. The Crystal Palace has a wide range of steakhouse treats, with entrees ranging from $ 11 to 30. The portions are Cheesecake Factory huge. There are very few vegetarian options, but meat-​eaters will be happy. Our server Dani was enthusiastic and competent.
Lunch and dinner guests will have a $ 5 «museum charge» added on for each guest, and the walls are decorated amply with country music memorabilia. I definitely got my $ 5 worth checking out the huge sculptures of country music stars and the historical items. $ 41 got me my share of the appetizer sampler, two huge beer steins, a huge salad with chicken, museum charge and tip.
My five stars is largely based on the sheer delight of listening to the house band’s set when they came on at 7:30 pm, a little more than half-​way into our dinner. They were great, and the dance floor filled steadily with people line dancing and partner dancing to the country standards. They opened fittingly with «The Streets of Bakersfield» and then played a great range of slow and fast country songs from the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s. The music put a damper on serious conversation even though we were in the second tier of seats away from the dance floor, but seeing the merriment was worth it. I loved how the band and the dancing appealed to folks of all ages, from the couples in their 70s who were rocking the line dances to the 20-​something couples and the 20-​something single lady with her matching light brown leather cowboy boots and Michael Kors handbag.
My only serious suggestion for improvement is to add a female singer to the house band, or to at least let a female singer in to sing every fifth song. And to add a sculpture of Dolly or Reba or Loretta to the lobby dudes. Ladies have contributed to country music awesomeness, too!