Point 08 Club

70 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena

 

38 Degrees Ale House & Grill

100 W. Main St., Alhambra

(626) 282-2038

Enjoy a unique dining experience where the specialties are grilled seafood, certified Angus beef and sandwiches, not to mention a full bar and fine selection of domestic and imported ales. Join us for dinner, happy hour or a late evening snack.

 

A Taste of Brazil

4838 Huntington Drive, Los Angeles

(323) 342-9422 | tasteofbrazil.com

This homestyle Brazilian restaurant is family friendly yet cozy and can be romantic when you dine outside by candlelight while listening to a live singer/guitarist perform Brazilian and American tunes. The service here is outstanding. The traditional milanesa steak with black beans and rice and plantains is to die for. Try the vanilla flan for desert and you'll want to order a second. You can also find Brazilian food products at the grocery counter.

 

A Taste of Bangkok

924 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 449-6409 | atasteofbangkokrestaurant.com

In February of 1989 a new Thai restaurant appeared in Pasadena. This restaurant, a family endeavor, called on the resources of all the family, from Mama's recipes to relatives waiting tables and cooking. In area with many ethnic restaurants and a plethora of Thai establishments, A Taste of Bangkok gained instant attention. The restaurant is tastefully decorated daily with fresh flowers and provides a cheerful atmosphere and friendly service that makes dining here a pleasant experience.

 

Amigo's Restaurant

1076 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 577-1307

Amigo's is definitely old school-it's small and cozy with an attached bar and, of course, the timeless jukebox. Strong margaritas rule here, along with free chips and homemade salsa, so make this a favorite neighborhood hangout for Happy Hour. It's the perfect spot for office lunch when you're in the mood for Mexican food. Large portions and low prices make this longtime establishment a terrific value. The massive pollo burrito with red sauce, rice and beans is enough for two.

 

Bill's Chicken

2234 North Lincoln Ave., Altadena

(626) 797-4119

Of course, fried chicken is the signature dish, but the barbeque and sides are practically neck-and-neck. And now you can add Jamaican to the mix. The Jerk Chicken Pie will surprise you. Stop by on Tuesdays for the $1.99 chicken special or get a whole bag of mixed pieces for $5 on Mondays. Bill's is perfect take-out for watching the big game, and catering is available. Bill's is under new ownership and has relocated from its former North Lake Avenue location.

 

Avanti Café

111 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena

(626) 577-4688 | avanticafe.com

AVANTI CAFÉ is dedicated to providing exciting gourmet cuisine in a comfortable atmosphere and specializes in gourmet pizzas prepared in an imported oak-wood fired Italian oven with pizza dough especially formulated to accent a natural oak-wood flavor. Choose from our delicious assortment of California-style toppings, each prepared from freshest ingredients, or select from our many popular pasta or calzone dishes. Since 1987, Avanti has placed 1st for 14 consecutive years in the Pasadena Weekly's "Best Gourmet Pizza" competition.

 

Bar Celona Modern Spanish Restaurant and Tapas Bar

46 E. Colorado Blvd., Old Pasadena

(626) 405-1000 | barcelonapasadena.com

Inspired by the au courant food capital of the world, this stylized version of a modern Spanish tapas bar and restaurant brings Spain's passion for great food and wine to Old Pasadena with a vibrant selection of tapas (small plates), paella and Spanish entrees, plus specially blended sangria. A stunningly beautiful wine and martini lounge will entice you with live music, flamenco bands and deejays. We have a late-night lounge and menu. Private dining rooms are available.

 

Barragan's Mexican Restaurants

814 S. Central, Glendale | (818) 243-1103

1538 W. Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles | (213) 250-4256

730 N. Victory Blvd, Burbank | (818) 848-2325

barragansrestaurants.com

A family-owned business proudly serving the Southern California community since 1961, three generations continue the legacy of Ramon Barragan by serving most of the original menu items with the same quality and consistency. Enjoy breakfast specials daily, and don't miss Monday Comedy Nights and Margarita Wednesdays.

 

Beyond the Olive

10 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena

(626) 844-EVOO | Beyondtheolive.com

We are the premier source for educating people on the tasting and purchase of California's high-quality extra virgin olive oils, gourmet vinegars, specialty food products & merchandise. Our olive oils and vinegars are almost exclusively produced and bottled in California - not shipped over and imported from Europe. Given today's market, why not support your local economy? We are located in the heart of Old Pasadena at Raymond & Colorado.

 

Bonnie B's Smokin' Barbeque Heaven

1280 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena

(626) 399-3695 | Bonniebssmokin.com

Move over Pasadena barbeque establishments and make room for sisters Betty Miller-Henderson and Bonnie Henderson! They've come to town armed with lots of love and a special award-winning barbeque recipe that's sure to bring justice to the local barbeque scene. Bonnie and Betty's true love for people is evident, and you can taste the TLC in every meal. Bonnie's has garnered countless first-place blue ribbons, trophies and awards. Most recently, Zagat rated the establishment "Noteworthy Newcomer".

 

Burrito Express

1597 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 798-0844 | burritoexpresspasadena.com

Delicious, fresh and fast, Burrito Express has been serving outstanding meals in the same Pasadena location since 1978. Our food is prepared fresh daily from the same recipes we've used for the last 30 years. We received "Best Burrito" honors in the Pasadena Weekly's 2008 Best of Pasadena readers' poll and have appeared on MyFoxLA's 2008 Best of L.A. Hotlist. We are open for breakfast at 8 a.m. and keep serving until 9 p.m.

 

Cake Sensations

811 Fair Oaks Ave. South Pasadena

(626) 799-6799 | web.mac.com/cakesensations

We specialize in creating beautiful memories. A cake could be as simple as a white cake with vanilla filling, white icing and pink roses, or perhaps you are looking for a wedding cake to be crafted with much more detail. And then there are theme cakes for birthday, graduations, holidays, religious ceremonies and much more. We are here to make any day a special day with a cake.

 

Cameron's Seafood

1978 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 793-3474 | camerons4fish.com

Since 1984, Cameron's Seafood has been Pasadena's most critically-acclaimed seafood restaurant and has achieved success through its commitment to quality and value without sacrificing consistency. At the same time, it's become a Pasadena landmark. Cameron's San Francisco-style atmosphere brings the ocean feeling right to your table. Mesquite wood grills burn all day as only the finest selection of fresh fish from across the globe are prepared. Popular dishes include shrimp platters, halibut filets and Maine lobster.

 

Charlie's Trio

5769 N. Huntington Dr., Los Angeles | (323) 223-3871

Charlie's Trio Café

47 W. Main St., Alhambra | (626) 284-4943

Serving delectable Italian specialty dishes, pasta, pizza and grilled items since 1971, we're open for lunch and dinner. Don't miss our famous lunch buffet at our Huntington Drive location. Call us to celebrate your next special occasion.

 

Chefelle a Personal Chef Service

1-888-409-CHEF (2433)

(626) 303-7117 | Mobile: (626) 841-1601

When you use Chefelle Personal Chef Service, preparing dinner is just one LESS thing you have to think about. We bring the food and equipment, prepare healthy meals and clean up! Or if you prefer to have your meals delivered prepared, that's fine too-it's your choice! Thinking of having a party but don't want to do all the work? Let Chefelle make the evening wonderful and delicious. We can even drop off lunch or dinner items for you to take care of the serving, if you'd prefer.

 

Choza Mama Peruvian Cuisine

96 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 432-4692 | chozamama.com

Come discover Peruvian Cuisine; fresh and native ingredients are used in preparation of our gastronomical delights. Traditional dishes include shrimp & scallop linguine with riccoto sauce and Ceviche de Pescado. Definitely worth a try is the 12-ounce rib-eye steak, served atop a bed of spinach-fused fettuccine with minty basil and walnut gravy. For the seafood lover, we recommend the filet of sole, served over purple corn mashed potatoes. Our lunches, many under $10, include soup and a loaf of fresh-baked bread. We also have a bakery and offer traditional Peruvian pastries along with many American favorites.

 

The Coffee Gallery Backstage

2029 N. Lake Ave., Altadena

(626) 794-2424

The Coffee Gallery Backstage is a 49 seat show room connected to a coffee house surprisingly called, "The Coffee Gallery." The Backstage hosts live entertainment most every night suitable for all ages with a fine sound system, good lights, comfortable seating and killer atmosphere. Reservations are strongly recommended. The Coffee Gallery has a great selection of coffee, tea, sandwiches, salads, desserts and snacks.

 

Colombo's Italian Steakhouse & Jazz Club

1833 Colorado Blvd., Los Angeles

(323) 254-9138 | colombosrestaurant.net

An Eagle Rock tradition since 1954, Colombo's offers relaxed fine dining, great nightly jazz and a retro vibe, making this a local institution. The menu was created and refined by Ann and Sam Colombo, whose pizzas, pastas, seafood, prime rib and desserts have been honed to perfection. They're famous for the Porterhouse steak with roasted garlic and red wine sauce, which is highly recommended. There is no wrong selection.

 

Dave's Chillin & Grillin

2152 Colorado Boulevard, Los Angeles

(323) 490-0988 | daveschillin.com

Our mission is to provide healthy, appetizing and quick food for a community on the go. Our ingredients are of the utmost quality, freshness and wholesomeness. We are fully committed to providing the healthiest, freshest food available. All our meats are free of chemicals and pesticides, as are the vegetables that go into our sandwiches. The staff takes pride in providing the friendliest, most courteous and efficient service to all our customers.

 

Divina Cucina

3730 N. Verdugo Rd., Montrose

(818) 248-3077 | divinacucinarestaurant.com

Divina offers award-winning entrees in an angelic, starlit atmosphere. Divina's specialties include pizza prepared in a wood-fired oven, mouth watering soups, pasta dishes, delicious meat, fish and poultry entrees and splendid desserts. The main dining room has a rustic palette and makes you feel like you're in the heart of Italy. Be assured that your favorite bottle of wine can be found or select from fine spirits, which are a new addition to the Divina. Enjoy Al Fresco dining on our patio.

 

Dog Haus

104 N. Hill St., Pasadena

 

El Portal

625 E. Green St., Pasadena

(626) 795-8553 | elportalrestaurant.com

Weekly readers have been rewarding El Portal with the title of Best Mexican Food in the city for years. This charming little hacienda with brick walls, festive colors, fine art and an elegant courtyard brings the authentic cuisine of Mexico's Yucatan region to your table. Couples enjoy premium-tequila margaritas with strolling mariachis on Fridays for a romantic evening and can take in romantic guitar serenades on Saturday nights.

 

Ernie Jr.'s Taco House

2803 W. Broadway, Eagle Rock

(323) 256-1298

Pasadena diners may miss the old place in Old Pasadena, but they only have to drive a few minutes to Eagle Rock for a taste of the tradition that made Ernie Jr.'s famous. They're known for their burritos, combos, margaritas and, of course, tacos - all offered at reasonable prices and in king-sized portions. The half-century-old tradition continues right next door, and it's definitely worth the drive.

 

Four Seasons Tea Room

75 N. Baldwin Ave., Sierra Madre

(626) 355-0045 | 4seasonstearoom.com

Indulge in the simple pleasures of an afternoon tea and elegant sustenance at the Four Seasons Tea Room. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere for wedding showers, birthdays, mother-daughter teas and meetings of all kinds in either of two rooms or outside in the patio garden. Gift items are also available, as well as collectible bone china and vintage linens. The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Call for reservations today!

 

Galco's Soda Pop Stop

5702 York Blvd., Highland Park

(323) 255-7115 | sodapopshop.com

At Galco's Soda Pop Stop, you will find more than 450 different sodas in glass bottles, an array of vintage candy brands and hundreds of bottled beers from around the world-many of these products are not available anywhere else in the area. Stop in

for one of our famous sandwiches. Peruse our Web site to find unique flavors you

never imagined!

 

Grand Chicken

720 N. Lajke Ave. #9, Pasadena

(626) 808-9717

Grand Chicken is the place in Pasadena to go for Healthy Mediterranean food!  Shish Kabobs, Shawerma, Rotisserie Chicken...we have it all.  Reasonably priced lunch specials include your choice of Shish Kabobs, Chicken Plate or Shawerma and a free drink all for only $5.99! Or a Rotisserie Chicken Sandwich for only $3.99! We are centrally located on North Lake in Pasadena and offer free local delivery with a minimum $20 order.  Open daily from 10-9pm.

 

HAIKU KITCHEN

3653 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 470-5415

Satisfy your craving for diversity at Haiku Kitchen, where Japanese and Latin flavors are fused to create a truly inventive array of dishes that will wow your taste buds into a Zen-like euphoria. Unique originals, like Japanese Tacos or the Fresca Bowl with its perfect blend of garlic-pear infused teriyaki and fresh pico de gallo, sit alongside Japanese classics like Curry and Ramen. Finally...amazingly fresh, creative, healthy, delicious and fast casual food for under $5!

 

Ix Tapa Cantina & Restaurant

119 E. Colorado Blvd. Pasadena

(626) 304-1000 | cantinaixtapa.com

Ix Tapa, the latest offering from restaurateur Jack Huang, combines a restaurant, sports bar, and club with Mexican cuisine. Ix Tapa specialties include Pollo en Mole Poblano (chicken in our House made, spicy red mole sauce) and Chile Relleno (poblano pepper stuffed with ground beef or cheese, topped with a red chili). The 7,000+ square feet of space has a resort-like feeling and accommodates live music, dancing and a complete schedule of weekly entertainment options.

 

Kabuki

88 W. Colorado Blvd., #103, Pasadena

(626) 568-9310

3539 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 351-8963

201 N. San Fernando Road, Burbank

(818) 843-7999

Since 1991, our vision for KABUKI Japanese Restaurant has been to create high-energy, family-friendly and value-oriented Japanese restaurants. It is our everyday mission to deliver quality and freshness, great service and value to our guests with the ultimate hope that our guests will come to appreciate Japanese cuisine as comfort food. Experience menu items and beverages passionately crafted to provide you the best in Japanese cuisine and to spread the culture of Japanese dining to our guests.

 

Kathleen's Restaurant

595 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena

(626) 578-0722 | kathleensrestaurant.com

Kathleen's Restaurant has been a Pasadena favorite for more than 27 years. Here you will find a comfy hometown feeling with service that's down-to-earth and attentive. Open for lunch, dinner and weekend breakfast, you can find almost anything you're craving - house-made soups and desserts, bursting burgers, signature salads, fresh fish, house-made Mexican specialties, Belgian waffles, eggs Benedict and much, much more. Owners Kathleen and Efren are there daily. Ample free parking!

 

Margarita's

155 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 449-4224 | margaritasmexicanfood.com

The name may say Margaritas, but this is a full-service Mexican restaurant. Tortillas are made by hand daily and the weekday Pronto Buffet Brunch allows you to quickly and inexpensively eat to your heart's content. Kids eat free Mondays and, yes, their margaritas are to die for. Also open for Sunday brunch.

 

MASA SUSHI RESTAURANT

2063 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 796-9604 | masapasadena.com

Chef Fuji returns as Masa's mantra remains to serve excellent quality food at affordable prices. And, have no fear - the low ebb in pricing has not reduced the quality of their sushi and sashimi. Morsels are spanking fresh, as if owner Peter Park had gone to the fish market that very day, just as the tide came in. In selecting any day's catch, Park indicated that he looks a fish straight in the eye.

 

Mi Piace

25 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 795-3131 | mipiace.com

This Italian restaurant has been a consistent winner with Pasadena Weekly readers for years. Set in the heart of Old Pasadena, Mi Piace (Italian for "I like it") is famous for Italian dishes with American flair. The seafood linguini with clams and mussels in an authentic broth makes any Italian food lover's taste buds go wild, but try the pizza and ravioli too. Follow that with one of our great shaken martinis!

 

MINX RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

300 Harvey Drive, Glendale

(818) 242-9191 | minx-la.com

MINX Restaurant and Lounge is a sophisticated restaurant and spacious special event and entertainment venue in the Glendale foothills. MINX features an upscale dining room, a plush lounge, a club room complete with dance floor and state-of-the-art sound system and lighting as well as wraparound patios complete with VIP cabanas and striking city and mountain views. Versatile and multifaceted, MINX generates great energy, whether one is quietly dining, cocktailing or partying in full force.

 

New Delhi Palace

950 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 405-0666 | newdelhipalace.com

For a dish that truly represents the cookery of northern India's romantic Punjab region, try the fragrant chicken tikka masala - simmered in a skillet for hours to bring the chicken to a luminous orange glow. The meal is enhanced by the restaurant's adherence to Punjabi traditions of generosity and hospitality to visitors. Also, don't miss the New Delhi Champagne brunch on Fridays and Sundays.

 

New Moon

2138 Verdugo Blvd., Montrose

(818) 249-4393 | newmoonresaurant.com

New Moon is the solution to boring, everyday Chinese food. Our recipes have been perfected by three generations of chefs, and the family is still working on new classics. Nestled in quaint Montrose, New Moon will change your concept of the Chinese cuisine experience. All of the recipes use the freshest ingredients available, and all dishes are served in an atmosphere of casual sophistication.

 

Nine & Nine Thai Kitchen

754 E. Colorado Blvd. Pasadena

(626) 844-1899

Located across from Target, this unassuming Thai restaurant will surprise you. The devout followers have tried to keep it a secret, but word is getting out. We serve up some of the best Thai Boat Noodles in or out of Thai Town proper! You must try their curry dishes as well, whether you choose red, yellow, green; beef, chicken, tofu, or vegetable. Just make sure you order plenty of rice to soak up the deliciousness. You'll find great value and food that is truly authentic.

 

O2 Sushi

245 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 844-0239

O2 is quickly becoming a Pasadena favorite. The taste and quality of their sushi and other dishes, expertly prepared by chef/owner BJ, has won over dozens of new fans. Food critic Dan O'Heron writes: "As a bonus, when the ideal flavors of (BJ) Kang's dishes are brought together with his selection of fine sakes, you'll find that the two synergize for a gastronomical treat more delicious than either alone can provide."

 

Orchid Thai Cuisine

1311 S. Baldwin Ave., Unit A, Arcadia

(626) 821-2099 | orchidthi-cuisine.com

The sweet sticky mango rice here is probably the best you'll ever taste. Ever. It's made by the owner, and natives from the Motherland make it a special point to come here when vacationing in Southern California... It's that authentic and that good! Try their daily lunch specials starting at $5.95. The service is friendly and fast. An added treat is a boba counter inside the restaurant.

 

Patio 168

168 S. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena

(626) 577-1000 | Hiltonpasadena.com

Hidden inside the Hilton Pasadena, Patio 168 is an intimate, open-space designed

for diners to enjoy Chef Delgado's ever-revolving creativity, which features an unconventional amalgam of flavors and textures. Our menu changes weekly, allowing our culinary talent to freely express their art and play with some of California's freshest ingredients. Enjoy a glass of wine from our large by-the-glass selection and taste some of

L.A.'s finest ingredients in our new patio concept. Monday - Friday 11am to 2pm

& 5pm to 10pm.

 

Plate 38

2361 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 793-7100 | Plate38.com

Recently opened in July, Plate 38 is comfort food with a twist!  A few of the mouth-watering entrees include Brioche French Toast, Slow Roasted Baby Back Ribs and a Smoked Mozzarella Burger.  Eat a quiet breakfast out on the patio or come for dinner & drinks while listening to live music!  We are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and until 1am on Friday and Saturdays.  Serving Peet's Coffee and fresh pastries made daily.

 

President Thai

498 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 578-9814 | president-thai.com

Imagine an exotic trip to beautiful Thailand;

looking at beautiful beaches, gazing through ancient temples and immersing with the local

culture. Going to President Thai Restaurant is

the closest thing to being there. The restaurant recently moved to its newly-designed original

Thai architectural location in Pasadena and

serves authentic cuisine prepared with the freshest ingredients and spices. President Thai provides

a great atmosphere - decorated with ornate Thai art forms. Come and enjoy an experience you'll never forget.

 

Quadrupel French Bistro Food

43 E. Union St., Pasadena

(626) 405-0830 | quadrupelbrasserie.com

Quadrupel is a "casually elegant" brasserie where Cheve Levoe puts a new spin on French bistro food, serving over 60 ecletic wines and 75 high-octane Belgium beers. Some of the diners' favorites include: roasted bone-marrow salad with pancetta vinaigrette, honey-braised pork shank with parsnip potato puree and croissant bread pudding with flambéed bananas. Enjoy an Old European setting constructed in all-mahogany from floor to ceiling. We offer quality plus economy; snacks and appetizers range from $3.50 to $14 and all entrees are under $30.

 

Ranchero Mexican Food

2663 East Foothill Blvd., Pasadena | (626) 793-0446

Great food! Great drinks! Great service! Great prices! This friendly, family-owned business, open since 1969, is one of Pasadena's best kept secrets - a jewel tucked away on east Foothill Boulevard. It the little restaurant THAT CAN! Décor is casual and simple. Owner Roger Mejia and his excellent staff prepare posole, menudo, cocido and other classic Mexican dishes you'll certainly love. The margaritas are some of the best in town.

 

RedWhite + Bluezz

70 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena

(626) 792-4441 | Redwhitebluezz.com

Los Angeles's best-tasting jazz club features cutting-edge American Cuisine, Sommelier-assembled tasting experiences-that include wines siphoned by the glass from nitrogen-filled wine keepers that protect and chill to the proper temperature-along with nightly jazz. The New York speakeasy-style venue swings to the sounds of the area's best-known jazz performers, including acclaimed special guests who may join in with the evening's combos. The exclusive "Jazz Club" wing is the site for performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings as well as Sunday Brunch.

 

Rigo's Mexican Restaurant

457 W. Foothill Blvd., Monrovia | (626) 599-9071

"Family owned since 1986" Now serving our Fiesta Buffet, Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with different items every day. Also taste our delicious home made tortillas or try our Menudo, available every Saturday and Sunday. We have the ability to host parties or cater your special event. We offer a full bar, and Happy Hour specials. We are open from Monday to Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. We offer a fun atmosphere for friends and family. Come join us today!

 

Scarlet Tea Room

18 W. Green St., Pasadena

(626) 577-0051 | scarlettearoom.com

The Scarlet Tea Room offers an elegant setting in which to enjoy an afternoon tea experience. Our signature Scarlet Tea Ceremony features a five-course tea service with a multitude of exotic tea choices and almond champagne. Also enjoy our extensive lunch menu of gourmet sandwiches, salads and entrees, made fresh and on-site daily with healthy organic ingredients. Exquisite dinners and evening teas are now served Tuesday through Saturday and live music is featured on Fridays & Saturdays.

 

Sidewalk Café

901 W. Glenoaks Blvd., Glendale

(818) 246-1000

We are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and offer breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant offers all kinds of good eats including a variety of salads, sandwiches, pastas and pizzas. Kelly's Coffee & Fudge can be found at Sidewalk Café, where all of our candy and fudge are made on location. We also have a variety of ice cream, pastries baked freshly, a full coffee bar and the best specialty salads and wraps in town. Delivery and catering are available. See you here!

 

Souplantation

201 South Lake Ave., Pasadena

(626) 577-4797 | souplantation.com

Let's just say within 24 hours of being in the ground, it's on a refrigerated truck on its way to us. Our food is made from scratch every day. Our salad bar buffet features more than 50 fresh ingredients, including specialty tossed and prepared salads. In addition to salads, we serve original recipe hot pastas, hand-crafted soups, scratch-made muffins and focaccia breads in our hot buffet. Create. Indulge.

 

Spring Garden Restaurant

187 North Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena

(626) 796-2531

Spring Garden has been a Pasadena favorite serving authentic Mandarin Cuisine since 1976. Favorites include beef and broccoli, lemon chicken, shrimp-fried rice, wonton soup and lemon drop soup. It's a great place for parties and celebrations. One of the best values is their Rose Bowl package, which includes enjoying a meal while watching the parade from a window seat.

 

Tede's Café

109 E. Union St., Pasadena

(626) 795-2856 | tedescafe.com

For a healthy meal at an affordable price, Tede's Café is Old Pasadena's newest and best lunchtime destination. This family-owned eatery and coffee shop uses only the freshest local ingredients. Whether you are looking for a cup of coffee to get your morning started, a hearty lunch or catering for your next event, Tede's Café has it all!

The Counter

140 Shopper's Lane, Pasadena

(626) 440-1008 | thecounterburger.com

You're greeted with a clipboard and an extensive list of fresh mouth-watering ingredients that allow you to build your own gourmet burger. Our 312,120+ different burger combinations make every burger as unique as each customer. Rarely is the same burger made twice in one day. The Counter® is the 21st century's bold answer to the classic burger joint, ushering in a fresh era of industrial decor, today's music, cold beer, unique wines, cocktails, and burger options.

 

THE STUFFED SANDWICH

1145 E. Las Tunas Drive , San Gabriel

(626) 285-9161 | stuffedsandwich.com

Sam and Marlene Samaniego have operated The Stuffed Sandwich since 1976, and since then diners have flocked in for lunch and dinner. Whether it's one of their signature sandwiches, salads, soups, spaghetti or barbecue, a meal here is bound to leave you smiling. The Stuffed Sandwich has also gained a reputation as a beer-lover's paradise, serving more than 700 bottled beers from more than 40 countries, including more than 130 Belgian ales.

 

Tops on Walnut

1792 E. Walnut St., Pasadena

(626) 584-0244 | topsburger.com

You can't leave here hungry. Not with 14 burgers, 13 Mexican dishes, 17 sandwiches, three types of hot dogs, seven salads and 12 types of breakfasts on the menu - all at great value prices. Charbroiled chicken plates, rib-eye steak plates, fish and chips and chicken strips add hearty heft at dinner for those hungry for just a little bit more. Nothing is pre-cooked. The portions of fresh onion rings and fries are legendary, as are the best pastrami sandwiches in town.

 

UGO'S CAFÉ

74 W. Sierra Madre Blvd. , Sierra Madre

(626) 836-5700 | Ugoscafe.com

Chef Cesare Grossi loved to watch his mother cook at his home in Rome and relives the memory today in Sierra Madre. All Ugo's dishes taste like they come directly from farm to fork and include salad and bread. With 12 tables and an intimate bar crannied in a room marked with family-and-friend memorabilia, plus fine wines and a romantic classical Spanish guitarist on weekends, Ugo's charm fits the picture of Sierra Madre - a toy town under glass, defended from all calamities and cares.

 

Villa SORRISO Italian, Seafood, Steaks

168 W. Colorado Blvd., Old Pasadena

(626) 793-2233 | sorrisopasadena.com

Located at the western gateway to Old Pasadena, this luxurious Mediterranean gem boasts romantic outdoor cabanas, a crackling fire pit and a lushly landscaped courtyard complete with cascading fountain. The Martini Bar and Lounge is a favorite late-night hangout. In addition to a menu of classic Italian favorites, fresh seafood, steaks and chops, the evening passes into to night at the Villa with live music, dancing, deejays and a wonderful late menu. Private dining rooms are available.

 

ZELO PIZZERIA

328 E. Foothill Blvd., Arcadia

(626)358-8298 | zelo.us

It's the cornmeal crust that makes this pizzeria stand out from the rest. Zelo Pizzeria in Arcadia is a truly unique place to fill your pizza craving. This locally owned establishment's signature dish is the fresh corn, balsamic-marinated, oven-roasted red onion pie. Don't be intimidated and don't make substitutions! This dish is truly unique and a worthy competitor for the area's best pizza.