50 Best American Restaurants in Pasadena

“If I could give the service a 10000/5 I would. The entire staff was AMAZING. Attentive, thoughtful and all around kind guys. The chicken tenders and the comeback sauce were so flippen delicious! If you are nearby, this is a MUST STOP destination.“

“The wait staff at the restaurant were friendly and attentive especially our server Noah. His service was excellent. He checked in often, answered all our questions about the menu and made sure we had a pleasant dining experience. The food was great especially the tomahawk steak with chimuchurri. My family would definitely dine at this restaurant again.“

“Great atmosphere, definitely a nice date place. The service was great and friendly. I didn’t have a reservation but they were able to give me a seat at the bar. I ordered the onion soup and beef tartare. Supposedly onion soup is their signature dish, but it was really salty, I was a bit disappointed…. Because it was a $20 bowl of soup. The beef tartare was excellent, it would be nice if they offer one extra slice of bread and some more salad leaves. I was happy that they have half bottle of wine that I can order. Wine list is quite nice.“

“The asparagus fries. Crispy & not greasy. You can appreciate the asparagus flavor. We split the Thai spicy salad. It was spicy, but the Thai basil & the peanut dressing were the stars. It didn't need the chicken. The best was the ribeye melt. The meat was cooked perfectly.The sourdough was crusted with parmesan. With a side of horseradish that was perfectly paired for this sandwich.“

“Food was absolutely delicious !! Loved the Blondie wings and the Alabama white sauce (tastes like the mayo that you put on esquites and elotes). The fries were delicious too, not too salty and a little sweet. Also had some mac and cheese (it was bomb), and the brisket sandwich was really good too :-)!!“

“Beautiful combo of lighting & unfinished wood inside with several different style seating areas. Fresh made pasta appetizer was spectacular! Mediterranean sea bass was excellent, if a bit small. Beef brisket was absolutely delicious, although corned beef style, which our server alerted us to before ordering. Old fashioned and East side cocktails were both solid. Service was helpful and attentive. Would highly recommended for a nice dinner out.“

“Historical Pasadena restaurant that some people forget about. I hadn’t been here for years until this evening. I’d give 5 stars, but my pork chop was dry and little overcooked. Everything else was wonderful, including the drinks. It’s very intimate inside, but as the restaurant fills up it gets quite loud. The patio is covered and heated, but you may find yourself having to talk over the nearby tables or road noise. Valet parking only, $8 at the time of this review. There is street parking available on Fair Oaks though.“

“Flavorful food and great cocktails in an Orleans-vibe atmosphere. I had the braised chicken with peanut sauce. It was super tender. Why can't I carmelize sweet potatoes that good? Husband had jalapeño flank steak. The angel biscuit was straight out of the oven. OMG.“

“This place is like a wayyyyy better Panera with delicious sandwiches and salads. Also a lot of veggie options and customization in the app. This will become a fairly regular place for us after recent visits. The tofu banh mi is awesome and the salads have so much great tasting and healthy stuff in them. The Japanese chili dressing should be bottled! Definitely try this spot out.“

“The food has to be experienced!! It’s high-end in taste and presentation, and the staff are professional but so fun that you feel like you’re with family. They are attentive to detail and will bend over backwards to make sure you have what you need. Service with a smile; this company is pure joy!“

“My girlfriend and I went to our second Valentine's dinner here last week. Not many places can pull off Valentines Day like Bistro 45 does. Everything came out timely and up to their usual standards. Our favorite waiter Mehdi treated us like family. This is the most consistent restaurant we've ever eaten at. Thank you guys so much! Rick and Linda“

“First off Dennis is the man!!Welcoming, kind and helpfulNow the food!!!Absolutely RIDICULOUS... Literally some of the best pancakes waffles and BUTTER I have ever had in my 44 years on this earth....More than anything from the bacon to the eggs etc you can tell it's not cheap ingredients....they are using quality top to bottom“

“One of my favorite places to go. The food is always delicious and flavorful. Favorites have been the chimichurri grilled steak and the grilled chicken club sandwich. But I feel like everything on the menu is great. They offer vegan, vegetarian, gluten, or just protein options. Service is has been good, workers are always polite. Shout out to Daniel at the cashier and Abraham. The ambiance is always very chill. Even during peak rush hours. They have patio seating, inside dining, or take out.“

“Found Green Street Restaurant on Google while looking for a place to have lunch in Pasadena. We were served by Joe who took such great care of us. Food was delicious and came out hot, Joe kept our drinks full. Big fan. Will definitely come again next time I’m in Pasadena.“

“Granville was one of the first restaurants I've eaten at since movigto Pasadena 2 years ago. Each time I've gone, the service is always attentive and welcoming.The atmosphere is very trendy and I really do love the open layout overall. The food and drinks have always been a hit for me, I've tried almost everything on their menu and I haven't been disappointed. My go to cocktail is the cu cucumber martini, which is very refreshing! Definitely check them out if you're in the area. Very good for a date night or a group hang.“

“It was wonderful! Historic surroundings (ask about it). The staff provided assistance with the menu and offered valuable suggestions. The service was great and pizza was quickly delivered without compromise. Created with quality ingredients and crust with a nice chew. I highly recommend this one.“

“Amazing food, ambiance, wine, and staff! Tucked away on Holly St., a few blocks over from Colorado. Old town local vibe. Super chill. I've been trying new restaurants in the area and decided to pop in early on a Fri nite. Got a seat at the counter overlooking the chef preparing all the meals. Ordered a rose, very tasty. Short ribs with mash potatoes. Amazing! I will definitely be back to try more things. Highly recommend. We really don't have anything like this in Pasadena.“

“Pasadena and downtown this last fortnight. Nostagic deliciousness @parkwaygrill, peerless steaks. Returning there for the fourth time - our first visit was in 1994. Last night we enjoyed @majordomola . Koreanish food, at it's best generous and full flavoured. Standouts include the pork shoulder, duck confit rice and the flambe(d) doughnuts.Next time we'll try their signature rib dish too. Take an appetite and lots of family. Also loved Houstons. Beautiful restaurant with signature French dip sandwich @houstonsrestaurants“

“Holy cow I can't say enough wonderful things about AltaEats. Discovered them through their pandemic-era Roasties (cooked food to take home and eat) and we're still doing it with them now. The potatoes and green beans were so good last night (heaping portions!) that there were none leftover this morning for breakfast. The flank steak was cooked to absolute perfection. Their bread is the perfect complement to everything else. Highly recommended. Lovely people, too.“

“I arrived at the store after 11:30, prepared to wait, and there was a 40 minute wait, so I killed time at a nearby supermarket. The steak meat was tender and delicious, and while I was waiting, I ordered the antichokes that were grilled on the grill after seeing the reviews saying they were delicious, and they were really delicious. it's recommended. The store had a nice atmosphere, the front desk staff remembered my name after just one visit, and the floor staff were very kind. It's amazing that you can enjoy such great customer service and food at this price.“

“One of our favorite steak restaurants to celebrate special occasions. Must go on Tuesdays for their tomahawk Tuesday meal deal. Service is always on point and great atmosphere at this location. Lobster Mac and cheese is highly recommended. Porterhouse and tomahawk steaks are amazing and cooked perfectly. Highly recommend this restaurant to celebrate that special occasion.“

“We enjoyed our meal. The service was top-notch and very friendly. Adrien, the manager, was wonderful and assured my friend that she could eat without fear of her allergies to nuts and shellfish. We both got burgers and fries-- mine was the veggie burger. I would eat there again.Vegetarian options: The veggie burger was the best I've ever had. It was full of flavor!Dietary restrictions: My friend has allergies to nuts and shellfish and was able to eat here.“

“Hands down a great experience!At first I thought it was a bit pricey for brunch but unlike many places, it is well WORTH IT.We got the Nashville Chicken Sandwich and the Popping Yolk burger, and were highly impressed.The portions were large which included the best roasted potatoes and regular garden salad. My boyfriend visiting from Ireland said those were the best potatoes he’s had since visiting lolEverything was seasoned well and the burger was cooked just right. The staff were friendly and helpful, you order before you sit down.I went purposely on a rainy day and there was plenty of seating around 1:00pm in the afternoon. The menu selection was great, will definitely want to try one of the Benedict’s on my next visit. Will definitely come back again!“

“Trendy 21st century meets old Pasadena. I love the design and decor of this place. This is a great spot for orderves and drinks. The owner, is a solid guy who genuinely cares about the people around him, his restaurant and customers.Go support a good man!“

“A hidden gem in Pasadena with a great vibe. It's a diner but at same time feels very local with a at home ambiance. Food was very good, good prices and portions were great. Service was good as well and would recommend to checkout and will come back.“

“This was my first time at the Raymond. I subtracted 1 star for service. It wasn't bad, just could be polished up a tad. Plates were left on the table between courses necessitating the server to clear them. The food was very good. It's not fine dining—does not pretend to be so—it's more akin to the casera vibe. It's as if you were eating at a friend's home, albeit a friend that really knows how to cook. We sampled the chicken and the pork chop. The chicken was outstanding. As we all know, chicken is a challenging protein to cook perfectly. And it was. It arrived hot and juicy and expertly seasoned. My comment on the pork is only representing my own flavor profile; I found it to be needing a bit more pan sauce. And, for me, the Dijon mustard came on a bit too strong and overwhelmed the delicacy of the subtle pork flavor. We really enjoyed the ambience. Both outside and inside were a comfortable environment to enjoy a nice, un rushed meal. We will return.“

“Really great spicy chicken. There's a small area for seating but you'll probably have to take it to go. The chicken is nice and spicy and a ton of flavor, the fries have a really good seasoning and their MC sauce is delicious! Can't recommend them enough.“

“Been here many times while living in E Pasadena. Moved away in 2018 and came back for the first time today. Quality of food always been consistent for me. Had the breakfast plate which is not hard to mess up. Potatoes perfectly seasoned. Only negative is the gal who rang me up at 7am…no greeting, no smile, sappy face, attitude. Never seen her before…ticket said “Manager,” on it. I hope not as she’s setting the standard there.“

“Terrific staff and innovative cuisine. Small local restaurant who worked hard to keep staff through the pandemic closures with delicious creative take out and who are keeping everyone safe by requiring proof of vaccination for indoor dining. Fresh creative food.“

“A little mom and pop down an alley in Pasadena. Great ambience, the menu is amazing with a wide variety for different palettes. The cocktail menu is extensive, and our server, Dana (who is amazing) recommended several drinks that I absolutely loved. The service from Dana was exceptional and the live music was incredible. Looking forward to dining here again!“

“This place has a really good pastrami sandwich. They have special sodas you don't see often, and the sandwiches are always fat. I ordered a small fry and a small onion ring, and they were huge. The fries weren't too brag worthy, but the onion rings were crisp and delicious.“

“"The list is there for a reason"I really like this place but today I put my name on the list waiting because it was busy and as I sat there I watched as people signed in but walked inside. It was a cold day so I thought nothing of it until I noticed the 3rd party did the same thing signed the waiting list and walked in. I know the inside isn't that big so I took a look and saw that everyone that walked in was sat without anyone checking the waiting list. I don't know? How would you feel?“

“I don't leave many reviews but I felt compelled because of the level of customer service that I received from the manager, Jarod. I had dinner delivered, an item was labeled correctly but when I opened the container it was something else. I called the restaurant. He apologized, no big deal. He said he'd refund the item. The following day he calls me back to tell me he can't refund the item on his end. I need to contact the 3rd party delivery. He will make sure I get my item for free and throw in a desert upon my next delivery. I just need to contact him after placing my order, he will guarantee to put them in the bag coming to me.It's not that I'm getting something for free but that he took the time to reach out to me to make sure I got the refund I was entitled to. The rest was above and beyond my expectations. I liked the food enough that this was my second order in as many days but this propelled them to the top of my favorite restaurants in my area. I will probably order again very soon. Thanks, Jarod. Forgive me if it isn't spelled correctly.“

“Stop by here on a Saturday afternoon while scouting for the Kaiser Vision Essentials building that was supposedly located nearby and on top of that, was also an excuse to use the Metro Rail to gauge the walking distance between the station and both of these businesses. The address notes it as being located on Catalina Ave so I was under the impression that the business 'front' would be facing the street like how the other businesses that line up the corner closest to the Colorado Blvd but it's not. It's actually wedged between a take out American BBQ restaurant and an open air parking lot. On the side of the building that belongs to the same BBQ restaurant is a 12x12 tiny ass logo on the building with an arrow pointing you down this non-descript alleyway. This non-descript alleyway looks like any other industrial alleyway: grey concrete, surrounded by open-ring fences, telephone poles, and random ass vehicles parked on the side closest to the open air parking lot. Once you've walked down far enough, there's a small black signage to your left pointing to a non-descriptive black building where there's a small flight of stairs that you walk down and that's T Boyle Tavern. Once inside, you're greeted with this woodsy, rustic inn type of decor. Front of bar is quite literally directly in front of you as you walk down the flight of stairs. There are several wooden high top tables and chairs just before you reach the bar area. TV's line that entire wall plus to the two sides of the establishment that are tuned into sports. Men's restrooms are to the left 'corner' from the front entrance and women's restrooms are to the right 'corner' from the front entrance. There's a small flight of stairs on the women's restrooms side that leads up to presumably a part of the open air parking lot. Well gins are $6, while well whiskeys and well vodkas are $12. To the right of the bar area are some TV's that lists the beers that they have on tap for the week. They ranged between $6-10. They serve regular food, mostly finger foods like burgers, sandwiches, fries, amd chicken fingers. The menu will be given to you when you head up to the front of bar. I ordered a Bourbon Old Fashioned, a Vodka Soda and a Gin and Tonic. Then I ordered a beer whose name I forgot off the TV menu. I think they tasted fine. They can't make the 'fancier' cocktails because they don't have the ingredients for them so if that's your cup of tea, this is not your spot for that. This is more of a beers on tap with some basic cocktails and well drinks. Ambiance. This place feels like one of those spots that you'd take large groups of friends amd family to watch sports and knock back a few brewski's. It was quite dead in the afternoon save for a few elderly family groups present that were apparently relatives of the bartenders. They take credit cards. Enough said. Service. The male bartenders seemed friendly enough. Parking. I don't normally talk about parking but because this place is located in Pasadena, where there's more parking restrictions relative to other areas, you'd want to know where you can park cheaply or free, ideally. Street parking lining up and down Catalina Ave are two hours max between 9AM-6PM. Any time after that should be free. There's the open air parking lot that is not cheap but not DTLA expensive. I didn't catch a good glimpse of the rates unfortunately but I vaguely recall it being stupid expensive for just a few minutes of parking but if you pay the daily rate maximum, it's in the high single digits. All in all, I think it's better to just take the Metro Rail and take the scenic 20-minute walk over to the place than to drive here, at least during the day time. Not too sure how the area would look later at night. I came away with a pretty positive experience of this place and would probably stop by again to try out their food on my next visit.“

“Has been my mother's favorite restaurant for 40 years. I took her there this morning for her favorite blueberry pancakes. Absolutely wonderful. One of my favorites for breakfast (on Sundays) as well as for lunch. Great American favorites and Mexican specials that are great (and economical). Their coconut cake is the best if you have room for desert. Kathleen herself is usually there and is a friendly and welcoming face. You cannot go wrong here. Strictly a local business, not a chain. Support local businesses as it is a tough time to be in business, and they give back so much to the local economy. Highest recommendation!“

“Really nice shop and experience! Came here with a few friends on a weekday morning and it was a little busy, and our food and coffee still came out within 10 minutes. I ordered the veggie breakfast burrito and enjoyed it so much!! The oat milk latte hot was also tasty. I would come back.“

“Pretty restaurant with inside and outside seating. The service and food are excellent. We have eaten here several times for lunch and recently had dinner here.The hostess is always friendly and kind. There are high tables with stools and low tables with chairs inside. They give you the choice for seating.If you sit outside, there are trees and it does not seem like you are on Foothill Blvd.The food is very good as well as the drinks. I had a lavender champagne cocktail that was delicious.I ordered the special- halibut and there were no leftovers to take home!Very nice neiborhood restaurant with great chef and service.Vegetarian options: There are some vegetarian options or ask your server.Dietary restrictions: Ask your server. This is a well-run restaurant so they can adjust meals for you.Parking: I always park on a side street. There is a small lot in the back, but I prefer to park on a side street. I rather walk a block or two to avoid parking in a small crowded lot.“

“We drive between Phoenix and Monterey Bay, Pasadena is an excellent half way stop. We have eaten here several times. We don’t go back to places we don’t enjoy. The happy hour is excellent! $3.99 cheeseburgers (not a huge burger, but perfect sized!), and a couple of bucks off of draft beers. We will be back!“

“STEPH JUDGEMENT: A casual, comfortable bar with weekend happy hour FTW! We'd been to the Blind Donkey in downtown Long Beach a few times but had no idea there were other locations. We'd come out of an art show at the Armory nearby and wanted to grab a drink and a snack in the area before heading back. While wandering around, I happened to spot their sign down a side street and we decided to investigate. The ambiance was open and inviting, with many windows letting in the sunshine--very different from the Long Beach location, which is cool but underground. There were a bunch of fun and interesting signs and items on the walls, and they also had a parklet outside. It was fairly busy on a Sunday afternoon--the people perhaps drawn in by their weekend Happy Hour, but their prices seemed reasonable overall anyway. We decided to sit at the bar and I got an old fashioned and the hubby a whiskey sour, and we decided to share a grilled cheese sandwich. Everything was excellent, especially the sandwich, which was pressed panini-style and served with pickle chips that were an unexpected and awesome accompaniment--the little zing of acid really livened up the cheese and bread. The bartenders were cool, and it was a pleasant way to spend a Sunday afternoon. We wouldn't hesitate to return the next time we're in the area.“

“I stopped by to see what all the fuss was about of this new colette rest.. was a little reluctant from previous ownership. Well I do have to say, Brilliant!!! This churro French toast and avacado toast with the option of an egg was magnificent. On top of the excellent food, I had an absolute amazing experience with the service. Peter I believe was his name, gave us a run down of the menu and gave us one of the best experiences in dining I've had in a long time. If I were you, I'd go check this place out, great service and amazing food! �“

“What can I say apart from I had a blast here with my friends we were a party of 10 and they were constantly helpful. The cauliflowers were extremely good they were crispy not soggy or anything and the sauce was slightly spicy, delicious with the ranch. This place actually serves their whiskey sours with EGG WHITE. FINALLY ! I would come for those two things again.“

“Purchasing the membership to the Athenaeum was my first ever experience with exclusive clubs similar to this, and my experience at the Ath was pleasantly surprising. The value of the membership is really worth it (with great value prices on gourmet food, access to events, and reciprocal benefits at clubs such as the Harvard Club in Boston), and the food at the Athenaeum is absolutely excellent. My favorite perks would have to be the monthly events they hold, such as the Father's Day Event and the AYCE Prime Rib Buffets. They have a wide variety of food at buffets and all of it is incredibly fresh, well-prepared, and thoughtful. They have something for everyone and it is perfect for large parties or for meet-ups with friends and family. The service is top notch and it is an incredible experience all-around! The first event we attended was the Father's Day Event, which had varieties of steak, corn on the cob, dessert, popcorn and more. The environment is perfect for treating your friends, co-workers, or family to a nice meal. Each event has different varieties of food, and we even got to sample things like crab legs, sushi, ube ice cream and more.“

“This is our favorite go to place in the neighborhood The food is always delicious and a little adventuresome. The chef likes to change up the menu frequently and there are some favorites that are always there. I love the tuna tartare tacos. But he also makes duck confit, bouillabaise, bone marrow. Their happy hour is great where you can have a taste of lots of fabulous small plates. If you like oysters, there is always a selection of very fresh offerings. Love this place!!“

“*YUM* is all I have to say!! We adore this place, and friends who have moved away always beg to go here for chicken when they come home to visit. The chicken falls off the bone, their fried tofu is to die for! ������. You cannot go wrong here! But pay attention to their hours. They close mid-day for a few hours.“

“Had a really great dinner at Yard House before AGT! Me and my company were not from LA so we were very glad to pick Yard House before our main event that evening. Poke nachos were soooo good. As well as my main the sandwich with truffle fries. Drinks were amazing as well and would 100% come back here. The bar is most likely the highlight of yard house as it was long , glowing, and very welcoming. Drinks looked really good. Me and my company sat in a booth but it was worth the money spent included with the service , food , and atmosphere. Thanks yard house for a delicious meal before a big show!“

“This Sunday evening, Mgr, Caesar, and his team made my family, esp. My twin boys' birthday special with the top-notch customer service and delicious food, of course not forgetting the mouth-watering desserts. Thank you so much as it's our go-to family meal ?“

“This place is such Gem!! The wings are my fave. I will legit drive to Pasadena just for them and the amazing happy hour. Comedy on wed is also a super cool time also makes a fun date night or after work hangout spot. Check it out u won't regret it?? Sha L“

“I eat the sandwiches all year long. I love the ham and the ribs from this place too! They have so many excellent choices of meats, sides, cakes and pies. The staff is so kind and helpful. I live closer to another HoneyBaked Ham but I come to the Pasadena store for the service and flavorMuch better than Glendale!! or any other HoneyBaked Ham store in the area ?Vegetarian options: The California veggie sandwich is sooo good! There are other good sides that are vegetarian too. Desserts are generally vegetarian.Dietary restrictions: Gluten free optionsKid-friendliness: Kids like most of the menu“

“Snobby crowd, but sweetest server. Hangar steak prepared perfectly medium rare with the best truffle sauce for crispy pomme frites. Cool ambience. But bummer they had private party encroached on the rest of the restaurant seating. Might come back.“

“I love Shake Shack and this locale is one of my favorites. Clean, friendly, very chill. And how can you go wrong with the best fast food around?! Today Edsel the friendly staffer hooked me up with the double veggie burger, fries and frozen hot cocoa shake -- a perfect meal that kept me full and happy all day (literally). The best.“