Pasadena Magazine is the bi-monthly magazine of Pasadena and its surrounding areas – the diverse, historically rich and culturally vibrant region that includes Glendale, the Eastside of Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley all the way to Claremont.
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/880808
Ración (SPANISH) The Basque-inspired menu takes the best pintxos (or tapas) found across bars in Northern Spain and gives them a gourmet spin. Try the beer-braised octopus or chorizo with caramelized onions and goat cheese. √ L-D Tues.-Sat.; D Sun.-Mon. √ 119 W. Green St., 626.396.3090, racionrestaurant.com. $$ The Raymond (AMERICAN) This high-end restaurant is an institution in Pasadena. Chef Tim Guiltinan cooks up fresh and contemporary takes on gourmet American classics. The mixologists at the 1886 bar in the back are famous for pouring some of the best cocktails in the city. √ D Sun.-Thurs.; L-D Fri.-Sat. √ 1250 S. Fair Oaks Ave., 626.441.3136, theraymond.com. $$ Real Food Daily (VEGAN) It's a little pricey for a casual meal, but you get what you pay for. All ingredients are fresh, vegan and organic. √ L-D Mon.-Fri.; B-L-D Sat.-Sun. √ 899 E. Del Mar Blvd., 626.844.8900, realfood.com. $$ Robin's Wood Fire BBQ (BBQ) Smoke is no joke at this local joint; all meats are prepped for hours on apple and oakwood. The result is fantastically fi nessed (a.k.a. fi nger-lickin' good) ribs and steak galore. √ B-L-D Sun.; L-D Tues.-Sat. √ 395 N. Rosemead Blvd., 626.351.8885, robinsbbq.com. $$ Rose Tree Cottage (TEA HOUSE) Enjoy a traditional English- style afternoon tea with fi ne linens, china and a dainty platter of scones. √ B-L daily. √ 801 S. Pasadena Ave., 626.793.3337, rosetreecottage.com. $$$ Rounds Premium Burgers (AMERICAN) The juicy patties and crispy, yet doughy brioche rolls have won this burger joint a cult like following. Choose from sauces including pesto mayo, jalapeño ranch or Tabasco ketchup, and add on a premium topping of avocado mash, home-style chili or a fried egg for a buck. √ L-D daily. √ 46 N. Lake Ave., 626.304.9810, roundsburgers.com. $ The Royce Wood-Fired Steakhouse (AMERICAN) This elegant restaurant in the iconic Langham Hotel features a fi ne selection of USDA prime cuts, Australian Wagyu and Kobe-style Japanese beef prepared over a wood-fi red grill. They've also got seasonal surf to accompany their turf, a nice wine list and a gourmet Sunday brunch. √ D Tues.-Sat.; B Sun. √ 1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., 626.585.6410, roycela.com. $$$ Roy's Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine (HAWAIIAN FUSION) This chain restaurant puts a twist on island favorites. The lobster pot stickers are popular. √ D daily. √ 641 E. Colorado Blvd., 626.356.4066, roysrestaurant.com. $$$ Russell's (AMERICAN) This cozy and bistro-style locale is known for their hearty breakfast fare and delicious burgers. On weekends, come early to avoid the long lines! √ B-L-D daily. √ 30 N. Fair Oaks Ave., 626) 578-1404. $$ Ruth's Chris Steak House (STEAK HOUSE) This steakhouse chain has fi let, petite fi let, ribeye, cowboy ribeye, t-bone, New York strip and porterhouse, all masterfully prepared. √ D daily. √ 369 E. Colorado Blvd., 626.583.8122, ruthschris.com. $$$$ Saladang Song (THAI) Don't expect "regular" Thai fare here. This unique find specializes in obscure appetizers and rice vermicelli noodles √ B-L-D daily. √ 383 S. Fair Oaks Ave., 626.793.5200. $$ Seco (AMERICAN) The restaurant offers sophisticated New American Cuisine featuring savory starters like Shishito poppers stuffed with chorizo, goat cheese, shaved manchego and remoulade, and pork lettuce wraps marinated with onions and adobo sauce for a fi erce and fi ery fi nish. √ L-D daily. √ 140 S. Lake Ave., 626.449.9900, seconewamerican.com. $$$ Sharky's Woodfi red Mexican Grill (MEXICAN) Their fresh fi sh tacos and healthy-yet-delicious side dishes will have you coming back for more! √ L-D daily. √ 841 Cordova St., 626.568.3500, sharkys.com. $$ Sierra Fusion (ASIAN FUSION) Delicious asian-inspired combination of fl avors and diverse sushi and sashimi offerings. √ L-D Tues.-Sun. √ 120 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., 626.355.3030, sierrafusion.com. $$ Smitty's Grill (AMERICAN) Nostalgic American homecookin' in a romantic setting. The meatloaf and chicken pot pie are delicious as long as you're not set on believing your mom makes it better. √ L-D Mon.-Fri.; D Sat.-Sun. √ 110 S. Lake Ave., 626.792.9999, smittysgrill.com. $$$ Spinfi sh Poke House (HAWAIIAN) Try one of their fresh, signature bowls like the Aloha 808 or design your own dish with creative toppings like coconut fl akes or lemon zest. √ L-D daily. √ 36 W. Colorado Blvd. Ste. 7, 626.585.0988, spinfi shla.com. $ Stoney Point (ITALIAN) The old school charm and pianist have long made this establishment a local favorite. The food is good and the martinis are even better. √ L-D Tues.-Fri.; D Sat.-Sun. √ 1460 W. Colorado Blvd., 626.449.9715, stoneypointrestaurant.com. $$$ Malbec Argentinean Cuisine (ARGENTINEAN) This popular Pasadena restaurant is a great introduction to Argentinean food. Try the empanadas to start and one of the grilled steaks for your main. √ L-D daily. √ 1001 E. Green St., 626.683.0550, malbeccuisine.com. $$ Mama's Brick Oven Pizza & Pasta (ITALIAN) If you're not in the mood for a whole pie of the same fl avor, try their New York grab 'n' go style slices to sample their selection. √ L-D daily. √ 311 S. Rosemead Blvd., 626.405.9877, mammasbrickoven.com. $ Marston's Restaurant (AMERICAN) Old-fashioned, home- style cooking makes this breakfast nook addicting. √ B-L daily. √ 151 E. Walnut St., 626.796.2459, marstonsrestaurant.com. $ Mediterranean Cafe (MEDITERRANEAN) Consistently fantastic kabob plates keep this place busy. √ L-D Mon.-Fri.; L Sat. √ 273 Shoppers Ln., 626.793.8844, kokosmediterraneancafe.com. $ Mi Piace (ITALIAN) An Old Pasadena favorite. The desserts and pastries are worth the splurge if you have room. √ B-L-D daily. √ 25 E. Colorado Blvd., 626.795.3131, mipiace.com. $$ Noda Sushi (JAPANESE) Sashimi for one or the specialty love boat for a hungry couple. √ L-D Mon.-Sat.; D Sun. √ 546 S. Lake Ave., 626.793.2600. $ Nothing Bundt Cakes (BAKERY) Nothing but great cakes at this location! Moist cake covered with rich frosting, what could be sweeter? √ B-L-D Mon.-Sat. √ 548 S. Lake Ave., 626.792.8200, nothingbundtcakes.com. $ The Original Tops (AMERICAN) Quality is never scarifi ed for cheap prices at this fast food counter and drive thru. They serve breakfast starting at 6:30 a.m. and a mean pastrami burger at lunchtime. √ B-L-D daily. √ 3838 E. Colorado Blvd., 626.449.4412, theoriginaltops.com. $ Parkway Grill (GLOBAL) An innovative menu inspired by Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Try the grilled spring lamb lollipops with crispy goat cheese polenta croquettes and pine nut fi g relish in a pomegranate mint syrup. √ L-D Mon.-Fri.; D Sat.-Sun. √ 510 S. Arroyo Pkwy., 626.795.1001, theparkwaygrill.com. $$$ Paul Martin's American Grill (AMERICAN) Stylish, eco- minded local chain serving seasonal American fare, craft beers and artisanal cocktails. √ L-D daily. √ 455 S. Lake Ave., Ste.102, 626.773.7600, paulmartinsamericangrill.com. $$ Pencil (CAFÉ) This quaint, family-run sandwich joint has plenty of choices to satisfy your lunchtime craving. √ L Mon.-Fri. √ 12 Harkness Ave., 626.793.0072. $ The Pie Hole (CAFÉ) With organic coffee blends and a full, sweet and savory breakfast pie menu available all day long, this is a café you don't want to miss. √ B-L-D daily. √ 59 E. Colorado Blvd., 626.765.6315, thepieholela.com. $ Pie'n Burger (AMERICAN) Juicy patties, a thick piece of gooey American cheese and creamy thousand island melt together on a warm, crispy bun. Some Pasadena locals are religious about this classic burger joint. √ B-L-D daily. √ 913 E. California Blvd., 626.795.1123, pienburger.com. $$ Plate 38 (AMERICAN) Affordable and convenient gourmet food. Weekly jazz bands add fl air to this low key setting. √ L-D Mon.- Fri.; B-L-D Sat.-Sun. √ 2361 E. Colorado Blvd., 626.793.7100, plate38.com. $ Poke Salad Bar (HAWAIIAN) This fun, atmospheric locale is home to the proclaimed "sushi-fusion style". For an added unique spin, try your dish burrito style! √ L-D daily. √ 12 W. Colorado Blvd., 626.304.3100. $ PokeMIX (HAWAIIAN) Enjoy their delicious poke bowls with handcrafted tea and homemade boba drinks! For a spicy fi nish, try a drizzle of their mango Sriracha sauce on top. √ L-D daily. √ 99 S. Lake Ave. Ste.102, 626.345.5585, fl ourandtea.com. $ Porta Via Italian Foods (ITALIAN DELI) A casual lunch spot and boutique grocer that sells ready to serve gourmet seafood, poultry and meat by the pound. While you're shopping, pick up one of the artfully made artisan paninis or sandwiches. √ B-L-D daily. √ 1 W. California Blvd., 626.793.9000, portaviafoods.com. $$ Porto Alegre Churrascaria Brazilian Steakhouse (BRAZILIAN STEAK HOUSE) A mouthwatering experience for meat lovers. Wait at your table as a buffet of juicy, seasoned cuts rolls by. Just request a slice of whatever looks good. √ L-D daily. √ 300 E. Colorado Blvd., 626.744.0555, portoalegre- churrascaria.com. $$$ Go China (CHINESE) A cozy restaurant, affordable prices and delicious Chinese fare. The Dynamite Chicken is a must- try entrée! √ L-D daily. √ 136 N. Lake Ave., 626.793.3888, gochinarestaurant.com. $ Green Street Restaurant (AMERICAN) Whether you're looking for small bites to share, a three-course sit down dinner or a boxed gourmet meal to-go, this restaurant has it all. The menu is creative, but not too wild. √ B-L-D daily. √ 146 Shoppers Ln., 626.577.7170, greenstreetrestaurant.com. $ Gyu Kaku (JAPANESE) Grill your own steak or seafood at the table and wash it down with some sake. This interactive meal is a whole lotta fun. √ L-D daily. √ 70 W. Green St., 626.405.4842, gyu-kaku.com. $$$ Himalayan Cafe (HIMALAYAN) A mix of traditional Himalayan, Nepalese and Indian dishes. Vegetarian options available. √ L-D daily. √ 36 S. Fair Oaks Ave., 626.564.1560, himalayancafela.com. $ Houston's (STEAK HOUSE) A Pasadena favorite that consistently gets rave reviews for its prime cuts. √ L-D daily. √ 320 S. Arroyo Pkwy., 626.577.6001, hillstone.com. $$$ Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea (CAFE) This cafe is the home of a brew that's been so hyped by L.A. baristas, it's now considered a requisite at every trendy restaurant in the county. √ B-L-D daily. √ 55 E. Colorado Blvd., 626.578.1270, intelligentsiacoffee.com. $$ IX Tapa Cantina (MEXICAN) The grilled fish tacos make for a great bar snack. They also have a dangerous happy hour. √ L-D daily. √ 119 E. Colorado Blvd., 626.304.1000, cantinaixtapa.com. $$ Juice Served Here (JUICE BAR) Raw, organic and 100 percent cold-pressed juice. This juice bar offers only the highest quality juices and promotes happy, healthy lifestyles. Try the Block Rockin' Beets-a kidney cleansing juice of beets, carrots, tomato, lemon, cilantro and jalapeno. √ B-L-D daily. √ 57 E. Holly St., 626.578.0101, juiceservedhere.com. $ King's Row (GASTROPUB) Jungli Maas, Trotter Hash, Shepherd's Stack and other entrees only recognizable by serious pub-goers. They've got a jolly-good happy hour from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. and all day on Tuesdays. √ B-L-D daily. √ 20 E. Colorado Blvd., 626.793.3010, kingsrowpub.com. $$ The Kitchen Italian Cafe and Pizzeria (ITALIAN) This Italian eatery serves Sicilian, New York and Chicago deep-dish pizza. They're also known for their hearty calzones. √ L-D daily. √ 78 W. Union St., 626.796.9802, thekitchenpasadena.com. $$ La Grande Orange Cafe (CALIFORNIAN) An upscale dining spot with an emphasis on creative takes on the classics, with many fresh vegetarian options. √ L-D Mon.-Fri.; B-L-D Sat.-Sun. √ 260 S. Raymond Ave., 626.356.4444, lgostationcafe.com. $$ Lemonade (CALIFORNIAN) This convenient and healthy lunch favorite has a great selection of salads, sandwiches and soups. √ L-D daily. √ 146 S. Lake Ave., 626.304.7700, lemonadela.com. $ Lincoln (CAFÉ) This bakery and café is always busy, busy, busy! But it's worth a trip to try a bite of anything from their brunch selection. √ B-L-D Mon.-Sat.; B-L Sun. √ 1992 Lincoln Ave., 626.765.6746, lincolnpasadena.com. $$ The Little Flower Candy Co. (CAFE) This café and candy kitchen is fi lled with sweet and savory delights. Don't leave without trying one of their famous handmade caramels! √ B-L-D Mon.- Sat.; B-L Sun. √ 1422 W. Colorado Blvd., 626.304.4800, littlefl owercandyco.com. $$ Lost at Sea (FRENCH) Casual space for refi ned fresh seafood and seasonal dishes, plus biodynamic and organic wines. √ D-Tues.- Sun. √ 57 Holly St., 626.385.7644, lostatseapas.com. $$$ The Luggage Room Pizzeria (ITALIAN) Plentiful chopped salads and large pizzas for sharing. Gluten-free dough is available. √ D Mon.-Fri.; L-D Sat.-Sun. √ 260 S. Raymond Ave., 626.356.4440, theluggageroom.com. $$ Lunasia Dim Sum House (DIM SUM) Dim sum, traditional Chinese dishes and chef specialties in a spacious setting with white tablecloths. √ L-D daily. √ 239 E. Colorado Blvd., 626.793.8822, lunasiadimsumhouse.com. $$ Magnolia House (AMERICAN) A hideaway for those in the know. Enjoy unique, delicious craft cocktails and a small-plate menu inspired from around the world. √ D Mon.-Fri.; B-L-D Sat.- Sun. √ 492 S. Lake Ave., 626.584.1126, themaghouse.com. $ Maison Akira (FRENCH/JAPANESE) Impressive French cuisine infused with flavors from the Pacific Rim. √ L-D Fri. & Sat.; D Tues.- Sun. √ 713 E. Green St., 626.796.9501, maisonakira.com. $$$ 162 SEPTEMBER 2017 D I N I N G G U I D E DIRECTORY the