Restaurants in Pasadena
Best Restaurants
Hot Pot • $$
“There are many choices of ingredients for the hotpot and their broth is the best. I am also craving for the grilled skewers which are juicy and fresh. The service is good. Great place to gather with friends.”
Mexican • $$$
“Absolutely loved this place. We will definitely be coming back. We got Citrus Salad, Carne en su Jugo & Carnitas Wow, just Wow!!!!!”
Sushi • $$
“My husband and I recently visited Oji Sushi & Sake Bar and we really loved this restaurant! Food is very tasty, atmosphere was amazing. Kat, our waitress was wonderful! She took such a great care of us. Kat was nice, friendly and professional. We definitely recommend this restaurant to everyone!”
French • $$$$
“The best French food in LA. Chef is outstanding. Staff incredible. So yourself a favor. Go.”
Restaurants by Cuisine
Italian • $$$
“Had to stop by my favorite Italian grubbin in the heart of Old Town Pasadena all the way from Boise. This was my 3rd time and each time just keeps getting better; definitely the bigger the party, the better. We paid $225 for 4 pasta entrees, 3 appetizers, & 2 glasses of wine for a party of 6. I’ve learned to like my pastas al dente after having them here. The meatballs are banging, the wine-pairing was delightful. Our service was attentive and pleasant; the vibe is always vibrant and homey. Highly recommended.”
Restaurants with Delivery
Ice Cream Shop • $
“Delicious ice cream, with top quality ingredients! Sizes are bigger than other nearby shops and it even includes toppings!”
Chicken Shop • $
“Everything I’ve tried is great. If you can’t decide what to get you can try a bunch of different tacos. The Pibil Chicken Bowl has a little of everything and is very satisfying. Their Cauliflower is also a favorite.”
Chicken • $
“Fabulous chicken Sando!!! Absolutely delicious. Everyone is ALWAYS SO FRIENDLY. I try and go as often as I can. 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰”
French • $$$$
“The best French food in LA. Chef is outstanding. Staff incredible. So yourself a favor. Go.”
Mexican • $$$
“Absolutely loved this place. We will definitely be coming back. We got Citrus Salad, Carne en su Jugo & Carnitas Wow, just Wow!!!!!”
Hot Pot • $$
“There are many choices of ingredients for the hotpot and their broth is the best. I am also craving for the grilled skewers which are juicy and fresh. The service is good. Great place to gather with friends.”
Italian • $$$
“Had to stop by my favorite Italian grubbin in the heart of Old Town Pasadena all the way from Boise. This was my 3rd time and each time just keeps getting better; definitely the bigger the party, the better. We paid $225 for 4 pasta entrees, 3 appetizers, & 2 glasses of wine for a party of 6. I’ve learned to like my pastas al dente after having them here. The meatballs are banging, the wine-pairing was delightful. Our service was attentive and pleasant; the vibe is always vibrant and homey. Highly recommended.”
Szechuan • $$
“My very pregnant wife had a very very specific craving. Salted egg shrimp. This place filled that craving and then some. Not only was the shrimp outstanding but this may be the best Kung pao chicken I've had at a restaurant. Excited to try more of their menu.”
Indonesian • $
“Went today because we’d heard this place has amazing food. There’s a reason they’re called “Top Restaurant.” Not only is the food delicious and fresh, but the people we met there were so kind and welcoming. Must-try spot if you’re in Pasadena!”
Ramen • $$
“The food and service is a 10! we will be back when in town. I'd come from Montana just to eat here it's that good”
Bakery • $
“Home style Armenian/Middle Eastern Bakery that brings the flavors and aromas of my travels locally.”
Szechuan • $$
“My very pregnant wife had a very very specific craving. Salted egg shrimp. This place filled that craving and then some. Not only was the shrimp outstanding but this may be the best Kung pao chicken I've had at a restaurant. Excited to try more of their menu.”
American • $$
“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!”
Outdoor Dining
Bar • $$
“Cool place and interesting drinks but the inside is definitely giving modern cocktail bar more than lounge/speakeasy- so if you just want an interesting stop definitely go for it but if your looking for that specific aesthetic this isnt really it”
Cafe • $
“Going local-origin for my next batch of pumpernickel bagels. Choco-latte and Nicaraguan chocolate down here are legit crazy awesome!”
American • $$
“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!”
Wine Bar • $$$$
“A very unique environment. A cozy and intimate setting. A very intriguing menu. An excellent wine selection. Sophisticated dessert selection. The plates are presented exceptionally. Aroma, texture, color and arrangement in detail. The culinary arts are expressed here. The layering(s) of flavors combined with textures are exceptionally crafted here. GREAT wine pairings are available. Sophisticated and suave, an intimate and Inspiring experience.”
Armenian • $
“Came in with a big order on a Sunday and they gave me the best service with a great CAN DO attitude! Love it when they reflect positivity and it gave me warmth right back.
Food of course was amazing and fresh! Very well priced and kinda cute they put everything in pizza boxes. Highly recommend for family orders!”
Mediterranean • $
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We go for the trout and beef koobideh! Fantastic food and warm, friendly service.”
Gay Bar • $
“Such an amazing experience such friendly staff cheap and very deliciously strong drinks. love it here”
Cafe • $
“Delightful cafe with gluten free baked goods exclusively. Staff was friendly and helpful. Atmosphere was nice. I had a nice breakfast with two tasty donuts and a cappuccino.”
Sushi • $$
“My husband and I recently visited Oji Sushi & Sake Bar and we really loved this restaurant! Food is very tasty, atmosphere was amazing. Kat, our waitress was wonderful! She took such a great care of us. Kat was nice, friendly and professional. We definitely recommend this restaurant to everyone!”
Italian • $$
“10 STARS to the staff! Shout out to Dolphin & Joy for making my day!!! Love the service, food & atmosphere highly highly suggested! Tip the hell out of the team, they deserve it!”
Pizza • $$
“We came on a Sunday, and it was nearly empty. We were able to order right away, and our food came out pretty quickly. We ordered the Caesar salad, baked mac and cheese, and a pepperoni pizza. Everything was delicious, and we really enjoyed our meal.”
Italian • $$$
“Old-school charm and service, elegant dining, live jazz piano at the bar. Been coming here for years and it’s still a super treat. 👍🏼👍🏼”
American • $$$
“I had a fantastic experience at Henry Parsons Project! The atmosphere was warm and inviting, the service was friendly and attentive, and everything felt thoughtfully put together. The food was delicious, fresh, and full of flavor. A great spot for a relaxing meal, and I’d definitely come back again!”
Ramen • $$
“The food and service is a 10! we will be back when in town. I'd come from Montana just to eat here it's that good”
American • $$
“Mix of old school outside and bohemian interior. Friendly staff. Fresh corned beef hash. Only downside was coffee too mild for my taste. But the OJ was fresh and delicious - well worth ordering.”
American • $$$
“took a date there on a weeknight they let me get to my table early to put flowers on the table for m date. the food was great and the drinks were perfect would recommend this place”
Online Reservation Available
Mediterranean • $
“Loved it! Excellent luleh kebab! Will definitely go back again!”
Pubs • $$
“Had a great experience at The Blind Donkey. The burger was juicy, flavorful, and cooked perfectly, and the fries were crispy, well-seasoned, and some of the best I’ve had. The atmosphere was lively, the drinks were good, and the staff were friendly and attentive. Definitely a great spot for a casual night out.”
Steak House • $$$$
“The service here is great. Very respectful and friendly waiters. The food is good. I like their selection of grass-fed meats and their delicious sides. Their salmon was also very tasty. It’s a nice restaurant to dine in while you’re staying at the Langham, or even if you’re in the Pasadena area.”
Japanese • $$
“Salad Dressing is amazing. Parking is horrible. They said 10-15 for my order. 25 minutes and I got a $52 Parking Citation🤬🤬🤬🤬”
Vegan • $
“I'm 1/3 through the menu trying different entrees. So far, every meal has been a tasty treat! The food is always hot, flavorful, colorful . . . and delish!😋”
Chinese • $
“I work nearby and the server is always so attentive. The portions are large and food is delicious. They have a lunch special with soup too. My coworker and I crave this solid choice.”
Pasta • $
“Drove from Glendale to buy fresh pasta - great place, great service and while "it sure ain't The Ritz" I loved the atmosphere. Highly recommended if you want to go the extra mile (and can spare the extra buck - 1,5lbs pasta $20) and enjoy really fresh pasta.”
Japanese • $$
“The ramen is crreamy and rich w beautiful juices thst stick to the spoon. Yum. The hand rolls are simple but taste amazing. The fish is really fresh like its swimming in the mouth. Best japanese flavors in pasadena for sure.”
American • $$$
“took a date there on a weeknight they let me get to my table early to put flowers on the table for m date. the food was great and the drinks were perfect would recommend this place”
Cafe • $
“I knew I was in good hands when I entered and heard their baristas singing “Pink Pony Club” at the top of their lungs! The energy was great and exactly what I needed after a killer workout class. I ordered the Two Ladies Avo Toast, which was absolutely delicious! Generous portion of avocado, egg, and pickled red onion on top of a fresh toasted slice of sourdough.
However, I was really disappointed with the amount of chocolate drizzle/syrup on the inside of my mocha. The ice literally stuck to the syrup on the inside, making it all clump together. A proper mocha really doesn’t need all that chocolate (or any drizzle for that matter)— had I known, I would’ve ordered without it. Minus one star for the mocha. Otherwise, it was an enjoyable experience and I’d totally go back!”
“I love the food here. Everything was delicious. We ordered the bread and butter, the kale salad, the clams and mussels, and spaghetti. The spaghetti noodles are made in-house. The butter is made in-house. The kale salad was soo good. The clams and mussels were in a very delicious sauce. We will be back!”
Dim Sum • $$
“We had a great Mommy outing. The glass partitions made us feel safe.”
New American • $$
“The Braised Beef and Mushrooms with Mashed Potatoes . Mashed potatoes were so creamy I could had eaten a whole bowl of it by itself but Beef and mushrooms Just took it to whole other level”
Mediterranean • $$
“Never had batter beef Showerma in usa thumbs up for ABU KABAB I highly recommend it you must try”
Pizza • $$
“A Hidden pizza place on the second floor. We would have completely missed it if it wasn’t for the sign on the street. We noticed a lot of people coming in for pick up but decided to dine in. We picked the Biggio flavor and the pizza came out in 20 minutes. First bite was delicious. The sauce is tart and flavorful. The crust is chewy and light. Meat was crispy and plentiful. The price for the quality is amazing and in my husband words, “bomb”. We wish we found this place sooner and will definitely come back.”
24 Hour Restaurants
Fast Food • $
“On this particular day, 04/14/2026. The staff was clearly shorthanded ( two people working) but the two staff members were all smiles and super polite. Five stars still.”
Coffee Shops • $
“The staff here is always so friendly and welcoming! The Tuxedo Hot Chocolate is a must-try if you love rich chocolate flavor, it’s creamy, perfectly balanced, and just the right amount of sweetness. This location is always clean, cozy, and a great place to relax or get some work done.”
Fast Food • $
“We actually got everything how we ordered it that was awesome. We usually get the two tacos well done and everyone always bombs it but everything at this jacks was bomb”
Fast Food • $
“Kevin and I stopped at this Jack in the Box on our way to Chantry Flat for a picnic lunch date, and it ended up being the perfect quick stop!
We placed a mobile order and chose drive-thru pickup, and everything was ready in under 5 minutes. The process was fast, convenient, and seamless ideal when you’re heading out for a day in the mountains.
The food was hot, fresh, and delicious, and the customer service was wonderful. This location is right next to the on-ramp, making it incredibly convenient and only about a 4-minute detour from our route.
Even after the drive up to Chantry Flat, our food was still warm, which made for the perfect picnic at the scenic Chantry Flat picnic tables.
If you’re looking for a quick and reliable fast food stop near Chantry Flat or along your route, this Jack in the Box is a fantastic choice.
We couldn’t have asked for a better experience and will definitely be back the next time we’re in the area!”
American • $$$
“I had a fantastic experience at Henry Parsons Project! The atmosphere was warm and inviting, the service was friendly and attentive, and everything felt thoughtfully put together. The food was delicious, fresh, and full of flavor. A great spot for a relaxing meal, and I’d definitely come back again!”
Takeout Restaurants
Japanese • $$
“Its open and they really made sure its safe , service and food perfect . Happy days”
Bakery • $
“We ordered our wedding cake from Yvonne’s Vegan Kitchen. Using the cake testing kit was a great experience—it came with a lovely personalized note, and was a great activity to do together while planning our wedding (and provided us multiple evenings’ worth of dessert!) The staff at the store were always friendly to interact with, as well.
Ordering was very easy and straightforward, with prompt and efficient communication. We ended up using one of the example designs on the website, and it came out looking wonderful. The cake had layers of chocolate and red velvet cake with mocha buttercream icing and hazelnuts added between the layers—we highly recommend this combination!
We tasked a family member with fetching us breakfast on the day, and coincidentally they happened to visit Yvonne’s Vegan Kitchen for that as well—so thank you also for some delicious breakfast baked goods!”
Tex-Mex • $
“We drive 35 miles at least three times a month to eat here. We love Home State and as a Native Texan, I can attest that their queso is the real deal!!! I just wish they'd open one in Claremont, CA!!! The Don't Mess With Texas is my favorite taco and my husband loves the brisket taco. Everything is amazing though!!!”
Tacos • $
“First time trying this spot from a coworkers recommendation and it did not disappoint will be back again, the pastor and asada were the best tacos, chicken and chicharon was good too”
Barbecue • $$
“Think of this as a grab and go spot. There's a small amount of seating outside. I didn't like the tri tip sandwich I got and the macaroni n cheese was good. I plan to go back though because there's something else I wanted to try. I love their selection of cobblers too.”
Tea Rooms • $$$
“A hidden gem in the heart of Pasadena. The Rose Tree Cottage is like stepping back in time to a “gentil” way of living Britain circa mid 1900s and before. The high tea with delicious food and impeccable service from Edmund & his wife Mary who have run this establishment for decades. I am grateful to our friends who told us to dress for tea…and brought us to experience this lovely afternoon. Step into Rose tree cottage and take a break from the mania surrounding us daily. Your soul and not to mention your stomach will be grateful.”
Coffee • $
“Ginger's Corner Market is an absolute gem in Pasadena! Its incredible location, unique charm, stellar customer service and fire menu to match its definitely a must stop when in town!
It doesn't matter what you select you wont be disappointed! Trust me, I've almost had EVERYTHING ON THE MENU!! The wedge is a delight with caramelized bacon to drool for, or the classic Cobb you can never go wrong with. My personal favorite is the ham n brie sandwich which is an incredible palate pleaser with both sweet and savory in one!
Stop in! You won't be disappointed”
Sushi • $$
“WOW! This might be the best and most authentic sushi i’ve ever had in California. The sushi isn’t like anything you would have at your average sushi restaurant. This fish tastes so fresh. And don’t even get me started on the rice. The sushi rice they have is AMAZING. I could eat an entire bowl of it. If you don’t come at least once in your lifetime you’re missing out.”
Bakery • $
“R u Serious!!! An unbelievable flavor explosion created by the chef at SEED. Gott be the best chile relleno of my life! The chile, the cilantro, the greens a robust farm fresh egg. BAMM!!”
Hamburger • $
“Delicious, hefty burgers that’s served by the warmest mom, dad and son trio. Come hungry because they give you so much food for such a good price. Special shout out to their chili cheese fries!”
Japanese • $$
“Its open and they really made sure its safe , service and food perfect . Happy days”
Italian • $$$
“Old-school charm and service, elegant dining, live jazz piano at the bar. Been coming here for years and it’s still a super treat. 👍🏼👍🏼”
American • $$$
“I love the food here. Everything was delicious. We ordered the bread and butter, the kale salad, the clams and mussels, and spaghetti. The spaghetti noodles are made in-house. The butter is made in-house. The kale salad was soo good. The clams and mussels were in a very delicious sauce. We will be back!”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
Acai Bowls • $
“Owner employs his son who violently abused his girlfriend on the job here.. stay safe and do not support.”
Cafe • $
“I am visiting from Massachusetts and THIS place is THE BEST for quality, portions, price and friendliness of staff!!! and also the nice location, seating options (inside or balcony outdoors!) sunny!..geat mountain view!..casual and super clean and organized! A+++++++ my 2nd day here in a row for breakfast and the coffee is EXCELLENT & large cups too! ❤️”
New American • $$
“The Braised Beef and Mushrooms with Mashed Potatoes . Mashed potatoes were so creamy I could had eaten a whole bowl of it by itself but Beef and mushrooms Just took it to whole other level”
Chinese • $$
“Everything about this place was amazing. Food was bomb and the waitresses were so polite and helpful. I could easily compare this place with Din Tung Fung. Will def come back to this place.”
Coffee Shops • $
“06.17.2026; 11AM
Super friendly service, which is, unfortunately, very rare nowadays! I was greeted and served my cortado with a smile. Cortado was made perfectly as well with the correct amount of milk! Thank you 🙏”
Himalayan/Nepalese • $
“Classic lamb curry and chicken vindaloo were deliciously great... I don't know about the rest of the items... Momos were good... Naan and rice like any other restaurant l, ordinary.
Mango lassi al right too...
Apricot naan is just bad”
Thai • $
“We spent a long weekend in Pasadena and at first chose this Thai place because it was just 5min walking from our rental cottage. They greeted us so friendly and accommodated our requests for items on the side. Then, the next day we came back here because everything was so flavorful! My husband had the crispy sole fish special and I enjoyed the glass noodles with shrimp. Exquisite!
We highly recommend!”
Chinese • $$
“The food was delicious. The environment was very pretty. The service was very nice. The food portions here are large so it is family style. We had plenty of food for both of us to enjoy for lunch the next day. The orange chicken was really good and had a bit of a crispness to each bite.”
Cafe • $
“As part of the Medical Team stationed at the Rose Bowl during the Eaton fire we want to thank Home Brew for providing delicious coffee everyday. 😁🔥”
Sushi • $$
“WOW! This might be the best and most authentic sushi i’ve ever had in California. The sushi isn’t like anything you would have at your average sushi restaurant. This fish tastes so fresh. And don’t even get me started on the rice. The sushi rice they have is AMAZING. I could eat an entire bowl of it. If you don’t come at least once in your lifetime you’re missing out.”
Pizza • $$
“I’m big fan of wood fire Pizza. Finally a halal spot. MashaAllah pizza is amazing. I love the crust. And the pizzas are light, so we got a couple options for me and my family.”
Fine Dining
Spanish • $$$$
“I love Spanish food, tapas, etc. Dos Besos has been on my list to try for some time, so I finally was able to come for brunch and Wow was it good!! The food is so fresh and delicious. This was one of the best meals I’ve had in a long time. It’s also really cute inside, very European feeling. I love the outdoor patio seating. The staff was really attentive and friendly. Everything was chef’s kiss! Definitely get the pan con tomate (with one of the cured meats), seafood paella and the almond cake. There are many other items on the menu I want to try so I’ll be back!”
Steak House • $$$$
“8/29/2026:
Ruth’s three-course meal did not disappoint! The 6 oz. Filet Mignon, ordered medium-rare, was excellent and cooked perfectly as requested. The Steak House Salad and mashed potatoes were outstanding choices and complemented the meal beautifully. To top it all off, the Classic Cheesecake was the perfect ending to a fantastic Friday evening dinner.
I will definitely be back!
Kudos to the entire staff. From the moment we walked through the front door, everyone was attentive, professional, and genuinely courteous. A special five-star shoutout to Gary, our waiter, and his team for providing exceptional service and making our dining experience even more enjoyable.”
Fine Dining • $$$$
“Great service and everyone treats you like family!! Hands down one of my favorite restaurants and thank you Paulina.❤️🥰”
Steak House • $$$$
“Probably the best porterhouse steak I have had in a very long time.”
Steak House • $$$$
“Very good good food and nice service We really enjoyed dinner 🙏”
Lounges • $$$$
“Fab service from Jenny. I love coming here as a special treat. The hotel is so gorgeous, with a beautiful, fragrant garden in the middle. The Lobby, where the tea is served, is exactly the sort of ambiance of a classic tea room if expect.
The food is decent, with the inventive pastries as the highlight. The service this time around was great. I opted for vegetarian options, which was accidentally forgotten by the kitchen. The server brought back extra sandwiches for the minor inconvenience.
You get two pots of tea to share with the table. We even got to take some to go, which I haven't experienced at any other tea services below. These small extra touches are much appreciated.
Definitely plan to come back again, especially given the rotating menu.”
Ramen • $$
“Love their selections of foods not too much not less just right and not complicated. My tummy is full and happy soul 😊”
American • $$
“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.”
Cheap Eats
Bubble Tea • $
“I stopped by Yin Yang Tea today for a Spam Wrap, and as always, it was delicious! Their teas are amazing, and the boba is always fresh—hands down some of the best around.
I also want to give a special shoutout to the owner. I see her almost every morning with her two little babies, and I truly admire her dedication and work ethic. Running a business is challenging on its own, and doing it while caring for two young children is incredible. She always greets customers with kindness and keeps the quality of her drinks and food consistent.
I highly recommend Yin Yang Tea. Great service, fresh ingredients, and an inspiring owner. 10/10!”
American • $
“Salad was tasty . I’ll be back to try burgers they looked amazing .”
Mexican • $
“This was our first visit to El Metate. I was impressed with all the menu options. The service was excellent , and the food was delicious.”
Ice Cream Shop • $
“Very enjoyable and they even had a dairy free option for one in our party that is lactose intolerant. Frozen treats for the doggos is also nice. Lots of nice seating and the setting in a vintage gas station replica is cute and adds to the charm.”
Sandwich Shop • $
“First time here. I ordered the Steak chimichurri sandwich. It was delicious. Had lots of flavor. My kid had their pizza, and we're very happy with it as well. All in all it was good experience for my first time. Will definitely come back and try a different meal.”
Tea Rooms • $
“Great tea selection and very knowledgeable owners who give great recommendations, for true tea lovers, overall a lovely place, will be coming back!”
Ice Cream Shop • $
“Omg the portions are huge!
I couldn’t pick so the lady who took my order helped me choose and I got the peanut butter chocolate brownie flavor (I think). But anyways it is huge, and the ice cream is rich but at the same time didn’t taste too sweet at all. I was having a rough day, but now I just feel happyyyy.
Loved the ice cream and the vibes, will be back for sure!”
Salad • $
“I finally got to check this place out. I've been wanting to go since it opened.
I got the chicken and rice meal. It was really good! The only thing I would do different is ask if they could heat up my chicken. I was not expecting cold chicken with warm rice.
I got takeout to eat in my car but waited till I got home so I could warm up the chicken. It was much better. I loved the dressing and exhaustion those onions. Absolute perfection.
Staff was very friendly. The establishment is super clean. They were still baking cookies at 8:00 p.m. which is great for those who love an evening snack!”
Asian Fusion • $$$
“Food was absolutely delicious! Jonathan was an exceptional - guided us through the menu.”
Barbecue • $$
“Absolutely amazing BBQ!!! Nothing was regular or ordinary. The brisket was so tender and tasty and the Blue Masa Cornbread was to die for! Melts in your mouth! And don’t forget the Cole Slaw which deserves capital letters!! The Mac and Cheese (not like any you’ve ever had!) was comped by our new friend who was our ordering coach and it stole the show!! This place is new and Jensen is a class act and his food is BBQ but kicked up a notch !! Congrats Jensen!!!”
Pubs • $$
“Had a great experience at The Blind Donkey. The burger was juicy, flavorful, and cooked perfectly, and the fries were crispy, well-seasoned, and some of the best I’ve had. The atmosphere was lively, the drinks were good, and the staff were friendly and attentive. Definitely a great spot for a casual night out.”
Sushi • $$
“Highly recommended one of the best places we stopped at in Pasadena area. The staff were on point. The food was even better! Next time I'm in the area I plan to visit them again.”
Bar • $$
“Cool place and interesting drinks but the inside is definitely giving modern cocktail bar more than lounge/speakeasy- so if you just want an interesting stop definitely go for it but if your looking for that specific aesthetic this isnt really it”
Middle Eastern • $$
“My family and I frequent a lot of Mediterranean/Middle Eastern restaurants, whether it's a sit down restaurant or takeout--and Sahara might just be the best we've ever had!
We heard good things about Sahara and decided to check it out yesterday; and it exceeded expectations.
I had the beef kebab plate, while my mom and brother had the chicken kebab plate. We loved how they had complimentary snacks (olives, cheese, and cucumber) and also that the plate came with either soup or salad. The meat dishes were so flavorful and honestly the best we've had at any restaurant. They gave a lot of meat too; 8 pieces for each dish. The baba ghanoush was also great.
Last but not least, Mary, our server, was extremely pleasant and attentive. We can't wait to go back!”
Barbecue • $$
“Think of this as a grab and go spot. There's a small amount of seating outside. I didn't like the tri tip sandwich I got and the macaroni n cheese was good. I plan to go back though because there's something else I wanted to try. I love their selection of cobblers too.”
Steak House • $$$$
“The service here is great. Very respectful and friendly waiters. The food is good. I like their selection of grass-fed meats and their delicious sides. Their salmon was also very tasty. It’s a nice restaurant to dine in while you’re staying at the Langham, or even if you’re in the Pasadena area.”
Argentine • $$$
“Amazing!! Atmosphere was incredible, food was delicious and the wait staff impeccable!”
Italian • $$
“10 STARS to the staff! Shout out to Dolphin & Joy for making my day!!! Love the service, food & atmosphere highly highly suggested! Tip the hell out of the team, they deserve it!”
Japanese • $$
“Salad Dressing is amazing. Parking is horrible. They said 10-15 for my order. 25 minutes and I got a $52 Parking Citation🤬🤬🤬🤬”
American • $$$
“Always an amazing time here. Been coming to this location for years now. Service is second to none and food is delicious.”
Chinese • $$
“The food was delicious. The environment was very pretty. The service was very nice. The food portions here are large so it is family style. We had plenty of food for both of us to enjoy for lunch the next day. The orange chicken was really good and had a bit of a crispness to each bite.”
Italian • $$
“Amazing smoothies and bowls! Yummmmy! Cute shop with food and gift items as well!”
Wine Bar • $$$$
“A very unique environment. A cozy and intimate setting. A very intriguing menu. An excellent wine selection. Sophisticated dessert selection. The plates are presented exceptionally. Aroma, texture, color and arrangement in detail. The culinary arts are expressed here. The layering(s) of flavors combined with textures are exceptionally crafted here. GREAT wine pairings are available. Sophisticated and suave, an intimate and Inspiring experience.”
Chinese • $$
“Everything about this place was amazing. Food was bomb and the waitresses were so polite and helpful. I could easily compare this place with Din Tung Fung. Will def come back to this place.”
Pizza • $$
“We came on a Sunday, and it was nearly empty. We were able to order right away, and our food came out pretty quickly. We ordered the Caesar salad, baked mac and cheese, and a pepperoni pizza. Everything was delicious, and we really enjoyed our meal.”
Japanese • $$
“The ramen is crreamy and rich w beautiful juices thst stick to the spoon. Yum. The hand rolls are simple but taste amazing. The fish is really fresh like its swimming in the mouth. Best japanese flavors in pasadena for sure.”
Japanese • $$$$
“Every dish was delectable, and great service! We all had a fantastic time there! Definitely will be back, and for celebrations.”
American • $$$
“I’ve been 3 times in the past 3 weeks. Service and food is fantastic! Highly recommend Smitty’s Grill.”
Japanese • $$
“Good food, portions & service...”
Italian • $$$
“Our server was awesome... her recommendations were spot on! the food surpassed our expectations! exceptional...The ambiance was relaxing for a Friday night and perfect for our friend's birthday celebration. thank you for making it so special. Very happy party of 4 enjoyed dinner at Marina!”
Steak House • $$$$
“8/29/2026:
Ruth’s three-course meal did not disappoint! The 6 oz. Filet Mignon, ordered medium-rare, was excellent and cooked perfectly as requested. The Steak House Salad and mashed potatoes were outstanding choices and complemented the meal beautifully. To top it all off, the Classic Cheesecake was the perfect ending to a fantastic Friday evening dinner.
I will definitely be back!
Kudos to the entire staff. From the moment we walked through the front door, everyone was attentive, professional, and genuinely courteous. A special five-star shoutout to Gary, our waiter, and his team for providing exceptional service and making our dining experience even more enjoyable.”
Noodles • $$
“Really enjoyed eating here. The staff was very friendly and attentive. There was a small mix-up with my order, but they fixed it right away and were great about it. The food came out quickly and tasted great. You can tell they care about their customers. I’ll definitely be coming back. 10/10, would recommend.”
American • $$
“The restaurant is elegantly decorated and has a comfortable atmosphere”
Spanish • $$$$
“I love Spanish food, tapas, etc. Dos Besos has been on my list to try for some time, so I finally was able to come for brunch and Wow was it good!! The food is so fresh and delicious. This was one of the best meals I’ve had in a long time. It’s also really cute inside, very European feeling. I love the outdoor patio seating. The staff was really attentive and friendly. Everything was chef’s kiss! Definitely get the pan con tomate (with one of the cured meats), seafood paella and the almond cake. There are many other items on the menu I want to try so I’ll be back!”
Mexican • $$
“Great food and a friendly staff. It’s my go to for Mexican food whether I’m dining in or taking out.”
Fine Dining • $$$$
“Great service and everyone treats you like family!! Hands down one of my favorite restaurants and thank you Paulina.❤️🥰”
Thai • $$
“Time for Thai! Just south of Old Town, Kwan Kitchen is a local gem. Quality ingredients, friendly & attentive service, something for everyone on the menu. Pineapple fried rice is not on the menu but they made it for us. Delicious! Small to medium size dining room; reservations recommended; casual vibe; moderate noise level; can get very busy; very popular especially among students from Cal Tech, ArtCenter, Fuller, etc. Limited free parking lot; moderately priced; good value; takeout order if too crowded; more individual dishes rather than family style; come hungry. Support your local small businesses & restaurants.”
American • $$
“Terrific staff and innovative cuisine. Small local restaurant who worked hard to keep staff through the pandemic closures with delicious creative take out and who are keeping everyone safe by requiring proof of vaccination for indoor dining. Fresh creative food.”
New American • $$
“The setting is great; I really like the atmosphere.
The food was delicious—I especially enjoyed the fried chicken strips and another dish whose name I can't recall. We also ordered beer, and it tasted great.
The two drinks we ordered weren't worth it, though; the beer was the better choice.
Parking downstairs is convenient too: it's free for the first 90 minutes, and $4.50 per hour after that.”
Cocktail Bar • $$$
“Omg I spent my birthday here, and they were so amazing, attentive, helpful with the menu. The staff were absolutely delightful, plus they gave me a birthday card signed from them. I was so impressed by the presentation of the drinks and the quality of the food. My friends and I will definitely be going back!”
Asian • $$
“★★★★★
Urban Pocha was such a great find! The food was flavorful and satisfying, the atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the service was friendly and attentive. Everything we ordered was delicious, and the overall experience was fantastic. I’d definitely come back again and recommend Urban Pocha to anyone looking for a fun and tasty dining experience in Pasadena!”
American • $$
“Very good food, and great cocktails. Wait staff was friendly and accommodating. We enjoyed our experience.”
Chinese • $$
“Amazing Chinese food served with cozy modern vibes. Beef noodles are amazingly chewy and delicate. A gem in Altadena/Pasasena area. This is the only modern Chinese restaurant that makes you feel relaxed enough to have a drink with friends and share a great meal. Completely forgot to take a photo of the ice cream in a fried bao which is a requirement for any meal at Woon”
Mexican • $$
“4.5 - I was so happy to be invited to a private event! I heard the place wasn’t that great, but the buffet totally changed my mind. I tried Achiote Chicken, Pork Chili Verde, Steak Picado, rice, beans, and salad, all super flavorful and delicious. Even the chips, salsa, and guacamole were really good. The vibe was great, and the servers were fast, friendly, and attentive. It was a fun evening with friends! Parking was a bit odd cause it seemed hella small but luckily there was some available in the lot.”
American • $$$
“Holy Saints! was a fantastic experience! The atmosphere was welcoming, the food was delicious and flavorful, and the service was friendly and attentive. Everything came together perfectly for a memorable visit. I really enjoyed my time here and would definitely come back again. Highly recommended!”
Dim Sum • $$
“We had a great Mommy outing. The glass partitions made us feel safe.”
Peruvian • $$
“The dishes are delicious. The sauce of the ceviche special is great. Beef heart skew has great texture, but the dipping sauce is 🔥. The salad with stirfried chicken is interesting combo but good too.”
Georgian • $$$
“A True Taste of Georgia at Deda Deda offers a beautiful, modern Georgian ambiance that instantly transports you back home. The food is prepared with authentic Georgian traditions, and even my brother—our family’s famously impossible-to-please food critic—was amazed by the original taste of the khinkali. The owners, a wonderful couple who are attorneys by day, keep a watchful eye on the restaurant from the bar. Their warmth, openness to suggestions, and genuine care for every guest’s experience make the place feel even more special. If you’re missing the true Georgian vibe but don’t feel like traveling all the way to Bidzina Ivanishvili’s Georgia, this is the perfect place to visit. At Deda, you’ll find real Georgian flavors, hospitality, and atmosphere—all in one place. Highly recommended for anyone craving an authentic Georgian taste and experience.”
Indian • $$
“I'm shocked this place is not constantly packed, everything we ordered off the menu (and by all means, we ordered in excess) was extremely delicious. Our drinks were very well made too, well balanced and not too sweet. The atmosphere is fantastic, I would love to just hang out here in the atmosphere any day if the week. I'm gonna see if I can get some folks to join me for dinner more often here, I think for the effort these folks are putting in, they should be one of the busiest places in old town.”
Italian • $$
“Everything about our experience was great! The atmosphere was cozy and inviting. The menu offered a nice selection of choices. We ordered the lunch special and it was delicious. Beautiful presentation, and in my opinion, we were served a lovely amount of food for a “special.” The service was very good. We do not live in the area but I would definitely make the field trip to eat here again…and bring my friends!”
Japanese • $$
“Neighborhood Japanese restaurant with excellent quality sushi. Tempura batter crisp and not oily. Love the chicken karage! Sunomono and miso soup are well prepared. I look forward to my next visit!”
Tea Rooms • $$$
“A hidden gem in the heart of Pasadena. The Rose Tree Cottage is like stepping back in time to a “gentil” way of living Britain circa mid 1900s and before. The high tea with delicious food and impeccable service from Edmund & his wife Mary who have run this establishment for decades. I am grateful to our friends who told us to dress for tea…and brought us to experience this lovely afternoon. Step into Rose tree cottage and take a break from the mania surrounding us daily. Your soul and not to mention your stomach will be grateful.”
Sushi • $$
“My husband and daughter love this restaurant for its AYCE sushi. It used to be Kabuki before the restaurant relocated, and it's great to see people still flocking here. The food is consistently good, and the portion sizes are just right for me.
Since I'm allergic to fish, I can't personally vouch for the sushi, but my husband and daughter say it's fresh and delicious every time. The staff is friendly, attentive, and the food comes out quickly with appealing presentation.
If you enjoyed Kabuki, you'll probably love this spot. The AYCE option feels like a great value, and there's plenty to choose from. Come hungry, because this place is unlikely to disappoint!”
American • $$
“Great food and service! It always felt like home when dining here.”
Wine Bar • $$$
“Eclectic but elegant setting with an excellent curated wine offering and one of the finest reserve lists anywhere. The charcuterie sections are also first class. A stylish and sophisticated night out.”
Seafood • $$
“We ordered combo B for $89.99. We chose peeled shrimp, mussels, clams and crawfish as our seafood and additional order of sausage. We initially thought our party of 3 won’t finish it but we actually did. It was so good!”
Mexican • $$
“I expected the Birria quesadilla to be fatty, red, and fried. Instead, and to my surprise, I got a quite pleasant meat and cheese combination. They were generous with the meat quantty, and the guacamole, sour cream, and birria helped bring out the natural flavours of the quesadilla in a perfectly complementary way. It was also wonderful to get their spicy salsa, and I highly recommend you ask. My only qualm might be it's slightly pricy for the portion size, though the portion size is not meager by any means. Such is perhaps expected for Old Town Pasadena. I would come again.”
American • $$
“always great food. today a problem with the fish and chips. over cooked and dry”
Latest Reviews
Mexican • $
“This was our first visit to El Metate. I was impressed with all the menu options. The service was excellent , and the food was delicious.”
Chinese • $
“Egg Roll Express has the best food. They have been in the same location for at least 25 years. I order there often and have never been disappointed. GREAT FOOD EGG ROLL EXPRESS !”
Coffee Shops • $$
“We’re going to be Diana’s”
Persian/Iranian • $$
“Superb small authentic Persian restaurant with great chicken,lamb,beef kabob platter including saffron rice, good side salads. Very hidden, underrated in e. Pasadena I ate here 3 times in 1 week. Really good”
American • $$$
“took a date there on a weeknight they let me get to my table early to put flowers on the table for m date. the food was great and the drinks were perfect would recommend this place”
Barbecue • $
“Rodney's ribs are the Truth. I moved to Pasadena recently. I've had Q at Dreamland in Alabama, 12 Bones in North Carolina, Franklin's in Austin, Corky's in Memphis and Hecky's in Chicago, and this is some of the most righteously smoked meat I've ever had. Thank you, Rodney.”
Bistros • $$
“My significant other and I treated ourselves to 90 minutes of normal at The George and strongly urge you to do the same! Food, truffle fries, pork cop and salmon all delicious! Angela was our server and she was attentive and charming! The atmosphere was a comforting refuge. So take a break and support The George and have a wonderful meal with family and friends!”
Restaurant
“Excellent soul food. It reminds me of a little taste of the south. He collard green and fried rib combination is the very best!!!!!!!”
Restaurant • $
“My first impression was the cleanliness and friendly staff. Secondly being my first time all my questions were met with great care to detail. And lastly the freshness and delicious food was phenomenal and priced very well. I am now a Kokoroll customer for life. Thank you! Ps. I only wish I’d found you sooner 😊 HIGHLY RECOMMEND AAA+”
Seafood Markets • $$
“EXCELLENT food! Be warned: because we missed it- this is a market that does TAKE OUT ONLY! So, order ahead and pick up. I had the Jerk Chicken lunch- freaking FANTASTIC! My partner got a fish plate which was excellent as well. Staff nice, food good, order ahead!”
Barbecue • $$
“4 of us ate at the new Craft at LA Live but I can't find it here so recommending them on the Pasadena location. This was the second night they had been open last Saturday. Service was outstanding. Judy did a terrific job taking care of us and the head chef and owner cam by to welcome us. Food was outstanding too. Great place.”
Ice Cream Shop • $
“Delicious ice cream, with top quality ingredients! Sizes are bigger than other nearby shops and it even includes toppings!”
Most Popular Restaurants
Brazilian • $$$
“Food was excellent and Jonathan’s service was other worldly! His wine recommendations were phenomenal and I highly recommend coming here whenever you get the chance!”
Chicken • $
“Fabulous chicken Sando!!! Absolutely delicious. Everyone is ALWAYS SO FRIENDLY. I try and go as often as I can. 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰”
Mediterranean • $$
“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐😍😍😍😍😍 every meal is made fresh. Hands down a favorite”
Coffee Shops • $$
“I’m officially addicted to their Vanilla Honey Latte. Food is awesome as well!”
Lounges • $$$$
“Fab service from Jenny. I love coming here as a special treat. The hotel is so gorgeous, with a beautiful, fragrant garden in the middle. The Lobby, where the tea is served, is exactly the sort of ambiance of a classic tea room if expect.
The food is decent, with the inventive pastries as the highlight. The service this time around was great. I opted for vegetarian options, which was accidentally forgotten by the kitchen. The server brought back extra sandwiches for the minor inconvenience.
You get two pots of tea to share with the table. We even got to take some to go, which I haven't experienced at any other tea services below. These small extra touches are much appreciated.
Definitely plan to come back again, especially given the rotating menu.”
Steak House • $$$
“Food was great and there were plenty options for beef lover, lamb, chicken and vegetarian options.
Rodrigo S. delivered outstanding service and made our visit truly enjoyable. He was friendly, courteous, and attentive from beginning to end. He consistently checked in to make sure everything was just right, offered great recommendations, and made us feel genuinely appreciated as guests.We’ll definitely be returning and hope to see him again!”
Steak House • $$$$
“Very good good food and nice service We really enjoyed dinner 🙏”
Hamburger • $
“Do you love our Billboard? Spin360corefitness.com/godbillboards”
American • $$
“We had a lovely breakfast at The Terrace. The atmosphere was elegant and relaxing, and the service was warm and attentive. The breakfast was beautifully presented and enjoyable. A wonderful way to start the morning at the hotel.”
Cafe • $$
“They have great food large selection their service is great I definitely recommend this place”
New Restaurants
Bakery • $
“I drive a hour to get a cinnamon roll latte and a cinnamon roll. Everything here is so good! The staff is so nice and they’re very efficient even when the line is long. Absolutely amazing!”
Coffee Shops • $
“This was the first time my wife and I had been to this coffee shop. I loved the atmosphere, very quiet and chill. The iced latte was spot on. My wife and I shared an avocado toast which was fantastic, never thought to put cucumber on the toast with a strawberry but it paired well. The toast did take 30 minutes to get to us. I had to go to the to the register and ask about it. I was told that the cook never received the order due to there being no paper in their machine. It happens so no biggie. My only advice would be maybe to have offered a free coffee or some compensation for waiting so long. Overall though, this place was fantastic and I would return!”
Bakery • $
“This is such a quaint place and I would highly recommend anyone to go and check them out. Beside it’s quaintness it is the food is really good. The bread and tiramisu is just amazing.”
Barbecue • $$
“Absolutely amazing BBQ!!! Nothing was regular or ordinary. The brisket was so tender and tasty and the Blue Masa Cornbread was to die for! Melts in your mouth! And don’t forget the Cole Slaw which deserves capital letters!! The Mac and Cheese (not like any you’ve ever had!) was comped by our new friend who was our ordering coach and it stole the show!! This place is new and Jensen is a class act and his food is BBQ but kicked up a notch !! Congrats Jensen!!!”
Pizza • $
“I’ve been coming here for some time now during my lunch breaks for the lunch buffet. I’m a vegetarian and unfortunately all of the pizza always has meat. There will only be half a small pie of plain cheese which is usually almost done. We sometimes ask beforehand if they have plain or veggie coming out soon but it’s usually not ready until it’s time for us to leave . I understand not everyone likes veggie pizza but it’d be nice to have at least the plain always available! Otherwise food is great and we really enjoy it.”
Chicken • $
“I discovered this place through a YouTuber’s recommendation and I’m really glad I tried it. It was my first visit, and while it’s easy to miss since there’s no sign outside, I had no trouble finding it.
We were greeted right away, ordering was simple, and the food was ready in about 10–15 minutes. The chicken was the highlight—flavorful, juicy, and very filling. The sides (sweet potato fries and coleslaw) were just okay; the fries were a bit soggy when we got home and the coleslaw was slightly too tangy for our taste.
Overall, the chicken alone makes it worth a visit. I’d definitely recommend it!”
Bubble Tea
“Happily stumbled across this cozy boba shop on accident. The staff will treat you very friendly and you’ll receive a high quality drink. I’m just not sure if it’s always that cold in there or what the purpose of that would be, but it was definitely noticeable during my brief visit”
Bubble Tea • $
“High quality milk green tea with one of the freshest bobas I’ve tasted in a while.
Most importantly, great value for this quality! #bangforyourbuck
Environment & vibe fun, cozy, & positive! Staff are friendly, offer free samples; I loved it all.”
Italian
“Amazing food amazing service. The price is very good and you get this card that offers you 20% payback on every purchase, which is amazing it was like being in Italy and I just loved it. Try it..”
Sandwich Shop • $
“Pictures don’t do it justice — the quality of the sandwich (prosciutto & fig, chicken pesto) was next level. No idea how they make it work with such a low price point ($13.50 for one sandwich which is really 2 sandwiches because of their size) in relation to such high quality ingredients, including fresh focaccia bread, but we’re grateful for it.”
Coffee Shops • $
“Nice coffee spot. Nice workers. Ordered a cappuccino, it hit the spot. Only thing is, I'd you want sugar, they only put agave or honey. They have sugar in small packets, you can put yourselves.”
Mexican • $
“I got the chilaquiles today at Tacos Neza since I have always passed by them here in old town pasadena and have been more tempted to try them as they've been getting customers as of late instead of it being usually pretty lonely when I'd pass by before. The chilaquiles were pretty classic tasting for some morning chilaquiles. Tortillas were soft, salsa was a tad bit on the salter side, and the avocados were a bit the browner side when it was served. However the eggs was a perfect over easy giving a nice yolky-ness to the tortillas. Also the asada that was an additional two dollars instead of chicken was somewhat meh since the asada didn't really taste like asada, more like a kind of sausage links, which I actually really enjoyed. Overall very nice spot for breakfast to eat here in old pas in you want the classic mexican breakfast here in old town pasadena, a tad bit on the steeper side of the for 25 dollars for chilaquiles but its a reasonable amount for two people who are light eaters.”
“The service, the food, the environment and the kindness and efficiency of our server tonight! 😋👍”