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Pasadena's best

American food lunch spots

Made for those who want a straightforward American meal during their midday break without the hassle of a long search.

Based on 739 Opinions
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01
Smokehouse Social Barbecue image 1
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Bright, clean space with lots of TV screens and a full bar creates a lively setting. Atmosphere stays laid-back and welcoming with 80's music playing, making it easy to relax and enjoy. The vibe suits those who appreciate authentic Texas-style barbecue in a casual environment.

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.

Lunch features a lunch special that offers strong value. Meals suit group outings with staff.

People are saying

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

"The brisket and pulled-pork at this Lunch Spot are excellent."

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.

02
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Cozy cafe with a community-centered vibe and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Features include a communal table, cheese bar, and a micro market with local artisanal foods. Space feels like a friend's home, fostering connection and support.

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.

Lunch features a delicious sandwich paired with fresh lemonade. The menu offers a terrific variety that suits an afternoon meal well.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the Toasted Vegan sandwich at this lunch spot."

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.

03
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Small, cozy diner with old school vibe and classic Americana charm fills up with a laid-back, family atmosphere. Space feels cramped but welcoming, with booths and a coffee counter creating an authentic, down-to-earth setting.

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.

A large, traditional menu serves breakfast and lunch all day, with lunch options starting after 11am. Local police often take their lunch breaks here, showing its role as a reliable lunch spot.

People are saying

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

"The portions at this lunch spot were big and the prices fair."

Good to know

1

There is good parking available at Andyโ€™s Coffee Shop.

2

They are closed on Tuesdays.

3

The restaurant was packed on a Sunday morning.

04
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Diner with 1950s nostalgia and 1980s theme offers a friendly, bustling atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. Bold character shines through Route 66 history and a classic soda fountain serving orange whips. Small drive-thru and lively vibe make it a familiar spot for casual meals.

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.

Offers a wide menu covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a standout Pastrami Burger. Drive-thru is available and recommended to avoid busy lunch hours.

People are saying

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

"The pastrami burger here is stacked high and perfectly done."

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.

05
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Old school diner with a retro feel and small indoor seating blends with a few outdoor tables and a walk-up order system. Atmosphere stays friendly and comfortable, often drawing lines for its legendary sandwiches and classic fast food 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.

Lunch offers avocado burger, Roast Beef Grinder, and fries. Meals come quickly and taste great.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and fresh."

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.

06
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Converted Craftsman-style house offers a cozy, warm atmosphere with tight indoor seating and a quiet patio for calmer mornings. Local art decorates the space, creating a cottage-like vibe that contrasts with its urban surroundings.

Pulled pork shines in both the sandwich and eggs benedict, delivering rich flavor and satisfying portions. The Lobster Eggs Benedict stands out as a specialty dish with a succulent lobster topping.

Plenty of options exist for breakfast and lunch, including a Hickory Burger with bacon that stands out. The spot feels cute and casual for midday meals.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has delicious salads and generous portions."

"The American Food here, especially the Benedicts, is seriously good."

Good to know

1

There is a 3% surcharge for using a credit card.

2

Parking is limited and can be tricky; free nearby parking is available.

3

Reservations are not accepted; it's first come, first served.

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Small, old school burger shop with a mom and pop feel and casual, easygoing atmosphere. Offers both indoor and outdoor seating and serves notable chili cheese fries and breakfast burritos. Feels like 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.

A quick lunch option near the freeway with a drive-thru that often gets packed on weekdays. Portions like the pastrami are large enough to last into the next day.

People are saying

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

"The pastrami at this Lunch Spot is huge and so satisfying."

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.

08
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Live jazz music and cover bands create an intimate atmosphere with great vibes. The space shifts into a small club after dinner, attracting those who enjoy generous portions of BBQ and Mexican dishes. Noise levels can be high, making it lively but sometimes overwhelming for families with children.

Brisket stands out with its tender and flavorful quality, melting in your mouth. Ribs, pulled pork, and burgers also offer strong flavors, while the cornbread adds a nice touch.

Lunch options include a government provided meal that suits families well. The spot works for a quick, satisfying family lunch during visits.

People are saying

"The brisket here is tender, flavorful, and absolutely phenomenal."

"Eric is a joy at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Sunday brunch is available from 1-3 pm, and dinner starts at 5:30 pm.

2

Happy hour offers two-for-one well drinks at the bar before 7 pm.

3

Music acts are scheduled throughout the week, providing diverse entertainment options.

09
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Old-school diner with classic, authentic charm and nostalgic atmosphere offers a casual, lively vibe filled with families and friends. Large, clean dining room features old-fashioned decor that preserves history. Known for massive portions and best pastrami sandwiches in the region.

Chili cheese fries with pastrami on top stand out as a signature dish. Double cheeseburgers come with fries and gravy, offering a classic American combo.

Busy crowds show this spot's popularity for lunch. Casual setting fits well for midday meals or a late-night bite.

People are saying

"I loved the chili cheese fries with pastrami; they were enormous."

"This lunch spot's pastrami is smoky, tender, and piled high."

Good to know

1

Customers must stand in line to place orders or use the app for ordering.

2

Restrooms are exceptionally clean, enhancing the overall experience.

3

Portions are very large, often enough to share among multiple people.

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Old-school hamburger diner with a classic, comforting vibe and massive portions defines the space. The atmosphere stays busy during lunch hours, with many using the drive-thru window. Food is made fresh to order, leading to a longer wait time but satisfying, hearty meals.

Hamburgers come greasy with a lack of sauce, featuring only mustard and no ketchup. BLT sandwiches and cheeseburgers offer better flavor compared to the greasy hamburgers.

Lunch features the Double Cheeseburgers Combo and wonder fries. It gets busy during lunch hours.

People are saying

"I thought the American Food, especially the burgers, was out of this world delicious."

"I found the lunch options here to be delicious and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Wonder Burgers closes early, around 3 to 3:30 PM.

2

It gets busy during lunch hours, so expect longer wait times.

3

If there are more than five people, be ready to wait.

11
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Converted coffee shop with outdoor tented seating and a full bar featuring big screen TVs creates a casual, lively atmosphere. Patio seating faces street noise and car exhaust, adding an urban edge. The vibe mixes dog-friendly amenities with a quaint, industrial feel and energetic service.

Big juicy hamburgers and a savory prime rib sandwich stand out. The menu also includes mac and cheese, steak and eggs, and salmon and eggs.

Quick lunches include a sandwich and a calamari/shrimp small plate. Outdoor seating offers sunny spots for weekday meals.

People are saying

"The American Food, like the truffle mushroom burger, was excellent."

"This Lunch Spot's food tasted great and was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all night on Mondays, making it a busy time.

2

The happy hour menu offers smaller portions at higher prices.

3

Bring cash to avoid a 4% credit card fee.

12
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Space combines modern industrial design with wood accents and an open kitchen, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating areas include a patio with heaters, supporting a relaxed vibe. A small retail section offers cheeses, wines, and snacks, blending dining with shopping.

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.

Extensive menu covers breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner with solid options for lunch and brunch. Night visits offer a different vibe but lunch holds its own with enjoyable choices.

People are saying

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

"The lunch here is fantastic, especially the omelette with spicy cheese."

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.

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Old school diner with late 70s atmosphere and classic Pasadena vibe offers massive breakfast burritos and chili cheese fries. Space feels small and cozy with a quiet, unhurried mood even when busy. Outdoor patio provides a solid seating option without shade tarps.

Chili cheese fries stand out as a favorite, paired often with breakfast burritos and patty melts. Burgers come with grilled onions and are notably large for the price, offering classic fast casual American flavors.

A spot with a lot of history and a nice place to sit down for lunch. It works well for a quick meal with about 45 minutes to spare.

People are saying

"You've gotta try the huge breakfast burritos; they're amazing American Food."

"The food here is delicious, especially the zucchini fries."

Good to know

1

The diner is not a drive-thru, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect reasonable prices for large portion sizes.

3

There is plenty of parking available at the location.

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Buffet-style setup with huge covered patio and free parking creates a spacious dining environment. Atmosphere feels casual and welcoming inside, while outdoor seating can be loud with metal chairs scraping. Music adds a pleasant background to the experience.

Baby back ribs come in a 5-piece with two sides and stand out alongside tri-tip and pulled pork plates. Fresh salads like Cobb and tri tip salad complement creamy mac and cheese and seasoned breadsticks in combo meals.

Lunch specials cost under 20 dollars and provide a nice lunch. Catering for large groups, like 400 people, works well and the food is a hit.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the ribs and mashed potatoes, is so good."

"You have to try the garlic bread at this Lunch Spot; it's the highlight."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially for patio events.

2

Catering services can accommodate events for up to 75 people.

3

The patio is sometimes closed for private events, so check availability.

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Tiny country style diner with old-school Americana decor creates a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere. Close seating and tight booths foster a homey, bustling vibe. Patrons enjoy hearty breakfasts in a space filled with charming vintage details.

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.

Casual breakfast and lunch options focus on traditional dishes. The spot suits fans of diners looking for a straightforward meal.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the homemade banana bread at this Lunch Spot."

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.

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