Eat, Drink, Play 2016 by Southland Publishing

EaT DR iNK PLaY YOUR GUIDE TO PASADENA AREA DINING, DRINKING AND FUN

IN WITH

THE NEW NEW

Pasadenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bountiful dining landscape has become a brave new world

DIVERSE

DELIGHTS Local tastemakers reveal their favorite places to Eat, Drink and Play

IIDEA DEA GUIDE GUIDE Good suggestions for a great time

EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

PHOTO: Danny Liao

IN WITH THE NEW PASADENA’S BOUNTIFUL DINING LANDSCAPE HAS BECOME A BRAVE NEW WORLD BY ERICA WAYNE

15 DIVERSE DELIGHTS LOCAL TASTEMAKERS REVEAL THEIR FAVORITE PLACES TO EAT, DRINK AND PLAY

37 IDEA GUIDE GOOD SUGGESTIONS FOR A GREAT TIME ON THE COVER: PHOTO BY DANNY LIAO

EDITOR Kevin Uhrich DEPUTY EDITOR André Coleman ART DIRECTOR Carla Cortez ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR Stephanie Torres PRODUCTION DESIGNERS Rochelle Bassarear, Richard Garcia WRITER Erica Wayne ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Dina Stegon SALES AND MARKETING Lisa Chase, Brenda Clarke, Leslie Lamm OFFICE MANAGER Ann Turrietta HUMAN RESOURCES Andrea E. Baker BUSINESS MANAGER Linda Lam CONTROLLER Kacie Cobian ACCOUNTING Sharon Huie, Teni Keshishian PUBLISHER Jon Guynn SOUTHL AND PUBLISHING V. P. OF OPERATIONS David Comden PRESIDENT Bruce Bolkin

EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

The Raymond Restaurant

In With the New PASADENA’S BOUNTIFUL DINING LANDSCAPE HAS BECOME A BRAVE NEW WORLD BY ERICA WAYNE | PHOTOS BY DANNY LIAO

ack in 1985 I wrote about the state of dining in Pasadena. The best high-end restaurants were old-timers Marianne’s and The Chronicle. Newcomers included Parkway Grill, The Raymond, Rosicler, Fish Martini, Il Fornaio, Stoney Point, La Couronne, Café Jacoulet and The Italian Fisherman, most of them now gone. Time marches on and fashions change. Much of what was hot 30 years ago is passé or clichéd today. As words like ahi, balsamic, applewood, brioche, sriracha, sea salt, hummos, fl atbread, multigrain, gluten-free, kale and quinoa start showing up on Coco’s and Mimi’s menus, leading chefs have already moved on. The National Restaurant Association recently put out an 18-page survey of almost 1,600 chefs titled “What’s Hot — 2016 Culinary Forecast.” Among the trends: local sourcing, natural ingredients, minimally processed food, environmental sustainability, ethnic condiments and spices, farm and estate-branded items, new cuts of meat, house-made artisan pickles and street food (on trucks or not). Veggie-centric dishes, old-fashioned cooking methods (e.g.,

pickling, fermenting and smoking), chemical and artificial ingredient-free food, organic everything, humanely treated food animals, more interesting fusion food, hot peppers and small plate restaurants are all gaining in popularity. Molecular gastronomy, foams and liquid nitrogen chilling and freezing are out. Edible insects, too! And I seem to have missed the brief surge in blood sausage cakes and vaporized cocktails. I’m not mourning the breakup of bacon-flavored chocolate and chocolate-covered bacon. Their divorce was inevitable. Pasta sales, alas, have dropped as low-carbers eschew even whole-wheat products in favor of grains, seeds and legumes. Spiralizers that turn beets, sweet potato and other veggies into ribbons are becoming incredibly popular thanks to the paleo movement. Smart pasta chefs are combining non-wheat flours with vegetable purées to keep their clientele interested. Fortunately, many of Pasadena’s top restaurateurs are deeply immersed in the latest and most interesting trends in modern cookery. Here’s a list of 10 places to visit for truly extraordinary experiences: continued on page 06 E EAT • DRINK DRINK • PLAY PLAY LA PASADENA WEEKLY Y

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1. PARKWAY GRILL started life just after the birth of Southern California-fusion cooking à la Wolfgang Puck. “Parkway,” states its website, “has been a powerful force in the regional American cuisine movement, specializing in a seasonal, market-driven approach to cooking that incorporates diverse influences and classic French technique. … Throughout the years, Parkway’s innovative chefs have showcased an intriguing array of dishes using locally sourced ingredients.” Selections from their menu illustrate Parkway’s range: Dungeness crab cake with shredded kataifi pasta, mangopiquillo pepper relish and purple mustard frill; seared scallops with cauliflower purée, curried Swiss chard, caper-sultana compote and walnuts; and whole ginger fried catfi sh, yuzu ponzu, caraway rice and cucumber-mint relish. (510 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena; (626) 795-1001, theparkwaygrill.com) 2. THE RAYMOND, known for excellent continental fare, former chef-owner Suzanne Bourg’s tenure during the 1980s and ’90s, began a slow transformation after Bourg’s departure, which snowballed in 2014 under the guidance of Chef Tim Guiltinan. His recipes, as described by their website, are “innovative, contemporary, classic American cuisine with global influences. Utilizing a mix of modern and classic cooking techniques, Guiltinan combines familiar ingredients with an exotic flair to produce a truly singular style.” Prime examples: Sticky potato with sesame, Korean red chili, scallion and cilantro, Whisper Farm’s aquaponic lettuce with lemon dressing and smoked salt. There’s also wild organic Northwestern mushrooms with forest soil, salsify and smoked vinegar. Steamed blue mussels with Angry Lady sauce, Chinese sausage and Thai chili are among customer favorites, as are hand-harvested scallops with Chinese black garlic, quinoa “fried rice” and fresh edamame. (1250 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena; (626) 441-3136, heraymond.com) 3. RACIÓN, Pasadena’s four-year-old Spanish tapas restaurant, is another masterpiece of culinary creativity. Owned by Loretta Peng with kitchen managed by Shane Alvord, it describes itself as “a modern small plates restaurant … conceived in the spirit of the Avant Garde and great tapas traditions of the Basque region of Spain.” Racion’s “food is inspired by traditional Spanish favorites and highlights the bounty of seasonal produce we enjoy in Southern California.” Among the inventive tapas are items like citrus-cured salmon with local grapes ajo blanco and trout roe; house-marinated French sardines, pork lardo and strawberry gazpacho, lamb meatballs with Basque cider, Picon and licorice greens; spiced cauliflower with wheatberry porridge, beets and almonds, and charred leeks with pinenut romesco and bone marrow custard. (119 W. Green St., Pasadena; (626) 396-3090, racionrestaurant.com) continued on page 8 6

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4. ALTAEATS 4 A LT LTAE A ATS S was opened near the Altadena/Pasadena border in early 2013 by chef Paul Ragan and wife Angela Visca, who trained at the French Culinary Institute in Manhattan and ran a restaurant in Madrid for five years. They call their menu “chef-inspired fresh cuisine.” Menus include small plates like chick peas with tomato, harrisa and calamari; pork belly fritters and duck hash with apricot jam; and larger entrées and sides, like roasted carrots with ras al hanout and yogurt sauce. (1860 Allen Ave., Pasadena; (626) 794-1162, altaeats.com) 5) THE EATERY ON ALLEN is owned and operated by Chef Claud Beltran, a visionary whom Pasadena has been lucky enough to claim for over two decades. From earlier gigs at Dickenson West, Cayo, Halie, Madeleine’s and Noir, he moved to northeast Pasadena in 2013 to headquarter his catering operation Claud & Co and open The Eatery, a small venue with menus that change monthly. This month’s theme is “Modern American,” featuring crispy beef penang tacos with fried wonton shell, cilantro, toasted peanut and sriracha queso fresco; char siu barbecue ribs with raspberry five-spice barbecue sauce and cabbage salad with yuzukosho lemon grass dressing; and foie gras ice cream sandwich on grandma’s oatmeal cookie with chocolate mole sauce. (488 Allen Ave., Pasadena; (626) 688-7256, eateryonallen.com) 6) BACCHUS’ KITCHEN, another of Beltran’s ventures, opened last year. Its current menu includes heirloom tomato risotto with blistered cherry tomatoes, spring greens, balsamic reduction and shaved parmesan; pan seared striped bass with Korean vermicelli, red bell pepper, zucchini, cilantro and coconut curry sauce; and pan-seared scallops with rice and black beans, tropical squash relish, and orange-ginger star anise reduction. (1384 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena; (626) 5946377, bacchuskitchen.com) continued on page 10

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The Royce

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7) THE ROYCE at the Langham Huntington Hotel specializes in fi ne beef and other fi re-roasted meats, but that limitation doesn’t stop Chef Perry Pollaci from adorning them with sides like bone marrow gratin, summer truffle, soft polenta with aged gouda or wild mushroom fricassee. His halibut is served with coconut rice, lobster, crab and bouillabaisse broth, while yellowfi n tartare comes with yuzu dressing, green apple and crisp rice. (1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena; (626) 585-6410, roycela.com) 8) THE TERRACE, the Langham’s less formal venue, may have an even more inventive and wide-ranging menu. Crispy fi ngerlings are served with harissa aioli, lime, cotija and sweet chili lebni while cauliflower pakoras in chickpea batter come with green goddess dressing, espelette and crispy kale. Grilled salmon is paired with tarragon spätzle, beurre rouge, sugar snap peas, broccolini and baby rainbow carrots. (1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena (626) 585-6218, langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/... /the-terrace) 9) UNION was opened by Chef Bruce Kalman (a specialist in pork, pickles and pasta among other talents) and partner Marie Petulla in 2014. Their website describes this Old Pasadena eatery as “an intimate neighborhood restaurant that brings the continued on page 12 10

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Union

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farmer and guest together to celebrate the simplicity of ingredients and the delight of a meal with friends.” Among recurring menu items are bread with cultured butter and giardiniere; shaved fennel salad with arugula, grapefruit, house-made ricotta and fennel sorbet; wild mushrooms with C&T polenta, Pedro Ximenez sherry vinegar, sage and rosemary; tagliatelle with pork ragu, parmigiano-reggiano and gremolata; and porchetta with Weiser Farm potatoes and salsa verde. The dessert list usually includes olive oil cake with citrus gastrique and salted honeycomb gelato as well as gianduja chocolate budino with cocoa nib, truffle salt and Ligurian olive oil. (37 E. Union St., Pasadena; (626) 795-5841, unionpasadena.com) 10) ALEXANDER’S STEAKHOUSE, celebrating its fi rst birthday this month is the latest of Pasadena’s cutting-edge kitchens, one of a small international chain. (The company operates four others in Cupertino, San Franciso, Taipei and Tokyo, as well as a fi sh house in Palo Alto and patisseries in Mountain View and Cupertino.) The chain features beef, but each local chef is free to riff on appetizers, sides and desserts. Some of Pasadena Chef Matt Bata’s inventive starters include toast with green garlic rouille, duck liver ragu and Muscat grape jam; grilled cook’s pork belly with pear cream, burnt honey gel, cumin dashi and saffron pears; and Passmore Ranch sturgeon terrine with caviar, dashi buttermilk and sturgeon chicharrones. Venison is served with wheatgrass emulsion, sea buckthorn and mustard miso. Crispy duck breast is prepared with buckwheat confit tamale, sakura jus and cherry-chili compote. Beef (including Aurora Angus, MM Farms Holstein, Greater Omaha prime and prized Wagyu) is prepared simply, but sides like creamed taro leaves with cured beef, taro chips and parmesan; summer succotash with chorizo, nouc mam, orange and red onion; and miso-baked beans with crispy potato strings and pickled jalapeño are available for augmentation. (111 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena; (626) 486-1111, alexanderssteakhouse.com) Dedicated foodies likely recognize all the ingredients mentioned in the above-cited dishes. (I purposely didn’t translate.) But there’s no reason to be embarrassed if you don’t. Top-tier chefs are involved in a never-ending worldwide search for new and unusual foods, flavors and cooking techniques. Ones with a wide appeal are like sriracha, which I saw featured on a McDonald’s billboard the other day, trickle-down trends. As for those who fi nd the more exotic and esoteric recipes a bridge too far, we can rejoice that the absolutely hottest food out there right now seems to be fried chicken! On a sandwich, paired with waffles, biscuits, grits or mashed potatoes, doused in hot sauce, red-eye gravy or covered in maple syrup — no matter what the prep, it’s No. 1. Barbecue isn’t doing too badly either. Neither are beer, ice cream and classic pies. Just memorize a few words to guide you in your choices: organic, free-range, grass-fed, craft, artisan, local and house-made. Abide by these and almost anything you eat will likely be trending up. Happy dining! ■ 12 2

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EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

Lunasia Dim Sum House

Diverse Delights LOCAL TASTEMAKERS REVEAL THEIR FAVORITE PLACES TO EAT, DRINK AND PLAY

PHOTO: (Top) Danny Liao

BOB FISHER — Owner, Ice House Comedy Club EAT: Lunasia Dim Sum House — Lots of different, unique tastes. Casual, comfortable atmosphere. DRINK: Paul Martin’s — Delicious drinks ... great staff ... interesting customers. PLAY: The Ice House — Love watching people laugh. Always fun to hang around with comedians.

GERDA GOVINE — Poet, Author, Activist EAT: Sushi of Naples DRINK: N/A PLAY: Walk to the Academy Theater, Old Town, South Lake — shopping/ice cream; concerts in the park — Levitt Pavilion

TOM COSTON — Executive Director the Light Bringer Project EAT: The Luggage Room — great pizza, drink specials and friendly wait staff! DRINK: Donkey Bar — always just crowded enough, great drinks and party spirit. PLAY: Rooftop of Castle Green. You have to be there. Out of the Pasadena, Chinatown and Downtown LA arts stuff. RANDY ERTLL — Author, Activist EAT: Raffi’s Restaurant in Glendale — They have the best rack of lamb kabob. The rice with saffron is excellent. I love Glendale. It’s a calm, safe city. DRINK: Urth Café — My favorite place to have cafe latte or Morrocan mint boba. PLAY: Vroman’s Bookstore — A great place to hang out and have tea or coffee. Conveniently, the Laemmle (Playhouse 7) Theater is right next door. continued on page 16 EAT • DRI DRINK RINK NK • PLAY PLAY AY PAS PASADENA WEEKLY

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ANN ERDMAN — Communications Specialist EAT: Central Park Restaurant — It’s the perfect spot for a breakfast or lunch meeting or a nice dinner with friends or a significant other. The cuisine is superb, service is excellent and the decor — a historic building filled with classic photos of movie stars from Hollywood’s golden age — is comfortable and charming. DRINK: Bar 1886 at The Raymond — This is the ideal watering hole for cocktail aficionados. Dozens of craft cocktails, invented by bartenders there over the years, as well as classic cocktails in everybody’s lexicon, are prepared to perfection. The bar cuisine is extensive and inexpensive, and happy hour prices are well worth a visit. PLAY: Arlington Garden — Situated on three acres, Pasadena’s only dedicated public city garden is free and open year-round from dawn to dusk. Sit on a bench and read or ponder, explore any number of meandering paths, walk the classic labyrinth or enjoy a picnic with friends and family.

ELISSA GLICKMAN — CEO, Glendale Arts EAT: At Thai Me Upp you’ll love the 12-hour braised brisket curry at this Glendale newcomer. El Morfi Grill is a Glendale institution and right across the street from the Alex Theatre. With Porto’s Bakery, you can’t go wrong, and the best part is, if you don’t have time to grab a sweet treat from there before a show, we feature a few of their baked goods at the theater. Johnnie’s Pizzeria, is open after shows, if you want to snag a late night snack and some delicious pizza. DRINK: Eden Burger, best burgers in town and the rooftop terrace is lovely at night, for a post-show drink. Katsuya has the best spicy 16 6

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tuna on crispy rice, and their rolls are always so fresh. It’s also a great place for a light dinner and cocktail before a show. PLAY: Bourbon Steak is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. The Wooden Fork is only a few doors down from the Alex and has some lovely organic salads and wine. They also host a really fun weekly wine and paint night

SHELDON EPPS — Artistic Director, Pasadena Playhouse EAT: redwhite+bluezz — This is my favorite place to have lunch meetings and I always love to start with the pear and tomato basil garlic flatbreads for the entire table. DRINK: Vertical Wine Bistro — They have an excellent selection of wines by the glass, and to add to the experience, be sure to pair with items from their raw bar. PLAY: iPic Theater at One Colorado — Who doesn’t like to watch the latest movie release in your own reclining chair, a blanket and free popcorn?

JEANNETTE BOVARD — Media Consultant, Pasadena Museum Of History EAT: Marston’s Restaurant. Just like eating at home — if I was a much better cook! DRINK: Bar 1886 at The Raymond Restaurant — Classy, romantic, upscale, delicious; this is our special-occasion/celebration place. PLAY: Wicked Lit (Unbound Productions) — Halloween is my favorite holiday; tromping through graveyards in the dark is my idea of fun.

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Levitt Pavilion

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PATTY ONAGAN — Director of Marketing and Communications, Pasadena Playhouse EAT: Parkway Grill — Beautiful and wonderful food; Gale’s — Reliably wonderful Italian food, in a place that feels like home! DRINK: redwhite+bluezz — Pretty convenient, I would say, but delicious wine and cocktails and wonderful creative energy. PLAY: The Pasadena Playhouse …of course, but also Boston Court, Levitt Pavilion, and all the unusual and surprising places where MUSE/IQUE makes beautiful music.

PADDY HURLEY — Managing Director the Light Bringer Project EAT: Kind Creme on Arroyo Parkway — 100 percent tasty and healthy comfort food. DRINK: Stone Brewery. Tasty quenching cold brews! PLAY: Laemmle and ArcLight theaters because I’m a fi lm fan. Also, the Playhouse District for coffee and Vroman’s! ■ 18

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT DIRECTORY 626 NIGHT MARKET 626 Night Market is back for its fifth season! Celebrate five years of foodie paradise, fun-to-photograph potato swirls, savory meat skewers, glowing mason jars, and a never-ending love/hate relationship with stinky tofu. Voted Best Cultural Festival by Pasadena Weekly readers, 626 Night Market is the original and largest night market in the country featuring hundreds of new and returning local chefs with delectable dishes, artists, entrepreneurs, games, and live music performances at each event. This summer, 626 Night Market expands to 4 weekends at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia. Admission is still only $3, free for kids ages 6 and under, and parking is free. Save the dates: August 5–7, and September 2–4 (Labor Day Weekend).

ALONDRA WINGS 9675 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (323) 274-1024 | 515 W. Main St., Alhambra (626) 576-7119 | alondrawings.com Alondra Hot Wings was voted the Reader Recommended WINNER for BEST WINGS in the BEST OF PASADENA Readers Poll 2015! With 5 locations, Alondra’s prides itself on its incredible selection of tasty wings and famous original sauces. Alondra’s Restaurant,Grill and Bar also features the best burgers, salads, sandwiches and much more!! Open Sunday –Thursday from 11am-11pm and Friday and Saturday 11am – 1am. Be sure to check out Alondra’s infamous Happy Hour Monday-Thursday 9pm-close and Monday-Friday 3pm-6pm.

ALL INDIA CAFÉ 39 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena (626) 440-0309 allindiacafe.com An unassuming Indian restaurant that fans call the best in Pasadena, All India Café specializes in a fascinating and extensive menu of authentic Indian home-style cooking. We use only natural spices and ingredients. We do not add artificial colorings or preservatives. We offer many sumptuous dishes that are lean, healthful and low in fat. Many vegan and vegetarian dishes are also available. We offer daily specials, which include a chicken curry of the day, a vegetable special, a lentil and rice of the day.

AMARA CHOCOLATE & COFFEE 55 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena (626) 744-1765 amarachocolate.com Amara’s is an intimate and eclectic cafe featuring Venezuelan cuisine pairing with South American coffees and Chocolates. Here, people go crazy for Arepas (gluten free sandwich), Cachapas (gluten free sweet-corn crepe) and Spanish style Churros con Chocolate. Everything is made with fresh local ingredients and served by people who is proud of it, and stands behind it. ‘We love our customers, we respect their restrictions and celebrate their taste. We only hope that people experience new flavors and leave with a smile. We hope that people continue sharing special moments at Amara’s.’

BIRD PICK TEA & HERB 10 S. De Lacey, Pasadena 626-773-4372 birdpick.com We strive to share our knowledge of the rich history of traditional teas and herbs by offering a vast selection of quality loose leaf teas and tea bags discovered from around the world – some even come from our own estates in China, one of which is an organic tea farm. We invite you to come and unwind at the Tear Bar with our refreshing and unique drinks or, if you want, explore the teas we offer. You are sure to find health in the perfect cup of tea whether you are a budding tea leaf or a seasoned connoisseur. Visit us at one of our three locations in Southern California or online at www.birdpick.com.

BONNIE B’S SMOKIN 1280 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 794-0132 bonniebssmokin.com Family owned Bonnie B’s Smokin, BBQ & Soul Food Heaven opened in December, 2009. The torched has been passed down to my nephew, Michael Jr. November 2015. It’s Zagat rated. We will continue to smoke up Pasadena with our Oklahoma Style BBQ located North of the 210 freeway and most importantly we’re South of Washington Blvd, across from the Food For Less shopping center. Our slogan BBQ Heaven has a resounding reply from our wonderful customers, “Yes we’re in heaven & we’re glad you’re here.”

BROOKSIDE RESTAURANT 1133 Rosemont Ave., Pasadena (626) 585-3594 brooksidegc.com The Grill by Brookside Golf Club located in the heart of the historic Pasadena Rose Bowl entices your pallet with panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains and a mouthwatering menu! Executive Chef Mario Harrison combines fresh local ingredients with creative culinary techniques that offer something for everyone! Enjoy a spicy Bloody Mary with breakfast or grab a cold beer with lunch while taking in the breathtaking views of Brookside’s tree lined fairways.

BURRITO EXPRESS 1597 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena (626) 798-0844 burritoexpresspasadena.com If you are looking for a quick meal that is made fresh and tastes delicious, stop on by. We’ve been serving up delicious food since 1978. We still use the same tried and true recipes since the beginning. We have been fortunate to win Pasadena Weekly’s Best Of in the Burrito category many times. In the summertime we sell Shave Ice after 5:00 to keep you cool during those hot summer evenings. continued on page 24 EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

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CABRERA’S MEXICAN CUISINE 655 N Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 795-0230 cabreras.com Cabrera’s Family Restaurant first opened their doors in 1985 in Arcadia. Today, Cabrera’s Mexican Cuisine operates and owns 3 localities with a professional enterprise that specializes in Mexican-American food and other dishes that are served with a very Mexican style. Our Focus provides delicious and fresh food resulting in a significant publicity by word of mouth and of recurrence and in such a manner are able to say proudly that our experience makes the difference.

CAFÉ LUMAR 136 E. Colorado Blvd., Monrovia (626) 357-2184 cafelumar.com Cafe LuMar invites you to come and experience the true flavors of Croatia. The owner took her love for cooking and entertaining to create this unique little family restaurant. We strive to serve the best possible European foods using only the freshest ingredients, all made from scratch. Come and try something different, we serve: Goulash, Beef Stroganoff, Breaded Pork Loin, Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, Lamb Shank (Dinner). Ours are the best crepes around, savory and sweet.

CALIFORNIA CRAZY CHEF’S CATERING SLAMMIN’ SLIDERS 120 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre (909) 527-4444 (626) 355-3030 slamminsliders.com slamminsliders@gmail.com catering@slamminsliders.com California Crazy Chef’s Catering has recently decided to expand its catering operations to go along with their busy gourmet food trucks, Slammin’ Sliders and Slammin’ II. With 40 plus years in the hospitality industry, co-owner, Executive Chef Edward Ungrue is now focused on “building the brand” along with longtime friend and business partner Tom Miller.

CLEARMAN’S GALLEY 7215 N. Rosemead Blvd., San Gabriel (626) 286-3075 clearmansrestaurants.com “The Boat” has been the destination for informal family meals and sports fans alike for over 40 years. Diners may sit inside at long tables or outside on the airy patio. Enjoy the juiciest burgers and sample the many craft beers we carry while watching all your favorite games on our huge hi-def screen. And, don’t forget the mouthwatering cheese bread and tangy salads. Some fans come just for those! Bring your friends and family tonight!

CLUB 54 54 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 793-0608 club54lounge.com Thank You for making us the #1 rated dance club in Old Town Pasadena. Experience Club 54’s three levels of music, food, and fully stocked bars. VIP seating in spacious booths and bottle service are available upon request. Come in and be part of the buzz. Contact us for corporate or private events. Must be 21 + years to enter

COLONIAL KITCHEN 1110 Huntington Dr., San Marino (626) 289-2449 Throwback joint serving classic American food, including breakfast, amid booths & Elvis memorabilia. The service is great and the environment is very cozy and welcoming. Some favorite dishes: Cajun Omelets and Egg Benedicts. continued on page 26 24

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The Titan consists of bacon, sausage, eggs, hash browns, pancakes, toast, and OJ. Enjoy our Ceviche Fish Tacos. Portions are pretty big and hearty. Plenty of parking in their parking lot next to the restaurant. This is a classic restaurant with old school feel, like going home to grandmother’s house.

THE COUNTER BURGER 140 Shoppers Lane, Pasadena (626) 440-1008 thecounterburger.com We want to challenge the way people think about burgers. We’re about creative construction. We think life is about experiences. Trying Stuff. Learning. Stretching. Being Inventive. So we’ve searched for ingredients, chosen meats, created sauces, baked buns, melted cheeses and crafted shakes that shout flavor. Take them and create something special.

CROSSINGS 1010 Mission St., South Pasadena (626) 799-7001 crossings-restaurant.com Discover Crossings! Come celebrate an evening with us at Crossings. Our menu offers something for everyone including numerous fresh seafood options, steaks, chops, pastas, and vegetarian options. We also offer a beautiful Sunday brunch from 10:00 to 1:30. Our happy hour Sunday through Friday from 5:30 to 7:00 offers hand crafted cocktails with the freshest ingredients as well as small bites from the kitchen. Come enjoy an evening at Crossings. Relax with a cocktail on our hidden patio. Enjoy dinner with family and friends beneath our ancient oak tree, and wonder if you are still in Los Angeles.

DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE 55 S. Lake Ave., Suite 150, Pasadena (626) 765-9913 Delfriscosgrille.com Del Frisco’s Grille dishes up creative twists on American comfort classics. Del Frisco’s Grille uses local ingredients alongside new classics that are easy to share with friends: Oven-baked Flatbreads, Cheesesteak Egg Rolls and Ahi Tacos. The menu also includes a selection of prime steaks, hearty salads, formidable sandwiches and chef-inspired entrees. Everything about us, from the interior design and seating to our exciting food and hand-crafted drinks, is built for creating an incredible experience. Sip & Share happy hour from 4-6:30pm weeknights in the bar. So pull up a chair and share with your neighbor.

FALCON THEATRE 4252 Riverside Dr., Burbank (818) 955-8101 FalconTheatre.com The Falcon Theatre’s 2016-2017 Five-Play Subscription Season is on sale now! This Season’s lineup includes the hilarious Parallel Lives, the off-Broadway hit Buyer & Cellar, the return of The Troubadour Theater Company with Little Drummer Bowie, the world premier of Laugh Then Think’s For Piano and Harpo, and the fast-paced comedy The Complete History of Comedy (abridged). Join us for this hilarious season! To purchase, visit the Box Office at 4252 Riverside Dr., Burbank, CA 91505 or call (818) 955-8101. For more information visit FalconTheatre.com

FANTASTIC SAMS 502 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 639-3737 FantasticSamsOnLake@gmail.com Welcome to our new Fantastic Sams! With an updated design inspired by our French parent company, we set a new standard in affordable luxury for the whole family. Our salon on South Lake is the first in California to offer a continued on page 28 26

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modern look and feel with outstanding stylists handpicked to offer you a great cut, highlight, or color. Private rooms available for special occasions! For more information, please call or email us at FantasticSamsOnLake@gmail.com

GO CHINA 136 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 793-3888 gochinarestaurants.com Where the art and love for world class Chinese cuisine thrives. Go China invites you for an adventure in mandarin and Szechuan cuisine that will delight your senses. Proudly serving the freshest quality food since 1999. Each dish is prepared carefully and thoughtfully for dining in, take out or delivery. Also featuring the finest selection of beer and wine. We also offer banquet facilities for parties or functions and catering is available. Conveniently located at 136 N. Lake Ave in Pasadena with ample parking in rear. Open daily from 11:00am -9:30pm.

ICE HOUSE COMEDY CLUB 24 N. Mentor Ave., Pasadena (626) 577-1894 Icehousecomedy.com For more than 50 side-splitting years, The Ice House’s stage has been propping up comedy heavyweights and future legends by the likes of Robin Williams, Lily Tomlin, George Carlin, George Lopez, and Jerry Seinfeld. Each week, the club continues its tradition of inverting frowns with an ever-growing lineup of up-and-coming jokesters, as well as occasional drop-ins by stars like Rob Schneider, Dana Carvey and Arsenio Hall. No seat within the intimate club is further than seven rows from the stage or 30 feet from the inflatable slides that serve as emergency exits.

IL FORNAIO 24 West Union St., Pasadena (626) 683-9797 banquets.pasadena@ilfo.com Step inside Il Fornaio and take an award-winning culinary journey through Italy. Specialties include housemade pastas, wood-fired pizza, grilled fish, authentic risotto and rotisserie meats. Fresh pastas are made daily. Each month we feature a special menu from a different region of Italy. With an event coordinator on site to handle all of your needs, Il Fornaio is the perfect location for special events and business functions. Repeat recipient of The Wine Spectator’s “Award of Excellence”.

JIN TEA SHOP 18 W. Green St., Pasadena (626) 219-6040 www.jinteashop.com Jin strongly believes that tea is a beverage that offers more than just great taste and a pleasant aroma. It is for these reasons that our tea offerings use only the purest organic tea leaves brewed to perfection. Our tea leaves come from farms in Taiwan that have adopted responsible organic farming practices. It is this quality of care that enables us to deliver handcrafted drinks that our customers can consume with peace of mind.

KABUKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 88 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 568-9310 3539 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena (626) 351-8963 kabukirestaurants.com Kabuki is a full-service, casual Japanese restaurant chain with 17 locations in Arizona, California and Nevada. The restaurants showcase traditional and innovative Japanese cuisine, creative cocktails and contemporary interior continued on page 30 28

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designs. The menu is led by R&D Director and Executive Corporate Chef Masa Kurihara and offers dishes for the adventurous sushi-lover to the vegetarianeater. The beverage program features classic cocktails, wine and beer, as well as inventive sake libations created by Master Sake Sommelier Yuji Matsumoto. Look for the Red Mask.

KATHLEENS RESTAURANT 595 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 578-0722 kathleensrestaurant.com Founded in 1982, Kathleen’s Restaurant has been serving the very best in California cuisine for almost 35 years! Serving lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday with fresh salads, burgers, sandwiches, house made Mexican specialties, fresh fish and delicious evening entrees. Offering breakfast every Saturday and Sunday featuring the famous $1.00 Mimosa! Kathleen’s also offers an incredible assortment of homemade baked goods. Conveniently located at 595 N. Lake Ave in Pasadena with plenty of parking in back.

LUCKY BALDWINS PUB Old Pasadena 17 S Raymond Ave., Pasadena (626) 795-0652 Pasadena 1770 E Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 844-0447 Sierra Madre 21 Kersting Court, Sierra Madre (626) 355-1140 Luckybaldwins.com Lucky Baldwins is known for the best Fish & Chips in town and our wide selection of beers on tap and bottles. We offer traditional English Fare for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Daily, and Weekend Brunch, with 3 locations to serve you! Dog friendly patio dining available at all three locations. Our pubs specialize in over 65 beers on tap ranging from Belgian, English & American Craft beers. We are widely known for our Belgian Beer Festival, Sweet and Sour Festival and our IPA Festival. We are also THE place to watch English Premiere League Soccer. Family friendly, free wifi.

LUNA GRILL 965 Foothill Blvd., La Canada Flintridge (818) 864-6834 lunagrill.com Luna Grill is real food crafted with care. A Mediterranean restaurant founded and owned by husband and wife Sean and Maria Pourteymour, Luna Grill cares about where your food, where it comes from, and how it is served. From kabobs to hummus, salad to wraps, Luna Grill has real food the whole family will love.

MARGARITA’S 155 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena (626) 449-4224 margaritasmexicanfood.com The name may say Margaritas, but this is a full-service Mexican restaurant. Tortillas are made by hand daily, and the weekday Buffet Brunch allows you to quickly and inexpensively eat to your heart’s content. Yes, the margaritas are to die for. Also open for Sunday brunch.

MATT DENNY’S ALE HOUSE RESTAURANT 145 E. Huntington Drive, Arcadia (626)462-0250 Mattdennys.com Matt Denny’s Ale House Restaurant has been a very popular venue in Arcadia Since 1999. Over the years, Matt Denny’s owner Matt McSweeny has been involved with Chamber of Commerce, the downtown Business Association, Holy Angels Church, the Historical Society and Methodist Hospital. Being active in the community has helped make Matt Denny’s Ale House one of the local favorites in town. With its extensive menu, Private Library Room, Patio Beer Garden and all the sports you want, this is a great place for a Business Lunch, continued on page 32 30

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Birthday Party, Office Holiday Party or Sports Team Party. Go to mattdennys. com for a virtual tour.

MUSE/IQUE muse-ique.com Celebrate the summer with MUSE/IQUE in a three-part festival titled GERSHWIN/NATION at Caltech’s Beckman Mall Lawn. The Summer of Sound series continues on Saturdays, August 20th with AMERICAN/RHAPSODY and September 10th with SUMMER/TIME. Programs feature music by Gershwin, his influences, and those he influenced and the modern retelling of “Porgy and Bess.” Join Rachael Worby and the orchestra for unforgettable performances and breathtaking surprises live at Caltech. Visit muse-ique.com for more information.

NORTH WOODS INN. 7247 Rosemead Blvd., San Gabriel (626) 286-3579 clearmansrestaurants.com Founder John Clearman would be so pleased that his restaurant was still the choice of so many in the San Gabriel area. He simply wanted families to have memorable meals at his namesake restaurants including the North Woods Inn in San Gabriel. Families come for the lumber-jack sized portions of the finest cuts of meat, fresh salads, the famous cheese bread, and yummy desserts. Why not bring the office for lunch!

THE ODD MARKET 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles theoddmarket.com Odd Nights returns to the Autry every 3rd Friday through October bringing even more great family fun than before. An expanded Kids Area debuting JUMP OFF. Live Performances by local bands, 100 curated vendors. 20 gourmet food trucks, full bar & custom handmade treasures. This vivid culture is perfect for all ages and families to bring a blanket, folding chairs and kick back for an evening picnic while enjoying the 2.5-acre lawn. This free event is a platform for selected artisans, craftsman, designers, and DIY experts for showcasing their creations and sharing their secrets. Pets are welcome! The Autry is located in the heart of Griffith Park right across from the LA ZOO just off the 134 fwy and interstate 5. Free parking and $2 admission. Kids 12 & under are free. 6PM - 11PM PST

PASADENA CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET (626) 449-0179 Pasadenafamersmarket.org Tuesdays – Villa Parke Center Saturdays – Victory Park Enjoy fresh local fruits, vegetables and farm products! If you have never been to a farmers market, you are in for a real treat. You’ll love the experience of buying directly from the farmer that grows the food. What you’ll love even more is the fresh, delicious taste of locally grown, nutritious fruits, vegetables and farm products. Our certified vendors only sell what they grow. Or, to put it another way, they won’t sell you anything that they did not grow. You know where your food came from and who grew it for you! The market is cash only, and we accept EBT!

PASADENA NOODLE & GRILL 2335 E. Colorado Blvd., # 110., Pasadena (626) 792-1893 pasadenanoodle.com Pasadena Noodle and Grill features pho, a noodle soup from Northern Vietnam, is served as a bowl of white rice noodle in beef broth (or chicken broth), with thin cuts of meat, variations featuring tendon, tripe, meatball or chicken. Spring rolls with lettuce (choose shrimp or tofu) are available to dip with continued on page 34 32

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mixed hoisin sauce. Crispy egg rolls and rice dishes with charbroiled pork chop, chicken, beef, baked egg or bean curd skin wrap shrimp are also on the menu.

PERRY’S BY CHEF CLAUD BELTRAN 928 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 486-2934 hotelconstance.com Perry’s by Chef Claud Beltran features Cal Asian cuisine -- with a twist. Adjacent to Pasadena’s Playhouse District, Perry’s is named in honor of Pasadena’s imaginary entrepreneur Constance Perry, the original builder of Hotel Constance and one of the country’s first female developers. Chef Claud’s team executes epicurean creations that highlight seasonal ingredients sourced at local farmer’s markets. Truly a contemporary dining experience, Perry’s grace and elegance accentuates everything that makes Pasadena special indeed.

PHILIPPE THE ORIGINAL 1001 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles (213) 628-3781 philippes.com

Sierra Fusion is the brain child of the hot “what is said to be” the hottest 2 young chefs to hit the culinary scene in quite some time. Executive Chef Christina Duarte and Executive Sushi Chef Joseph Ungrue have created a unique menu combining sushi, an array of appetizers and entrees from truffle chicken sliders at lunch to Diver Scallops and Foie Gras at dinner. To be moderately priced with these offerings in Sierra Madre is no wonder why Reservations are highly suggested.

STARK SPIRITS 1260 N. Lincoln Ave., #1100, Pasadena (626) 798-1377 Starkspirits.com

Philippe the Original is one of L.A.’s most historic restaurants, established in 1908 by Philippe Mathieu, who claimed the distinction of the “French Dipped Sandwich.” In 1927 Mathieu sold to the Martin Brothers, and today, descendants of Frank Martin run the landmark restaurant. Philippe’s French Dipped Sandwiches are the specialty of the house and consist of either roast beef, pork, lamb, turkey, ham or pastrami served on a freshly baked French roll, dipped in the natural jus of the roasts.

Stark Spirits is Pasadena’s first micro-distillery in which bottling began in late October 2014. Their first batch of orange brandy yielded six cases of Sunshine, which were promptly delivered to local liquor stores in the Pasadena & Los Angeles area. Greg & Karen Stark have expanded their production to rum and barrel-aged whisky and all of their products capture the elegance and nuance of handcrafted spirits. California Silver Rum, 151 Rum and Sunshine Orange Brandy can now be found locally in Pasadena at Everson Royce, Le Petit Vendome & Plate 38; in Glendale at Topline Wine; in La Canada at Remedy Liquor; in Echo Park at Mohawk Bend and in Hollywood at K & L Wines.

PRESIDENT THAI 498 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena (626) 578-9814 president-thai.com

STONEY POINT RESTAURANT 1460 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 449-9715 stoneypointrestaurant.com

Treat yourself and those who matter this holiday season with a complete traditional dining experience at President Thai Restaurant. You will find yourself surrounded by traditional Thai architecture and atmosphere while enjoying authentic Thai taste. Our newly renovated patio is spacious and temperature controlled, ideal for holding parties and special events. Gift cards are available for purchase.

ROY’S RESTAURANT 641 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 356-4066 roysrestaurant.com “Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion was founded in 1988 by our founding father Roy Yamaguchi. Roy’s dream is to “create a Hawaiian Fusion culinary culture that perfectly harmonizes the most interesting aspects of the world’s cuisines, deliver an irresistible dining experience, and work with good people in the spirit of ohana.” We are now open Monday thru Friday for lunch and Brunch Saturday and Sunday from 11am-2:30pm Our Aloha Hour (Happy Hour) is 4pm-7pm everyday with reverse Aloha Hour 9pm-Close Dinner Hours are from 5pm-10pm Mon-Thurs 5pm-11pm Fri-Sat and 4pm-9pm Sunday

RUTH’S CHRIS 369 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 583-8122 RuthsChris.com Ruth had a certain way of doing things. How to run a restaurant. How to treat people. How to prepare the best steak of your life. When people would ask Ruth why her food was so good and she’d simply say, “Just follow the recipe.” Come in tonight and experience how Ruth’s timeless recipe is alive and well to this day.

SIERRA FUSION 120 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre 34

Tel: (626) 355-3030, Fax: (626) 355-3232 sierrafusion.com info@sierrafusion.com

EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

Take a drive west across the Colorado Street Bridge and nestled in the San Rafael neighborhood you’ll find a hidden treasure. Newly remodeled, Stoney Point Restaurant, specializes in Continental cuisine and is a marvelous place to come and enjoy amazing food, outstanding service and live piano entertainment. LUNCH is served Tuesday-Friday from 11:30-2:30 DINNER is served Tuesday-Sunday beginning at 5:00

TOPS WALNUT 1792 E. Walnut St., Pasadena (626) 584-0244 topsburger.com You can’t leave here hungry. Not with 14 burgers, 13 Mexican dishes, 17 sandwiches, three types of hot dogs, seven salads and 12 types of breakfasts on the menu — all at great value prices. Charbroiled chicken plates, rib-eye steak plates, fish and chips and chicken strips add hearty heft at dinner for those hungry for just a little bit more. Nothing is pre-cooked. The portions of fresh onion rings and fries, sweet potato fries and zucchini are legendary, as are the best pastrami sandwiches in town. Try our new menu item California 3 Way: Spaghetti, Tops Secret Chili and Cheese.

WE OLIVE PASADENA 32 E Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 744-2766 Weolive.com/pasadena “Located in the heart of the beautiful Pasadena, you’ll find a truly unique shopping experience. We Olive Pasadena combines the fun of trying new things with the satisfaction of supporting an up-and-coming local business. From gourmet spreads to locally cultivated olive oils, there is truly something for everyone.” ■

EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

EAT DRINK PLAY •

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— IDEA GUIDE — The following list (including select “Best of Pasadena™” awardees) should be helpful in generating ideas of where best to Eat, Drink and Play in the Pasadena area! Kabuki Japanese Restaurant

EAT BEST NEW RESTAURANT

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

2015 WINNER

IN-N-OUT BURGER 2114 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA 1210 N. ATLANTIC BLVD., ALHAMBRA (800) 786-1000 | WWW.IN-N-OUT.COM

BACCHUS’ KITCHEN 1384 E. WASHINGTON BLVD., PASADENA (626) 594-6377 | BACCHUSKITCHEN.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED DEL FRISCO’S GRILL 55 S. LAKE AVE., SUITE 150, PASADENA (626) 765-9913 | ELFRISCOSGRILLE.COM LINCOLN 1992 LINCOLN AVE., PASADENA (626) 765-6746 | LINCOLNPASADENA.COM LUNASIA DIM SUM HOUSE 239 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-8822 | LUNASIADIMSUMHOUSE.COM

BEST BUSINESS LUNCH 2015 WINNER BACCHUS’ KITCHEN SMITTY’S GRILL 110 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 792-9999 | SMITTYSGRILL.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

PHOTO: Danny Liao

GREEN STREET RESTAURANT 146 SHOPPERS LANE, PASADENA (626) 577-7170 | GREENSTREETRESTAURANT.COM PARKWAY GRILL 510 S ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 795-1001 | THEPARKWAYGRILL.COM

BEST CHEAP EATS 2015 WINNER TOPS WALNUT 1792 E. WALNUT ST., PASADENA (626) 584-0244 | TOPSBURGER.COM

BEST OUTDOOR DINING 2015 WINNER

510 S ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 795-1001 | THEPARKWAYGRILL.COM

(626) 584-0244 | TOPSBURGER.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED 2015 READER RECOMMENDED

CONRAD’S RESTAURANT 861 E. WALNUT ST., PASADENA (626) 577-7602 820 N. CENTRAL AVE., GLENDALE (818) 246-6547

THE RAYMOND 1250 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 441-3136 | THERAYMOND.COM

LA GRANDE ORANGE CAFÉ 260 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 356-4444 | LGOSTATIONCAFE.COM

THE ROYCE AT THE LANGHAM HUNTINGTON 1401 S. OAK KNOLL AVE., PASADENA (626) 585-6410 | ROYCELA.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT

CAFÉ SANTORINI 64 W UNION ST., PASADENA (626) 564-4200 | CAFESANTORINI.COM MIKE & ANNE’S RESTAURANT | BAR 1040 MISSION ST., SUITE 102, SOUTH PASADENA (626) 799-7199 | MIKEANDANNES.COM

BEST ROMANTIC RESTAURANT 2015 WINNER THE RAYMOND 1250 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 441-3136 | THERAYMOND.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED MAISON AKIRA 713 E. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 796-9501 MAISONAKIRA.COM PARKWAY GRILL 510 S ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 795-1001 | THEPARKWAYGRILL.COM

BEST SPECIAL OCCASION DINING 2015 WINNER PARKWAY GRILL

2015 WINNER KABUKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 88 W. COLORADO BLVD. PASADENA (626) 568-9310 | KABUKIRESTAURANTS.COM 3539 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA (626) 351-8963

2015 READER RECOMMENDED CONRAD’S RESTAURANT 861 E. WALNUT ST., PASADENA (626) 577-7602 820 N. CENTRAL AVE., GLENDALE (818) 246-6547 IHOP 880 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 449-5226 | IHOP.COM 701 S. FREMONT ST., ALHAMBRA (626) 284-0458 1113 S. BALDWIN AVE., ARCADIA (626) 446- 2034 605 N. GLENDALE AVE., GLENDALE (818) 242-0922

BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK

LUCKY BOY 640 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 793-0120 | LUCKYBOYBURGERS.COM 531 E. WALNUT ST., PASADENA (626) 793-7079

BEST SUNDAY BRUNCH 2015 WINNER MIJARES MEXICAN RESTAURANT 145 PALMETTO DRIVE, PASADENA (626) 792-2763 | MIJARESRESTAURANT.COM 1806 E. WASHINGTON BLVD., PASADENA (626) 794-6674

2015 READER RECOMMENDED LA GRANDE ORANGE CAFÉ 260 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 356-4444 | LGOSTATIONCAFE.COM PANDA INN 3488 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-7300 | PANDAINN.COM

BEST ARMENIAN FOOD 2015 WINNER SAHARA MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT 2226 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 795-6900 SAHARAPASADENA.COM

2015 WINNER TOPS WALNUT 1792 E. WALNUT ST., PASADENA

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IDEA GUIDE •

2015 READER RECOMMENDED MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ 275 SHOPPERS LANE, PASADENA (626) 793-8844 KOKOSMEDITERRANEANCAFÉ.COM ZANKOU CHICKEN 1296 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-1502 ZANKOUCHICKEN.COM 1415 E. COLORADO ST., GLENDALE (818) 244-2237

410 E. MAIN ST., ALHAMBRA (626) 282-4287

2015 READER RECOMMENDED IN-N-OUT BURGER 2114 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA 1210 N. ATLANTIC BLVD., ALHAMBRA (800) 786-1000 | WWW.IN-N-OUT.COM THE COUNTER 140 SHOPPERS LANE, PASADENA (626) 440-1008 | THECOUNTERBURGER.COM

BEST BAKERY

BEST BURRITO

2015 WINNER

EURO PANE BAKERY 345 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 844-8804 950 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 577-1828

2015 READER RECOMMENDED 85°C BAKERY CAFE 61 S. FAIR OAKS AVE. #120, PASADENA (626) 792-8585 | 85CAFE.US

2015 WINNER

2015 WINNER MARSTON’S RESTAURANT 151 E. WALNUT ST., PASADENA (626) 796-2549 | MASTONRESTAURANT.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED LUCKY BOY 640 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 793-0120 | LUCKYBOYBURGERS.COM 531 E. WALNUT ST., PASADENA (626) 793-7079 RUSSELL’S 30 N. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 578-1404

BEST BUFFET 2015 WINNER SOUPLANTATION 201 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-4758 | SOUPLANTATION.COM 301 E. HUNTINGTON DRIVE, ARCADIA (626) 446-4248

2015 READER RECOMMENDED BOLLYWOOD MASALA 618 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 449-5954 | BOLLYWOODMASALACA.COM PANDA INN 3488 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-7300 PANDAINN.COM

BEST BURGER 2015 WINNER DOG HAUS 105 N. HILL AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-4287 | DOGHAUS.COM 93 E. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 693-0808

LAVENDER & HONEY ESPRESSO BAR 1383 E. WASHINGTON BLVD., PASADENA (626) 529-5571 LAVENDERANDHONEYESPRESSO.COM

BEST DESSERT

GUS’S BBQ 808 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., SOUTH PASADENA (626) 799-3251 | GUSSBBQ.COM

BEST BREAKFAST

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

KING TACO 45 N. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 792-0405 | KINGTACO.COM

BEST CALIFORNIA CUISINE

ROBIN’S WOODFIRE BBQ 395 N. ROSEMEAD AVE., PASADENA (626) 351-8885 ROBINSBBQ.COM

PASADENA SANDWICH COMPANY 259 SIERRA MADRE VILLA AVE. #102, PASADENA (626) 578-1616 PASADENASANDWICHCOMPANY.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

2015 WINNER

BONNIE B’S SMOKIN’ BBQ HEAVEN 1280 N. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 794-0132 | BONNIEBSSMOKIN.COM

2015 WINNER

PORTA VIA ITALIAN FOODS 1 W. CALIFORNIA BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-9000 | PORTAVIAFOODS.COM 2507 MISSION ST., SAN MARINO (626) 441-7600

BEST BBQ

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

BEST DELI/SANDWICHES

BURRITO EXPRESS 1597 E. WASHINGTON BLVD., PASADENA (626) 798-0844 BURRITOEXPRESSPASADENA.COM

LUCKY BOY 640 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 793-0120 | LUCKYBOYBURGERS.COM 531 E. WALNUT ST., PASADENA (626) 793-7079

LINCOLN 1992 LINCOLN AVE., PASADENA (626) 765-6746 | LINCOLNPASADENA.COM

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LA GRANDE ORANGE CAFÉ 260 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 356-4444 | LGOSTATIONCAFE.COM

DOT’S CUPCAKES 400 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 568-36787 | DOTSCUPCAKES.COM ONE COLORADO, 21 N. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 744-7719

TENDER GREENS 621 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-1511 | TENDERGREENS.COM 145 N. BRAND BLVD., GLENDALE (818) 459-4850

BEST HOT DOG 2015 WINNER DOG HAUS 105 N. HILL AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-4287 | DOGHAUS.COM 93 E. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 693-0808 410 E. MAIN ST., ALHAMBRA (626) 282-4287

2015 READER RECOMMENDED SLAW DOGS 720 N. LAKE AVE. #8, PASADENA (626) 808-9777 THESLAWDOGS.COM MEAT DISTRICT CO. 69 N RAYMOND AVE, PASADENA, (626) 765-9902 MEANTDISTRICTCOMPANY.COM

BEST ICE CREAM/YOGURT/GELATO 2015 WINNER

2015 READER RECOMMENDED AMARA CHOCOLATE & COFFEE 55 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 744-1765 | AMARACHOCOLATE.COM

CARMELA ICE CREAM 2495 E. WASHINGTON BLVD., PASADENA (626) 797-1405 | CARMELAICECREAM.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED CONFEXION CUPCAKES + CAKE 1 W. DAYTON ST., PASADENA (626) 486-9977 | CONFEXIONCUPCAKES.COM

BULGARINI GELATO 749 E. ALTADENA DRIVE, ALTADENA (626) 627-7640 | BULGARINIGELATO.COM

GREEN STREET RESTAURANT 146 SHOPPERS LANE, PASADENA (626) 577-7170 GREENSTREETRESTAURANT.COM

THE PIE HOLE 59 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 765-6315 | THEPIEHOLELA.COM

TENDER GREENS 621 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-1511 | TENDERGREENS.COM 145 N. BRAND BLVD., GLENDALE (818) 459-4850

2015 WINNER

BEST CHINESE FOOD

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

YOGURTLAND 30 W. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 304-0808 | YOGURT-LAND.COM 415 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 356-4868 5054 EAGLE ROCK BLVD., EAGLE ROCK (323) 550-1490 1 E. VALLEY BLVD., ALHAMBRA (626) 289-3420 633 W. DUARTE RD., ARCADIA (626) 821-8723

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

2015 WINNER PANDA INN 3488 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-7300 PANDAINN.COM YANG CHOW 3777 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 432-6868 | YANGCHOW.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED GRANDVIEW PALACE 60 N. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-2888 | GRANDVIEW-PALACE.COM LUNASIA DIM SUM HOUSE 239 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-8822 | LUNASIADIMSUMHOUSE.COM

BEST CUPCAKES 2015 WINNER DOT’S CUPCAKES 400 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 568-36787 | DOTSCUPCAKES.COM ONE COLORADO, 21 N. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 744-7719

BEST DIM SUM LUNASIA DIM SUM HOUSE 239 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-8822 | LUNASIADIMSUMHOUSE.COM

DIN TAI FUNG THE AMERICANA AT BRAND 177 CARUSO AVE., GLENDALE (818) 551-5561 | DINTAIFUNGUSA.COM 1108 S. BALDWIN AVE., ARCADIA (626) 574-7068 400 S. BALDWIN AVE., ARCADIA (626) 446-8588 KING HUA RESTAURANT 2000 W. MAIN ST., ALHAMBRA (626) 282-8833 | KINGHUARESTAURANT.COM

BEST FRENCH FOOD

CONFEXION CUPCAKES + CAKE 1 W. DAYTON ST., PASADENA (626) 486-9977 | CONFEXIONCUPCAKES.COM POLKATOTS CUPCAKES 720 N. LAKE AVE., #3, PASADENA (626) 798-3932 | POLKATOTSCUPCAKES.COM

EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

2015 WINNER COFFEE HOUSE LAVENDER & HONEY ESPRESSO BAR 1383 E. WASHINGTON BLVD., PASADENA (626) 529-5571 LAVENDERANDHONEYESPRESSO.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED COPA VIDA 70 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 213-3952 | COPA-VIDA.COM

2015 WINNER MAISON AKIRA 713 E. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 796-9501 | MAISONAKIRA.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED BISTRO DE LA GARE 921 MERIDIAN AVE., SOUTH PASADENA (626) 799-8828 | BISTGRODELAGARE.COM CAFÉ BIZOU 91 N. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 792-9923 | CAFEBIZOU.COM

BEST HEALTH/ORGANIC FOOD 2015 WINNER

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

BEST INDEPENDENT

JONES COFFEE ROASTERS 693 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 564-9291 | THEBESTCOFFEE.COM

BEST INDIAN FOOD 2015 WINNER ALL INDIA CAFÉ 39 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 400-0309 | ALLINDIACAFE.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED AKBAR CUISINE OF INDIA 44 N. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-9916 | AKBARCUISINEOFINDIA.COM

REAL FOOD DAILY 899 E. DEL MAR BLVD., PASADENA (626) 844-8900 | REALFOOD.COM

MINT LEAF INDIAN CUISINE 2535 E. WASHINGTON BLVD., PASADENA (626) 460-8776 | MINTLEAFPASADENA.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

BEST ITALIAN FOOD

GRASSROOTS NATURAL MARKET & KITCHEN 1119 FAIR OAKS AVE., SOUTH PASADENA (626) 799-0156 | GRASSROOTSNMK.COM

2015 WINNER CELESTINO RISTORANTE & BAR 141 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA

(626) 795-4006 | CELESTINOPASADENA.COM

260 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 356-4440 | THELUGGAGEROOM.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED GALE’S RESTAURANT 452 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 432-6705 | GALESRESTAURANT.COM MI PIACE 25 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 795-3131 | MIPIACE.COM

BEST JAPANESE FOOD/SUSHI 2015 WINNER

2015 READER RECOMMENDED BLAZE PIZZA 667 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 440-7358 | BLAZEPIZZA.COM 990 TOWN CENTER DRIVE, LACANADA FLINTRIDGE (818) 790-8900 GLENDALE GALLERIA 100 WEST BROADWAY, GLENDALE (818) 662-8777

KABUKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 88 W. COLORADO BLVD. PASADENA (626) 568-9310 | KABUKIRESTAURANTS.COM 3539 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA (626) 351-8963

SETTEBELLO PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA 625 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 765-9550 | SETTEBELLO.NET

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

2015 WINNER

BEST MEDITERRANEAN FOOD

OBA SUSHI IZAKAYA 181 E. GLENARM ST., PASADENA (626) 799-8543 | OBASUSHI.COM

MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ 273 SHOPPERS LANE, PASADENA (626) 793-8844 | KOKOSMEDITERRANEANCAFE.COM

SUSHI ROKU ONE COLORADO 33 MILLER ALLEY, PASADENA (626) 683-3000 | INNOVATIVEDINING.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

BEST JUICE BAR 2015 WINNER PRESSED JUICERY 59 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 696-3593 | PRESSEDJUICERY.COM THE AMERICANA AT BRAND 132 CARUSO AVE., GLENDALE (818) 247-2034

2015 READER RECOMMENDED JAMBA JUICE 64 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 666-1500 | JAMBAJUICE.COM 204 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 744-5200 3595 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA (626) 3510-4333 1101 FAIR OAKS AVE., SOUTH PASADENA (626) 799-1775 1131 S. FREMONT AVE., SUITE B, ALHAMBRA (626) 588-2490 THE AMERICANA AT BRAND 761 AMERICANA WAY, GLENDALE (818) 956-8971 5033 EAGLE ROCK BLVD., EAGLE ROCK (323) 349-0670

CAFÉ SANTORINI 64 W UNION ST., PASADENA (626) 564-4200 | CAFESANTORINI.COM HEIDAR BABA 1511 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 844-7970 | HEIDARBABA.COM

BEST MEXICAN FOOD 2015 WINNER MIJARES MEXICAN RESTAURANT 145 PALMETTO DRIVE, PASADENA (626) 792-2763 | MIJARESRESTAURANT.COM 1806 E. WASHINGTON BLVD., PASADENA (626) 794-6674

2015 READER RECOMMENDED EL PATRON 2555 N. LAKE AVE., ALTADENA (626) 296-2818 | ELPATRONONLINE.COM EL PORTAL 695 E. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 795-8553 | ELPORTALRESTAURANT.COM

BEST MIDDLE EASTERN FOOD 2015 WINNER (TIE) HEIDAR BABA 1511 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 844-7970 | HEIDARBABA.COM

JUICE SERVED HERE 57 E. HOLLY ST., PASADENA (626) 578-0101 | JUICESERVEDHERE.COM

SAHARA MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT 2226 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 795-6900 | SAHARAPASADENA.COM

NEKTER JUICE BAR 345 S. LAKE AVE. #110, PASADENA (818) 928-3300 | NEKTERJUICEBAR.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

BEST KOREAN FOOD 2015 WINNER GAON AUTHENTIC KOREAN BBQ RESTAURANT 2063 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 796-9604 | GAONRESTAURANT.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED GEN KOREAN BBQ 68 W. MAIN ST., ALHAMBRA (626) 407-2858 | GENKOREANBBQ.COM GYU KAKU JAPANESE BBQ 70 W. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 405-4842 | GYU-KAKU.COM YOUNG DONG TOFU 1311 S. BALDWIN AVE., ARCADIA (626) 445-0078 927 E. LAS TUNAS DRIVE, SAN GABRIEL (626) 286-6031

U PICK CAFÉ 720 N. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 808-9802 | PASADENAUPICKCAFE.COM ZANKOU CHICKEN 1296 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-1502 | ZANKOUCHICKEN.COM 1415 E. COLORADO ST., GLENDALE (818) 244-2237

BEST SALAD 2015 WINNER GREEN STREET RESTAURANT 146 SHOPPERS LANE, PASADENA (626) 577-7170 | GREENSTREETRESTAURANT.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED SOUPLANTATION 201 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-4758 | SOUPLANTATION.COM 301 E. HUNTINGTON DRIVE, ARCADIA (626) 446-4248

BEST LOCAL PIZZA 2015 WINNER THE LUGGAGE ROOM

continued on page 40 EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

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IDEA GUIDE •

TENDER GREENS 621 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-1511 | TENDERGREENS.COM 145 N. BRAND BLVD., GLENDALE (818) 459-4850

BEST SEAFOOD 2015 WINNER CAMERON’S SEAFOOD 1978 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 79303474 | CAMERONS4FISH.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED NIKKA FISH & GRILL 43 E. UNION ST., PASADENA (626) 440-0100 | NIKKAFISHGRILL.COM

continued from page 39

330 E. ORANGE GROVE BLVD., PASADENA (626) 304-2752 LOS TACOS 1 W. CALIFORNIA BLVD., PASADENA (626) 795-9291 LOSTACOS.COM

BEST TEA ROOM 2015 WINNER CHADO TEA ROOM 79 N. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 431-2832 CHADOTEA.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED SPINFISH POKE HOUSE 36 W. COLORADO BLVD., SUITE 7, PASADENA (626) 585-0988 | SPINFISHLA.COM

BEST SOUL FOOD 2015 WINNER BIG MAMA’S RIB SHACK & SOUTHERN COOKING 1453 N. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 797-1792 BIGMAMASPASADENA.COM

BIRD PICK TEA & HERB 10 S. DELACEY AVE., PASADENA (626) 773-4372 BIRDPICK.COM TEA ROSE GARDEN 70 N. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 578-1144 ROSEGARDEN.WORDPRESS.COM

BEST THAI FOOD 2015 WINNER

2015 READER RECOMMENDED ROSCOE’S HOUSE OF CHICKEN AND WAFFLES 830 N. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 791-4890 ROSCOESCHICKENANDWAFFLES.COM

BEST SOUTH AMERICAN FOOD

DAISY MINT 1218 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 792-2999 | DAISYMINT.COM SALADANG SONG 363 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 793-8123

2015 WINNER MALBEC 1001 E. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 683-0550 | MALBECCUISINE.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED 1810 ARGENTINEAN RESTAURANT 121 W. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 795-5658 | 1810RESTAURANT.COM AMARA CHOCOLATE & COFFEE 55 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 744-1765 | AMARACHOCOLATE.COM

BEST SPANISH FOOD 2015 WINNER RACION 119 W. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 396-3090 | RACIONRESTAURANT.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED BAR CELONA 46 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-1000 | BARCELONAPASADENA.COM

BEST STEAKHOUSE

2015 READER RECOMMENDED PRESIDENT THAI 498 S. ROSEMEAD BLVD., PASADENA (626) 578-9814 | PRESIDENT-THAI.COM

BEST VEGETARIAN FOOD 2015 WINNER VEGGIE GRILL 200 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 535-9561 | VEGGIEGRILL.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED MY VEGAN 633 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 578-9017 | MYVEGANRESTAURANT.COM REAL FOOD DAILY 899 E. DEL MAR BLVD., PASADENA (626) 844-8900 | REALFOOD.COM

BEST VIETNAMESE FOOD 2015 WINNER SAIGON NOODLE RESTAURANT 28 N. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 796-9378

2015 WINNER ARROYO CHOP HOUSE 536 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 577-7463 | ARROYOCHOPHOUSE.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED HOUSTON’S 320 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 577-6001 | HILLSTONE.COM/HOUSTONS RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 369 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 583-8122 | RUTHSCHRIS.COM

BEST TACO 2015 WINNER KING TACO 640 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 792-0405 | KINGTACO.COM 115-117 E. BROADWAY AVE., GLENDALE (818) 409-0172

2015 READER RECOMMENDED LA ESTRELLA 502 N. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 792-8559

EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

2015 READER RECOMMENDED BLUE HEN 1743 COLORADO BLVD., EAGLE ROCK (323) 982-9900 EATBLUEHEN.COM

BEST WINGS 2015 WINNER BUFFALO WILD WINGS 1000 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 993-6400 | BUFFALOWILDWINGS.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED ALONDRA HOT WINGS 2675 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (323) 274-1025 ALONDRAWINGS.COM 515 W. MAIN ST., ALHAMBRA (626) 576-7119 HOT WINGS CAFÉ 89 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 449-9055 | HOTWINGSCAFE.NET 314 N. BRAND BLVD., GLENDALE (818) 247-4455

•

IDEA GUIDE • 1886 Bar At The Raymond

DRINK BEST BAR 2015 WINNER LUCKY BALDWINS PUB 17 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 795-0652 LUCKYBALDWINS.COM LUCKY BALDWINS TRAPPISTE 1770 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 844-0447 LUCKY BALDWINS DELIRIUM CAFÉ 21 KERSTING COURT, SIERRA MADRE (626) 355-1140

2015 READER RECOMMENDED THE BLIND DONKEY 53 E. UNION ST., PASADENA (626) 792-1833 | THEBLINDDONKEY.COM KINGS ROW GASTROPUB 20 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-3010 | KINGSROWPUB.COM MAGNOLIA HOUSE 492 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 584-1126 | THEMAGHOUSE.COM

BEST BEER SELECTION 2015 WINNER YARD HOUSE PASEO COLORADO, 330 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 577-9273 | YARDHOUSE.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED CONGREGATION ALE HOUSE 300 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 403-2337 | CONGREGATIONALEHOUSE.COM

PHOTO: Danny Liao

LUCKY BALDWINS PUB 17 S. RAYMOND AVE. (626) 795-0652 | LUCKYBALDWINS.COM LUCKY BALDWINS TRAPPISTE 1770 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 844-0447 LUCKY BALDWINS DELIRIUM CAFÉ 21 KERSTING COURT, SIERRA MADRE (626) 355-1140

1401 S. OAK KNOLL AVE., PASADENA (626) 568-3900 | LANGHAMTAPROOM.COM

(626) 578-1818 | WOKCANORESTAURANT.COM (LOCATED IN THE REAR OF WOKCANO RESTAURANT, ON MILLS PLACE)

ALSO RECOMMENDED

BEST LOCAL BREWERY

VILLA SORRISO 46 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-1000 | SORRISOPASADENA.COM

BEST DIVE BAR 2015 WINNER FREDDIE’S 35ER BAR 12 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 356-9315 | 35ERBAR.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED ALTADENA ALE HOUSE 2329 FAIR OAKS AVE., ALTADENA (626) 794-4577 | ALTADENAALEHOUSE.COM THE COLORADO BAR 2640 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 449-3485

ALSO RECOMMENDED OLD TOWNE PUB 66 N FAIR OAKS AVE, PASADENA (626) 577-6583 | OLDTOWNEPUB.COM OLD 1881 CLUB 1881 E. WASHINGTON BLVD., PASADENA (626) 794-3068 THE WOKCANO BAR 33 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 578-1818 | WOKCANORESTAURANT.COM (LOCATED IN THE REAR OF WOKCANO RESTAURANT, ON MILLS PLACE)

BEST HAPPY HOUR 2015 WINNER KABUKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 88 W. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 568-9310 | KABUKIRESTAURANTS.COM 3539 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA (626) 351-8963

BEST COCKTAILS

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

2015 WINNER

ROY’S HAWAIIAN FUSION 641 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 356-4066 | ROYSRESTAURANT.COM

1886 BAR AT THE RAYMOND 1250 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 441-3136 | THERAYMOND.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED MAGNOLIA HOUSE 492 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 584-1126 | THEMAGHOUSE.COM THE TAP ROOM IN THE LANGHAM HUNTINGTON HOTEL

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE 369 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 583-8122 | RUTHSCHRIS.COM

ALSO RECOMMENDED THE WOKCANO BAR 33 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA

2015 WINNER

(626) 219-6054 | DERWOLFSKOPF.COM KINGS ROW GASTROPUB 20 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-3010 | KINGSROWPUB.COM

ALSO RECOMMENDED

CRAFTSMAN BREWING CO. 1260 LINCOLN AVE., PASADENA (626) 29602537 CRAFTSMANBREWING.COM

EDWIN MILLS BY EQUATOR 22 MILLS PLACE, PASADENA (626) 564-8656 | EDWINMILLS.COM

GOLDEN ROAD BREWING 5410 W. SAN FERNANDO ROAD, LOS ANGELES (213) 542-6039 | GOLDENROAD.LA

THE WOKCANO BAR 33 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 578-1818 | WOKCANORESTAURANT.COM (LOCATED IN THE REAR OF WOKCANO RESTAURANT, ON MILLS PLACE)

BEST MARGARITAS

BEST SPORTS BAR

2015 WINNER

MIJARES 145 PALMETTO DRIVE, PASADENA (626) 792-2763 | MIJARESRESTAURANT.COM 1806 E. WASHINGTON BLVD., PASADENA (626) 794-6674

BARNEY’S BEANERY 99 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-9777 | BARNEYSBEANERY.COM/ LOCATIONS/PASADENA

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

2015 READER RECOMMENDED 2015 READER RECOMMENDED AMIGO’S 1076 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 577-1307 EL PORTAL 695 E. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 795-8553 ELPORTALRESTAURANT.COM

ALSO RECOMMENDED IX TAPA CANTINA 119 E COLORADO BLVD, PASADENA (626) 304-1000 | CANTINAIXTAPA.COM

BEST PUB GRUB 2015 WINNER LUCKY BALDWINS PUB 17 S. RAYMOND AVE. (626) 795-0652 | LUCKYBALDWINS.COM LUCKY BALDWINS TRAPPISTE 1770 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 844-0447 LUCKY BALDWINS DELIRIUM CAFÉ 21 KERSTING COURT, SIERRA MADRE (626) 355-1140

ROCCO’S TAVERN 44 W. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 765-6810 | ROCCOSTAVERNLA.COM YARD HOUSE 330 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 577-9273 | YARDHOUSE.COM

ALSO RECOMMENDED FREDDIE’S 35ER 12 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 794-4577 | 35ERBAR.COM LUCKY BALDWINS PUB 17 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 795-0652 | LUCKYBALDWINS.COM

BEST WINE SELECTION 2015 WINNER VERTICAL WINE BAR 70 N. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 795-3999 | VERTICALWINEBISTRO.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED BODEGA WINE BAR 260 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-4300 | BODEGAWINEBAR.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED CONGREGATION ALE HOUSE 300 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 403-2337 CONGREGATIONALEHOUSE.COM DER WOLFSKOPF 72 N. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA

MONOPOLE WINE 21 S. EL MOLINO AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-9463 MONOPOLEWINE.COM

continued on page 42 EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

•

IDEA GUIDE •

continued from page 41

PLAY DARTS

2015 WINNER

T. BOYLES TAVERN 37 N. CATALINA AVE., PASADENA (626) 578-0957 | TBOYLESTAVERN.COM

HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART COLLECTIONS AND BOTANICAL GARDENS 1151 OXFORD ROAD, SAN MARINO (626) 405.2100 | HUNTINGTON.ORG

2015 READER RECOMMENDED ARMORY CENTER FOR THE ARTS 145 N. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 792-5101 | ARMORYARTS.ORG

CONGREGATION ALE HOUSE 300 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 403-2337 CONGREGATIONALEHOUSE.COM

FLOWER PEPPER GALLERY 121 E. UNION ST., PASADENA (626) 795-1895 | FLOWER-PEPPER.COM

ALTADENA ALE AND WINE HOUSE 2329 FAIR OAKS AVE., ALTADENA (626) 797-9219 | ALTADENAALEHOUSE.COM

TIRAGE GALLERY 1 W. CALIFORNIA BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-1020 | TIRAGEART.COM

BEST GENTLEMEN’S CLUB

BILLIARDS/POOL FREDDIE’S 35ER BAR 12 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 356-9315 | 35ERBAR.COM THE COLORADO 2640 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 449-3485 BARNEY’S BEANERY 99 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-9777 | BARNEYSBEANERY.COM/ LOCATIONS/PASADENA

BOWLING ALL STAR LANES 4459 N. EAGLE ROCK BLVD., EAGLE ROCK (323) 254-2579 | ALLSTARLANESBOWLING.COM AMF BOWLING SQUARE LANES 1020 BALDWIN AVE. (626) 445-3160 | AMF.COM/LOCATION/AMFBOWLING-SQUARE-LANES BOWLMOR PASADENA 3545 E FOOTHILL BLVD (626) 351-8858 HIGHLAND PARK BOWL 5621 N FIGUEROA ST (323) 257-2695 | HIGHLANDPARKBOWL.COM

BEST COMEDY CLUB 2015 WINNER THE ICE HOUSE COMEDY CLUB 24 N. MENTOR AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-1894 | ICEHOUSECOMEDY.COM

ALSO RECOMMENDED BITCHFACER COMEDY JONES COFFEE ROASTER 693 S RAYMOND AVE, PASADENA (626) 564-9291 | AMYSILVERBERG.COM/ EVENTS/BITCHFACE-COMEDY-1

OLD TOWNE PUB 66 N. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-6583 | THEOLDTOWNEPUB.COM

2015 WINNER KNOCKOUTS GENTLEMEN’S CLUB 1580 CLARK ST., ARCADIA (626) 303-3003 | KNOCKOUTSLA.COM

BEST KIDS/FAMILY FUN SPOT 2015 WINNER KIDSPACE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 480 N. ARROYO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 449-9144 | KIDSPACEMUSEUM.ORG

2015 READER RECOMMENDED HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART COLLECTIONS AND BOTANICAL GARDENS 1151 OXFORD ROAD, SAN MARINO (626) 405.2100 | HUNTINGTON.ORG NEON RETRO ARCADE 28 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA(626) 5682924 | NEONRETROARCADE.COM

OLD TOWNE PUB 66 N. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-6583 | THEOLDTOWNEPUB.COM BIG MAMA’S RIB SHACK 1453 N. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 797-1792 | BIGMAMASPASADENA.COM ARCADIA BLUES CLUB 16 E. HUNTINGTON DRIVE, ARCADIA (626) 447-9349 | ARCADIABLUESCLUB.COM MATT DENNY’S ALE HOUSE 145 E. HUNTINGTON DRIVE, ARCADIA (626) 462-0250 | MATTDENNYS.COM COFFEE GALLERY BACKSTAGE 2029 N. LAKE AVE., ALTADENA (626) 798-6236 | COFFEEGALLERY.COM

ALSO RECOMMENDED THE ROSE PASEO COLORADO 300 E. COLORADO BLVD., UNIT 101, PASADENA (888) 645-5006 | ROSECONCERTS.COM GRIFFIN OF KINSALE 1007 MISSION ST., SOUTH PASADENA (626) 799-0926 | GRIFFINSOFKINSALE.COM

EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

PACIFIC THEATRES GLENDALE 18 THE AMERICANA AT BRAND 322 AMERICANA WAY, GLENDALE (818) 551-0218 | PACIFICTHEATRES.COM/ GLENDALE

BEST MUSEUM

LEVITT PAVILION 85 E. HOLLY ST., PASADENA (626) 683-3230 | LEVITTPAVILIONPASADENA.ORG

ALSO RECOMMENDED THE LOS ANGELES ARBORETUM AND BOTANIC GARDEN 301 N. BALDWIN AVE., ARCADIA (626) 821-3222 | ARBORETUM.ORG

BEST LIVE THEATER VENUE 2015 WINNER PASADENA PLAYHOUSE 39 S. EL MOLINO AVE., PASADENA (626) 356-7529 | PASADENAPLAYHOUSE.ORG

A NOISE WITHIN 3352 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA (626) 356-3100 | ANOISEWITHIN.ORG

T. BOYLE’S TAVERN 37 N. CATALINA AVE., PASADENA (626) 578-0957 | TBOYLESTAVERN.COM

ALSO RECOMMENDED

2015 WINNER

REDWHITE+BLUEZZ 37 S. EL MOLINA AVE., PASADENA (626) 792-4441 | REDWHITEBLUEZZ.COM

LAEMMLE’S PLAYHOUSE 7 673 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (310) 478-3836 | LAEMMLE.COM/THEATERS/6

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

IPIC 42 MILLER ALLEY, PASADENA (626) 639-2260 | IPICTHEATERS.COM

REGENCY ACADEMY CINEMAS 6 1003 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 229-9400 | REGENCYMOVIES.COM

BEST LIVE MUSIC BAR/CLUB KINGS ROW GASTROPUB 20 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-3010 | KINGSROWPUB.COM

2015 READER RECOMMENDED

BOSTON COURT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 70 N. MENTOR AVE., PASADENA (626) 683-6883 | BOSTONCOURT.COM

ALSO RECOMMENDED THE ALEX THEATRE 216 N. BRAND BLVD., GLENDALE (818) 243-2539 | ALEXTHEATRE.ORG SIERRA MADRE PLAYHOUSE 87 W. SIERRA MADRE BLVD., SIERRA MADRE (626) 355-4318 SIERRAMADREPLAYHOUSE.ORG

2015 WINNER NORTON SIMON MUSEUM 411 W. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 449-6840 | NORTONSIMON.ORG

2015 READER RECOMMENDED KIDSPACE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 480 N. ARROYO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 449-9144 | KIDSPACEMUSEUM.ORG PASADENA MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA ART 490 E. UNION ST., PASADENA (626) 568-3665 | PMCAONLINE.ORG

ALSO RECOMMENDED USC/PACIFIC ASIA MUSEUM 46 N LOS ROBLES AVE, PASADENA (626) 449-2742 | PACIFICASIAMUSEUM.ORG

BEST PARK 2015 WINNER RECREATION SPOT BROOKSIDE PARK 1001 ROSE BOWL DRIVE, PASADENA (626) 577-3100

2015 READER RECOMMENDED LOWER ARROYO PARK/ PASADENA ARCHERY RANGE 415 S ARROYO BLVD, PASADENA (626) 577-7252 | ROVINGARCHERS.COM EATON CANYON ECNCA.ORG

BEST MOVIE THEATER 2015 WINNER

ALSO RECOMMENDED

ARCLIGHT 300 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 568-9651 | ARCLIGHTCINEMAS.COM

HAHAMONGNA WATERSHED PARK 4550 OAK GROVE DRIVE, PASADENA (626) 744-7275 | CI.PASADENA.CA.US

PHOTO: Danny Liao

BEST ART GALLERY

EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY