Eatdrinkplay 2015 by Southland Publishing

EAT

DRINK PLAY

A SPECIAL PRESENTATION BY

FROM A TO Z An alphabetical guide to fantastic local dining options in the Greater Pasadena area

24 HOURS OF FUN Set your internal amusement timer for a day of great music, food, dancing and friends

PHOTO: Danny Liao

FROM A TO Z AN ALPHABETICAL GUIDE TO FANTASTIC LOCAL DINING OPTIONS IN THE GREATER PASADENA AREA BY ERICA WAYNE

37 24 HOURS OF FUN SET YOUR INTERNAL AMUSEMENT TIMER FOR A DAY OF GREAT MUSIC, FOOD, DANCING AND FRIENDS BY SHEILA MENDES COLEMAN

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 Tim Oliver, Rochelle Bassarear WRITER Sheila Mendes Coleman, Erica Wayne ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Dina Stegon SALES AND MARKETING Lisa Chase, Brenda Clarke, Leslie Lamm OFFICE ASSISTANT Ann Weathersbee HUMAN RESOURCES Andrea E. Baker BUSINESS MANAGER Linda Lam ACCOUNTING Kacie Cobian, Sharon Huie, Teni Keshishian PUBLISHER Jon Guynn SOUTHL AND PUBLISHING V. P. OF FINANCE Michael Nagami V. P. OF OPERATIONS David Comden PRESIDENT Bruce Bolkin

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT DIRECTORY 626 NIGHT MARKET

The original and largest Asian-themed night market in the U.S., 626 Night Market features over 200 food, merchandise, and craft vendors, plus an art walk, carnival games, and live music performances, all in an epic three-day event for all ages. 626 Night Market is located at the famous Santa Anita Park in Arcadia. For complete event information and hours, please visit 626nightmarket.com.

ALEXANDER’S STEAKHOUSE 111 North Los Robles Ave., Pasadena (626) 486-1111 alexanderssteakhouse.com

Alexander’s Steakhouse welcomes you to experience our modern American steakhouse cuisine with an innovative and elegant global inspiration. Our menu features Certified Angus Beef, corn-fed from the Mid-West and 28-day dry-aged steaks for unparalleled flavor. We take pride in serving the finest and most luxurious ingredients available including imported wagyu beef. The wine philosophy at Alexander’s Steakhouse is to provide exciting and interesting wines while holding true to the idea of a classic American steakhouse.

ALL INDIA CAFÉ 39 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena (626) 440-0309 allindiacafe.com

bread and tangy salads. Some fans come just for those! Bring your friends and family tonight!

DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE 55 S. Lake Ave., Suite 150, Pasadena (626) 765-9913 Delfriscosgrille.com

Del Frisco’s Grille is an exciting new Pasadena restaurant that 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. So pull up a chair and share with your neighbor.

EDWIN MILLS 22 Mills Place, Pasadena (626) 564-8656 www.edwinmills.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.

Edwin Mills is an intimate New-American urban tavern gastro pub located in the heart of Old Pasadena. Formerly known as The Equator, Edwin Mills takes its name from the roads intersecting at its door: Mills Place and Edwin Alley, both named in the late nineteenth century to honor Pasadena entrepreneurs. Offering delicious food, friendly service, genuine people and the best Happy Hour in Pasadena, customers love our whiskey selection and bottomless Mimosas we offer a full selection of wines, beers, martinis, specialty cocktails and champagne. Come check out our live music on Wed. We look forward to seeing you!

AVANTI ITALIAN BISTRO & BAR 187 N. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena (626) 817-9180 www.avantibistro.com

EL TOREO CAFÉ 21 S. Fair Oaks Ave. Pasadena (626) 793-2577

Avanti Italian Bistro & Bar brings elegance and a sophisticated environment that provides a refreshing Italian cuisine with an open kitchen under supervision of Italian / French Master Chef Marco D”arsi. Enjoy a wonderful selection of salads, pastas and entrees that include Rack of Lamb and seafood dishes with Branzino, Salmon and Trout. Then Sip on your favorite martini at the swank curved bar. Our bistro has modern stainless steel touches, red brick interior walls, fireplace, lots of window-side tables and a deck with outdoor seating.

CAFÉ LUMAR 136 E. Colorado Blvd., Monrovia (626) 357-2184 Cafelumar.com

Family owned restaurant in old town Monrovia where all food is made from scratch. We wanted to bring touch of Europe to Southern California, and for our customers to feel home away from home.

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

Family owned and operated, serving authentic Mexican food in the heart of Old Town Pasadena, for 40 years. Daily lunch specials. Fresh salsa and chips, homemade daily. Friendly staff, warm atmosphere. Come for the best and forget the rest. Happy Hour Mon – Fri 3-6pm with $3.00 Beer & $2.50 Tacos.

FALCON THEATRE 4252 Riverside Dr., Burbank (818) 955-8101 www.FalconTheatre.com.

The Falcon Theatre’s 2015-2016 Five-Play Subscription Season is on sale now! This year’s line-up includes improvisational Sondheim stylings by the hilarious Impro Theatre, literary duo F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway, a Troubie holiday musical, our entire American History, and some of our own Toluca Lake housewives! 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 www.FalconTheatre.com.

GRIFFINS OF KINSALE 1007 Mission Street, South Pasadena (626) 799-0926 griffinsofkinsale.com

Many folks have forgotten that pub means “public house.” Not Joe Griffin. Since we open two and a half years ago, Joe has been building a beautiful “public house” in South continued on page 28 EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

~ DINING & ENTERTAINMENT DIRECTORY ~ continued from page 27 Pasadena. Joe’s pub has more to it than being the local watering hole. Instead, It is a gathering place rich with substance and the hum of busy conversation, a breeding ground for talent, a hub for people to come in contact with each other. It is a launching pad for local musicians and artists, a sounding board for writers. The Menu goes hand in hand with the ambience of the pub having traditional Irish fare, that is heartfelt and real. In short, Joe’s pub is dedicated to the public it serves.

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 AUTHENTIC ITALIAN RESTAURANT 24 W. Union St. Pasadena Ilfornaio.com

Step inside Il Fornaio and take an award winning culinary journey through Italy. Specialties include house-made pastas, wood-fired pizza, grilled fish, authentic risotto, and rotisserie meats. Fresh pastas are made daily. Each month a special menu from a different region of Italy is featured. 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”.

KABUKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 88 W. Colorado Blvd., #103. Pasadena (626) 568-9310 3539 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena (626) 351-8963 201 N. San Fernando Road, Burbank (818) 843-7999 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 designs. The menu is led by Executive Corporate Chef Masa Kurihara and offers dishes for the adventurous sushilover to the vegetarian-eater. 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.

LAVENDER & HONEY 1383 East Washington Blvd. Pasadena (626) 529-5571 www.LavenderandHoneyEspresso.com

Lavender & Honey Espresso Bar opened its doors last summer to long lines and critical acclaim. Nestled between two historic neighborhoods, this boutique, specialty coffee bar and deli serves up Klatch Coffee, gourmet toast, and made-to-order sandwiches, while supporting local artisan food vendors. Having already won the hearts and stomachs of the community, L&H was voted “Best Independent Coffee House” and “Best New Business” in 2014, proving it truly is the “toast of the town!”

LE GOURMAND CAFÉ 405 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia (626) 256-6789

Le Gourmand offers the highest quality in eastern and western European products. We serve the local residents as well as any guests that visit Southern California. Our retail space provides a great selection of cheese, charcuterie, coffee, dessert items, organic products, artisan goods, groceries and souvenir items. We specialize in providing custom gourmet Gift Baskets and Amenities focusing on the tastes of Europe.

LUCKY BALDWINS PUB Old Pasadena 17 S Raymond Ave., Pasadena (626) 795-0652 Pasadena 1770 E Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 844-0447 continued on page 30 28

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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.

LUNASIA DIM SUM HOUSE 239 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 793-8822 Lunasiadimsumhouse.com

Lunasia Dim Sum House is a new addition to the Pasadena restaurant scene! Lunasia is known for its delectable Chinese dishes and wide array of dim sum, a style of Cantonese food prepared as “small bites” and traditionally served with tea. From steamed buns to fried rice, Lunasia serves traditional Chinese cuisine and Hong Kong style dim sum with a modern twist. Dim Sum is served all day. The perfect venue for parties, receptions, and get togethers. Great food and great company, what could be better? Lunasia Dim Sum House is located in the heart of Pasadena on Colorado Boulevard and open daily for lunch and dinner.

MAJOR DAVE’S CHICKEN 163 N. Hill Ave. Pasadena (626) 460-8730 MajorDavesChicken.com

Major Dave’s Chicken is located next to Starbucks at 163 N. Hill Ave. A veteran-owned business serving free range fried chicken and fresh, healthy sides, Major Dave’s is unique in the restaurant industry. Our original and spicy chicken is raised without GMO feed, steroids, or hormones, and never frozen. Our sides are made fresh daily from whole foods, and include Whipped Garlic Cauliflower and Kale Caesar Salad among others. We offer online ordering, delivery, and catering. Give us a try today!

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

MEAT DISTRICT CO. 69 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena (626) 765-9902 Meatdistrictco.com

Inspired by the gate to the plate, Meat District Co. is re-awakening the senses & has brought a new kind of dining to Pasadena! Meat District Co. works in partnership with some of America’s most sustainable producers delivering experiences & dishes that tick all the boxes when it comes to quality & taste. We remember a time when beef came from a farm & not a factory - when ‘100% beef’ was actually from a cow. Meat District Co. has decided it is time to bring the farm to your doorstep with all natural, grass-fed beef, free-range chicken and organic produce. Their menu features tender and juicy steaks, slow roasted ribs, succulent burgers, the freshest of salads, irresistible desserts and a one-of-a-kind beer selection. Stop by and experience a meat-house with a difference! continued on page 32 30

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NEON RETRO ARCADE 28 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena (626) 568-2924 neonretroarcade.com

A “new” entertainment concept that celebrates the history of video games. We feature 40+ classic arcade games and pinball machines that we’ve restored to their original glory. We’re talking Space Invaders, Pac-Man, Donkey Kong...all the greats! Neon also has comfortable console gaming stations where you can enjoy some of the latest next gen games.Leave your quarters at home because all of our games are set to “free play.” Admission is just $10 for an hour of all the old school old school games you can fit in! Visit Neon to take a totally awesome journey back to the 80s and 90s, share the games of your youth with your kids, or reconnect with old buddies through some friendly competition.

NEW MOON 2148 Huntington Drive, San Marino (626) 284-8877 newmoonrestaurants.com

New Moon’s menu is classic Chinese cuisine, re-imagined with lightness and freshness, using a blend of seasonal California ingredients. Zagat-rated New Moon has been consistently voted best and favorite restaurant by their loyal customers in local polls. It’s combination of great food, attentive service and relaxed atmosphere has set the pace for New Moon’s enduring success. With dining room and patio seating, take-out, delivery and catering, we are serving lunch and dinner seven days a week.

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!

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES 548 S. Lake Avenue, Pasadena (626) 792-8200 www.nothingbundtcakes.com

Nothing Bundt Cakes reintroduces an old family favorite – the bundt cake - with a light, moist taste and a fresh, clean look that appeals to all ages. Baked daily using only the freshest ingredients available, Nothing Bundt Cakes offers cakes in 10 delicious flavors and 4 sizes. Our bakery specializes in custom celebration solutions, featuring hand crafted decorations that are designed to enhance any occasion, large or small. We also offer free parking, online ordering, and delivery service. Mon-Sat 9am-7pm

OPEN TASTE Discover the Taste of Local Farms

Imagine the asparagus that was still planted yesterday at a local farm an hour away is continued on page 34

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~ DINING & ENTERTAINMENT DIRECTORY ~ continued from page 32 at your doorsteps this morning. Now, it’s reality thanks to OpenTaste. OpenTaste was first launched to make the best farm fresh foods easily accessible here in Pasadena. The founders believe shopping for delicious quality foods should be easy with online ordering and without high prices or hassle like traditional markets. Experience it for yourself by visiting www.opentaste.com.

O’SEYO 2879 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 844-0150 oseyoshabushabu.com

O’seyo shabu shabu is a Japanese style Fondue restaurant offering a unique hot pot style dining experience for the entire family. We are proud to offer the highest quality meat , pork, chicken , and seafood products. We only serve CERTIFIED ALL NATURAL BEEF for all our beef shabu products. We believe that a truly wonderful shabu experience starts with the freshest ingredients and we promise to deliver this to our customers at the lowest price possible.

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 SANDWICH COMPANY 259 Sierra Madre Villa Ave. #102, Pasadena (626) 578-1616 pasadenasandwichcompany@gmail.com

PSC CATERS & DELIVERS! Party Platters are Made to Order for Meetings, Lunches & Parties. PSC is a family owned & operated NY-styled deli using only the freshest ingredients. Celebrating over 20 years of business. Pasadena Sandwich Company is a Landmark in Pasadena providing lunches for work and play. Call Ahead or Email with any questions.

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

Established since 1994. President Thai’s mission is to offer to the community, the authenticity in Thai food, culture, and atmosphere. Rebuilt to become the first traditional Thai style architecture restaurantin Los Angeles with the interior finely decorated with ornate Thai art form, and soothed with traditional music. Customers will find themselves being taken back in time to experience the traditional ways of Thai’s culture. We are ready to greet you in Thai, Sawadee ka!

RESTAURANT REPUBLIC Lucky Boy 640 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena (626) 793-0120 531 E. Walnut St., Pasadena (626) 793-7079 Pacos 200 E. Foothill Blvd., Arcadia (626) 357-7270 City Café 607 N. Azusa Ave., Azusa (626) 633-0269

For Catering, Restaurant Republic Catering has Pasadena’s 3 most popular Restaurants to choose. Lucky Boy offers a diverse menu including our Famous Pastrami, ¼ Lb. Cheeseburgers and everyone’s favorite Breakfast Burrito. In addition, we offer Paco’s Mexican Restaurant and Bar for your Mexican Cuisine cravings of Shaved Meat Tacos or Paco’s Taco Bar Buffet. Lastly, City Café Restaurant and Bar offers 34

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All American Cuisine of Mac n Cheese, Short Ribs, Burgers, Pizzas, Pastas, Steaks and Seafood. For all your catering needs, Call (626) 437-3167 or christina@therestaurantrepublic.com Free Delivery over $300.

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.

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

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.

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

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 TuesdayFriday from 11:30-2:30, DINNER is served Tuesday-Sunday beginning at 5:00.

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.

THE KITCHEN ITALIAN CAFÉ AND PIZZERIA 78 W. Union St., Pasadena (626) 796-9802 thekitchenitaliancafe.com

The Kitchen Italian Café and Pizzeria is one of Old Pasadena’s hidden gems, well known by businesspeople and pizza lovers alike. Inside the rustic brick building you’ll find New York, Sicilian and Chicago-style pizzas, all made with fresh ingredients and available by the slice, half pan or full pan. Homemade soups, pastas and calzones can be savored for lunch or dinner.

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.

VILLA CATRINA MEXICAN RESTAURANT & CANTINA 251 N. Santa Anita Ave., Arcadia (626) 294-1973 Villacatrina.com

Villa Catrina Restaurant & Cantina brings to Arcadia the true flavors of Guadalajara, Mexico. We offer great service and ambiance for any occasion. Private banquet facilities for groups from 20 to 120 guests. Catering also available. Our large sports bar counts with over 12 large screens offering Dodgers and all sports. Visit us for Karaoke Thursdays, 80’s Fridays or Salsa Dancing on Saturdays.

WABA GRILL 753 S. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena (626) 710-4602 1318 Glendale Galleria (818) 551-9192

“At WaBa Grill, we strive to serve the best possible grilled fusion menu items using only quality ingredients. We use fruits and vegetables to enhance the flavor of our amazing “WaBa” sauce. We serve boneless, skinless, fat-trimmed chicken, rib-eye steak, and other quality proteins. Our veggies are lightly steamed to perfection, and all meats are charbroiled. Nothing is fried. You will enjoy the clean, low-fat, healthy entrees freshly prepared to order.”

WAHOO’S FISH TACOS 264 S. Lake Avenue (626) 449-2005 Wahoos.com

Three brothers took their love of surf & food to create a unique restaurant that serves up a fresh, light & tasty fusion of Brazilian, Asian and Mexican fare. Today, there are Wahoo’s restaurants throughout California, Colorado, Hawaii, Nevada, Texas, Pennsylvania and Japan. Wahoo’s also caters…Weddings to corporate events. Backyard parties to office meetings. Let us come right to your door for a complete set-up-and-service event. Signature flame-grilled or Cajun fish or chicken, marinated steak, braised pork, Banzai veggies. Even tofu. All served up with sides like our world famous ahi rice, black beans or Cajun white beans. Plus fresh tortillas, chips, salsa and guacamole. Come & experience the difference!

YOGURTLAND 415 S Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 356-4868 30 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 304-0808

Let Yogurtland Cater Your Next Party. Pasadena’s two Yogurtland locations greet guests with a colorful wall of flavors and an irresistible topping bar filled with healthful and indulgent options. Want something different for your next birthday party, picnic or football game? Yogurtland offers catering where you choose your fresh toppings and delectable flavors and everyone makes their own treat!

YUMMY CUPCAKES PASADENA 247 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 396-4933 Yummycupcakes.com

Yummy Cupcakes has reimagined cupcake treats as epicurean delights. Their awardwinning treats are crafted from scratch with ingredients that are real, wholesome, quality: Fresh fruits and spices. Whole milk. Farm fresh eggs. Creamery butter. Every cupcake, filling & frosting is made in-house. Over 400 flavors. 26 varieties each day with vegan, sugar-free and gluten-less options. Created by Executive Chef Tiffini, all recipes were imagined just for Yummy Cupcakes, so you indulge in a taste treat unlike all the rest.

ZELO PIZZERIA 328 E. Foothill Blvd. Arcadia (626) 358-8298 zelopizzeria.com

It’s the cornmeal crust that makes this pizzeria stand out from the rest. Zelo Pizzeria in Arcadia is a truly unique place to fill your pizza craving. This locally owned establishment’s signature dish is the fresh, corn , balsamic-marinated, oven-roasted red onion pie. Don’t be intimidated and don’t make substitutions! The dish is truly unique and a worthy competitor for the area’s best pizza. Zelo Pizzeria has expanded the dining room to better serve you, so come in and give Zelo Pizzeria a try. ■ EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

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2014 BEST OF PASADENA — DINING RECAP —

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BEST RESTAURANT TWOHEY’S RESTAURANT 1224 N. ATLANTIC BLVD., ALHAMBRA (626) 284-7387 | TWOHEYS.COM

ROBERT HUMPHREY PLATE 38 2361 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-7100 | PLATE38.COM

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

BEST ARMENIAN FOOD

MAJOR DAVE’S CHICKEN 163 N. HILL AVE., PASADENA (626) 460-8730 MAJORDAVESCHICKEN.COM

ZANKOU CHICKEN 296 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-1502 ZANKOUCHICKEN.COM

BEST BUSINESS LUNCH

BEST BAKERY

SMITTY’S GRILL 110 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 792-9999 | SMITTYSGRILL.COM

EURO PANE 950 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 577-1828

BEST CHEAP EATS

BEST BBQ

TOPS WALNUT 1792 E. WALNUT ST., PASADENA (626) 584-0244 | TOPSBURGER.COM

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

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

BEST RESTAURANT STAFF ALL INDIA CAFÉ 39 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 440-0309 | ALLINDIACAFE.COM

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

BEST SPECIAL OCCASSION DINING PARKWAY GRILL 510 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 795-1001 | THEPARKWAYGRILL.COM

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT TOPS WALNUT 1792 E. WALNUT ST., PASADENA (626) 584-0244 | TOPSBURGER.COM

BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK TOPS WALNUT 1792 E. WALNUT ST., PASADENA (626) 584-0244 | TOPSBURGER.COM

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

BEST CHEF (TIE) AKIRA HIROSE MAISON AKIRA 713 E. GREEN ST, PASADENA (626) 796-9501 | MAISONAKIRA.NET

BEST BREAKFAST TWOHEY’S RESTAURANT 1224 N. ATLANTIC BLVD., ALHAMBRA (626) 284-7387 | TWOHEYES.COM

BEST BUFFET SOUPLANTATION 201 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-4798 | SOUPLANTATION.COM

BEST BURGER IN-N-OUT 2114 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA 310 HARVEY DRIVE, GLENDALE 119 S. BRAND BLVD., GLENDALE (800) 786-1000 | IN-N-OUT.COM

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

BEST DELI/SANDWICHES

BEST ICE CREAM/YOGURT/GELATO

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

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

BEST DESSERT (TIE)

BEST INDIAN FOOD

DOTS CUPCAKES 400 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 568-3687 DOTSCUPCAKES.COM 121 N. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 744-7719

ALL INDIA CAFÉ 39 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 440-0309 | ALLINDIACAFE.COM

POP CHAMPAGNE AND DESSERT BAR 33 E. UNION ST., PASADENA (626) 795-1295 POPCHAMPAGNEBAR.COM THE PIE HOLE 59 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 765-6315 | THEPIEHOLELA.COM

BEST FRENCH FOOD (TIE) BISTRO DE LA GARE 921 MERIDIAN AVE., SOUTH PASADENA (626) 799-8828 BISTRODELAGARE.COM CAFÉ BIZOU 91 N. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 792-9923 | CAFEBIZOU.COM

BEST JAPANESE/SUSHI KABUKI 88 W. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 568-9310 KABUKIRESTAURANTS.COM HASTINGS CENTER 3589 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA (626) 351-8963

BEST LOCAL BREWERY CRAFTSMAN BREWING CO. 1260 LINCOLN AVE., PASADENA (626) 296-2537 CRAFTSMANBREWING.COM

BEST JUICE BAR (TIE)

BEST FRIED CHICKEN ROSCOE’S HOUSE OF CHICKEN & WAFFLES 830 N. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 791-4890 ROSCOESCHICKENANDWAFFLES.COM

PRESSED JUICERY 59 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 696-3593 PRESSEDJUICERY.COM

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

BEST SEAFOOD CAMERON’S SEAFOOD 1978 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-3474 CAMERONS4FISH.COM

BEST SOUL FOOD RESTAURANT ROSCOE’S HOUSE OF CHICKEN AND WAFFLES 830 N. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 791-4890 ROSCOESCHICKENANDWAFFLES.COM

BEST SOUTH AMERICAN FOOD MALBEC 1001 E. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 683-0550 MALBECCUISINE.COM

BEST SPANISH FOOD BAR CELONA 46 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-1000 BARCELONAPASADENA.COM

BEST STEAKHOUSE ARROYO CHOP HOUSE 536 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626)577-7463 ARROYOCHOPHOUSE.COM

BEST TACO BEST HEALTH FOOD

BEST KOREAN FOOD

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

CHAM KOREAN BISTRO 851 CORDOVA ST., PASADENA (626) 792-2474 CHAMKOREANBISTRO.COM

BEST HOT DOGS

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

DOG HAUS 105 N. HILL AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-4287 | DOGHAUS.COM 93 E. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 683-0808 DOGHAUSDOGS.COM 410 E. MAIN ST., ALHAMBRA (626) 282-4287

BEST CHINESE FOOD

AVANTI CAFÉ 111 N. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-4688 | AVANTICAFE.COM

JUICE FARM 36 W. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 844-7555 JUICEFARMCOLDPRESSED.COM

BEST CALIFORNIA CUISINE

PANDA INN 3488 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-7300 | PANDAINN.COM

BEST ITALIAN FOOD

BEST MIDDLE EASTERN FOOD

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

BEST TEA ROOM BEST LOCAL PIZZA AVANTI CAFÉ 111 N. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-4688 AVANTICAFE.COM

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

BEST THAI FOOD BEST MEDITERRANEAN FOOD

BEST CUPCAKES

BEST INDEPENDENT COFFEE HOUSE

DOTS CUPCAKES 400 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 568-3687 | DOTSCUPCAKES.COM 121 N. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 744-7719

MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ 273 SHOPPERS LANE, PASADENA (626) 793-9844 | KOKOSMEDITERRANEANCAFE.COM

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

MIJARES MEXICAN RESTAURANT 145 PALMETTO DRIVE, PASADENA (626) 792-2763 MIJARESRESTAURANT.COM

BEST MEXICAN FOOD

SALADANG 363 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626)793-8123

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

CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST YEAR’S WINNERS! 38

EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

Urth Caffé

Paseo Colorado

iPic Theaters

Norton Simon Museum

continued from page 37

PHOTOS: Victor Boghossian (Urth Caffé)

icture this inviting scenario: A balmy morning in majestic Pasadena, one with clear skies, cool winds and a loose vibe. There’s an infectious air of excitement. The urge to indulge in the exhilaration of a day and a night on the town — Pasadena style — is upon you. For 24 hours you throw your arms around the city and surrender to its call to eat, drink, play and chill in grand fashion. Your day starts off promisingly with a jaunt to Urth Caffé on Colorado Boulevard for some of the best organic tea and coffee anywhere. Urth Caffé is an organic coffee company that exclusively carries its own brand of premium, fresh-roasted whole-bean organic coffee and hand-selected fi ne teas, with all leaves and bean grown without chemicals of any kind. After coffee, catch up on the news of the day at Vroman’s Bookstore, a short block to the east along Colorado, where you’ll fi nd the widest selection of newspapers and magazines in the city at their outdoor newsstand. After coffee, you decide that missing breakfast really wasn’t such a good idea. If that’s the case, treat yourself at Marston’s Restaurant on Walnut Street, across from the band shell at Memorial Park, for a scrumptious morning feast that could include French toast, blueberry pancakes waffles of all kinds and huevos rancheros leading a lengthy list of egg dishes. Recognized in 2003 by Zagat as No. 1 for breakfast in Los Angeles and in 2010 named the Best Breakfast in California by The Food Network Magazine, Marston’s offers a full catering menu and gourmet picnic baskets, tailor-made for a concert under the stars at the Levitt Pavilion just across the street. After breakfast, treat yourself again, this time to some shopping at some of Pasadena’s premier destinations, places like One Colorado in Old Pasadena, Paseo Colorado in Midtown and South Lake Avenue. Come mid-afternoon, you’re hungry again. And, if you are in Old Pasadena, you’re in luck. There you’ll fi nd dozens of places to eat, among them Barney’s Beanery. Manager Chris Arambulo recommends their half-off appetizers and mouthwatering Clas-

sic Chili, so be sure to sample a steaming bowl. “One of the best things about Barney’s is the food, especially our Classic Chili, which is still made from a 1920s recipe originated at our West Hollywood establishment,” says Arambulo. With no particular place to go for the next few hours, you might want to try their rotating drink specials and fan-favorite “Cucumber Slumber,” a divine addition to the designer-margarita craze. Barney’s also includes three floors of entertainment, including an upstairs billiards lounge and a basement that hosts a weekly Karaoke Night for raucous summer fun. Time fl ies when you’re having fun. Perhaps you’d like to raise the bar on your artistic pleasures. If so, pay a visit to the Norton Simon Museum on Colorado Boulevard, near Orange Grove Boulevard. Then again, if you prefer something a little less challenging, check out a fl ick while you’re in this part of town. Head over to iPic Theaters at One Colorado in the heart of Old Pasadena, which has given new meaning to the concept of dinner and a movie. Here, you can have a meal with a movie at the same time. Luxuriate in comfy, full-size seats and enjoy being served sumptuous cuisine by conscientious, discreet servers. The full bar, attentive-staff and guest check-in, which allows theater-goers to place dinner orders a full 30 minutes before the fi lm’s start, make this a tremendous bang-for-the-buck. But wait, a Latin melody catches your ear and the urge to dance compels you to pop into iX Tapa Cantina, next-door to Barney’s Beanery. Here, pulsing beats are being spun by world-renowned guest deejays as club-goers enjoy budget-friendly appetizers, refreshing signature margaritas, fruity sangrias and a wide selection of well-drinks and draft and imported beers. As you exit, someone whispers “The Speakeasy.” Your curiosity piqued, you decide to have dinner at the atmospheric bar and lounge on Raymond Avenue, an ode to the romantic daring days of Prohibition, complete with a (not-so-) secret password for entry. This sophisticated, one-of-kind restaurant, bar and lounge is a continued on page 40 EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

Edwin Mills by Equator

nod to classic fi lm-noir, with the added modern twist of creative cuisine and customized cocktails, plus lively music and top-notch entertainment events. “The emphasis is on the whole experience inside, as if our customers are transported into another world … the world of the Roaring ’20s,” says Manager Leo Timory. But the night still holds much more promise. If you’ve got the energy for more pub-crawling, beat feet over to Kings Row Gastropub, set in a marvelous old building in Old Pasadena. This Anglophile’s delight garners rave reviews from regulars and new visitors alike for a variety of reasons. The spacious building is the perfect venue for a night of live entertainment featuring blues, jazz or maybe even a blue-grass band. In addition to the lively British-themed atmosphere, you’ll be thrilled by their impressive selection of beers and ales, including craft and locally sourced beers. With three floors for entertainment and dining, including a beer garden and patio bar, plus a wide variety of cocktails — even a monthly pig roast — Kings Row is the place to be for those who know “how” to be. After 22 years in the same location, restaurateur Teddy Bedjakian knows “how” to be and a few things about pleasing customers. Bedjakian fi rst opened Equator on Mills Place, an outthe-way alley tucked away in Old Pasadena, back in 1993. Housed in a 110-year-old brick structure, Equator was a coffee shop, as well as Old Pasadena’s fi rst hookah bar and a popular karaoke bar. It was also an Internet café and most recently an Asian fusion restaurant. Today, Bedjakian has shifted gears again, renaming the place Edwin Mills by Equator in honor of a local historical figure. He’s also rewritten the menu, which now includes lamb, pork and turkey sliders, spicy calamari, popcorn chicken and veggie rolls. Bedjakian’s sophisticated gastropub also features food and drink specials throughout the week, as well as quality cocktails and craft beers. With Edwin Mills closing just before midnight, you wonder if your magical night is destined to end prematurely when someone mentions Wokcano Café. You’re off and running again, only not so far this time, with Edwin Mills located right next door. In no time, you’ll see why it’s become a familiar and beloved stop for scores of late-night Pasadena partygoers and club enthusiasts. With its restaurant open until 4 a.m., the lounge and patio area make this an ideal destination after a night on the town. It’s no wonder their popular happy hour, with its early start time and continued on page 42 40

EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

PHOTO: Courtesy of Edwin Mills by Equator

continued from page 39

EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

Wokcano Café

continued from page 40

EAT • DRINK • PLAY PASADENA WEEKLY

BARNEY’S BEANERY 99 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 405-9777 | barneysbeanery.com

NORTON SIMON MUSEUM 411 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, (626) 449-6840 | nortonsimon.org

EDWIN MILLS BY EQUATOR 22 Mills Place, Pasadena (626) 564-8656 | edwinmills.com

THE SPEAKEASY 25 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena (626) 676-1205 speakeasypasadena.com

IPIC THEATERS One Colorado Courtyard 42 Miller Alley, Pasadena (626) 639-2260 | oldpasadena.org

URTH CAFFÉ – PASADENA 594 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena (626) 844-4644 | Urthcaffe.com

IX TAPA CANTINA 119 E Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 304-1000 | cantinaixtapa.com

WINCHELL’S DONUTS 438 Fair Oaks Ave., South Pasadena (626) 799-9324

KINGS ROW GASTROPUB 20 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 793-3010 | kingsrowpub.com

571 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 396-7065 winchells.com

MARSTON’S RESTAURANT 151 E.Walnut St., Pasadena (626) 796-2459 | marstonsrestaurant.com

WOKCANO CAFÉ 33 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena (626) 578-1818 | wokcanoonline.com

PHOTO: Danny Liao

late-night fare, are considered staples for the cheerful insomniac. Since this favorite late-night haunt continually gets high marks for the patio-bar and happy-hour specials, your senses and budget will applaud the choice. As night gives way to day, the lightening sky signals an end to a blast of an evening. Inevitably, coffee and donuts at Winchell’s begins to seem like an imperative, so you head over to the 24-hour establishment for a welcomed jolt of their surprisingly good brew, along with a glass of fresh-squeezed juice, then load-up on a pleasing selection of donuts, pastries, deli-sandwiches, and noshes, new memories in tow. Let the teeming, gritty Big Apple have its “City that Never Sleeps” moniker. I’ll take Pasadena’s relaxed sophistication, warm-climate and conveniently located nightlife any day. In dreams and in waking life, it remains a delightful option for enjoying a summer evening with singular style. Eat. Drink, Play, Refresh, Repeat. ■