Shopper’s Metropolis
With its boutiques, clothiers, jewelers and music dealers, Pasadena is the best place for bargains and more
By Jana J. Monji
The Pasadena Way | Dining | Nitelife | Services | Shopping
People come from all over to shop in Pasadena and the communities that surround it, searching for everything from secondhand treasures to pricey new cars.
Part of the reason for this popularity is that Pasadena and the other places are quite walkable, with lots of shops and plenty of parking — a vast difference from the nightmares of impersonal mega-malls.
Think of it: After dining at any number of delightful restaurants in Old Pasadena, you can simply walk to Rusnak Auto Group, this year’s winner in the Best New and Used Car categories. But also hidden among the chain stores and restaurants in that part of town are whimsical little shops, like the retro Lula Mae and the high-end designer store, Flutter.
And of course Old Focals offers vintage glasses to buy or rent (for your play or party). If you want to impress or just pretend you’re Audrey Hepburn, you can gaze into the windows of Tiffany & Co.
If you actually like walking, the short jaunt from Old Pas to Paseo Colorado is pleasant in good weather and comfortable shoes. After catching a flick, you can browse through the Pasadena Antique Mall. Also in Paseo Colorado is DSW, this year’s Best Shoe Store.
From the Paseo it’s a few quick, easy steps to the Playhouse District. On the way, you’ll pass Linden Optometry before arriving at the Pasadena Playhouse. Just around the corner from there is Jacob Maarse, who since 1966 has supplied flowers and arrangements for everyone from local residents to world leaders (among them former Soviet Premier Leonid Brezhnev and former President Richard Nixon during his Western White House years in San Clemente) and for grand occasions at the Hollywood Bowl and Pasadena’s Rose Court.
Want to kill time before a play or find out about something or someone afterward? Head over to Vroman’s Bookstore. Just down the block is Cliff’s Books, where you can search through towering shelves to find lost treasures. If your love for things old includes LPs, stroll over to Canterbury Records, or jump in the car and head a short way east to Penny Lane Music & Video.
If all things old are your thing, check out the monthly Rose Bowl Flea Market on the second Sunday of each month and the Pasadena City College Flea Market on the first Sunday of every month.
If you’re looking for used clothes, let Out of the Closet and Aardvark’s Odd Ark be among your first stops. Vintage and historical dance lovers recommend Aardvark’s. Remember: today’s chic is not fashionista, but recessionista.
Other great places to shop in East Pasadena include Honda of Pasadena, Fedde’s and Ethan Allen, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Velo Pasadena and Captain Tobacco.
For toy-lovers of all ages, San Marino Toy and Book Shoppe is the place to go, although for devotees of dinosaurs and everything prehistoric, Dinosaur Farm in South Pasadena is a must-see. More expensive toys — those for chic men and women — can be found at Asanti Fine Jewelers in San Marino. San Marino is also the place to go for clothing for child and man, as the fair municipality is also home to Saturday’s Child and P.M. Jacoy. Need to fire off a letter or two about how good you look? Paperwhites, on Mission Street, is the place for you.
For those with cash to burn, or people who want to save, or those who just want to window shop and dream like Holly Golightly, Greater Pasadena is the place to do it.
Editor's Pick
Best bargains
99¢ Only Stores
442 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena | (626) 356-0990
1720 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 356-2499
99only.com
In these worst of times, it's comforting to know you can go to this bastion of bargains with only a fistful of dollars and still feel like a big spender. They've got the basics - toilet paper, plates and food - and the accoutrements of modern life, like 99-cent pregnancy tests for mothers who want to know, but just don't want to spend so much to find out.
Best Misuse of the Measuring System
We could all use a little something extra now and then. Thankfully, some Pasadena-area medical marijuana dispensaries take a cavalier approach to the laws of weights and measures to bring us the 5-gram eighth. That's right - what by definition should weigh 3.5 grams, or an eighth of an ounce, just got inexplicably heftier. Imagine the possibilities if this school of thinking gains momentum.
Best Liquor Store
Mission Wine & Spirits
1801 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 794-0282 | www.missionliquor.com
A massive selection of tequilas, aisles of heady craft beers and dozens of liquors from around the world make Mission Liquor the Exxon-Mobil of social lubricants. And when you're looking for a bottle of the good stuff, it's a sure bet they have what you are looking for, and at the right price, too.
Best Antiques
Pasadena Antique Mall
309 E. Green St., Pasadena | (626) 304-9886 | www.pasadenatoystores.com
The Pasadena Antique Mall is a great location to find rare gifts for you or someone else. This haven for shoppers carries a wide variety of books, clothes, jewelry, furniture, and collectables. Wander the two large floors and slip away into a world of unique wonders.
Finalist
Antiques on Fair Oaks
330 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena | (626) 449-9590
The welcoming staff is more than willing to answer your questions about their many pieces, including English, French and Italian items. You can find a unique gift here in any price range for any taste.
Best Auto Dealer (new cars)
Rusnak Auto Group
267-337 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (888) 253-0490 | www.rusnakautogroup.com
Home to state-of-the-art vehicles like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Jaguar, Audi, Porsche, Rolls-Royce and Volvo, Rusnak is an institution that has received many awards, including the first J.D. Powers "Customer Approved Retailer" and the Sports Illustrated "Dealer of Distinction." This dealer's commitment to quality customer service is the reason satisfied customers keep coming back.
Finalist
Honda of Pasadena
1965 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 683-5888 | www.hondaofpasadena.com
Winner of the 2007 President's Award, this dealership goes the extra mile. Enjoy the service lounge when you come here, equipped with a playroom for kids, Web access and business services.
Best Auto Dealer (used cars)
Rusnak Auto Group
267-337 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (888) 253-0490 | www.rusnakautogroup.com
Home to state-of-the-art vehicles like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Jaguar, Audi, Porsche, Rolls-Royce and Volvo, Rusnak has received many awards, including the first J.D. Powers "Customer Approved Retailer" and the Sports Illustrated "Dealer of Distinction." High customer satisfaction brings in many repeat clients.
Finalist
CarMax
1131 Central Ave., Duarte | (626) 357-9972 | www.carmax.com
The friendly, haggle-free staff will assist you in finding a great used car on location or in their system-wide database.
Best Bicycle Shop
Velo Pasadena
2562 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 304-0064 | www.velopasadena.com
Known for its honest mechanics and high-end equipment, Velo is where the pros go. Try one of their famous custom fittings to get you riding faster and in proper form. You can even use the measurements for future custom bicycles and parts.
Finalist
Pasadena Cyclery
1670 E. Walnut St., Pasadena | (626) 584-6391 | www.pasadenacyclery.com
Serving the area for more than 30 years, Pasadena Cyclery carries high-end bikes for all terrain, including LeMond, BMC and Trek. Not only is the staff trained and certified to repair any make and model of bicycle, but they can help you choose which one is right for you.
Best Farmer's Market
South Pasadena Farmer's Market
1018 Mission St., South Pasadena | 818) 786-6612
Located in the historic Mission-West District of South Pasadena, this farmer's market is known for some of the freshest produce in the area. Shop for fresh fruits and vegetables or visit one of the many food vendors from 4 to 8 p.m. each Thursday.
FinalisT
Pasadena Farmer's Market
363 E. Villa St., Pasadena | (626) 449-0179 | www.pasadenafarmersmarket.org
What's better than fresh, locally grown veggies, fruits and jams? Not having to travel far to get them. This centrally located Tuesday morning market even accepts EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer).
Best Gift Boutique
Lula Mae
100 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena | (626) 304-9996 | www.lulamae.com
This whimsical shop is the perfect place for gift-shopping. Find a funny or charming card, book, or accessory for a friend - or yourself! - or shop their selection of children's products and baby clothes. Before you leave, pick up some jelly beans from the jars behind the counter to complete your visit.
Finalist
Simply Fresh
2628 Mission St., San Marino | (626) 441-7250
One-of-a-kind gifts and wardrobe accessories from around the world abound in this hip and charming wonderland that boasts a very friendly staff. Maybe that's why this shop is enjoying its fifth straight year of Best-of accolades.
Best Flea Market
R.G. Canning at the Rose Bowl
1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena | (323) 560-7469
rosebowlstadium.com/RoseBowl_flea-market.htm
For 40 years, the Rose Bowl Flea Market has been a great place to shop and browse the wares of hundreds of vendors hawking myriad items on the second Sunday of each month. Visit the newly added indoor section of the Flea Market, featuring an Artisan Art Show.
Finalist
Pasadena City College Flea Market
1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 585-7906 | www.pasadena.edu/fleamarket
From 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. the first Sunday of every month, hundreds of vendors offer everything from records to antiques to pop-culture collectibles. Admission is free and proceeds fund student life programs and scholarships, so just know you're supporting a good cause with that Archie Bunker's Grandson doll you just bought.
Best Flooring
I. J. Rager Floor Covering
52 E. Huntington Drive, Arcadia | (626) 446-6753
In the market for window coverings, rugs, carpets, linoleum and assorted house wares? Then look no further than I. J. Rager Floor Covering of Arcadia, which has been in the home decorating business for many years, offering only the finest products for reasonable prices.
Finalist
Carousel Custom Floor Covering
676 E. Green St., Pasadena | (626) 795-8085 | www.carouselfloors.com
Located in the Playhouse District for over 37 years, Carousel Custom Floor Covering's helpful and friendly staff keeps customers returning and praise from PW readers coming.
Best Flower Shop
Jacob Maarse
655 E. Green St., Pasadena | (626) 449-0246 | www.jacobmaarse.com
The preferred florist for the Tournament of Roses, Jacob Maarse has elevated arrangements to an art form, gaining the reputation as the Rolls-Royce of florists. Maarse grows many of the roses sold in his shop in his three-acre garden. With something exquisite for every occasion, it is easy to see why this 40-year-old business has received praise from multiple national publications.
Finalist
Rose City Flowers
26 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena | (626) 683-3138
From the stylish and creative bouquets that make any event special to the helpful and friendly service, doing business here is a perfumy pleasure.
Best Furniture
Fedde's
2350 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 796-7103
32 N. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 844-1160 | www.fedde.com
Feel right at home furnishing your home at this family-owned store that stretches back three generations. Top brands and superior value are always in stock in the two, 20,000-square-foot showrooms showcasing various styles and custom upholstery.
Finalist
Ethan Allen
445 N. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena | (323) 681-2341 | www.ethanallen.com
Ethan Allen offers classic designs with a modern perspective. Their furnishings and accessories blend the styles and aesthetics unique to American culture. Ethan Allen also prides itself on providing personal service to their customers.
Best Independent Bookstore
Vroman's bookstore
695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 449-5320 | www.vromansbookstore.com
Vroman's bookstore is the oldest and largest independent bookstore in Southern California. Founded in 1894, Vroman's is the place to go for books with a more personal touch. Relax at the café and use the wireless Internet, or stroll through the stacks of new books and other items. Check their Web site for book signings, readings and other special events.
Finalist
Cliff's Books
630 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 449-9541
Get lost in the aisles of unique books and experience a quiet treasure trove of printed wonders right off the bustling street. This is a great place to find rare and out-of-print books for your personal library.
Best Independent Video Store (TIe)
Videotheque
1020 Mission St., South Pasadena | (626) 403-6621 | www.vidtheque.com
Videotheque's vast library collection of 15,000 DVD and BluRay titles is the perfect place to find that rare documentary, independent, classic, foreign or cult film. The selection here caters to the serious movie buff and the casual viewer with choices from all genres of film. Bring along a used DVD for cash or store credit.
Penny Lane Records and Video
1661 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 535-0949, pennylane.com
Best Independent Music Store
Penny Lane Records
1661 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 535-0949 | www.pennylane.com
A true mom-and-pop local favorite, Penny Lane has one of the best vinyl collections in LA, interspersed with used CDs. Penny Lane keeps customers coming back with its selection, accommodating staff, low prices and specialties like used iPods. Spend hours here sifting through their large selection of new and used DVDs, posters and apparel.
Finalist
Canterbury Records
805 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 792-7184 | www.canterburyrecords.com
Among the current hits at discounted prices, you can find cataloged big band, vocal, show, blues, theatre organ, country, folk, and anything else your ears desire. New and used tapes, vinyl and CDs of various genres - including a large jazz section - flourish in this store where you can trade your used CDs and tapes for store credit.
Best Jewelry
Asanti Fine Jewelers
1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena | (626) 568-1144
2670 Mission St., San Marino | (626) 403-0033 | www.asanti.com
Asanti Fine Jewelers is a European-style salon specializing in rare gems, personal service, beautiful timepieces and designer jewelry. Asanti's drive for customer approval and ongoing education takes them all around the world to learn the latest developments
in the field.
Finalist
Tiffany & Co.
68 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 793-7424 | www.tiffany.com
A store associated with grace and sophistication - made famous by the beautiful Audrey Hepburn - creates a blissful retreat of fine jewelry, crystal, and other timeless pieces.
Best Local Eyewear
Linden Optometry
477 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 796-1191 | www.eyefinity.com/lindenoptometryapc
It's not hard to see why Linden is the best local store for eyewear. With an experienced vision care staff, they offer eye exams, eyeglasses, contact lenses, LASIK consultation, Orthokeratology, and treatment of minor eye injuries, to name a few. There are a staggering 10,000 frames to choose from, so come with some time to browse.
Finalist
Old Focals
45 W. Green St., Pasadena | (626) 793-7073 | www.oldfocals.com
Old Focals is where locals and movie biz folks alike go to find vintage glasses to buy or even rent for reasonable prices. Among the rare and funky retro selection of frames here, anyone can find a unique personal eyewear style.
Best Local Kids Clothing
Saturday's Child
2529 Mission St., San Marino | (626) 441-8888
Find traditional and contemporary upscale clothes for young boys and girls. Choose from brands like Polo and Burberry to help make a good impression and maybe even make your rugrats look somewhat presentable, despite their best efforts. Add that finishing touch to your child's fashion statement with the perfect shoes and wide
selection of accessories.
Finalist
Jumping Jellyfish
107 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Ste. 107, Pasadena | (626) 578-1838 | www.jumpyjelly.com
If your kid was a celebrity, he or she would be on the best-dressed list with these trendy and affordable threads. With brands like Punkster, imps&elfs and Pixel Organics, your child will be cloaked in style. Even your youngest can get in on the latest styles here, especially with Leg Huggers, which are made out of bamboo to offer an eco-friendly way to keep your little ones' legs swaddled in warmth.
Best Local Pet Store
My Pet Garden
2245 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 449-1600 | www.mypetgarden.com
A trip to My Pet Garden reminds you of how pet shops used to be. With a staff of caring pet experts who are on a first-name basis with pets and owners, this store offers the area's best pet foods, treats, toys and grooming services at an affordable price. It also teams with local humane societies in offering pets for adoption to loving homes. After all, it was founded by Joel Tatum, a former zoo keeper and producer of the DIY Network's Pet Care series.
Finalist
Steve's Pets
2395 Lake Ave., Altadena | (626) 798-6290 | www.stevespets.com
A friendly, helpful staff and grooming services our readers describe as awesome make Steve's Pets a prime place to shop for top-quality supplies or to primp your Fluffy or Fido. Add in prices that beat most gourmet pet shops in town.
Best Local Nursery
San Marino Nursery
2143 Huntington Drive, South Pasadena | (626) 799-9123
For everything green, visit this well-equipped local attraction, and don't forget to stop and smell the flowers.
Finalist
Armstrong Garden Center
352 E. Glenarm St., Pasadena | (626) 799-7139
635 W. Huntington Drive, Monrovia | (626) 358-4516 | www.armstronggarden.com
There are enough flowers and fruit trees at the Armstrong Garden Center for you to create your own Eden. Sod, lawn food and accents like fountains are available to complete your landscaping look. You can polish your green thumb at monthly classes and events to increase gardening knowledge.
Best Local Toy Store
San Marino Toy and Book Shoppe
2424 Huntington Drive, San Marino | (626) 309-0222 | www.toysandbooks.com
Since 1975 this shop has offered a wide variety of educational toys, games, and books for young boys and girls. Whether their interest is pirates or princesses, the many great toys to play with will nourish your child's imagination.
Finalist
Dinosaur Farm
1510 Mission St., South Pasadena | (626) 441-2767 | www.dinosaurfarm.com
Step into this prehistoric playland that calls itself "not your ordinary store" and you will find many educational specialty toys that have created quite a buzz in the media. Let your kids embark on an adventure, roaming the magical forest safe inside the store's walls. Dinosaur Farm carries an unbelievable assortment of dinosaur-related items such as costumes, toys, books, games, and clothes, as well as many non-dinosaur favorites.
Best Men's Clothing
P.M. Jacoy
2650 Mission St. # 104, San Marino | (626) 799-4600 | www.pmjacoy.com
P.M. Jacoy has been providing the look of gentlemen for more than 20 years. The personal service and attention customers receive at this store keep them coming back and looking good.
Finalist
Men's Wearhouse Clothing & Tuxedo Rental
406 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena | (626) 395-7422 | www.menswearhouse.com
The Men's Wearhouse is committed to value. They offer customers quality merchandise, everyday low prices, convenience, and professional on-site tailoring. Also enjoy the benefits of their in-store wardrobe consultant to find your personalized look.
Best Newsstand
Vroman's Bookstore
695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 449-5320 | www.vromansbookstore.com
Pick up a paper and peruse the news happening locally and abroad, or read your way through magazine heaven with a variety of titles for every hobby and interest. You'll feel especially metropolitan browsing along busy Colorado Boulevard while sipping a beverage from Vroman's coffee bar.
Finalist
Cliff's Books
630 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 449-9541
With a variety of publications, you'll be up to speed on current developments in every field when you stop by this independent bookstore's newsstand.
Best Shoe Store
DSW Shoe Warehouse
376 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 578-7530 | www.dsw.com
Shoe addicts can get their fix here with DSW's thousands of styles and ever-changing inventory. A store created for style-conscious men and women, DSW offers styles for all seasons and occasions, as well as designer brands and handbags.
Finalist
Neo 39 Active Footwear
39 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 683-1257 | www.neo39pasadena.com
Choose from an eclectic selection of candy-colored sneakers or retro-styled shoes. Enjoy the many styles offered here - such as athletic, boots, and comfortable dress shoes.
Best Smoke/Tobacco Shop
Captain Tobacco
2371 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 795-4714
This well-stocked shop has an amazing assortment of cigarettes and cigars for every taste and budget, so whether you need a nice gift for the boss or an affordable night with the boys, Captain Tobacco will steer you in the right direction.
Finalist
Ceniza Cigar Lounge
260 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 795-4664 | www.cenizalounge.com
Enjoy a handmade cigar at this upscale spot, along with the many wines or spirits offered to enhance your experience. This 2,000-square-foot cigar lounge features cigars and accessories from around the world and one of the largest walk-in humidors in Southern California.
Best Sporting Goods
Dick's Sporting Goods
3359 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 351-1843 | www.dickssportinggoods.com
Start every season at Dick's Sporting Goods, with its wide selection of sporting equipment. Get the gear you need to compete at low prices for any sport - from hunting and fishing to baseball and football.
Finalist
Sport Chalet
Westfield Santa Anita | 400 S. Baldwin Ave., Ste. 910-L, Arcadia | www.sportchalet.com
This massive chalet is filled with gear and clothing for basically every sport. They also offer rentals and repairs for customers' convenience.
Best Stationery
Paperwhites
2491 Mission St., San Marino | (626) 441-2196
Owned by two sisters for over 12 years, this shop has done invitations for all the local celebs. Experience their amazing one-on-one service and knowledge of proper etiquette for all events.
Finalist
Vroman's Fine Writing, Gifts and Stationery
667 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 744-1834 | www.vromansbookstore.com
Whether you need stationery that is professional, elegant or frivolous, Vroman's surpasses the competition with its variety and quality of choices. The most difficult part of your trip will be choosing just one box of invites or thank-you notes. Printing is also offered for an extra fee.
Best Thrift Shop
Out of the Closet
1726 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 440-1719
1136 Fair Oaks Ave., South Pasadena | (626) 403-2333 | www.outofthecloset.org
A true thrift store, with men's and women's clothing that usually runs from $5 to $10 and a small selection of bargain furniture, dishes and books. Not only are you being green by buying used items, you are helping fund medical services provided by AIDS Healthcare Foundation, which owns and operates the store and provides medical assistance regardless of a patient's ability to pay.
Finalists
Aardvark's Odd Ark
33 W. Green St., Pasadena | (626) 792-9185 | www.aaardvarkoddark.com
Though they have a costume section for Halloween, the whole store has dress-up gems like Hawaiian shirts, various uniforms and clothes from every decade, plus hats, wigs and sunglasses. You'll find all the quirky accessories you could want in this funky thrift store.
Best Women's Clothing
Flutter
54 W. Green St., Pasadena | (626) 449-3224|2537 Mission Street, San Marino, CA 91108 | 626-441-2888 | shopflutter.com
Owned by a mother and daughter, spacious, exquisitely-presented Flutter taunts window-shoppers with elegant high-end frocks. You'll find everything here, from high-end labels such as Vivienne Tam, to designer denim, sportswear and sumptuous accessories. Special services include wardrobe makeovers, personal shopping, a VIP Rewards program, special ordering, gift wrap and home delivery.
Finalist
Forever 21
35 N. DeLacey Ave., Pasadena | (626) 792-7473 | www.forever21.com
Shop high-end fashion designs for less at Forever 21. Look like the models that grace the runways with their amazing clothing, shoe, and accessory selections. Get a look for any occasion in any style in this massive two-story store.