29 Best Cocktail Bars in Pasadena

Maestro Restaurant Mexican • $$
110 Union St, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Tres Leches Carrot Cake
Oysters Aguachile
Guava Cheese Cake
Guava Cheesecake
Carne En Su Jugo
Grilled Octopus
Tacos Ahogados
Sesame Salad
Birria Tacos
Birria Plate

“A beautiful date night spot where you can sit beneath string lights nestled in an alleyway, listening to live music (plus, they have outdoor heaters!). Plates are tapas style and the bar is full, with an advantage for mezcal enthusiasts. Bonus- The wait staff is knowledgeable and friendly. They recommended some drinks for us to try and gave us some suggestions on the entrees. The drinks were great and we recommend the sea bass! Nice atmosphere with good service and lots of mezcal.“

4.5 Superb108 Reviews
Bar Chelou Modern European • $$$
37 S El Molino Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Lemon-Chamomile Semifreddo
Caramelized Banana Bar
Ibérico Pork Chop
Marinated Olives
Cannellini Beans
Scallop Tartare
Crispy Potatoes
Burrata Toast
Salade Verte
Rice Pudding

“This place is excellent. Every dish we tried was good, but the standouts for me were the clam toast and crispy potatoes. The bread for the toast was perfect and the potatoes were just the right amount of fluffiness on the inside and crispy outside. My mouth is watering just writing this. The trout was worth getting as well. I will definitely be back to try more dishes.“

4.4 Superb257 Reviews
Bistro 45 American • $$$
45 S Mentor Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Niman Ranch Berkshire Pork Chop
Roasted Rack of Australian Lamb
Composed Heirloom Beet Salad
Seared Maple Leaf Duck Breast
Greater Omaha Hanger Steak
Grilled Beef Filet Chateau
Seared Dive Boat Scallops
Fuji Apple Tart Tatin
Steak with Potatoes
Monterey Calamari

“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“

4.8 Superb93 Reviews
Nick's Pasadena American • $$
336 S Lake Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Original Ribeye Melt Sandwich w Salad
Salmon Mashed Potatoes & Spinach
Cioppino with Sourdough Bread
Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass
Deep-Fried Deviled Eggs
Blackened Fish Sandwich
San Francisco Cioppino
Baby Back Pork Ribs
Bacon Deviled Eggs
The Prime Rib Dip

“Nick's always delivers great food at reasonable prices. My wife had the seafood cioppino with was good but it didn't have any scallops or crabs in it. The broth had a lot of cooked tomatoes. I had the meatloaf which was very good. Service was great and the sour dow bread is the best.“

4.5 Superb540 Reviews
Parkway Grill Fine Dining
510 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

U S D a Prime 40 Day Aged New York Steak
Wild Dry Porcini Crusted Scallops
Beet Salad with Ginger Dressing
Whole Ginger Fried Catfish
Tiger Shrimp Corn Dogs
Creme Brulee Napoleon
Chocolate Lava Cake
Braised Short Rib
Kumamoto Oysters
Bone in Ribeye

“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“

4.5 Superb70 Reviews
GRANVILLE American • $$
270 S Lake Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Santa Barbara Chicken Sandwich
Bruleed Banana Brownie
Butternut Squash Soup
Rustic Steak Sandwich
Wagyu Beef Stroganoff
Spring Chicken Salad
Brussels Sprouts
Granville Salad
Poke Bowl Plate
Caesar Salad

“I once had a bad experience at the Burbank location. However this place seems to have gotten their act together. The food was fine a little small but fine. But the drinks, drink menu and bartenders were impressive. Attentive bartenders despite the ample size of this place. Knowledgeable too. I had 2 penicillins and a Hemingway daiquiri. My associate had a sidecar bourbon and wine. I've had drinks at the bar and outside where the bartenders open up a window and you are served from the outside. Pretty cool“

4.6 Superb96 Reviews
Mercado Pasadena Mexican • $$
140 S Lake Ave #101, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Enchiladas De Pollo En Mole Oaxaqueño
Guacamole Chips N Salsa
Mushroom Choriqueso
Carne Asada Plate
Churro Ice Cream
Tres Leches Cake
Chef Jose's Flan
Seviche Tostada
Fish Tacos
Chef Jose

“I recently dined at Atmosphere and had a fantastic experience. From the moment I walked in, the ambiance was inviting, and the service was impeccable. The man with the black blazer provided exceptional service throughout the evening. As for the food, dinner exceeded my expectations – it was absolutely delicious. I had previously visited for lunch and wasn’t as satisfied, but I’m glad I gave it another try for dinner. I highly recommend trying the dinner menu; it’s definitely worth it!“

4.4 Superb84 Reviews
The Raymond Restaurant - Brunch, Dinner & Happy Hour Pasadena CA American • $$$
1250 S Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

French Fries with Raymond House Made Ketchup
Short Rib - 72hour Braise
Seasonal Chopped Salad
Pasta Bolognese Entree
Asparagus and Eggs
Artisanal Baguette
Day Boat Scallops
Steak Tartare
Cinnamon Roll
Chilaquiles

“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.“

4.2 Good398 Reviews
HomeState Tex-Mex • $
1992 Lincoln Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Texas Toast Brisket Sandwich
Brisket Quesadilla
Breakfast Burrito
Cheese Quesadilla
Breakfast Tacos
Flour Tortilla
Chicken Tacos
Black Beans
Guadalupe
Frito Pie

“i never leave reviews but this has been so wonderful i had to!! all the staff went out of their way to welcome me in. The patio was adorable. The food came out so quickly, and was delicious (and i moved here from texas!) highly recommend :)“

4.3 Superb113 Reviews
Arroyo Chop House Steak House
536 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Oysters on the Half Shell
Sautéed Brussels Sprouts
Chop House Garlic Bread
Lobster Mashed Potatoes
New York Cheese Cake
Scalloped Potatoes
Chocolate Souffle
Creamed Spinach
Surf and Turf
Cowboy Ribeye

“The service was great. I was shocked that actually Lamb chops were not on the menu. I did not like that it was so dark. I could barely read the menu. I also didn't like that everything was a la carte. They did have chops, on menu of the night. They were pretty good. Def worth the $55. And the sides were good. I had mac, Brussels & mash. All good. We also had a chocolate soufle. It was soo silky & smooth. Definitely worth saving space. I did like the flowers outside & I also recommend a reservation b/c they seem to be pretty popular. Dinner for 3 was $350.“

4.5 Superb107 Reviews
Urban Pocha Asian • $$
61 S Fair Oaks Ave #130, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

두부목살김치 Pork Tofu & Kimchi
Loverly Korean BBQ Favorite Raste
Korean BBQ Very Familiar Taste
계란말이 Korean Egg Dish
La Galbi Marinated Short-Rib
Army Stew Budae Jjigae
Fried Chicken Gizzard
Stir Fried Pork Jowl
Chicken Gizzards
Seafood Pancake

“Food was good but heavy! This is a loud restaurant and is good if you're wanting a bar style environment with food and drinks. Hence the name - pocha. One of the owners or managers was walking around checking on customers which was so nice. Overall, I enjoyed the food and service was decent but it was a little too heavy for me so I probably won't return.“

4.5 Superb98 Reviews
The George Bistros • $$
1615 E Washington Blvd, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Roasted Herb Baby Potatoes
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Chipotle Arancinis
Charcuterie Plate
Avocado Toast

“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!“

4.3 Superb88 Reviews
El Metate Mexican • $
Mulilier Building, 12 N Mentor Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Molcajete El Metate
Fish Taco Grilled
Chips and Salsa
Caldo De Pollo
Shrimp Tacos
Super Burrito
Enchiladas
Salad

“This was the perfect pit stop at mine and hubs' date night. We were really going to the Ice House but dipped in here for a quick foodie / drinkie "pre-game." I believe this is family owned and service was every bit like being at your friend's moms house for all the attentiveness. I had a taco de birria and it was deelish!! The consommé was savory but not overpoweringly so. Hubs had a chicken soft taco that looked good. Chips and salsa were tasty and beer was cold!“

4.7 Superb41 Reviews
Ladies and Gentlemen - A Cocktail Experience Cocktail Bar •
59 E Colorado Blvd B100, Pasadena

“This place is very cool. Aside from the somewhat kitschy "secret" entrance (which was probably much more "in" 10 year ago), they really do create a unique cocktail experience. From the creative menus, perfectly balanced drinks, glass where, and presentation--they really have it dialed in. The staff is knowledgeable and helpful. And even the food menu, despite being somewhat limited, left us very happy. Definitely not a weekly hangout, but worth discovering for yourself.“

4.4 Superb50 Reviews

15
1881

1881 Cocktail Bar • $$
1881 E Washington Blvd, Pasadena

“1881 is great local bar! Owen and the other bartenders are good at learning the names of their customers, and make everyone feel welcome. When I want to unwind, see friendly faces, and have a little conversation, I come here. The atmosphere is chill and relaxed and there’s a sense of community. The Jazz on Friday nights is amazing too. Check it out!“

4.6 Superb35 Reviews
KAVIAR Restaurants Sushi
70 N Raymond Ave #250, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Spicy Yellowtail Escolar Roll
Amberjack Bluefin Tuna Roll
Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
Tempura Shrimp Roll
Garlic Albacore Roll
Yellowtail Ceviche
Blue Tuna Sashimi
Yellowtail Sushi
Salmon Sushi
Tuna Tartare

“You guys, this place is awesome! Our party of 6 tried several things from the menu and everything was fantastic. Our bottle of sake was awesome and so was the service. This is a cozy romantic darkly lit space that you should definitely try! Nadia was our server and her recommendations were on point. We can't wait to come back for date night! Be prepared to drop some $$$$ but it's worth it!“

4.1 Good229 Reviews
Smitty's Grill American • $$$
110 S Lake Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Rattlesnake BBQ Baby Back Ribs - Full Slab
Double Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake
Prime Rib French Dip Sandwich
Sautéed Idaho Rainbow Trout
Smitty's Famous Meatloaf
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Iron Skillet Corn Bread
Homemade Potato Chips
Smitty's Crab Cakes

“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.“

4.4 Superb65 Reviews
Edwin Mills by Equator New American • $$
22 Mills Pl, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Braised Pork Belly
Oodles of Noodles
Short Rib Tacos
Spicy Calamari
Dos Fish Tacos
Fried Pickles
Fried Calamari
Chicken Wings
Edwin Burger
Onion Rings

“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!“

4.1 Good104 Reviews
1886 Bar Restaurant at The Raymond - Pasadena CA Bar • $$$
1250 S Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Seasonal Chopped Salad
Artisanal Bread
Crispy Sea Bass
Beef Tartare
Lemon Drop
Scallops

“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.“

4.2 Good378 Reviews
foothill restaurant American • $$
2835 E Foothill Blvd, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Raspberries Creme Brulee
Short Rib Quesadilla
Crab Cake Benedict
Beef Stroganoff
Eggs Benedict
Deviled Eggs
Steak Frites
Steak Salad
Cobb Salad
Hamburger

“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.“

4.2 Good92 Reviews
ANAYA'S RESTAURANT Mexican • $$
630 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Carnitas Pollo Mole or Al Pastor
Crispy Envueltos Sweet Banana
Shrimp Ceviche Tostada
Enchiladas del Rancho
Guacamole or Avocado
Deep Fried Ice Cream
Chicken Enchiladas
Carne Asada Plate
Huevos Rancheros
Asada or Barbacoa

“Delicious food and great staff.Everything we ordered was so good. This was the perfect place to bring my family and share dishes. The amount was generous and i highly recommend ordering the guacamole. They mix it in front of you so it's fresh. Our server was amazing and so attentive. They also accommodated my booth request for my family which I highly appreciated. There is also outdoor seating. Highly recommend!“

4.2 Good91 Reviews
The Blind Donkey Pubs • $$
53 Union St, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Hatchet Job Pear Necessities
Pulled Pork Frito Nachos
Garlic Parmesan Fries
Just a Burger

“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.“

4.2 Good82 Reviews
Playa del Carmen Restaurant Tacos • $
950 E Colorado Blvd #202, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Fish and Shrimp Tacos
Fish Taco
Seafood

“This restaurant has the BEST fish tacos ! They are very lightly breaded with lots of fish! They are freshly made so you wait a little. The Aguachile was delicious! The location is great because it's upstairs with a view towards Colorado Blvd. There is convenient parking in the back. The prices are very reasonable and they have tacos at half price on Tuesdays!! we just found this place and have been there three times already in two weeks! Love this place! This is now our to go place for Mexican seafood!“

4.1 Good50 Reviews
The Dungeon Lounges • $$
72 N Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena

“I hosted a private party at The Dungeon and had a wonderful experience! The staff is extremely nice, professional, and accommodating. They also do an incredible job with security and making sure your private event stays closed-off. The main bartender was awesome and played whatever music the guests wanted! Highly, highly recommend hosting a private event here!“

4.1 Good57 Reviews
Dog Haus American • $
93 E Green St, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken Sandwich
Chili Cheese Fries
Sweet Potato Fries
Caramelized Onions
Impossible Slider
Dog Haus Blonde
Wurst Corn Dog
The Hangover
Craft Beers
Tater Tots

“Met some friends here before continuing our day in Pasadena. The only negative about our experience was the fact that there's a single restroom. Other than that, our food was great, the staff was friendly, and the overall vibe of the place was positive.“

4.1 Good87 Reviews
The Mixx New American • $$
443 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Sweet Potato Fries
Calamari

“I came here for the first time after a local concert with friends , it was live rock en espanol night and definitely the perfect spot to end the night ! Carlos was an amazing bartender, showed the best hospitality from beginning to end . A very fun and safe place to come down and enjoy some music , dance , enjoy some good drinks or even watch the big screen . Nowadays hard to find attentive employees so definitely worth paying this place a visit and giving this bartender a chance of showing you what great customer service is all about! Made a loyal customer out of me that night !“

3.9 Good46 Reviews
Mi Piace Italian • $$
25 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

The MI Piace Chocolate Waffle
Fettuccine Alfredo Tartufo
Creme Brulee Cheesecake
Linguine Al Pescatore
Pappardelle Bolognese
Ravioli Della Casa
Spaghetti Carbonara
Linguine Al Pesto
Signature Tiramisu
Homemade Tiramisu

“Such a wonderful experience today at Mi Piace in Pasadena.We sat at the bar and a couple of bartenders greeted us - very warmly with great energy! We met the Owner Armen as he came to the bar to check on things. He was so gracious & friendly; wanting to make sure we had everything we needed. He even instructed the bartender to ensure to re-chill my vodka martini ? when I was halfway in. Who does that? Armen does - at Mi Piace !Get over here soon! You will love the vibe, adore the people, and crave the food!-Traci ?“

4.1 Good528 Reviews
Dog Haus American • $
105 N Hill Ave Suite 104, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Cheeseburger Sliders
Sweet Potato Fries
Impossible Slider
Sooo Cali Dog
Cheese Fries
Cheese Tots
Onion Rings
Tater Tots
Old Town
Toppings

“Dog Haus is one of Pasadena's very best burger and dog restaurants. Delicious fresh food prepared in an open kitchen right in front of you. Thet serve a variety of dogs and sausages, burgers, sliders, great sides, and milkshakes. They also have beer and ale available. Super friendly staff, the restaurant is always clean and inviting. Highly recommended.“

3.9 Good73 Reviews
Magnolia House Cocktail Bar • $$
492 S Lake Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

House Burger with Applewood Bacon
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Wings
Korean Fried Chicken Wings
Belgian Fries with Cheese
Chocolate Bread Pudding
Chicken & Waffles
Huevos Rancheros
The Duke Burger
Chopped Salad
Eggs Benedict

“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.“

4 Good164 Reviews
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