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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Pasadena

American food spots

Familiar American food is exactly what is needed to feel grounded.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Neighbors & Friends Cafe image 1
Neighbors & Friends Cafe image 2
Neighbors & Friends Cafe image 3
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Cozy cafe offers a community-centered vibe with a warm atmosphere. Enjoy Brisket Grilled Cheese paired with tomato bisque or coffee with almond milk. Communal tables and a cheese bar create a friendly, welcoming space for all.

Grilled cheese sandwiches stand out, especially the Brisket Grilled Cheese which sells out fast. Pairings like tomato bisque and coffee with handmade almond milk add comfort and flavor. Chili, cornbread, and vegan options like the tomato biscuit also feature prominently.

People are saying

"This local spot has amazing food and delicious, handcrafted drinks."

"I loved the gorgeous and delicious charcuterie boards."

"You have to try the Toasted Vegan sandwich; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

The cafe is cashless, so bring a card for payments.

2

Most menu items are Halal or have Halal options available.

3

The cafe offers a fridge stocked with free food for those in need.

02
Clifton's Gourmet BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Interior feels like a time capsule with sweet smoky air. Brisket is tender and rich, paired well with homemade mac and cheese and spicy gumbo. Peach cobbler stands out as a sweet finish in this takeout-only spot.

Brisket stands out with its tender texture and rich flavor. Gumbo offers a spicy, hearty mix of chicken, shrimp, crab, and sausage. Mac and cheese tastes homemade and pairs well with greens and ribs.

People are saying

"The peach cobbler here is amazing, truly the best I ever had."

"The mac and cheese was creamy with soft noodles."

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is so tender it falls apart."

Good to know

1

Clifton's Gourmet BBQ is takeout only, with no dine-in options available.

2

They offer a variety of menu items, including BBQ, gumbo, and cobblers.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere; eating in your car is common here.

03
Howlin' Ray's Hot Chicken - Pasadena image 1

Small indoor space with a rockabilly punk aesthetic and a shaded patio offers an energetic vibe. Fried chicken shines with juicy, tender texture and addictive comeback sauce. Staff ease wait times with umbrellas and misters, keeping the experience lively and welcoming.

Fried chicken here stands out for its juicy and tender texture and addictive comeback sauce. The fried chicken sandwich, especially The Sando, offers a consistently satisfying and flavorful experience.

People are saying

"This American food, especially the fried chicken, is the best I've ever had."

"The waffles are light, fluffy, and perfectly toasted."

"The bathroom feels like a club with disco lighting and music."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Parking availability is limited; consider street parking.

3

Seating is limited, so arrive early if possible.

04
Fuji & Vi's Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small second-floor spot serves authentic Detroit-style pizza with a pillowy crust and crispy edges. Nostalgic Detroit decor pairs with soft jazz for a casual vibe. Overlooks the street, adding to its hole-in-the-wall charm.

Square slices come with a pillowy crust and crispy cheesy edges. Thick dough holds stacked cheese and a rich sauce for classic Detroit style.

People are saying

"This Detroit-style pizza is the best I've ever had."

"I'll be writing home about this pizza; it's the best I've had."

"This Detroit-style pizza is the most authentic American food I've had outside of Detroit."

Good to know

1

There is a parking structure in the back.

2

The wait time is about 20 minutes during peak hours.

3

You can split a pizza with multiple options if you can't decide.

05
Smokehouse Social Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Bright, clean space with authentic Texas barbecue and a full bar sets a lively, laid-back vibe. Smoked brisket and pork ribs come tender and flavorful, paired well with blue cornbread with honey butter. Lots of TV screens and 80's music make it easy to relax and enjoy.

Smoked meats like brisket and pork ribs come tender and flavorful. Cornbread, especially the blue cornbread with honey butter, and homemade cookies add a sweet, scratch-made touch.

People are saying

"I thought the brisket was immaculate and mouthwateringly good."

"This Barbecue is the best I've had in my life."

"This American food is the best BBQ I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across at Vons, which solves the parking problem.

2

The wait might be a bit long depending on the number of people.

3

It could get crowded, so I recommend making a reservation if they allow that.

06
The Original Tops image 1

Diner blends 1950s nostalgia with a lively 1980s theme, creating a bustling spot on Route 66. Burgers like the bacon avocado cheeseburger and pastrami chili cheese fries offer hearty American flavors. Friendly vibe and classic soda fountain add to the casual charm.

Burgers come in many forms here, including a bacon avocado cheeseburger and a hefty cheeseburger with pastrami. The menu also features pastrami chili cheese fries, Reuben, and patty melts, all served at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were the best in town."

"You can't skip the onion rings; they're the best I ever had."

"The American Food, especially the cheeseburgers, is amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking can be an issue, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant has a drive-thru for quick service.

07
Super Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Outdoor seating with a retro vibe sets a chill mood. Thick, juicy cheeseburgers offer quality beef and melted cheese. The massive double cheeseburger satisfies big cravings in a family-run, old-school burger joint.

Thick, juicy cheeseburgers with quality beef and melted cheese come off the grill perfectly cooked. The double cheeseburger is massive and satisfies big cravings.

People are saying

"These hearty burgers are massive and delicious."

"I thought this cheeseburger was perfect and couldn't be improved."

"I thought the American food, specifically the burgers, were thick, juicy, and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Super Burger has plenty of street parking in the residential area next to the shop.

2

They usually close early around 3-4 in the afternoon.

3

There was no restroom available at Super Burger.

08
Pez Coastal Kitchen image 1

Modern tropical design sets a comfortable space with plush sofas. Baby back ribs melt in your mouth and crab cakes shine in eggs Benedict. Live jazz adds a vacation vibe but music can feel jarring. Sharing dishes boost relaxed conversation.

Baby back ribs melt in your mouth. Crab cakes stand out, especially in the eggs Benedict.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The dinner spots here have creative, delicious dishes that left me wanting more."

"The American Food here, like the pork chop and baby back ribs, is superior and melt-in-your-mouth good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a good table.

2

Dinner for two typically costs around $200, so plan your budget accordingly.

3

The restaurant offers a happy hour menu with discounted small plates.

09
T. Boyle's Tavern image 1

Rundown sports bar offers a chill vibe with lots of TVs for real fans. Large portions of loaded fries and classic buffalo wings satisfy American food cravings. Affordable hot dogs and pickled eggs make it easy to snack while watching games.

Loaded fries come in large portions and include chicken. Buffalo wings offer a classic spicy flavor. Hot dogs and pickled eggs sit on a bed of pretzels, priced affordably at $3 each.

People are saying

"It's a great spot to catch a game with a chill atmosphere."

"I loved their smash burgers, especially the crispy edges."

"You have to try the buffalo wings; they did not disappoint."

Good to know

1

Tuesday night is trivia night.

2

Happy hour runs regularly with good deals.

3

The loaded fries with chicken cost $10.95 and can feed two.

10
Andy's Coffee Shop image 1

Small diner offers classic Americana charm with a cozy, family vibe. Enjoy biscuits and gravy or steak and eggs with crispy hash browns. Space feels cramped but welcoming, perfect for a laid-back meal.

Biscuits and gravy come out hot and delicious. Steak and eggs arrive with beautiful hash browns cooked to order, including extra crispy options. Pancakes, sausage, bacon, eggs, and grits round out the classic American menu.

People are saying

"The diner's hashbrowns were perfectly crispy and amazing."

"The breakfast burrito is amazing and a great value."

"The American food here, especially the biscuits and gravy, is delicious."

Good to know

1

There is good parking available at Andy’s Coffee Shop.

2

They are closed on Tuesdays.

3

The restaurant was packed on a Sunday morning.

11
Dog Haus image 1
American restaurant

Casual spot offers crispy corn dogs and cheeseburgers with pastrami on soft Hawaiian buns. Warm, friendly vibe with dog-friendly outdoor seating and fast, quiet service. Popular for loaded tater tots and plant-based options.

Hot dogs feature distinct components that blend into a strong flavor. The menu includes fried chicken sandwiches on Hawaiian bread, crispy corn dogs, cheeseburgers with pastrami, and loaded tater tots.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly top-notch quality."

"I loved the huge, crispy, freshly fried corn dogs here."

"I found the burgers here to be fabulous and unique."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

There is plenty of parking in the back with an underground shaded area.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is recommended for vendors.

12
Fishwives image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot shines with fresh lobster rolls and buttery clam chowder. Nautical decor and New England fish house feel create a lively, friendly vibe. Bright indoor space and courtyard seating offer cozy dining options.

Lobster rolls come fresh and are consistently delicious, often highlighted as a standout dish. The clam chowder is buttery and smooth, packed with clams and balanced with a fragrant, salty broth.

People are saying

"The seafood here is top quality, especially the crab cakes and lobster roll."

"The American Food here, especially the clam chowder, is amazing."

"These French fries are thick cut, seasoned, and have a satisfying crunch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups, due to high demand.

2

There is no parking available near the restaurant.

3

The average cost for a meal for four is around $385, excluding tip.

13
Tastees Donut & Burger image 1

Tiny shop buzzes with early crowds for fresh fluffy donuts and large breakfast burritos. Generous portions shine in American classics like the patty melt and ham & cheese croissant. Limited seating adds to the lively, cozy vibe.

Breakfast burrito and patty melt stand out as solid choices. The hamburgers and ham & cheese croissant also hold up well in the American food lineup.

People are saying

"These donuts are fresh and delicious."

"You have to try their ham and cheese croissants; they're the best."

"The American Food here, especially the donuts, is phenomenal and fresh."

Good to know

1

Calling ahead is recommended to save time and avoid long waits.

2

Expect popular donut variations to run out by mid-morning.

3

Breakfast sandwiches and a delicious breakfast burrito are available.

14
California Fish Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Fast casual spot serves Cajun salmon burger and lobster rolls with fresh, homemade clam chowder. Quick service and clean, modern space feel bare but include a dog-friendly heated patio. Portions are hearty and prices fair, making it a solid choice for American seafood.

Fresh and tasty Cajun salmon fish burger comes with regular fries. Lobster nachos and lobster rolls offer new, delicious options. Clam chowder tastes fresh and homemade.

People are saying

"I found the seafood here to be fresh and tasty."

"Their fried fish is so good, it beats some English fish and chips."

"I found their American Food, like the fried fish, to be fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant uses a kiosk ordering system for faster service.

2

Expect crowded conditions during lunchtime, especially on weekdays.

3

Parking is usually available in the plaza, making access easy.

15
Top Restaurant image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Drive-thru spot offers crispy fried chicken with a sweet touch and rich Mac and Cheese. Fusion of Chinese, Indonesian, and Hawaiian flavors creates a unique BBQ experience. No indoor seating but plenty of parking makes takeout easy and homey.

Crispy, juicy fried chicken with a slight sweetness stands out here. The Mac and Cheese offers a rich, nostalgic flavor that complements the meal well.

People are saying

"I thought the fried chicken was so crispy and flavorful."

"I loved the Indonesian fried rice here."

"The American food, especially the fried chicken, is crispy and juicy."

Good to know

1

Top Restaurant is takeout only with no indoor seating available.

2

Expect about 20 minutes from ordering to pickup.

3

There is ample parking available at Top Restaurant.

16
Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery image 1
Traditional American restaurant

Space blends modern industrial design with wood accents and an open kitchen for a cozy feel. Outdoor patio with heaters adds to the relaxed vibe. American dishes like the Cornbread Eclair and bratwurst with tater tots shine here.

The Cornbread Eclair stands out as a delicious and beautiful dish, often described as a culinary masterpiece. Bratwurst comes with tater tots, sauerkraut, and house-made pickles, offering a solid American food option.

People are saying

"The cheese board and tater tots are amazing date spots."

"The family-style dinner spots were delicious and satisfying."

"You have to try their cornbread eclairs with chicken liver mousse."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended at least a week in advance due to high demand.

2

Expect a 4% automatic charge added to your bill for health insurance.

3

A 25% tip is preselected on the card machine for all bills.

17
Rodney's Ribs Food Truck image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Mobile barbecue trailer smokes mesquite brisket and tender ribs that vanish fast. Owners bring authentic passion and serve generous portions in a lively, community vibe.

Brisket stands out with its tender texture, smoky mesquite flavor, and generous size that can serve two. Ribs complement the meal with a delicious, hearty taste that disappears fast at gatherings.

People are saying

"The brisket here is so tender and smoky, it's heavenly."

"The brisket sandwich is tender, tasty, and large enough for two."

"This American food's brisket is so tender and smoky, it's heavenly."

Good to know

1

Arriving earlier in the day provides a greater selection before food runs out.

2

Expect popular items like brisket to sell out quickly.

3

Prices include $30 for half a pound of brisket and $9 for a half rack of ribs.

18
The Gourmet Cobbler Factory image 1

Small bakery offers homemade warm cobblers with large portions and a variety of flavors. Gumbo and barbecue ribs provide savory American dishes. Strong inviting aroma draws attention despite no outdoor seating.

Gumbo stands out as a delicious dish here, paired with tender barbecue ribs that highlight the savory side. The shop also offers a variety of fantastic pies like peach cobbler and mixed berry pie.

People are saying

"I found the cobbler here to be absolutely delicious."

"I'm definitely coming back for their gumbo."

"I thought the American Food cobblers were the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The shop is tucked away on the side of a building and may be hard to find.

2

There is tons of street parking nearby for easy access.

3

Portions are large, typically enough for 2-3 people.

19
Crab Grabber手抓海鲜 image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with Cajun flavor and fresh dishes. Enjoy crispy fried wings and a free snack bar with many choices. The space is spacious and casual, blending sailor and Chinese decor with a worn charm.

Cajun seafood stands out with its rich flavor and pairs well with appetizers. Fried chicken wings come crispy outside and juicy inside.

People are saying

"The garlic butter seafood combo was delicious with crab and shrimp."

"They offer free desserts like red bean and taro soup."

"The unlimited cold dishes include salads, duck feet, pig ears, and desserts."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a free buffet of samples during promotional periods.

2

Parking is free at the back of the restaurant with plenty of spots available.

3

Seniors aged 80+ can eat free up to $30, which is a nice perk.

20
Main Chick Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Nashville hot chicken shines with its spicy kick and crispy texture. Small counter and loud music create a chaotic atmosphere. Seating is limited, so many eat in nearby lit alleyways.

Nashville hot chicken stands out with its spicy kick and crispy texture. Fried chicken here is consistently excellent, though the mac and cheese tastes plain.

People are saying

"The food here is tasty, fresh, and crispy."

"This chicken sandwich is so juicy and crispy."

"This American food, the fried chicken, is juicy and excellent."

Good to know

1

They have a happy hour from 1 to 4 PM.

2

I could order ahead online to save time.

3

There was a convenient parking structure located just 10 meters away from the store.

21
Connal's image 1
Fast food restaurant

Old school diner serves legendary sandwiches like hearty double cheeseburgers and philly cheesesteaks. Friendly atmosphere with small indoor seating and outdoor tables invites comfort. Walk-up order system keeps lines moving for classic American staples.

Hearty double cheeseburgers and philly cheesesteaks offer solid American classics. Subs, chili cheese fries, and a standout Cobb Salad round out the menu with familiar flavors.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be great and a nice balance."

"The fried food here is perfectly crispy and not greasy."

"The American food, especially the Philly cheesesteak, is excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a dedicated, free lot behind the restaurant.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

The menu features a variety of sandwiches, including hot and cold options.

22
The Reyn image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Tiny diner offers a cozy, nostalgic vibe with old-school Americana decor and tight booths. Enjoy chicken fried steak and eggs alongside grill-flavored cheeseburgers for hearty American food. The homey atmosphere makes every meal feel special.

Chicken fried steak and eggs come with a classic home-cooked vibe. Hash browns topped with chili and grill-flavored cheeseburgers add hearty, nostalgic flavors. Grits and banana bread show up as rare regional treats.

People are saying

"I ordered the banana bread and found it to be the best ever."

"I considered this my favorite breakfast spot in LA."

"You have to try the banana bread; it's bomb."

Good to know

1

There was a 10-minute wait for seating during 10am on a holiday.

2

The Reyn closes at 2 pm.

3

Takeout at The Reyn is a great option.

23
Arroyo Chop House image 1

Steakhouse shines with porterhouse steak and classic cocktails in an old-world atmosphere. Dark wood and a fireplace create a romantic vibe. Outdoor seating blooms with flowers, perfect for a relaxed meal.

Porterhouse steak and rib eye feature prominently with rich flavors. The mac and cheese pairs well, and the half-half bread stands out as a notable side.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the steaks, is perfectly cooked."

"You have to try the soufflé for dessert; it's delicious."

"You have to try the warm, fresh garlic sourdough bread."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least one week in advance for dinner service.

2

Valet parking is available for guests at the restaurant.

3

Expect the restaurant to be busy during weekend dinner hours.

24
Five Guys image 1
Fast food restaurant

Old burger joint style shines with classic fast food vibes and a red and white motif. Cheeseburgers are large and flavorful, topped with bacon and grilled mushrooms. Cajun fries are a popular side, perfect for sharing in a lively, rock-filled atmosphere.

Cheeseburgers come in large, flavorful portions with options like bacon and grilled mushrooms. Cajun fries stand out as a popular side, often shared and costing extra along with bacon.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be super tasty and nicely cooked."

"The American Food here, especially the Cajun fries, is tasty and crispy."

"You can get your cheeseburger "all the way" with every topping."

Good to know

1

All toppings are free, and you can choose as many as you want.

2

Cajun fries and bacon cost extra, adding $5 to your bill.

3

The place is clean and well-kept, providing a pleasant dining environment.

25
Dog Haus Biergarten image 1
American restaurant

Spacious American spot offers gourmet hot dogs with creamy aioli and crispy onions. Indoor seating feels laid back, while the patio buzzes with energy and picnic tables in summer. Enjoy board games and many screens showing sports alongside an above-average beer selection.

Gourmet hot dogs come with innovative flavors like aioli, avocado, and crispy onions for a creamy, crunchy bite. The menu also features excellent corn dogs, chili cheese fries, and standout chicken wings.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer selection here."

"I thought the American food, especially the hot dogs, was excellent."

"This place is really dog friendly, my dogs were fine."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Game night is hosted every Friday evening.

26
Louisiana Fried Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Fried chicken is juicy and crispy with hot sauce injected inside, paired with flavorful Cajun rice made with care. Fried catfish offers a crispy, thin breading and fresh taste. No indoor dining means a simple, take-out only spot with fair prices.

Fried chicken stands out with its right amount of flavor and consistent hot, tasty servings. Cajun rice comes across as made with love and very flavorful, complementing the chicken well.

People are saying

"This American food is the best fried chicken I've ever had."

"The fried catfish here is perfectly seasoned and fresh."

"I found the Cajun Rice to be very tasty."

Good to know

1

Louisiana Fried Chicken does not accept card payments for orders under $10.

2

Expect excellent portion sizes for your meal.

3

Fried fish is available and is considered cheap.

27
Popping Yolk Cafe image 1
Brunch restaurant

Fast casual ordering and a dog-friendly patio create a relaxed vibe. Classic American dishes like Nashville Hot eggs Benedict and seasoned potatoes shine. A small bar serves mimosas and margaritas, perfect for solo or casual dining.

Eggs Benedict comes with Nashville Hot chicken for a hot and sweet twist. Burgers, pancakes, waffles, and crepes offer classic American flavors. Potatoes are seasoned to complement the eggs Benedict well.

People are saying

"This brunch is delicious, fresh, and satisfying."

"The American food here, especially the Eggs Benedict, is cooked to perfection."

"It's a really chill place to sit and unwind."

Good to know

1

There is free parking before 11am and on Sundays.

2

A $1 fee applies for 2 hours of paid parking behind the restaurant.

3

They text you when your table is ready, allowing you to explore nearby.

28
Pasadena Fish Market image 1
Seafood market

Small take-out spot with Afrocentric vibe serves fresh seafood and Jamaican soul food. Fried chicken and catfish dinners come with classic sides like mac and cheese and yams. Authentic, mom-and-pop feel draws fans of black-owned eateries.

Menu includes fried chicken, Jamaican dishes, and a variety of sides like mac and cheese, greens, yams, fried okra, steamed rice, and coleslaw. Catfish dinners come with two sides and a cornbread muffin.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

"The American Food here, especially the oxtails, is fall-off-the-bone tender and flavorful."

"This grocery store has southern and Caribbean flavors, plus Jamaican beverages."

Good to know

1

Pasadena Fish Market operates on a take-out only basis with no restrooms available.

2

It's best to order ahead as food takes around 15 minutes to prepare.

3

Lunch specials include four pieces of fish, usually without bones or fins.

29
Tops image 1
Fast food restaurant

Small burger shop offers a mom and pop feel with juicy cheeseburgers like bacon avocado and Top Cheeseburgers. Large portions of chili cheese fries are a must-try. Casual vibe with indoor and outdoor seating makes it a diner sanctuary amid fast food giants.

Cheeseburgers stand out with options like bacon avocado and Top Cheeseburgers that are juicy and flavorful. Chili cheese fries come in large portions and are highly praised, often considered the best around. Club sandwiches feature fresh ingredients including crisp lettuce, tomato, and plenty of avocado.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great, especially the American classics."

"I found the chili cheese fries to be massive, enough to feed four people."

"I found the chili cheese fries to be the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging once the lot is full.

2

The portions are massive, with small chili cheese fries enough for four people.

3

The drive-thru is often busy during weekday lunch hours.

30
Fishery & More image 1
Seafood restaurant

Affordable seafood shines with a $3 fried fish sandwich and spicy jalapeno hush puppies that pack heat. Juicy chicken wings and classic sides like potato salad add to the American comfort. Spartan interior and limited parking keep focus on fresh, cooked-to-order dishes.

Chicken wings come out very juicy. Hush puppies have spicy jalapenos inside but no warning about the heat before ordering. Sides often include potato salad and collard greens.

People are saying

"I loved the simple, fresh, and crispy fish sandwiches."

"I found the meal to be simple, delicious, and affordable."

"You have to try the American Food hush puppies; they're spicy!"

Good to know

1

The fried fish sandwich costs only $3.00.

2

Weekday deals are available for affordable meals.

3

Dine-in service is available now.

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