25 Best Italian Restaurants in Pasadena

Union Restaurant Italian • $$$
37 Union St, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Tonnarelli Cacio E Pepe
Bread and Giardiniere
Spaghetti & Meatballs
Wild Mushroom Polenta
Spinach Pappardelle
Squid Ink Lumache
Little Gem Salad
Olive Oil Cake
Pork Meatballs
Arugula Salad

“Great restaurant but couple things:1) the food, pastas in particular, are very heavy flavored, we went in large group and all of us had digestive upset that night.2) the server pushed us to order way too much. She had us order 12 dishes (not including bread) for our party of 6 adults and asserted it would be a light meal. We ordered at least three dishes too many. And we are not light eaters. We were not happy with her guidance.“

4.2 Good109 Reviews
UOVO | Pasadena Italian • $$
146 S Lake Ave #103, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Tiramisu Al Cucchiaio
Cavolfiori Cauliflower
Angelo Poretti Red
Yellowtail Crudo
Tiramisu Cup
Cacio E Pepe
Amatriciana
Broccolini
Carbonara
Pomodoro

“The food was delicious! The pasta freshly made. The service was outstanding! They only charge a 16% fee to help the restaurant/staff, no tip. I felt it wasn’t enough so I wanted to also give a tip and was told no tip needed the check was closed. I highly recommend this restaurant.“

4.6 Superb75 Reviews
Malbec Argentinean Cuisine Argentine • $$$
1001 E Green St, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Arroz Con Mariscos Patagonian Style Seafood Paella
Costillitas De Cordero 16oz
Entrana a La Parrilla
Carpaccio Di Salmone
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled Octopus
Crema Catalana
Mashed Potatoes
Tomahaw Steak
Madeira Sauce

“Malbec was recommended to me by a good friend, and it is now my favorite steakhouse. Not necessarily that they make the best steak ever (9 out of 10), no, it's because almost everything on the menu is delicious. Tons of flavor and cooked to perfection. Been there 3 times and each time was just as perfect as the last. The consistency is terrific and the environment is awesome.“

4.5 Superb269 Reviews
Marina Restaurant Italian • $$$
841 Cordova St, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Italian Sausage Pizza
Rigatoni Alla Norma
Bucatini Carbonara
Margherita Pizza
Rabbit Bolognese
Squash Agnolotti
Prime Skirt Steak
Squash Blossoms
Chocolate Tart
Blue Cheesecake

“The atmosphere is great, youre not going to be disappointed there. Service was fantastic, they work together as a team to clear and get food out quickly. The calamari and rigatoni were enjoyable. Though the mushroom pasta did leave more to be desired, we look forward to dining in again.“

4.4 Superb109 Reviews
786 Degrees Pizza - Pasadena Pizza • $
1709 E Washington Blvd, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Napolitana Napolitana Margherita
Istanbul Turkish Pizza
Chicken Tikka Masala
Bombay Tikka Masala
Tikka Masala Pizza
Pepperoni Pizza
Shrimp Tuscany
Egyptian Pizza
Mushroom Pizza
Fungi Lama

“Pizza was delicious! Especially the pesto mushroom one. We also had the KBBQ (award winning), which was good but I thought a little too sweet on the sauce. I expected more from the award-winning pizza. Maybe I had my hopes up too much though.“

4.6 Superb100 Reviews
Tardino Brother's Italian • $
40 N Mentor Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
Barbecue Chicken Pizza
The Florentine Pizza
Garlic Cheese Bread
The Standard Pizza
Spaghetti Marinara
Margherita Pizza
Chicken Parmesan
Pasta Carbonara
Large Pizza

“This restaurant is amazing! The food is cooked as if it came from a tiny restaurant with an Italian nonna in the kitchen. The ingredients are fresh and the meals generous in size. The pizzas are HUGE! The minestrone has big sized veggies whose freshness you can taste in every bite. Every dish can feed you at least once, and there are plenty of choices such as pasta carbonara, chicken piccata, sandwiches, empanadas, salads, etc. We have only used outdoor seating and it was pouring rain the last time we went. They had prepared for that with large canopies and even offered dessert on the house. Desserts are hard to choose as each delicacy is mouth-watering. Offerings include a variety of gelato, cheesecake, a pistachio-based pastry, tiramisu, chocolate cookies, and cherry tarts, to name a few. Parking is a little bit of a challenge if you arrive late. There is street parking and some paid parking. You may want to park on Colorado as parking is free after 6pm. If you are a MAD magazine fan, you'll get a kick out if visiting this hole-in-the-wall, awesome restaurant!Vegetarian options: Salads, soups, risotto or pasta dishes.“

4.6 Superb67 Reviews
Stoney Point Bar & Grill Italian • $$$
1460 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Fresh Mozzarella Caprese with Sliced Tomatoes
Dungeness Crab Cakes
Gnocchi Al Pomodoro
Sauteed Clams
Lasagna

“The entrees were amazing, salad was mixed; house salad was great, caesar only okay. Also the coffee after the meal was good not great. The restaurant was also loud, very busy. But it was Friday evening. All said, we will definitely visit again.“

4.6 Superb39 Reviews
Carrara's Pastries & Cafe Dessert •
75 W Walnut St, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Peach Mango Mousse Cake
Blueberry Cheesecake
Croissant
Bakery

“The parking structure was easy to find. I ordered the cannolis and sfogliatelles both of which were amazing. The sfogliatelles were crispy, and the cannoli shells were crunchy. The orange in the custard/ricotta was flavorful! The cashier was very friendly and prompt with serving me!“

4.4 Superb116 Reviews
Porta Via Italian Foods Meal Delivery • $
1 W California Blvd #312, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Friday Crabe Shrimp Salad on Broche
Roasted Leg of Lamb Sandwich
Pasta Salad with Feta Cheese
Artisan Salami Sandwich
Make Your Own Salad
Salads

“Absolutely amazing experience. Got to meet John (one of the owners) but that’s not why I like this place. The food is authentic. Reminds me of my Nonn-‘s cooking. Yes I am of American Italian descent. Great to go selection. Everything looks beautiful!Minestrone soup (which can be such a tasteless soup made by so many) is totally flavorful full of beautiful vegetables!! Sandwich I had the Italian sub was on point and you’re talking to a New Yorker !Thrilled to have found this awesome deli/eatery. By the way it’s super clean. Well organized in the staff is delightful and very helpful.Dietary restrictions: They have some gluten-free options which is really nice. They actually care and they stop and they listen.Kid-friendliness: Great patio in the back for kidsWheelchair accessibility: Great spot for handicap with wheelchair needs“

4.4 Superb65 Reviews

10
Gale's

Gale's Italian • $$
452 S Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Lasagna Bolognese Extra Oven Crisp
Tortelloni with Bolognese Ragu
Mussels in White Wine Sauce
Fettuccini Carbonara
Chicken Parmigiana
Portabello Ravioli
Chicken Parmesan
Chocolate Cake
Caprese Salad
Caesar Salad

“I recently dined at Gale's, an Italian restaurant recommended by a friend. We made reservations for a party of 6 a week in advance, and the restaurant was accommodating and promptly seated us upon arrival. Our waiter served us bread with oil and vinegar as we perused the menu. We ordered a total of 13 items, and requested the dishes to be brought in courses, which the waiter happily obliged.For starters, we enjoyed the flavorful Mussels in white wine sauce, which paired perfectly with the bread. The Prosciutto and Melon provided a simple yet satisfying protein option, while the Carpaccio with goat cheese impressed us with its thinly sliced meat and complementary flavors. Moving on to the salad courses, the Roasted Beet Salad and Rustic Caesar Salad were both refreshing and well-balanced.The pasta dishes were a highlight of our meal. The Rotini Bolognese featured a rich Italian meat sauce, while the Pasta al Forno delighted us with its creamy meat sauce and cheese. The Portobello Ravioli, stuffed with crab and shrimp in a cream sauce with wild mushrooms, was a standout dish that left us wanting more.Each pasta dish was bursting with flavor and paired excellently with our wine selection. Overall, Gale's provided a delightful dining experience with delicious food and attentive service.Towards the conclusion of our meal, we indulged in the 13th and final course—a generously portioned pizza that satisfied our group of 6 adults. This delightful creamy white pizza, topped with mushrooms and olives, boasted a thin crust with toppings evenly distributed on every slice. Our experience at Gale's was undeniably exceptional. The waiter's precise timing between courses enhanced our enjoyment of each dish. An additional highlight was the reasonable $20 cooking fee, and the added touch of live music on Friday evenings.A standout feature for me was the presentation of fresh dishes and utensils with each course, elevating the dining experience.In summary, I enthusiastically recommend Gale's as a warm and inviting spot for genuine, home-cooked meals that evoke a sense of dining among loved ones.“

4.3 Superb299 Reviews
Domenico's Italian • $
2411 E Washington Blvd, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce and Garlic Bread
Vegetarian Special Pizza Small
Deep Fried Mozzarella Cheese
Pepperoni Sausage Pizza
Big D Special Pizza
Chicken Parmigiana
Chicken Wings
House Salad
Antipasto
Calzone

“This is one of our usual Italian places for takeout since they no longer have dine in. We had a take out order for hot chicken parmesan sandwich, added the extra cheese and veggies like onions, mushrooms and green peppers, (but they forgot to add that in; hence the -1) like they have for their hoagies. And also ordered the side quart salad with extra dressing on the side. This place is always consistent with their flavors and always fresh. This was perfect for two people to share. And we added a can of Dr. Pepper. The staff are very friendly and helpful. If you like condiments, you have to ask for it. I always ask for red pepper flakes, plates, forks, and napkins. They pack it nicely in a box always. The wait time is usually about 15-20 mins depending on the amount of orders they get. Usually, by the time I place the order and drive out, it's ready for me. They have a small parking lot in the back and side street parking on Coolidge Ave off Washington Blvd. Enjoy!!“

4.4 Superb52 Reviews
Sorriso-Bar Celona Spanish • $$
46 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Piccata
Garlic Rolls
Crab Cakes
Cioppino

“I found out about this restaurant in Las Vegas! A lady suggested we visit and we did!!!Food was very tasty, waitress very accommodating to our menu needs.We were told there's entertainment on Wed nights and a reservation is recommended. We'll definitely come again due to the fine taste of the dishes we ordered.“

4.6 Superb14 Reviews
Pietro's Pizza • $
920 N Lake Ave #4517, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Hot Pastrami Sandwich
Pietro Pizza Spezial
Cheese Pizza Small
Antipasto Salad
Garlic Bread

“$15 for chicken Alfredo with side salad and bun. What more can you ask for ? It's great value, nothing fancy. Easy to go, remind me of an Italian restaurant by Cal when I was a college studentThough pasta was a bit on bland side, my Dr would probably thank me for the low sodium and salad intake.“

4.4 Superb31 Reviews
Pie Life Pizza Pizza • $
691 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Half BBQ Chicken and Half Margherita
Pepperoni Pizza and Veggie Pizza
Warehouse and Veggie Pizza
18 Sausage & Peppers Pizza
18 Inch Warehouse Pizza
Slice of Cheese Pizza
Meaty Pizza Slice
BBQ Chicken Slice
Vegetarian Pizza

“Wow! Love the pizza here! As all ex New Yorkers, I too am guilty of considering myself an authority on what is good pizza, and this pizza is very good. Very good, in the thin crust NY way. These pies have what I would call, by California standards, an Exceptionally thin crust. Which we New Yorkers like. Pie Life's crusts deliver a great balance of crispness to chewiness. Strong enough to support any topping, yet soft enough to give a very satisfying chew. In addition to selling whole pies, Pie Life also sells pizza by the slice, featuring a differently topped slice of the day, each day. The day I was there the "PBJ" was featured that's Pepperoni, Bacon and Jalapeño. An excellent combination perfectly executed. I will be definitely be coming back for more. Note There is a small parking lot, which is nice. Also: there is very limited space for dining, just a few small tables that line the side of a narrow balcony. OK for one or two people who are just grabbing a slice. If you are planning on sharing a whole pie with a few people, you'll on want to take it home and "spread out" as a good friend of mine from New Orleans always says when we sit down to a meal together...“

4.3 Superb56 Reviews
Pitfire Pizza Pizza • $
730 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Watermelon and Cucumber Salad
Roasted Cauliflower
Meat Lovers Pizza
Chicken Meatballs
The Steak Salad
Vegan Margherita
Chicken Wings
Mushroom Pizza
Sausage Pizza
Cheese Pizza

“Amazing Service and food The concept of a fast food order but sitdown and eat quality food is extraordinary, and quite unique. The pizza I ordered, Zoe's Pepperoni, was a little burnt but by far the best tasting pizza I had ever eaten. One of our servers was super nice, and absolutely killing it at the job. The astuteness and accuracy of our requests was surpassed and exceeded by our server. Overall, Pitfire Artsian Pizza blew my expectations out of the park. I will be coming back, Hungry for more.“

4.2 Good62 Reviews
The Kitchen Italian Cafe & Pizzeria Italian • $$
78 W Union St, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Sicilian Style Pizza
Chicken Parmesan
Italian Meatballs
Minestrone Soup
New York Style
Caprese Salad
Meat Lasagna
Garlic Bread
Bruschetta
Tiramisu

“I loved this little Italian spot in Old Town! My friend and I walked in on a busy Saturday night but were able to find a spot at the little bar. It's not a huge place but they've got indoor and outdoor seating. The woman working at the bar was super friendly and gave good recommendations on their foods and drinks. Everything on their menu sounded tasty so I'd definitely be down to go back and try more! If you're looking for a good spot for Italian I'd recommend this place.“

4.2 Good111 Reviews
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant Italian • $$$
80 W Green St, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Buddy V's Slice of the Day
Spaghetti with Meatballs
Colossal Brownie Sundae
Spicy Chicken Rigatoni
Apple Gorgonzola Salad
Chocolate Chip Cannoli
Chicken Saltimbocca
Small Caesar Salad
Mozzarella Caprese
Chicken Parmigiana

“Food was great, ambience was fun, but the best part was definitely the service. Cristina made this celebration feel really special and left everybody in our party wanting more. 10/10 would recommend you requesting her for your visit if you wanna make it worth your while!“

4.2 Good238 Reviews
Villa Sorriso Seafood • $$
119 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena

“I love this Restaurant. It’s absolutely my Favorite! The food is prepared with such precise care. I love Chefs who love the craft of creating and Villa Sorriso does not disappoint. They are creative, friendly and delicious.The atmosphere is for any age group accommodating there guests with either windows seats, single table and large groups. The other side of the restaurant opens to a large bar, dance floor and live music on speciality days.This is a restaurant where you enjoy longs talks with family and sharing a meal, as the food has been prepared with flavor and passion.Come one, come all and enjoy the Villa Sorriso experience. It’s beautiful here.“

4.1 Good33 Reviews
Pinocchio's Pizza Pizza • $$
1449 N Lake Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Any Pasta Any Sauce Salad & Garlic Bread
Lobster & Shrimp Ravioli
Eggplant Parmigiana
Chicken Parmigiana
Chicken Marsala
Minestrone Soup
Shrimp Pasta
Beef Lasagna
Fettuccine
Baby Shower

“It was a blast! We got invited to a birthday party here, the place is not too huge but also not small. I think there were 40-50 people, they first served appetizers in each table with drinks. The food was great served buffet style and when everyone were done there were still a lot of food on the table. The sound system was provided by the host's family, they just brought a small strobe light, mic and because the place is not too big a small a loud speaker made it through. The only issue I had was the restroom - there is only 1 shared male/female restroom , no problem sharing with men but you will always see a line, so be prepared to hold it until it's all clear, lol!. Parking is free across the street.“

4.1 Good91 Reviews
Nikki C's Restaurant & Bar Italian • $$
470 S Rosemead Blvd, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Short Rib Tacos with Kettle Chips Instead of Tortilla Chips
Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza
Lasagna Bolognese Pasta
Clam and Mushroom Pizza
Risotto Alla Bistecca
Meatballs Spaghetti
Margherita Pizza
Calamari Strips
Pepperoni Pizza
Antipasto Salad

“This place gave me the feel of Del Rae in Pico Rivera. Love the atmosphere, service was excellent. No hovering over my table. Food was delicious. Fell in love with the cheesecake dessert! I will definitely return when I am back in the area. It has an old time feel that you have to experience.“

4 Good50 Reviews
Rocco's Tavern Italian • $$
44 W Green St, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Pepperoni and Mushroom Pizza
Fried Calamari Fritti
Rocco's Italian Fries
Pepperoni Pizza
Our Famous Wings
Boneless Wings
Garlic Bread
Pizza Fries
Pizza 5
Game

“Came here by chance because I forgot to make a reservation for Gyu-Kaku but I honestly loved the food here! The atmosphere was perfect the food was delicious and it came out very quickly. The waitress was also very nice. 5 stars! Would come again!“

4 Good73 Reviews
Celestino Ristorante & Bar Italian • $$
141 S Lake Ave, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Ravioli Stuffed with Spinach & Ricotta in a Tomato and Basil Sauce
Risotto with Porcini Mushrooms and Mascarpone Cheese
Beef Carpaccio with Capers and Parmesan Cheese
Spaghetti Carbonara Alla Romana
Grilled Salmon and Vegetables
Burrata Cheese and Prosciutto
Cannoli Alla Siciliana
Ossobuco Alla Milanese
Strawberry Panna Cotta
Mixed Seafood Salad

“I haven't been to Celestino in over twenty (20) years, and, I have to admit, I really don't know why. . . Maybe it's because we don't live in Pasadena, but that shouldn't matter. My family and I go far and wide -- anywhere in Los Angeles, really -- for excellent food. We did make reservations for this particular occasion (my birthday) on a Tuesday evening, just in case Celestino was busy. Here's the rundown of what we ordered: a. Linguine with clams b. Chicken parmigiana c. Lobster tail with pasta/linguine (one of that night's special) d. Penne a la vodka I also ordered a Ciao Bella which is one of their signature mixed drinks. And I have to say, "WHAT A HIT! WE'RE COMING BACK TO CELESTINO!!!" Antonio was our waiter, and he was marvelous. He was knowledgeable of all the specials, and he was genuinely friendly and jokey -- if there is such a word. Overall, the restaurant's atmosphere was clean, moderately quiet, and classy. If you want to eat great Italian food where it's not "stuffy and staid", and the staff is wonderful, GO! to Celestino now. Don't wait another 20 years like we did.“

4.1 Good307 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
Maria's Italian Kitchen Italian • $$
3537 E Foothill Blvd, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Parmigiana w Spaghetti
Spaghetti and Meatballs
Chopped Italian Salad
Molten Chocolate Cake
Complimentary Bread
Spaghetti Meatballs
Rigatoni Bolognese
Chicken Piccata
Chopped Salad
Garlic Knots

“Our meal was exceptionally good last night. We started with the rosemary bread basket which was soft with a nice crust. My sister loved her spaghetti and meat balls. My chicken piccata was sautéed in lemon butter, wine and capers and was delicious. I substituted the spaghetti side for angel hair pasta. The veggies were a bit al dente but heated up nicely as leftovers. The portions were large so plenty leftover for another meal. Service was excellent. Very attentive and cordial. Definitely would go back.“

4 Good100 Reviews
Numero Uno Gastropub Pizza • $
3562 E Foothill Blvd, Pasadena

Customers` Favorites

Slaughter House Special Pizza
Thick Crust Pizza
Romano Bread Puffs
Mozzarella Sticks
The Works Pizza
Slaughterhouse
Mushroom Pizza
Garlic Bread
Wings

“I love the Gastropub. It's a cool hang-out spot with good food, a huge selection of beer with soft lighting, music videos and sports on the TV's. I like the tavern pizza, it's a large thin-crust pizza that's so good you can't stop eating it. My personal favorite is the Mexican flatbread, it's freaking delicious. I get it with no chili powder though but if you like spicy then don't omit it. The Chicago deep dish is delicious, I order it just cheese and I ask for diced tomatoes on top of it. But before you order any of this, you MUST try the pretzel with beer cheese. It's a crime to go there and not order it with your beer. My husband says it pairs perfectly with his beer, but I just like to dip it in ranch dressing and its delicious just like that. I have also ordered the pub fries; they are like mojo's from Shakey's but plumper. You can ask them to make it extra crispy if that's your thing. And their regular fries are good too. There's more than just pizza there, they have burgers, pastas, and sandwiches. My cousin was happy with his meatball sandwich. Gastropub is my favorite place to relax with good food. They play all my favorite music, from Iron Maiden to Evanescence to the Rolling Stones. They also have Laker games there, which is why I go so often, and it's a family-run business which I love. If I had to suggest an improvement, I would say a larger screen to play sports specifically, and a cushion on the chairs. In the meantime, it's a great start for a new place and I can't wait for the new sign and to watch this place grow.“

3.5 Good79 Reviews
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