The Restaurant Party
Greater Pasadena’s best places to eat campaign hard for business
The Pasadena Way | Dining | Nitelife | Health & Beauty | Shopping
In some of our finer eating establishments, a plank is a flat piece of wood on which a baked or broiled piece of salmon is served. In less fortunate places, a plank looms as a flat piece of wood to cling to in order to avoid drowning.
But in this presidential election year — and in the Pasadena Weekly’s annual Reader’s Poll of best restaurants — the plank is part of a platform upon which “the party” takes a stand to appeal to voters.
I’ve just returned from a dining-out junket around Pasadena in an effort to review some of the planks laid out by restaurants with winning tickets. Like many a political junket, my journey was ostensibly for the purpose of obtaining useful information, but more for staying out late, both of which worked well for me.
I couldn’t think of a better way to account for the Best Steak House vote than to sink my teeth (as did a pal) into a two-pound, eight-ounce porterhouse at Arroyo Chop House — but not before a crab leg appetizer.
I’ve been luckier than the politicians at speaking engagements around the rubber-chicken circuit. I’ve been talking to friends at Zankou Chicken, voted Best Middle Eastern, about how much more inviting their long-marinated, sweet and tender white meat is, taken from, I suspect, very young chickens.
Guests who put up with political oratory at breakfast club meetings think it’s a big deal if a sponsor puts sprinkles on their donuts. I’m sure the guests would rather be at Marston’s (Best Breakfast winner) listening to the crack of shells, the scuffing of an omelet in pan, the thutter of a toaster and the chonk of cutting a fresh melon.
Their throats parched from wind jamming, you’ll never hear a politician say “when” as drinks like Mega Mango are poured at Jamba Juice (Best Juice Bar).
Entering Sumi Chang’s Euro Pane Bakery (voted Best Bakery) and getting a whiff of bread baking is not aroma therapy: It’s an aroma addiction and cause for lingering. Greedy politicians, when they’re not trying to scoop up the aroma in both hands, will be whimpering old chants of “Just Say No.”
If they stick around to watch Chang’s staff creating everything from wedding cakes of royal lineage — white castles tall and shimmering with balconies and battlements — to down-home sticky buns, they’ll find the cause is lost.
As a cure for insolvency in these modern times, I see myself as Charlie Chaplin: Dusting himself off, tilting his little bowler hat at a jaunty angle, chin up, with a burger and fries from In-N-Out in hand, he walks away into the sunset like a penguin, happy as can be. (In-N-Out wins for Best Cheap Eats.)
But when it came to winners, there was no one this year quite like redwhite+bluezz, which won in an unprecedented four major categories: Best Restaurant, Best Staff, Best Brunch and Best Cocktails (and one silver medal for Best Outdoor Dining). And they are less than two years old — incredible! It’s something which I would never, reasoning from many years of election observations, have thought possible.
Jazz, as it turns out, has its own surprises. And in exit-polling customers, I came away with the idea that food and drinks taste better when consumed in such rhythmic terrain.
Surely now the competition will be looking for the next Coleman Hawkins or Charlie Parker, but will they have bluenose bass with truffled mascarpone polenta, Kansas City steaks or Godiva white chocolate beurre blanc?
On my way to Whole Foods, I saw a small group holding show cards that read “Save Our Seeds.” I figured it involved sperm banks and fertility centers. Later I would learn that the group actually was interested in gathering and preserving seeds from many tasty but endangered plant products — like the sweet, juicy heirloom tomatoes at Whole Foods, the market/deli voted Best in Health Foods. A tour of the produce section here leads to a run to the salad bar.
A large turnout of voters for Best French Restaurant — CrepeVine and finalist, Bistro 45, and CrepeVine’s runner-up redwhite+bluezz for Best Restaurant Staff — shows that our foreign relations have improved. It contradicts the axiom that French service is often rude; that waiters snub with a shrug and wilt with a glance.
In fact, a restaurant owner recently told me he goes to CrepeVine more for the service and greeting he gets from the owner, Kate Hagglund, than he does for the restaurant’s fine cuisine. “It’s the singer, not the song,” he says.
And everybody I know will tell you that Bistro 45 owner Robert Simon is the consummate politician. While working the room nightly — remembering names, preferences, and mixing business talk with whimsy — he makes every guest feel like a celebrity surrounded by champagne buckets.
If I could hire a skywriter, like politicians often do, the skies over Pasadena would be puffed with lofty praise for more of the winning restaurants and the people who serve us so well.
Best Armenian Cuisine (TIE)
Burger Continental
535 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena | (626) 792-6634 | www.burgercontinental.com
To support all the countries of the Mediterranean and Middle East influenced by Armenian cookery, the menu has shoulders as broad as the Parthenon. It features Moroccan fatoush, Armenian pizza, Lebanese kebabs, Greek souvlaki, Turkish garabet, Italian seafood, French Dips, London fish and chips, Hollywood burgers and - for dessert - belly dancers.
Zankou Chicken
1296 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 405-1502
www.zankouchicken.com
With fast service but sit-down-dinner house quality, Zankou brings us imaginatively crafted dishes like chickpea beef falafel and shawarma - lamb and chicken done to a simmering turn on a rotating spit until broken up into tasty shreds. And with all chicken dishes, Zankou makes a fuss over feathers like a peacock.
Finalist
Sahara Restaurant
2226 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 795-6900
Sahara is defined by high-quality Armenian cuisine at a good value, an experience enhanced by hospitality and generosity to visitors. Discover the ourfa kebab - mesquite-broiled eggplant layered between lamb and beef - or indulge in the vegetarian platter with a little sadziki (a tasty cucumber and yogurt dip) on the side.
Best Bakery
Euro Pane Bakery
950 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 577-1828
www.europane.com
Before opening Euro Pane in Pasadena 13 years ago, owner Sumi Chang was chef under Mark Peel at renowned Campanile, and often consulted with Peel's wife, Nancy Silverton, who runs La Brea Bakery next door. "Nancy is the queen of bakers and my idol," said Chang. Now Chang is a storied baker in her own right, always trying to improve on perfection - these days crafting a nuttier, stickier sticky bun, she said.
Finalist
Le Pain Quotidien
88 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 396-0814
www.lepainquotidien.com
There is nothing better for breakfast club meetings than muffins, brioche, croissants, hazelnut flutes and Irish oatmeal spread end-to-end on Le Pain Quotidien's famous elongated table.
Best BBQ
Gus's Barbecue
808 Fair Oaks Ave., South Pasadena | (626) 799-3251
www.gussbbq.com
After becoming the new owners of Gus's Barbecue, brothers Chris and John Bicos are burnishing the restaurant's already glowing reputation. In the restaurant's 62 years as Gus's and 79th as a restaurant, the barbecue has never been better - seasoned overnight and slowly smoked in apple wood and hickory, with new assertive blends of herbs and spices.
Finalist
Robin's Woodfire BBQ & Grill
395 N. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 351-2089 robinsbbq.com
Robin Salzer's barbecue style combines gray matter with elbow grease: discerning purchases of quality meats, massaged with wisely chosen special seasonings and constant vigilance over the smoker's fuel mixture and temperature.
Best Breakfast
Marston's
151 E. Walnut St., Pasadena | (626) 796-2459 | www.marstonsrestaurant.com
Famous for the tastiest omelets that ever scuffed a pan (not the usual fluff-and-fold where ingredients lay loose in the envelope), the cooks at Marston's sauté ingredients in a separate pan before adding in the eggs, which allows meats and vegetables to form a perfect marriage of flavor. But if eggs aren't your thing, nothing could be sweeter than their French toast with tree-tapped Vermont maple syrup.
Finalist
Julienne
2649 Mission St., San Marino | (626) 441-2299
www.Juliennetogo.com
As evidenced by choices such as bread pudding, French toast with peach sauce or bittersweet chocolate waffles, a Julienne breakfast is to ham and eggs what Dom Perignon is to Diet Pepsi.
Best Buffet
Souplantation
201 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena | (626) 577-4797
www.souplantation.com
Diligent staff never fails to attend to what is expected and required of a great buffet - to be neat and gaudy at the same time. You won't find mixed greens straggling in a tray with red beets, but you'll always see a bright, clear display of blueberry muffins, Caesar salads, soups and cobblers.
Finalist
Mijares
145 Palmetto Ave., Pasadena | (626) 792-2763 | www.mijaresrestaurant.com
A sprawling hacienda, with vividly decorated patios and dining rooms, is the scene of countless personal and community events, enriched by a crowd-pleasing, all-you-can-eat buffet that satisfies both carnivore and vegetarian.
Best Burger
In-N-Out
2114 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
119 S. Brand Blvd., Glendale
310 N. Harvey Drive, Glendale
10601 E. Lower Azusa Road, Temple City
420 N. Santa Anita Ave., Arcadia
(800) 786-1000 | www.In-N-Out.com
After a sporting event or a movie, if you dare suggest getting a hamburger at a place other than this one your pals might get hurt rolling in the aisles with laughter. You just can't beat 'em, or say enough about the goodness of a 100 percent beef burger with crispy lettuce, juicy tomato and obligatory onion, prepared on an old-fashioned bun from scratch when ordered.
Finalists
Tops Drive In
1792 E. Walnut St., Pasadena | (626) 584-0244
and Tops (on Colorado)
838 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 449-4412
Voters didn't designate which Tops got their vote. Drawn to the good name and top-notch fast-food, they may eat at both places.
Best Burrito
Burrito Express
1597 Washington Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 798-0844
While other burrito purveyors were nervous about the results of this poll, owner Wil Orozco was confident about the outcome. In any burrito contest, having a special secret recipe for marinated shredded beef to stuff into a tortilla is like having an ace up your sleeve.
Finalist
Lucky Boy Drive-in Restaurant
640 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena | (626) 793-0120
This nod is as much to Lucky Boy's long-term customer relations as it is to the great taste of its burrito.
Best Business Lunch
Smitty's Grill
110 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena | (626) 792-9999 | www.smittysgrill.com
Not only for big business dealings but a place for lowly office workers to chew the fat, take lumps, and eat crow, while feasting on all-American dishes like meatloaf or cereal-bowl-size chicken pot pie - Yankee Doodle Do!
Finalist
Houston's
320 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena | (626) 577-6001 | hillstone.com
Business people, clustered here like it's a Vegas convention, crack many a trade secret while chipping away at famous spinach and artichoke dips or savoring classic American standbys like steaks and ribs.
Best Cajun Restaurant (TIE)
Hutch's BBQ Restaurant
390 E. Walnut St., Pasadena | (626) 449-8095 | www.hutchbbq.com
Chef/partner Hillford Phillips' Cajun cookery has a Jamaican tang: Many of his recipes stem from fugitive slaves who once hid from colonial troops in Jamaica's Blue Mountains, where the delicious aroma from their kitchens risked giving away their positions. The restaurant, now 60, is the oldest continuous standing restaurant in Pasadena (Mijares, an older business, was once cut down by fire).
Big Mama's Rib Shack
1453 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena | (626) 797-1792 | www.bigmamas-ribshack.com
Original Cajun heirloom recipes of founder Sue (Big Mama) McWhorter include barbecued smoked ribs, fried chicken, battered shrimp, candied yams and a Po'boy that makes good. With black-eyed peas snapping from the pod, and dark brown roux swamping many a dish, you can almost hear the swoosh and plap on an old paddle-wheeler rolling down the Mississippi.
Best California Cuisine
Parkway Grill
510 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena | (626) 795-1001 | www.theparkwaygrill.com
For nearly 25 years, innovations have lead to numerous awards, including once being named "one of America's top restaurants" by Gourmet magazine. The secret: "Our concept has always been to create an environment and cuisine distinctly different from anything else on this side of town, and we aim to be the first in the market with the choicest ingredients," says partner Gregg Smith.
Finalist
California Pizza Kitchen
99 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena | (626) 585-1920 | cpk.com
Not only a pioneer in gourmet pizza, it turns out diverse, authentic and culturally mixed California-style flavors like chicken-tequila fettuccine and kung pao spaghetti.
Best Caribbean Dining
Cuban Bistro
28 W. Main St., Alhambra | (626) 308-3350
Famous on weekends for attracting good-looking dancers - men as lean and mean as stilettos sheathed in black leather, partnering with women as sleek and limber as silk sashes - its kitchen hops to it daily with classic dishes like ropa vieja, tomatoey marinated beef slowly braised into tender tatters in the shallows of its own juices.
Best Cheap Eats
In-N-Out
2114 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
119 S. Brand Blvd., Glendale
310 N. Harvey Drive, Glendale
10601 E. Lower Azusa Road, Temple City
420 N. Santa Anita Ave., Arcadia
(800) 786-1000 | In-N-Out.com
Eco-friendly, as in economical, this is the place where prudent planners dispose of their resources, but the burger, fries and soft drink combo is still a luxury. Their burgers contain 100 percent pure beef, ground by their own butchers; buns are house-baked using old-fashioned, slow-rising sponge dough; lettuce is hand-leafed and tomatoes chosen for juiciness.
Finalist
La Estrella Restaurant
502 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena | (626) 792-8559
330 E. Orange Grove Ave., Pasadena | (626) 304-2752
In these hard times, especially late at night, the best bailout package for the very hungry comes in "grow-up-with" Mexican specialties like tacos, burritos and tortas.
Best Chinese Food
Panda Inn Restaurant
3488 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 793-7300
www.pandainn.com
Founded in Pasadena in 1973 by Andrew Cherng, originally a trained mathematician, and his father, a master chef from Taipei - and later joined by Andrew's wife, Peggy, an electrical engineer - Panda Inn was wired for success with time-tested Mandarin recipes and innovative techniques in gourmet cookery with dishes like honey-walnut shrimp and orange chicken.
Finalist
Fortune Chinese Cuisine
60 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena | (626) 577-1888
Despite moderate prices on popular dishes, it has earned admission to the tut-tutting restaurant row between Union and Holly streets. Try honey-glazed walnut shrimp, or anything with lobster sauce, and you'll see why.
Best Cocktails
redwhite+bluezz
70 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena | (626) 792-4441 | www.redwhitebluezz
Three bartenders, versed in words to smile at, two sommeliers with portfolios, fresh juices instead of orangeades, distinguished Cointreau instead of ordinary Triple Sec - a safe place where you'll see a woman clad in a spaghetti-strap dress sipping a martini poured from Austrian crystal. All this plus live, cool "West Coast" jazz played to a very "live" audience to savor.
Finalist
Magnolia
492 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena | (626) 584-1126
That rare "great third place," its importance only exceeded by home and job, where you can get a good drink and run into someone you know and like.
Best Deli / Sandwiches
Pasadena Sandwich Company
259 Sierra Madre Villa Ave., Pasadena | (626) 578-1616
www.pasadenasandwichcompany.com
The first "sandwich" was made for the fourth Earl of Sandwich so he could deal cards without disturbing his evening meal or the countess on his lap. Today, if the poker games were played here, Earl would open widely with huge sandwiches and deal royal flushes with "Turkey Supremes" and "Chicago" corned beef or pastrami.
Finalists
Lovebirds Café & Bakery
921 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 583-8888 | lovebirdscafe.com
What more could you want from a giant sandwich than bacon, tomato, lettuce and avocado - on fresh raisin bread, no less. It really cuts the mustard.
Subway Sandwiches & Salads
950 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (and other locations)
(626) 449-8887 | www.subway.com
In the economic downturn, what could be more popular for lunch than a build-your-own six-inch sub with a salad for $4.89, or for breakfast, a sausage, bacon and cheese combo for $1.99?
Best Dessert
Cheesecake Factory
2 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 584-6000
www.cheesecakefactory.com
Strength is the capacity to order a piece of the 30th Anniversary Cheesecake - two layers of fudge, two layers of original cheesecake - cut it in half and give that half to a friend. This cake must be a forerunner to a child's dream of an all-frosting chocolate cake. At any rate, enjoy: PC, portion-control, is not observed at Cheesecake Factory.
Finalist
Aux Delices French Bakery & Café
16 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 796-1630
www.auxdelicespasadena.com
Singeing the air, an Edith Piaf torch song melts butter down the slope of a domed chocolate brulée or into the soft grainy fabric of a ham or turkey croissant.
Best French Cuisine
The Crepe Vine
36 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 796-7250 | www.thecrepevine.com
Chef Joel Stoval's tables are furnished with delicacies like beautifully crafted crepes that clasp everything from strawberry jam to filet mignon. For dinner, there's a sumo cow in the China Shop: seared Kobe beef steak with garlic mashed potatoes and pancetta-wrapped grilled asparagus, drizzled with brandy-peppercorn sauce. And five shrimp in Shrimp Diane are good-sized too.
Finalist
Bistro 45
45 S. Mentor Ave., Pasadena | (626) 795-2478 | www.bistro45.com
French cookery, with overlays of fresh California refinements making it more intricate and challenging, is all haute and bothered in this Napa Valley-like setting.
Best Health Food
Whole Foods Market Arroyo
465 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena | (626) 204-2266
www.wholefoodsmarket.com
For its fresh-tasting produce - grown locally, not from distant markets - the eco-friendly applaud the place like they would
a magic beanstalk. Others sprout affection for exotics from
beyond like scary, horned melons from New Zealand or balls of nectar called Mamey White Sapote from heaven. Elsewhere,
amid a glittering ice show of seafood, they'll find the delicacy
- halibut cheeks.
Finalist
Orean the Health Express
817 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena | (626) 794-0861 | www.oreanhealthexpress.com
This convenient drive-in restaurant will trim pounds off the waist and cut cholesterol counts with all-vegetarian fast-food products containing no meat, milk, eggs, fish or refined sugar.
Best Hotel Dining
The Dining Room at Langham
1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena
(626) 568-3900
www.langhamhotels.com
Even the most jaded celebrity will have treasured moments and multistoried memories of a great hotel with class "just like in the old days." At every turn, from the lobby to The Dining Room, an attentive staff seems totally devoted to the appreciation of its guests. Chef de Cuisine Craig Strong shows it with a farm-raised pheasant breast and leg confit.
Finalist
Trevos at Pasadena Hilton
168 S. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena | (626) 577-1000 | www.hilton.com
Not at all intimidating like some fine hotels, the restaurant is located near a comfortable lobby where you can hang out and read a book, savoring the idea of a Trevos baked Chilean sea bass.
Best Independent Coffee House
Zona Rosa Caffe
15 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena | (626) 793-2334 | zonarosacaffe.com
Serves robust Latin American coffees that intoxicate without inviting the police, or, if you get too excited, there's smooth, decadent, mill-pond Mexican hot chocolate (Ibarra). Colorful art decorates an upstairs loft where Latin music fills the rafters - live on Thursdays - and outside, sidewalk tables serve the audience for and provide a view of the Pasadena Playhouse next door.
Finalist
Buster's Coffee & Ice Cream Shop
1006 Mission St., South Pasadena | (626) 441-0744
Redolent of the inside of a burlap coffee bag, the room brings varietal imported coffees home to roast, plus sandwiches, baked yummies, big desserts, small talk and entertainments, live and luscious.
Best Ice Cream/Gelato
21 Choices
85 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 304-9521 | 21choices.com
21 Choices sells only yogurt, not a drip of ice cream. But we can excuse the electorate for its voting choice. The yogurt tastes so good that people think it is ice cream. Now tempted with cookie dough, animal cookies, rainbow sprinkles and vanilla yogurt, we line up in the streets like children once did for the Good Humor ice cream man.
Finalist
Fosselman's Ice Cream Co.
1824 W. Main St., Alhambra | (626) 282-6533 | fosselmans.com
Made on the premises, flavors like mint chip, mango, and chocolate-dipped strawberry couldn't taste fresher or better than this if you salted the ice around a bucket and turned the crank.
Best Indian Cuisine
Akbar Cuisine of India
44 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena | (626) 577-9916 | akbarcuisineofindia.com
Knowledge of wine and its suitability to food, a rarity among Indian restaurants, honors the tradition of Akbar the Great, the Mogul ruler of 17th-century India who believed the good life meant eating and drinking well. Counterpointing the wine's cool delight, the blistering heat of a tandoor oven seals in every drop of flavor in numerous northern Indian lamb and chicken specialties.
Finalist
All India Café
39 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena | (626) 440-0309 allindiacafe.com
A name that proclaims the transference of a whole subcontinent's cookery is saying a mouthful about a very large order, but they manage it here with a flourish.
Best Italian Cuisine
Gale's Restaurant
452 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena | (626) 432-6705 | www.galesrestaurant.com
Humming with small talk and glad-hand embraces, it has the look and feel of a family reunion in which each generation adds something special. Younger guests favor the famous salads, in preference to everything but the meatball sandwich; elders savor the cookery of Chef Fausto Tinelli, highlighted by an osso bucco with the bone cut in a way that allows marrow to be scooped out.
Finalist
Mi Piace
25 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 795-3131
www.mipiace.com
Elegant but casual like silver spoons and short sleeves - the envy of its competition for nearly 20 years - it is often hard to get a luxury box seat in this New York City-like "lifestyle" scene.
Best Japanese Food and/or Sushi
Kabuki Japanese Restaurant
3589 Foothill Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 351-8963
88 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 568-9310
www.kabukirestaurants.com
It seems the sushi chefs here cut salmon near the middle where it is softest and tastiest. From bar to dinner table, the Kabuki "boat" - for lovers - is rapture of the deep: Beautifully shaped like a Cleopatra recliner, the deck is jubilant with colorful glazed teriyaki, fruits and veggies - seasonal and exotic - dumplings, mussels, sushi, shrimp and ribs.
Finalist
Sushi of Naples
735 E. Green St., Pasadena | (626) 578-1123 | www.sushiofnaples.com
A lacquered bento box lunch, compartmented with many small dishes to compose a single meal - seafood, teriyaki, fruit, veggies - is so beautifully arrayed that dismantling it borders on vandalism.
Best Juice Bar
Jamba Juice
64 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 666-1500
204 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena | (626) 744-5200
3595 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 351-4333
3751 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 351-5994
1101 Fair Oaks Ave., South Pasadena | (626) 799-1775
745 E. Naomi Ave., Arcadia | (626) 446-9483
5053 Eagle Rock Blvd., Eagle Rock | (323) 349-0670
1131 S. Fremont Ave., Alhambra | (626) 588-2490
761 Americana Way, Glendale | (818) 956-8971
www.jambajuice.com
Full of healthy blends of fruits and veggies, these creations can be a sure pick-me-up for a gloomy mood or a refresher on a hot, sunny day. Available with free boosts such as energy or extra vitamins, the hardest part of your day might be choosing which juicy combo you want from all the appetizing options.
Finalist
Robeks
1731 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 405-1045
319 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 792-7644
www.robeks.com
These fresh juice bars centered on creating nutritious lifestyles offer numerous healthy juice and smoothie options, as well as tasty salads and sandwiches.
Best Late-Night Snack
In-N-Out
2114 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
119 S. Brand Blvd., Glendale
310 N. Harvey Drive, Glendale
10601 E. Lower Azusa Road, Temple City
420 N. Santa Anita Ave., Arcadia
(800) 786-1000 | www.In-N-Out.com
They know what a hamburger's all about, and all around the clock. With juicy, freshly made burgers, hand-cut fries, and creamy shakes, it sure beats searching around the fridge at midnight. Go for that 4x4 or animal-style fries; you know you want it.
Finalist
Denny's
2627 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 795-0192
369 W. Main St., Alhambra | (626) 281-6701
5603 N. Rosemead Blvd., Temple City | (626) 258-0864
7 E. Huntington Drive, Arcadia | (626) 446-3401
For the late risers and early hour revelers, this 24-hour all-American diner is the place to finally get a hearty breakfast.
Best Local Family Restaurant
Conrad's
861 E. Walnut St., Pasadena | (626) 577-7603
631 Foothill Blvd., La Cañada Flintridge | (818) 790-2230
820 N. Central Ave., Glendale | (818) 246-6547
When cooking sounds uninviting, opt instead for this classic restaurant, perfect for a night out with the kids. This home-style fare and atmosphere can't help but bring about warm feelings and will have you thinking you were back in grandma's kitchen.
Finalists
Kabuki
88 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 586-9573
3539 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 351-8963
Named after traditional Japanese theater, this cultural presentation is perfect for sushi pros and beginners alike, and their kids' menu was named best in America last year by Restaurant Hospitality magazine.
Pie ‘N Burger
913 E. California Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 795-1123
Great food never gets old, as locals (and Huell Howser) will tell you of this terrific burger joint, feeding the community since 1963.
Best Local Pizza
Avanti Café
111 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena | (626) 577-4688
All pizzas are not created equal. They may all be made of the same ingredients, but there must be a reason this favorite has swept the category for 14 years. It could be the specially made dough or the super-fresh ingredients. One thing is for sure - once you have some, no other pizza can compare.
Finalists
Tarantino's Pizzeria
784 E. Green St., Pasadena
(626) 796-7836
Portions of pizza and other menu items are huge, yet there's always room for seconds of their mouth-watering garlic rolls.
Tony's Pizza
2555 Huntington Drive, San Marino
(626) 793-4114
Not only can pizza be enjoyed at the restaurant, but they'll also make your next event or party a hit.
Best Mediterranean Cuisine
Café Santorini
64 W. Union St., Pasadena | (626) 564-4200 | cafesantorini.com
Take her to this picturesque setting in bustling Old Pasadena; dining on the rooftop under the stars will be like the fairy tale she's always dreamed of. With dishes like the Red Curry Paella - a symphony of mussels, clams and shrimp - the ladies won't be able to resist eating on a date.
Finalist
Mediterranean Café
273 Shoppers Lane, Pasadena | (626) 793-8844
www.kokosmediterraneancafe.com
Even when there are long lines, the flavorful kebabs and pita bread come quickly but without a fast-food taste.
Best Mexican Restaurant
El Portal
695 E. Green St., Pasadena | (626) 795-8553 | www.elportalrestaurant.com
One of nine siblings, Abel Ramirez said he realized his culinary passion growing up in a Yucatan village. Follow the aromas of authentic Yucatan cuisine to the Ramirez family's hacienda-style restaurant, newly remodeled kitchen and Maya Room.
Finalist
Mijares
145 Palmetto Drive, Pasadena, | (626) 792-2763
1806 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 794-6674
www.mijaresrestaurant.com
Mexico-born Jesucita Mijares founded Mijares Mexican restaurant over 80 years ago. From its humble beginnings as a tortilla factory, the family-owned restaurant has been known for its flavorful tamales, sauces and tortillas. The Mijares family continues to honor its founder's motto: "Mi casa es su casa."
Best Middle Eastern Eats
Zankou Chicken
1296 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 405-1502
1415 E. Colorado Blvd., # D, Glendale | (818) 244-2237
www.zankouchicken.com
With rich, juicy, garlic-laden rotisserie chicken, hummus and falafel spilling off of the plate, patrons should come with a healthy appetite. Since beginning in Lebanon in 1962, Vartkes Iskenderian and his family have successfully expanded their restaurants from Hollywood to Pasadena. Try the marinated chicken tarna plate for $8.49.
Finalist
Lebanese Kitchen
1384 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 296-9010
www.sangabrielvalleymenus.com/lebanesekitchen
Chicken, lule, lamb, ourfa or other shish kebabs bring Lebanese and Armenian cuisine to Pasadena. Open Monday through Saturday, the Lebanese Kitchen also offers catering.
Best New Restaurant
La Grande Orange
260 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena | (626) 356-4444 | lgostationcafe.com
Upon opening in March, this American-style eatery serving burgers and salads for lunch or prime ribs and salmon for dinner was already making waves with its history-laden venue in Pasadena's old Santa Fe Depot, where it overlooks the Del Mar Gold Line Station and Central Park.
Finalists
Equator
22 Mills Place, Pasadena | (626) 564-8656
A coffee house until recently, this chic bistro in the heart of Old Pasadena makes Asian food sexy while serving up delights like Kung Pao chicken and dim sum.
Green Street Tavern
69 W. Green St., Pasadena | (626) 229-9961 | greenstreettavern.net
No "hmm ... I wonder what's in this" questioning here. Green Street is all about quality, with locally grown beef and seasonal organic veggies. Now they serve innovative brunches Saturdays and Sundays.
Best Outdoor Dining
Twin Palms
101 W. Green St., Pasadena | (626) 577-2567 | twin-palms.com
When relaxing on the fresh-air patio shaded by a large white canopy, servers at your call, and serenaded by talented entertainment, you'll feel like a king in a castle. After the prime rib or pan-seared snapper and a fine wine, you'll be ready to conquer the world.
Finalist
redwhite+bluezz
70 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena | (626) 792-4441
www.redwhitebluezz.com
Whether it be a toasty night or breezy one, it is perfect for enjoying jazz on this romantic patio complete with outdoor heaters.
Best Restaurant
redwhite+bluezz
70 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena | (626) 792-4441
www.redwhitebluezz.com
Serving up American fare speakeasy-style, redwhite+bluezz rocks the house nightly with live music, a sommelier-driven wine list and a menu chock-full of reinvented classics like Crispy Smoked Gouda Mac 'n' Cheese. Their success in this year's reader's poll suggest you already knew that. Another key ingredient of success is hiring the hippest and friendliest staff who can always find the right wine.
Finalist
Gale's Restaurant
452 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena | (626) 432-6705
www.galesrestaurant.com
Come for the chic Northern Italian dishes, stay for the warm servers and staff; Gale's never fails to make its customers feel like family.
Best Restaurant Staff
redwhite+bluezz
70 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena | (626) 792-4441 | www.redwhitebluezz.com
Led by Maître d' (and this year's Best Local Personality winner) Bryan Gallyot, the crew at redwhite+bluezz is amply able to please even the most particular guest with impeccable service matched only by its menu and wine list.
Finalist
The CrepeVine
36 W. Colorado Blvd. (on Mills Place), Pasadena | (626) 796-7250 | www.thecrepevine.com
A favorite among restaurant-goers as well as restaurant owners, The CrepeVine's elegant dining experience is only magnified by the charm of its attentive waitstaff.
Best Seafood
Cameron's Seafood
1978 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 793-3474 | camerons4fish.com
Enjoy some of the freshest seafood on dry land and sailor-like décor and you'll be wondering if you joined Ariel under the sea. Try the succulent lobster, juicy shrimp and creamy clam chowder, or pick up the fish market's large selection of raw seafood to go.
Finalist
McCormick & Schmick's
111 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena | (626) 405-0064 www.mccormickandschmicks.com
With its classic good-looking design and 30 types of seafood coming in daily, it's no wonder M&S gets so much action.
Best Soul Food (TIE)
Big Mama's
1453 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena | (626) 797-1792
www.bigmamas-ribshack.com
These fried and barbequed foods with Georgia roots, such as chicken, ribs, and fish, make your soul feel content like only Southern food can. With great bang for your buck, your wallet will thank you even if your waistline doesn't.
Roscoe's Chicken ‘N Waffles
830 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena | (626) 791-4890
www.roscoeschickenandwaffles.com
Some of life's greatest pleasures, these secret-batter waffles dripping with homemade syrup and capped with whipped butter are definitely no Eggos. Add in perfectly fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, fluffy biscuits and euphoria will hit.
Finalist
Larkin's
1496 Colorado Blvd., Eagle Rock | (323) 254-0934
www.larkinsjoint.com
When the world feels like it's moving too fast, take a breath and sit down to slow-cooked traditional soul food.
Best Spanish/South American Dining
The Guitarras at the Granada
17 S. 1st St., Alhambra | (626) 227-2572 | www.thegranadaalhambra.com
If your salsa skills are mas o menos lacking, skip the dance floor at the Basque-style Guitarras restaurant, salsa club and dance studio and go straight for the tapas. Their extensive tapas menu changes seasonally and features savory favorites such as calamari and ceviche. Too hungry after all that dancing to share your tapas? The Guitarras features a full menu too, so you'll never leave hungry.
Finalist
La Luna Negra
44 W. Green St., Pasadena | (626) 844-4331 | www.lalunanegrarestaurant.com
Beyond its rich crimson interior, addictive red and white sangrias and huge array of tapas and tantalizing Spanish entrees, La Luna Negra boasts live flamenco dancers, to boot.
Best Special Occasion Dining (Tie)
Parkway Grill
510 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena | (626) 795-1001 | www.theparkwaygrill.com
In a charming 80-year old brick building, this casual yet elegant dining setting is a place where memories are made and deals are sealed - romantic as well as business. With excellent food and stellar presentation, it will be a night - or day - to remember.
The Raymond Restaurant
1250 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena | (626) 441-3136 | www.theraymond.com
The gracious, unique interior of what was once a caretaker's cottage for the Raymond Hotel and the outdoor gardens that surround it have hosted intimate weddings, showers, holiday parties and more over the years. Complete with gourmet foods, extensive wines and a full bar, it's a dream come true.
Finalist
Melting Pot
88 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 792-1941 | www.meltingpot.com
Fondue: A sure recipe for fun for a large dipping group or for a delicious game for two, with chocolate fondue for dessert.
Best Steakhouse
Arroyo Chop house
536 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 577-7463
www.arroyochophouse.com
Cozy booths, rich mahogany beams perfectly compliment prime steaks prepared by Chef David Tellez. A Pasadena Weekly repeat winner, Arroyo Chop House is a complete dining experience.
Finalist
JJ's Steakhouse
88 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 844-8889 | www.jjsteakhouse.net
Come for the romantic ambiance and stay for the mouthwatering filet mignon. A five-star restaurant, this candlelit dining room is not your typical bib and hand-wipes steakhouse.
Best Sunday brunch
Redwhite+bluezz Wine Bar & Grill
70 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena | (626) 792-4441 | www.redwhitebluezz.com
The winner of several other awards, this jazz-centered cabaret is also the best in town for a classic: Sunday brunch. Enjoy traditional items with a classy twist like the Banana Foster Pancakes, made with Myers's rum and topped with vanilla ice cream.
Finalist
Twin Palms
101 W. Green St., Pasadena | (626) 577-2567
www.twin-palms.com
Indulge your inner food lover with this brunch buffet offering a made-to-order omelet station, rotisserie chicken and pan-seared salmon.
Best Tea House
Scarlet Tea Room
18 W. Green St., Pasadena | (626) 577-0051 | scarlettearoom.com
The Scarlet Tea Room transports patrons to traditional afternoon tea with delicate sandwiches, floral teapots and overhanging chandeliers. Infused with a feminine decor, the Scarlet Tea Room is open for afternoon tea, evening tea, lunch and dinner. Or taste the new fruit-flavored black tea while kicking back to live jazz music on Thursday, Friday or Saturday nights.
Finalist
Chado Tea Room
79 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena | (626) 431-2832 | chadotea.com
Bottles of aromatic chai, jasmine and oolong teas line their walls. Boasting more than 300 types of teas from 10 different countries, the Chado Tea Room opened its first store in Beverly Hills.
Best Thai Food
Saladang
363 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena | (626) 793-8123
Artistic décor and casual atmosphere indoors or out make dining at trend
chadotea.com
Bottles of aromatic chai, jasmine and oolong teas line their walls. Boasting more than 300 types of teas from 10 different countries, the Chado Tea Room opened its first store in Beverly Hills.
Best Thai Food
Saladang
363 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena | (626) 793-8123
Artistic décor and casual atmosphere indoors or out make dining at trendy Saladang a unique experience, but traditional Thai noodle dishes and curries are what keep this restaurant a favorite. Newcomers might try the chicken satay, which comes with both peanut and sweet and sour sauces.
Finalist
Chandra Thai
400 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 577-6599
sangabrielvalleymenus.com/chandra.htm
Take your pick from Chandra Thai's wine list to complement one of seven rich curries. Top off any entree with Thai coconut ice cream or sweet sticky rice with mango.
Best Vegetarian Food
Orean's The Health Express
817 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena | (626) 794-0861
www.oreanshealthexpress.com
Orean's offers an extensive, fast-food style vegetarian menu sans meat, sugar, dairy and chemical additives - but never sans flavor. Try a tasty burrito or the Peach-Cranberry-Honey Granola Cobbler and you might just skip those golden arches and head for Orean's the next time you're pining for fast-food comfort.
Finalist
Father Nature
17 N. De Lacey Ave., Pasadena | (626) 568-9811
Father Nature features mouth-watering Armenian comfort food and a wide variety of menu options sure to please vegetarians and carnivores alike.
Best Vietnamese Cuisine
Pho 79
29 S. Garfield Ave., Alhambra | (626) 289-0239
www.pho79.com
Fantastic pho and traditional homespun Vietnamese cuisine are what you'll encounter at Pho 79 - along with lightning-fast service and a crowd of satisfied noodle-lovers. After all that pho-slurping, make sure to leave room for some authentic Vietnamese dessert.