Food of the Gods
Greater Pasadena restaurants provide the best cuisine of all possible worlds
By Sara Cardine 10/10/2012
BEST RESTAURANT
Parkway Grill
510 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 795-1001 | www.theparkwaygrill.com
Parkway Grill has been influencing the direction of the city’s fine-dining scene since 1984, mixing classic French techniques with the seasonal wonders of Southern California. The Smith Brothers were all about local before it became fashionable, maintaining their own vegetable and herb garden. The restaurant also makes its own bread. But best of all, they’ve been able to take American classics and make them upscale, sometimes by way of an Asian fusion, like their tiger shrimp corndogs and ginger-fried catfish. Yes, there’s something for just about everyone: fish, steak, duck, pasta and pizza. Just save room for dessert — chocolate lava cake, cannoli, artisan chocolates and s’mores (with raspberry sauce and crème anglaise).
Reader Recommended
Houston’s
320 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 577-6001
www.hillstone.com/#/restaurants/houstons
redwhite+bluezz
70 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena
(626) 792-4441 | www.redwhitebluezz.com
Scarlet Tea Room
18 W. Green St., Pasadena
(626) 577-0051 | www.scarlettearoom.com
Smitty’s Grill
110 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 792-9999 | www.smittysgrill.com
BEST NEW RESTAURANT
Abricott
238 S. Lake Ave. Pasadena
(626) 796-1613 | www.abricott.com
Lake Avenue has become much livelier since Abricott opened with its eclectic menu of California cuisine with a French-Vietnamese taste. You can have pho noodle soup (stewed beef brisket) or yellow curry with chicken. You can also have a spicy Korean-style pork belly with a kimchi sandwich. Try a French classic, such as croque-monsieur and croque-madame, or salad Nicoise. For beef lovers, there’s a sesame marinated flank steak salad with avocado, and for vegetarians there’s tofu delight, a smooth tofu with micro greens.
Reader Recommended
Big Daddy’s Fire Grill
2122 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 796-1266 | www.bigdaddysfiregrill.com
Real Food Daily
899 E. Del Mar Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 844-8900 | www.realfood.com
Trattoria Neapolis
336 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 792-3000 | www.trattorianeapolis.com
BEST BUSINESS LUNCH
Smitty’s Grill
110 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 792-9999 | www.smittysgrill.com
Visit Smitty’s Grill for that warm, friendly vibe and, as always with the Smith Brothers, really good food. Smitty’s is great for business get-togethers, maybe because its foundation is comfort food, like homemade chicken pot pie, pot roast with root veggies and Smitty’s famous meatloaf. There are also some gourmet offerings, such as Carolina-style pulled pork sandwiches, Panini press sandwiches and sautéed shiitake and domestic mushrooms. Leave some room for desserts like crème brulee, apple walnut bread pudding, hot fudge sundaes and Fosselman’s ice cream.
Reader Recommended
Green Street RESTAURANT
146 Shoppers Lane, Pasadena
(626) 577-7170 | www.greenstreetrestaurant.com
Houston’s
320 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 577-6001
www.hillstone.com/#/restaurants/houstons
BEST CHEAP EATS
Dog Haus
105 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena
(626) 577-4287 | www.Doghausdogs.com
93 E. Green St., Pasadena
(626) 683-0808
410 E. Main St., Alhambra
(626) 282-4287 (HAUS)
Calm your growling stomach, or those of your little ones, with delicious and inexpensive hot dogs at Dog Haus. Here, there’s a definite German influence, only by way of Hawaii. You get your dogs not on an ordinary bun; they come on King’s Hawaiian bread. Like your greens? Try the Sooo Cali, mixed greens with diced tomatoes, tempura-fried onions, basil aioli and avocado. Then there’s the Little Leaguer with chili con carne, diced onions and shredded cheddar. For breakfast, try the Grand Slam: smoked bacon, egg and tater tots. Sausage lovers will want to try a quarter-pound of bratwurst, Italian chicken, tri-pepper kielbasa or spicy Italian, with two toppings on a French roll.
Reader Recommended
Bobby’s Burgers
680 E. Walnut St., Pasadena
(626) 844-3510 | www.bobbys-place.com/
Lucky Boy
640 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 793-0120 | www.luckyboyburgers.com
BEST OUTDOOR DINING
La Grande Orange
260 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena
(626) 356-4444 | www.lagrandeorangecafe.com
What better way to celebrate our sunny way of life in SoCal than by eating outdoors in the spring, summer, fall and winter? Do it with style at La Grande Orange, housed at the Del Mar Gold Line Station. If you’re up early, enjoy the soft morning light by eating brunch here. Try their lemon ricotta hotcakes (with blueberry compote), the prime rib and short rib hash or the smoked salmon Benedict. For lunch there are burgers and tacos, and dinner offerings include Moroccan roasted half chicken and prime rib. La Grande Orange also has special promotions, such as reduced pricing on a second entrée on Monday and Tuesday nights, Saturday brunch with bottomless mimosas, half-off wine Wednesdays and happy hours Mondays through Fridays.
Reader Recommended
Cafe Santorini
64 W. Union St., Pasadena
(626) 564-4200 | www.cafesantorini.com
Mike & Anne’s
1040 Mission St., South Pasadena
(626) 799-7199 | www.mikeandannes.com
BEST RESTAURANT STAFF
Scarlet Tea Room and Fine Dining
18 W. Green St., Pasadena
(626) 577-0051 | scarlettearoom.com
The Scarlet Tea Room is a cozy place to dine with a boutique feel. Here, it’s all about relaxation, conversation, lovely little eats are participating in the ceremonies of tea drinking. Enjoy the ambiance, fragrances and tastes, as well as being pampered in a friendly but not overly intrusive way. Slow down from the fast-paced life of the modern world with black tea, flavored black tea, oolong, green tea, white tea and naturally caffeine-free infusions. Scarlet Tea Room offers lunch and dinner, so if you’re looking for a little luxury any time of the day, stop by for a cup or two.
Reader Recommended
Bonnie B’s Smokin BBQ
1280 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 794-0132 | www.bonniebssmokin.com
Smitty’s Grill
110 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 792-9999 | www.smittysgrill.com
BEST SPECIAL OCCASION DINING
Parkway Grill
510 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 795-1001 | www.theparkwaygrill.com
If you’re looking to splurge a little, try a Maple Leaf Farms duck breast (with a dark cherry reduction) or bee pollen-dusted Alaskan halibut. Or keep it simple yet delicious with Parkway’s Kobe burger (with Maytag bleu cheese, tomato aioli and sweet potato fries). For salad lovers, there’s Parkway’s Caesar with brioche croutons, white anchovies and shaved reggiano. For a truly decadent meal, go for dessert only with chocolate bread pudding with espresso ice cream or the crème brûlée Napoleon.
Reader Recommended
Arroyo Chop House
536 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 577-7463 | www.arroyochophouse.com
Langham Huntington Hotel
1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena
(626) 568-3900
www.pasadena.langhamhotels.com/restaurants/sunday_brunch_theterrace.htm
Melting Pot
88 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 792-1941 | www.meltingpot.com
BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT
Twohey’s
1224 N. Atlantic Blvd., Alhambra
(626) 284-7387 | www.twoheys.com
Twohey’s is perhaps best known for family friendly service and good hearty food that won’t set you back two weeks’ pay. For adults, there’s pasta, hamburgers, roasted turkey and meatloaf. For kids, there are fun foods like pigs in a blanket and banana wraps (sliced bananas rolled in pancakes). There’s even a baby back rib kid’s rack. For the kid in all of us, there’s the soda pop locker with flavors like “Bubble Up,” sarsparilla, orange n’ cream, key lime and peach soda. There are also famous soda fountain treats, like “Bucket of Mud,” a combo of crushed Oreos, chocolate ice cream and fudge with whipped cream and Gummy worms.
Reader Recommended
Kabuki
Old Pasadena
88 W. Colorado Blvd., #103, Pasadena
(626) 568-9310 | www.kabukirestaurants.com
Hastings Center
3539 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 351-8963
Mamma’s Brick Oven Pizza
311 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 405-9877 | www.mammasbrickoven.com
BEST LATE-NIGHT SNACK
King Taco
45 N. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 792-0405 | www.kingtaco.com
After pulling an all-nighter for school or work or seeing a late-night movie, you might get an attack of the dreaded munchies. At times like these, Pasadenans head to King Taco for authentic Mexican food like sopes, nachos, quesadillas, rotisserie chicken and freshly made tamales (chicken, pork, sweet or cheese with jalapeño). If you’re really hungry, try a burrito — meat (carne asada, al pastor, carnitas, cabeza, lengua, chicken, buche, molleja or suadera) with pinto beans and rice, fresh cilantro and onion wrapped in a flour tortilla. Wash it all down with refreshing agua frescas or atole.
Reader Recommended
La Estrella
502 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
(626) 792-8559 | www.la-estrellarestaurant.com
Lucky Boy
640 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 793-0120 | www.luckyboyburgers.com
BEST SUNDAY BRUNCH
The Terrace
Langham Huntington Hotel
1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena
(626) 568-3900| pasadena.langhamhotels.com/restaurants/sunday_brunch_theterrace.htm
During Sunday brunch from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Terrace restaurant at the Langham Huntington Hotel, fresh flowers and a pianist soothe the senses as you choose from the omelet station, cereals and pastries, breakfast meats and smoked fish and cheese. Or order from the menu: pumpkin pancakes, a devil’s food waffle with mocha whipped cream, beef short rib hash, breakfast tacos (scrambled eggs and cheese in corn tortillas), flat bread pizza, chicken and waffle sandwich, or have a salad (California Cobb or Caesar). Expect to stay a while to savor the experience.
Reader Recommended
Green Street Restaurant
146 Shoppers Lane, Pasadena
(626) 577-7170 | www.greenstreetrestaurant.com
La Grande Orange
260 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena
(626) 356-4444 | www.lagrandeorangecafe.com
Mijares Mexican Restaurant
145 Palmetto Drive, Pasadena
(626) 794-6674 | www.mijaresrestaurant.com
BEST ARMENIAN FOOD
Zankou Chicken
1296 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 405-1502 | www.zankouchicken.com
Zankou Chicken started in Beirut in 1962, 22 years before finally opening a location in Hollywood. In 1992, new locations started opening, among them outlets in Glendale and Pasadena, and locals have been enjoying great chicken with no preservatives or artificial flavors ever since. Try the garlic-blessed rotisserie roasted chicken served with garlic butter and purple pickles.
BEST BAKERY
Euro Pane
345 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 844-8804
Look at all the macarons in so many lovely pastel colors. Try the salt caramel, raspberry, hazelnut or pistachio. Then there are the lemon bars and other pastries. Not only is she a master of these taste treats, owner Sumi Chang also knows just how to match bread to sandwich fillings. The ever-so-humble open-face egg salad sandwich is absolutely divine. They also have oven-roasted turkey and roast beef sandwiches. But it’s their egg salad that brings people back for more. For vegetarians, there’s the roasted red bell pepper, roasted spinach, zucchini basil pesto sandwich with mixed greens. For this, you get your choice of breads, including multigrain, sourdough, olive, brioche, rosemary currant and cranberry walnut.
Reader Recommended
Aux Delices
16 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 796-1630 | www.auxdelicespasadena.com
Porto’s Bakery
315 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale
(818) 956-5996 | www.portosbakery.com/content/portos-glendale
BEST BBQ
Robin’s Woodfire BBQ
& Grill
395 N. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 351-8885 | robinsbbq.com
Just the mention of the place makes local mouths water. All the meats are smoked over apple and oak wood for hours — no gas, propane or steaming allowed. If you’re a meat-lover on a budget, Robin’s has you covered with inexpensive dishes featuring baby back ribs, chicken, Louisiana hot links, spare ribs, beef ribs, shrimp, steak and pulled pork. Try their all-you-can-eat-rib-tips days (after 4 p.m. Wednesdays and Sundays). If you’re going low-carb, Robin’s has a special Atkins lunch. Want something light? Order the thermonuclear (or mad dog) BBQ wings, but be prepared to sweat.
Reader Recommended
Bonnie B’s Smokin’ BBQ Heaven
1280 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 794-0132 | www.bonniebssmokin.com
Gus’s BBQ
808 Fair Oaks Ave., South Pasadena
(626) 799-3251 | www.gussbbq.com
BEST BREAKFAST
Twohey’s
1224 N. Atlantic Blvd., Alhambra
(626) 284-7387 | www.twoheys.com
Is breakfast your favorite meal? Working a shift that makes your breakfast time everyone else’s dinner time? No matter. Twohey’s serves breakfast all day long. Their griddle works include a malted Belgian waffle, buttermilk pancakes (short or full stack) and French toast. Here, for a little bit extra, have it your way with extra fruit, nuts or chocolate chips. If omelets are eggs-actly what you’re craving, Twohey’s has the classics (Denver) with some regional combos, such as the San Gabriel (sausage, bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes and American cheese). Besides their three-egg omelets (you can substitute Eggbeaters), the breakfast menu also includes huevos rancheros, a lox and bagel platter, roast beef hash and burritos.
Reader Recommended
Marston’s
151 E. Walnut St., Pasadena
(626) 796-2459 | www.marstonsrestaurant.com
Russell’s
30 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
(626) 578-1404
BEST BUFFET
Souplantation
201 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 577-4798 | www.souplantation.com
Does every time you go out to eat seem like a re-enactment of the Hatfields and McCoys, only with carnivores arguing with vegans? Bury the hatchet at Souplantation, where there’s something to please everyone — a great place for families of differing meal time desires and big groups of friends to get together for salads, house-made soups, hot pastas, fresh bakery goods and desserts. For a fixed price, get as much as you want. Vegetarian, vegan, low-fat and gluten-free options are always available.
Reader Recommended
Margarita Jones
541 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 744-1828 | www.margaritajones.com
Tibet Nepal House
36 E. Holly St., Pasadena
(626) 585-0955 | www.tibetnepalhouseca.com
BEST BURGER
Twohey’s
1224 N. Atlantic Blvd., Alhambra
(626) 284-7387 | twoheys.com
Since 1943, Twohey’s has been the place for breakfast, family dining and burgers. In fact, burgers are the very reason for the restaurant’s “Stink-O” logo, which was inspired by a woman who didn’t like the smell of pickles and onions, which is exactly what the famous Stinko-burger — a quarter-pound of Angus beef on a grilled bun with lettuce and tomatoes is all about. Things have changed little over the years. Your burger still comes with French fries or freshly fried hot potato chips, or you may substitute fresh potato fries for an additional charge. Twohey’s also offers a gourmet burger of the day, a Gardenburger and a turkey burger. Need a bit more meat? Try the half-pounder, which can come with smoked bacon and bleu cheese (the Blues burger) or with other toppings. Ask your server for the day’s gourmet burger.
Reader Recommended
Big Daddy's Fire Grill
2122 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 796-1266 | www.facebook.com/bigdaddysfiregrill
Dog Haus
105 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena
(626) 577-4287 | www.doghausdogs.com
93 E. Green St., Pasadena
(626) 683-0808
410 E. Main St., Alhambra
(626) 282-4287 (HAUS)
BEST BURRITO
Burrito Express
1597 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 798-0844 | www.burritoexpresspasadena.com
It’s all in the name: Burrito Express. This place opened its doors in 1978 and has focused on excellence in burritos ever since. Try their breakfast combinations (chorizo, eggs, beans and cheese; chorizo and eggs with cheese) or all meat and cheese (machaca, carnitas, carne asada and chicken) for those who don’t like beans. There’s the JVC (double flour tortilla, meat, rice, beans, lettuce, tomato, sour cream, guacamole and cheese); the Ito Burrito (extra rice, a smaller portion of beans, sour cream, guacamole and cheese); and the Ross Perot (remember him?) Burrito, made of beef, pork and chicken with rice, beans, cheese, sour cream and guacamole. Burrito Express also offers tostadas, tacos and tortas, but, as most people know, its name says it all.
Reader Recommended
Chipotle
3409 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 351-6017 | www.chipotle.com
246 South Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 229-9173
Lucky Boy
640 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 793-0120 | www.luckyboyburgers.com
BEST CALIFORNIA
CUISINE
Green Street Restaurant
146 Shoppers Lane, Pasadena
(626) 577-7170 | www.greenstreetrestaurant.com
Green Street Restaurant started out as a small breakfast and lunch café in 1979. Today, the restaurant has grown, its menu has evolved and, best of all, Green Street is still owned by the same family. For breakfast, have eggs Benedict with Black Forest ham or, on weekends, with poached salmon or chicken jalapeño sausage. For lunch, Green Street is famous for its Dianne Salad, but try a Cobb or a Southwest Caesar with chicken or a Portobello mushroom club sandwich. Dinner entrees include a Thai charbroiled chicken breast and a New York steak with Martini butter. Don’t forget to try their famous zucchini bread. You might want to go just for dessert: an old-fashioned chocolate cake, carrot cake or a peach and rosemary galette.
Reader Recommended
California Pizza Kitchen
99 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena
(626) 585-9020 | www.cpk.com
Parkway Grill
510 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 795-1001 | www.theparkwaygrill.com
BEST CARIBBEAN FOOD
Kingston Café
333 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
(626) 844-6477 | www.kingstoncafe.com
Enjoy a brief staycation to Jamaica this year by visiting the Kingston Café for lunch or dinner. First opened in 1992, the Kingston Café has quickly become a Pasadena destination with such favorites as braised pork, goat curry (and tofu curry), coconut rum shrimp and salmon. There are also fritters (zucchini, plantain and lobster), each coming with its own sauce, and chicken jerk wings and chicken jerk salad. Cool down with sorrel and mint or ginger peach lemonade, and when a touch of rum would hit the spot, try some rum cake topped with drunken fruit and coconut caramel drizzle.
BEST CHINESE FOOD
Panda Inn
3488 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 793-7300 | www.pandainn.com
What tones, timbers and orchestrations are to a maestro, aromas, flavors and presentations are to a chef at Panda Inn. A minced chicken appetizer, with toasted almond strips, cradled in a leaf of iceberg lettuce, is so pretty that it borders on vandalism to pierce its perfection with a fork. Another dish to look at before you ladle is a soup with chicken, shrimp, pork, wontons, mushrooms, bamboo shoots and spinach. Since a 1973 Pasadena opening, Panda Inn keeps creating regional Mandarin- and Szechuan-style dishes that look as good as they taste.
Reader Recommended
Fu-Shing Chinese Restaurant
2960 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 792-8898 | www.fushingrestaurant.com
Yang Chow Restaurant
3777 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 432-4538 | www.yangchowrestaurant.com
BEST CUPCAKES
Dots Cupcakes
400 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 568-3687 | www.dotscupcakes.com
One Colorado, 121 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
(626) 744-7719
A new vanilla/honey cake, topped with frosted cream cheese, is called “Oh Honey.” The tasty name suggests why “cupcake” is a term of endearment. For more flattery, a sparkling cabinet is laced with other “sweets for the sweetie.” Made with organic fruit preserves, the sweets include some 100 fresh-baked cakes with delicious names like “French Valrhona Chocolate” and “Red Velvet.” Custom-made icings named for children are the life of parties for kids — until parents beg to share.
Reader Recommended
Polkadots Cupcakes
790 N. Lake Ave., #3, Pasadena
(626) 798-3932 | www.polkadotscupcakes.com
Violet’s Cakes
21 E. Holly St., Pasadena
(626) 395-9821 | www.violetscakes.com
BEST DELI/SANDWICHES
Pasadena Sandwich Co.
259 Sierra Madre Villa Ave., Pasadena
(626) 578-1616 | www.pasadenasandwichcompany.com
Mayo is sometimes held in a deli but everything goes on at this famous sandwich compound. Family-run by three sisters and a brother, Jonathan, the business never slights guests with tea timers, nor does it suffer abrupt withdrawals from cold turkey. Like the great “Russian” pastrami and corned beef, some 20 sandwiches, many four inches tall, provide a long lunch. “Trust the Chef,” loaded with four meats and all the etceteras, can reach the 1-foot mark.
Reader Recommended
Porta Via Italian Foods
1 W. California Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 793-9000 | www.portaviafoods.com
New York Deli
25 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena
(626) 578-0010 | www.thenewyorkdeli.com
BEST DESSERT
Euro Pane Bakery & Café
345 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 844-8804 | www.europane.com
950 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 577-1828
In her expanded location in the Civic Center, noted baker Sumi Chang serves the sweet tooths of those who work and play nearby — City Hall employees and Paseo Colorado strollers — and those who toss and turn in luxury apartments upstairs, dreaming in Technicolor about the macarons they forgot to buy. Made from almond flour, these multi-flavored macarons come in nine colors from earthy, sea-salted caramel and pale purple blackberry to bright yellow lemon. Among other pastries, Italian coconut takes the cake.
Reader Recommended
Dots Cupcakes
400 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 568-3687 | www.dotscupcakes.com
One Colorado, 121 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
(626) 744- 7719
POP Champagne & Dessert Bar
33 E. Union St., Pasadena
(626) 795-295 | www.popchampagnebar.com
BEST FRENCH FOOD
Cheval Blanc
41. S. De Lacey Ave., Pasadena
(626) 577-4141 | www.chevalblancbistro.com
Very particular people congregate here — smirking guests who can order in French and common folks, although they probably don’t view themselves as such, learning the language. After fellowship is kindled at a classic, warm-wooded bar, they may go on to order salade nicoise (suh-LAHD nee-SWAHZ), coq au vin (kohk-oh-VAHN) and steak au poivre (oh-PWAHV–rh).
Reader Recommended
Bistro De La Gare
921 Meridian Ave., #A, South Pasadena
(626) 799-8828 | www.bistrodelagare.com
Café Bizou
91 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena
(626) 792-9923 | www.cafebizou.com
BEST HEALTH FOOD
Tender Greens
621 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 405-1511 | www.tendergreensfood.com
Among 17 salad choices, the Chinese chicken crackles enough to picture a kitchen staff twisting the stems off carrots and washing the earth off feathery mizuna and pea sprouts. And a salutary respect is given to hot items from the grill like herb-brushed albacore. Plates are plumped generously with select white meat, sided with a mound of gravy-less golden mashed potatoes, plus crostini and a salad.
Reader Recommended
Lemonade
140 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 304-7000 | www.lemonadela.com
Real Food Daily
899 E. Del Mar Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 844-8900 | www.realfood.com
BEST HOT DOG
Dog Haus
105 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena
(626) 577-4287 | www.doghausdogs.com
93 E. Green St., Pasadena
(626) 683-0808
410 E. Main St., Alhambra
(626) 282-4287 (HAUS)
A simple hot dog doesn’t get much publicity. But Dog Haus dogs get raves, as there is a dramatic difference between these and Farmer John’s. Very fussy customers exult in the unexpected tasty union between a bacon-wrapped frank and Hawaiian King bun, with other dogs mostly skinless. But many prefer the encased “snap” dog. Juicy, but firm, it gives off an audible click when bitten into and doesn’t need any help from condiments.
Reader Recommended
Slaw Dogs
720 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626)-808-9777 | www.slawdogs.com
BEST ICE CREAM/YOGURT/GELATO
Carmela’s Ice Cream
2495 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 797-1405 / www.carmelaicecream.com
Farmer’s market produce and organic dairy products are churned into salubrious and inventive ice cream and sorbet combos that light the lips of all ages with smiles. Various blends smack as fresh as spring’s first red berry. Among fancy-wrought treats, salted caramel vies with brown sugar vanilla bean in popularity. And more than a luscious bit of fudge, chocolate lovers take to dark cacao nib.
Reader Recommended
21 Choices
85 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 304-9521 | www.21choices.com
Cherry on Top
1299 E. Green St., Pasadena
(626) 440-1299 | www.cherryontop.com
BEST INDEPENDENT
COFFEE HOUSE
Jones Coffee Roasters
693 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena
(626) 564-9291 | www.thebestcoffeee.com
Redolent of a burlap bag full of coffee beans fresh off the boat from its farm in Guatemala — or well-chosen worldwide — this warehouse/coffee museum brings the most flavorful beans home to roast. Here you can sit down and enjoy a plain or fancy hot cup, or pick up rich and refined packets or bags to take home. Quality restaurants, via media or menu, advertise boldly that they serve only Jones’ coffee.
Reader Recommended
Jameson Brown Coffee Roasters
260 N. Allen Ave., Pasadena
(626) 395-7585 | www.jamesonbrown.com
Zona Rosa Caffe
15 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena
(626) 793-2334 | www.zonarosacaffe.com
BEST INDIAN FOOD
All India Café
39 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
(626) 440-0309 | www.allindiacafe.com
Guests refer to owner/chef Santokh Singh as the “Wizard of Aahs.” They have an Indian notion that choice dishes, made from recipes from all over India, must have arrived on a magic carpet. To claim transference of a subcontinent’s entire cookery is saying a mouthful about a large order. India’s gastronomical regions stretch over mountains, plains, oceans and rivers, not to mention vast cultural differences. Magic carpet? Maybe not. But a velvet rope to restrain the crowds? You bet.
Reader Recommended
Akbar Cuisine of India
44 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
(626) 577-9916 | www.akbarcuisineofindia.com
New Delhi Palace
950 E. Colorado Blvd., Suite 205, Pasadena
(626) 577-9916 | www.newdelhipalace.com
BEST ITALIAN FOOD
Domenico’s Italian Kitchen
2411 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 797-6459 | www.originaldomenicos.com
Since reconstructed fusion foods soon may require chefs to wear hard hats, it’s comforting to see floppy toques busy making the kind of Italian dishes we liked as we grew up and make us feel so good today. There’s pizza, like it’s supposed to be made, and traditional cannoli, calzone, spaghetti and antipasto. Over consumption of their famous garlic bread risks putting up a scented barrier between yourself and a companion. Old fashioned? Mama Rosa’s recipes are on the Internet.
Reader Recommended
Celestino’s Ristorante
141 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 795-4006 | www.celestinopasadena.com
Gale’s Restaurant
452 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
(626) 432-6705 | www.galesrestaurant.com
BEST JAPANESE/SUSHI
Kabuki Japanese Restaurant
88 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 568-9310 | www.kabukirestaurants.com
3589 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 351-8963
A ticket to winning ways is a “daily double” punched by Masa Kurihara, executive corporate chef, and Yuji Matsumoto, the master sake sommelier. Kurihara’s approach to food satisfies both the most discriminating guests and the mainly fun-loving: He’s worked in DC for Japan’s ambassador and cooked filets at Yamashiro restaurant, a Hollywood hilltop celebrity lair. Matsumoto, oft-decorated in Japan for his sake know-how, handles Kabuki’s sake pour. Brought together, chef and sommelier’s expertise combines for a gastronomical treat that neither alone could provide.
Reader Recommended
Sushi Roku
33 Miller Alley, Pasadena
(626) 683-3000 | www.sushiroku.com
Oba Sushi Izakaya
181 E. Glenarm St., Pasadena
(626) 799-8543 | www.obasushi.com
BEST JUICE BAR
Jamba Juice
64. E Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 666-1500 | www.jambajuice.com
204 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 744-5200
3595 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 351-4333
1101 Fair Oaks Ave., South Pasadena
(636) 799-1775
Just thinking about juicing up with fruit refreshers, blended veggies and fruit smoothies makes the mouth water. Delicious vibrations of the fruitful bounty also go to one’s head. The mind is satisfied that each item is loaded with vitamins, minerals and timely hot-weather imperatives. Most exemplary is the “fruit refresher” with coconut water. A source of Vitamin C, containing as much potassium as a banana, it is an excellent choice for rehydrating.
Reader Recommended
Whole Foods Market
465 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 204-2266 | www.wholefoods.com
3751 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 351-5994
BEST LOCAL BREWERY
Craftsman Brewing Co.
1260 Lincoln Ave., Pasadena
(626) 296-2537 | www.craftsmanbrewing.com
From grist hopper to whirlpool tank to packaging, the brewery provides award-winning kegs to classy pubs, bars and restaurants all over Pasadena and beyond. The process turns out award-winning beers and ales like Heavenly Hefe and Poppyfields Pale, plus an invented assortment of brews that are smoked, spiced, herbed, fruited and experimental. Like a rolling stone gathers no moss, these busy taps run so cold and free they gather no foam.
Reader Recommended
Haven Gastropub
42 S. De Lacey Ave., Pasadena
(626) 798-9555 | www.havengastropub.com
BEST LOCAL PIZZA
Mamma’s Brick Oven
311 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 405-9877 | www.mammasbrickoven.com
South Pasadena
710 Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
(626) 799-1344
What makes a great pizza is a matter of taste. Pasadenans prefer thin crusts, brick ovens and fresh ingredients. Mamma’s Brick Oven gives us all that plus quality in two convenient locations. You can create your own pizza by choosing from 26 different toppings. Or if you can’t make a choice, you can order one of their winning gourmet pizza selections, such as the spinach Alfredo, the Manhattan meat lovers (pepperoni, meatball, Italian sausage and bacon), or the chicken pesto (marinated chicken breast and mozzarella with pesto sauce). They also have three specialty pizzas including “The Everything Pizza” (pepperoni, salami, Italian sausage, mushrooms, onions, olives and fresh mozzarella).
Reader Recommended
Avanti
111 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 577-4688 | www.avanticafe.com
Domenico’s
2411 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 797-6459 | www.originaldomenicos.com
BEST MEDITERRANEAN FOOD
Café Santorini
64 W. Union St., Pasadena
(626) 564-4200 | www.cafesantorini.com
You could be sitting at the captain’s table on a luxury liner at sea and not taste Mediterranean food better prepared than what you have here in Pasadena. For sightseers, the mezze appetizer platter is pretty enough to be photographed but begs to be eaten. You’ll have a lamb shank like that served in Morocco’s Betoya Bay and many more dishes that bring the sea to the city.
Reader Recommended
Mediterranean Café
273 Shoppers Lane, Pasadena
(626) 793-8844 | www.kokosmediterraneancafe.com
Pita Jungle
41 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 432-7482 | www.pitajungle.com
BEST MEXICAN FOOD
Mijares Mexican Restaurant
145 Palmetto Drive, Pasadena
(626) 792-2763 | www.mijaresrestaurant.com
After more than 90 years in business, people still adore this landmark restaurant, which has developed a dining-out lifestyle for both old timers and newcomers that is memorable and enduring. While moved by the sure hand of tradition in classic combos, it’s not a stranger to modern preferences for veggies to substitute for beans and rice. Even the bar is pouring lo-cal margaritas. Festivity is the byword here for weddings, birthdays and office parties.
Reader Recommended
El Cholo Pasadena
260 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 795-5800 | www.elcholopasadena.com
El Portal
695 E. Green St., Pasadena
(626) 795-8553 | www.elportalrestaurant.com
BEST MIDDLE EASTERN FOOD
Sahara
2226 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 795-6900 | www.saharapasadena.com
The closest some of us will ever get to the Sahara Desert is this wonderful Middle Eastern restaurant. At this Sahara, don’t worry about sand getting in your food or the heat of the desert sun. Your only concern here is what to order from a selection of beef, lamb and chicken kebabs, all served with rice pilaf, chopped onions and tomatoes. For vegetarians, they offer falafels and the vegetarian combos (hummus, tabbouleh, baba ghanoush, sarma and pita bread). Let the heavenly aroma of their kitchen guide you to this East Pasadena oasis.
Reader Recommended
Lebanese Kitchen
1384 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 296-9010
Wahib’s Middle East Restaurant
910 E. Main St., Alhambra
(626) 576-1048 | www.wahibmiddleeast.com
BEST SEAFOOD
Cameron’s Seafood Market & Restaurant
1978 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 793-3474 | www.camerons4fish.com
Cameron’s opened in 1984 cooking fresh catches over mesquite wood grills that burned all day long. Those grills are still blazing away, so while you’re there try a shrimp sampler, Macadamia nut-crusted halibut filets, Maine lobster tail, Chesapeake Bay Oysters Rockefeller or Dungeness crab cakes. There are so many fish dishes that you might find it hard to choose. Fish grilled, fish fried, fish in soup or stew, fish in pasta, fish pan crusted, fish baked … But fear not, meat lovers. You can also order a New York steak or a Kobe beef burger.
Reader Recommended
McCormick & Schmick’s
111 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena
(626) 405-0064 | www.mccormickandschmicks.com
Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine
641 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 356-4066 | www.roysrestaurant.com
BEST SOUL FOOD
Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles
830 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 791-4890 | www.roscoeschickenandwaffles.com
What could be better than chicken and waffles? Roscoe’s also serves up some soulful chicken with gravy and onions, grits and fluffy hot biscuits. Enjoy other hearty sides, like red beans and rice, mac and cheese, yams and cornbread. Cooks fry up just about every part of the chicken — livers, giblets, legs, wings, breasts, thighs and legs. You can also have some mouth-watering sausage or chicken chili. Be sure to save room for the sweet potato pie.
Reader Recommended
Big Mama’s Rib Shack
1453 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 797-1792| www.bigmamas-ribshack.com
Bonnie B’s Smokin’ BBQ
1280 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(626) 794-0132 | www.bonniebssmokin.com
BEST SOUTH AMERICAN FOOD
Malbec
1001 E. Green St., Pasadena
(626) 683-0550 | www.malbeccuisine.com
You might not be able to get to Buenos Aires, but Malbec is a pretty good stand in for your temporary tango fantasy. For starters, enjoy a spinach and cheese empanada (one of four choices) or a soup of the day. Argentineans consume a great deal of beef and Malbec offers breaded tenderloin steak sandwiches for lunch, as well as a flat iron steak or wood-fired skewer of grilled specialty meats (gran brochette Argentina). You can also order a salad or homemade pasta featuring chicken or seafood. Think Italian food with a Spanish accent.
Reader Recommended
1810 Argentinean Restaurant
121 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 795-5658 | www.1810restaurant.com
Choza Mama
96 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 432-4692 | www.chozamama.com
BEST SPANISH FOOD
La Luna Negra
44 W. Green St., Pasadena
(626) 844-4331| www.lalunanegrarestaurant.com
La Luna Negra literally means “The Black Moon,” but for Pasadenans it means the best of dance and Spanish tapas. Thursdays through Sundays at 7:30 p.m. there is a flamenco show, with a live band performing Fridays and Saturdays after 9 p.m. Go ahead and graze on appetizers, but be sure to stay long enough to see the dancing and hear the music. If you’re there for dinner, fish lovers can enjoy grilled prawns in the house spice (Gambas al Ajillo) or jumbo scallops wrapped in bacon and leeks (Galician scallops) or a salmon spinach puff pastry (salmon con espinaca). For meat lovers there’s grilled lamb chops with eggplant, lentil couscous, goat cheeses and rosemary jus (cordero asado) or imported sausages.
Reader Recommended
Bar Celona
46 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 405-1000 | www.barcelonapasadena.com
Racion
119 W. Green St., Pasadena
(626) 396-3090 | www.racionrestaurant.com
BEST STEAKHOUSE
Arroyo Chop House
536 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 577-7463 | arroyochophouse.com
Arroyo Chop House is another of the Smith Brothers’ success stories. According to its Web site, it is the only restaurant in Southern California that serves exclusively USDA prime beef, the highest grade of beef available. For dinner, start off with beef tenderloin before moving onto a filet mignon or a T-bone, New York or Cowboy rib eye. Not into meat? Not to worry. They also have market-fresh seafood and salads for friends and family who lack the craving for beef.
Reader Recommended
Houston’s
320 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 577-6001
www.hillstone.com/#/restaurants/houstons/
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
369 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 583-8122 | www.ruthschris.com
BEST TACO
King Taco
45 N. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 792-0405 | www.kingtaco.com
In Pasadena, King Taco has once again been crowned king of the local taco makers. It began as a food truck in 1974 but are now a chain with locations all over Los Angeles County. Pasadenans love King Taco for a late-night snack, but any time you feel the need for an authentic taco that rises above the Taco Bell menu, this is the place to go. For starters, try warm corn tortillas and your choice of meat (carne asada, al pastor, carnitas, cabeza, lengua, chicken, buche, molleja or suadero), fresh chopped cilantro, onions and their famous salsa.
Reader Recommended
La Estrella
502 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
(626) 792-8559 | www.la-estrellarestaurant.com
Norma’s Tacos
1265 E. Green St., Pasadena
(626) 795-1224
BEST TEA ROOM
Scarlet Tea Room
and Fine Dining
18 W. Green St., Pasadena
(626) 577-0051 | www.scarlettearoom.com
The Scarlet Tea Room offers the usual black teas: Assam, Ceylon, Darjeeling, Earl Grey and a few unusual varieties, such as Keemun (a traditional English breakfast tea), Lapsang Souchong, Yunnan, Lil’uokalani and Persian Nectar. Then there’s a wonderful assortment of green teas (Fiji, Jasmine, Gen Mai Cha, Passion) and two white teas (Pai Mu Tan and White Raspberry). If caffeine isn’t your thing, have a pot of infusions, such as Berry Blueberry (rose hips, orange peel, blueberry, hibiscus and berry leaves) or Eve’s Temptation (blood orange, mango and apple) or Once Upon a Tea (chocolate bits, vanilla, mint and a secret ingredient). Scarlet offers homemade scones with lemon curd, preserves and their own Scarlet cream, as well as tea sandwiches and assorted desserts.
Reader Recommended
Chado’s Tea Room
79 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena
(626) 431-2832 | www.chadotea.com
Huntington Library Rose Garden Tea Room
1151 Oxford Road, San Marino
(626) 683-8131 | www.huntington.org
BEST THAI FOOD
Saladang
363 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
(626) 793-8123
Pasadenans don’t have to brave the streets of Little Bangkok to get their Thai food fix. Conveniently located within walking distance of Old Pasadena, Saladang is like a tropical haven where one can enjoy tom kha gai (coconut soup) and Thai curries, yellow curry fried rice and salads like the papaya pok pok (green papaya, dried shrimp and tomato). The pun klib (steamed chicken and peanut filled dumplings), salad rolls and sate (pork, beef or chicken with peanut sauce) are highly recommended, as are Saladang’s spicy noodles (rice noodles with chicken, egg and veggies) and pad Thai. Saladang’s specialties are barbecue chicken, pork and beef, crab pot and whole deep-fried catfish.
Reader Recommended
Daisy Mint
1218 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 792-2999 | www.daisymint.com
President Thai
498 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 578-9814 | www.president-thai.com
BEST VEGETARIAN FOOD
Real Food Daily
899 E. Del Mar Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 844-8900 | www.realfood.com
Even if you aren’t giving up meat anytime soon, stop by Real Food Daily if for no other reason than to eat your vegetables. The spicy BLT wrap might convince you to give up real bacon … it’s that good. The fettuccini Alfredo is creamy, full and delicious. Of course, the salads are great. Try their fresh juices, such as the Red Head (beet, carrot, celery and apple) or the Sweet Green (cucumber, celery, kale, parsley, spinach and apple). Leave room for dessert — carrot cake, raw strawberry cheesecake, chocolate fig tart or chocolate cake. Good for you can also be sinfully delicious.
Reader Recommended
Green Earth
37 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
(626) 584-0268 | www.greenearthveggie.com/about-pasadena.html
My Vegan
633 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
(626) 578-9017 | www.myveganpasadena.com
BEST VIETNAMESE FOOD
Indochine
950 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(626) 584-7118
The pho lover in the family will want to make Indochine a dining-out destination. This somewhat hidden gem offers reasonably priced pho, noodle and rice dishes and curries of all kinds. If you’re feeling hungry, start with an appetizer like the crispy noodles with pork and mung bean, or crab Rangoon with curried cream cheese before moving on to pad Thai or panag curry. (Note: veggie lovers can ask for vegetarian spring rolls and pho made with veggie broth, or they can enjoy one of several tofu dishes.)
Reader Recommended
Lemongrass
1952 Colorado Blvd., Los Angeles
(323) 258-8050 | www.lemongrassvietnameserestaurant.com
Pho 79
29 S. Garfield Ave., Alhambra
(626) 289-0239
Saigon Noodle Restaurant
28 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena
(626) 796-9378
DIGG | del.icio.us | REDDIT