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Top picks in Pasadena

American food and sandwich spots

A hearty sandwich and American food is the simple comfort required.

Based on 936 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Howlin' Ray's Hot Chicken - Pasadena image 1
Howlin' Ray's Hot Chicken - Pasadena image 2
Howlin' Ray's Hot Chicken - Pasadena image 3
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Small indoor space with a rockabilly punk aesthetic and a shaded outdoor patio creates a lively setting. Staff provide umbrellas and misters to ease waiting in line under the sun. Loud music and an electric vibe fill the air, making the atmosphere energetic 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.

Chicken comes out unbelievably juicy and tender with a crispy fried coating. The sandwich features an addictive comeback sauce that adds a punch of flavor. This sandwich stands out as one of the best fried chicken sandwiches around.

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."

"I thought this hot chicken sandwich lived up to the hype."

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.

02
Smokehouse Social Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

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.

Brisket sandwiches feature a perfect meat-to-cheese ratio and bold chimichurri flavor. Fresh breads complement each sandwich, including a Smokehouse on sourdough with brisket and provolone. Chicken sandwich stands out for its great flavor and texture.

People are saying

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

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

"You have to swap the toast for the Blue Masa Cornbread on your sandwich."

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.

03
Neighbors & Friends Cafe image 1

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.

Delicious sandwiches come in many varieties, including a gluten-free option made without hesitation even when busy. Grilled cheese pairs well with coffee made from handmade almond milk.

People are saying

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

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

"You have to try the Toasted Vegan sandwich; everyone I recommended it to loved it."

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.

04
Connal's image 1
Fast food restaurant

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.

Submarine sandwiches come with plenty of meat and balanced seasoning. The Pastrami sandwich offers good proportions and rich flavor, fitting the old school style of the menu.

People are saying

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

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

"The pastrami sandwich was delicious and flavorful."

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.

05
The Original Tops image 1

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.

Hearty sandwiches come stacked high with tender, smoky pastrami and fresh ingredients. Options include pastrami, corned beef, tuna melt, BLAT with avocado, and a chipotle turkey sandwich with high-quality flavors.

People are saying

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

"I loved their hearty pastrami sandwich stacked high with tender slices."

"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.

06
Fishery & More image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers affordable prices with standout items like a $3 fried fish sandwich and spicy jalapeno hush puppies. Interior feels spartan with limited seating and parking in a strip mall. Food focuses on fresh, cooked-to-order fried fish and a variety of seafood options.

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.

Fish sandwiches come with a fluffy bun and tartar sauce that is not overly sweet. Options include catfish with a tender inside and crisp crust, and crunchy snapper, both priced at $3.

People are saying

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

"The fish sandwich here is perfectly seasoned and crispy."

"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.

07
Rodney's Ribs Food Truck image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Mobile barbecue setup uses a commercial smoker in a trailer, creating smoky, tender ribs and mesquite-flavored brisket. Atmosphere feels authentic and community-driven, with owners showing passion and care. Food runs out quickly due to freshness, and portions are generous and juicy.

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.

Brisket sandwiches come tender, tasty, and large enough for two servings. The brisket slices are thin, which works well in the sandwich, and the menu also offers spareribs and pulled pork options.

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.

08
Main Chick Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small counter space offers limited seating, pushing most to eat in nearby lit alleyways. Loud music and cramped conditions create a chaotic, uncomfortable atmosphere inside. Chicken stands out with crispy, juicy texture and unique, spicy flavor, making it a popular choice despite the setting.

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.

Fried chicken sandwiches here come very juicy and tender with a spicy dark meat option that stands out. The two sandwich and fries combo offers a good amount of food at an affordable price.

People are saying

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

"This chicken sandwich is unbelievably juicy and tender."

"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.

09
Holy Saints! image 1
Restaurant

Small, quaint restaurant with an open kitchen that creates a vibrant atmosphere but can get smoky. Offers seasonal, unique dishes with larger portions than typical upscale spots. Seating is limited, so reservations are recommended.

Apple pie features a flaky crust and perfectly cooked apples, topped with whipped cream. Chocolate chip cookies have a homemade Chips Ahoy taste and ideal consistency.

Cubano sandwich stands out with strong flavors. The lunch menu offers only three sandwich choices, with the steak sandwich also noted for quality.

People are saying

"The Waldorf salad here is amazing and flavorful."

"The duck dish here is excellent; I will be dreaming about it."

"The sandwich flavors here are exceptional and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

The menu features seasonal dishes prepared by a Michelin-rated chef.

3

Street parking is available and can be paid via text.

10
Lee's Hoagie House image 1
Sandwich shop

Small sandwich shop offers a family atmosphere with a self-serve pickle bar and fresh bread that stands out. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, with regulars and staff enjoying themselves in a cozy space. Known for unique chicken hoagies and reasonable prices, it feels like a local institution.

Hamburgers stand out as a highlight here. The breakfast steak and eggs also offer a solid option. The Philly cheesesteak costs $14 but features scrawny, unseasoned meat.

Chicken Hoagie stands out with unique, rich flavors and a marinated style. Pastrami sandwiches keep their bread crispy until the last bite. Vegetarian options also rank among the best sandwiches available.

People are saying

"The food here is loaded and flavorful."

"The chicken sandwich here is juicy and packed with flavor."

"I got the delicious cheesesteak, it was great American Food."

Good to know

1

A pastrami sandwich costs $12.99.

2

The restaurant has a big parking area.

3

The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and early dinner.

11
The Hat image 1
Sandwich shop

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.

Pastrami sandwich stands out with its rich, hot, and flavorful profile. Classic American comfort food shines here, especially paired with chili fries and onion rings.

People are saying

"The chili cheese fries are delicious and enormous."

"This pastrami sandwich is the best I ever had."

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

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.

12
Marston's Pasadena image 1
American restaurant

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.

Pulled pork and crispy chicken sandwiches stand out with rich flavors. The salmon sandwich cooks perfectly and bursts with taste, while the chicken and gorgonzola sandwich offers a solid option.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and surprisingly different."

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

"The salmon sandwich was perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor."

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.

13
Cordova Cafe & Bottleshop image 1

Cozy cafe with metal bar-height tables and a dominant bar area creates an inviting, effortlessly cool vibe. Mellow rock and blues music play at a comfortable volume, supporting a peaceful, warm atmosphere inside. Outdoor seating offers a relaxing space with amenities for dogs, though street noise can intrude.

Happy hour features a brie, fig jam, and prosciutto grilled cheese with a $2 upgrade. Breakfast includes a bacon and hash brown burrito. Pulled pork sandwich has a small portion of tough, overcooked pork.

Breakfast sandwiches stand out with exceptional flavor and freshness. Lunch sandwiches also offer a great variety paired well with coffee or wine.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be perfect."

"I thought the breakfast sandwich was just wonderful."

"The dirty chai here is spicy, fragrant, and not overly sweet."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; expect to find street parking and bring coins.

2

Happy hour is available most days with special deals on food and drinks.

3

The cafe serves breakfast all day, offering a variety of options.

14
Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery image 1
Traditional American restaurant

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.

Cubano sandwich comes juicy and saucy without extra requests, showing a homemade touch. Italian sandwich blends flavors well, earning a spot in a top five list.

People are saying

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

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

"The Cuban Sandwich was juicy and saucy."

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.

15
Plate 38 Kitchen And Bar image 1
New American restaurant

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.

Sandwiches come stuffed with generous pork and include pickles on the side to balance richness. Options like the roast pork sandwich are filling and flavorful, with other choices such as salmon also available.

People are saying

"The ricotta lemon pancakes were light and incredibly flavored."

"The sandwich portions here are huge and generously filled."

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

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.

16
Popping Yolk Cafe image 1
Brunch restaurant

Ordering system resembles fast casual spots, creating a cafeteria vibe with a relaxed ambiance and quick service. Seating includes a dog-friendly outdoor patio and a small bar offering mimosas and margaritas. Noise level stays chill, making it suitable for solo dining or casual meetups.

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.

Bacon and Cheese Sandwich has a burger-like shape but offers a different experience. The Nashville Chicken Sandwich and Popping Yolk burger stand out for their flavors, with the popping yolk burger often favored. The egg salad sandwich is solid, and the hot chicken sandwich also gets good marks.

People are saying

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

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

"The Nashville Chicken Sandwich and Popping Yolk burger were impressive."

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.

17
Wonder Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

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.

BLT sandwiches stand out as really good. The egg and sausage sandwich comes in a surprisingly large size. Burgers and sandwiches overall offer solid options but service is not a priority here.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and a great value."

"These burgers are loaded, messy, and truly one of a kind."

"This egg and sausage sandwich is surprisingly large."

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.

18
Tops image 1
Fast food restaurant

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.

Pastrami sandwiches stand out with thin cut, lean meat piled high, juicy, and tender. Club sandwiches come loaded with fresh crisp lettuce, tomato, and lots of avocado for a tasty bite.

People are saying

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

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

"The pastrami sandwich here is piled high, juicy, and tender."

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.

19
New York Chicken & Gyro Pasadena image 1

Spacious fast food restaurant with clean, well-lit interior and cute decorations creates a bold, inviting vibe. Atmosphere feels cozy and fun despite cooler temperature inside. Seating is ample but could use more tables to accommodate crowds.

Fresh, juicy cheeseburgers stand out here, with options for kids like cheeseburgers, nuggets, and fries. The fried chicken wings also get attention for their flavor.

Massive sandwiches come filled with delicious meats. The crispy chicken sandwich pairs with fries, but some sandwiches now come in a small size with a tiny sauce cup.

People are saying

"I thought the food tasted like it was straight from NYC food stalls."

"I loved the big portions of their American food."

"The gyro sandwich here has nice flavors and a big portion."

Good to know

1

Parking on Green Street is difficult; arrive early or on weekdays.

2

Prices are very affordable, with platters costing around $11 each.

3

The restaurant offers good kid options like cheeseburgers, nuggets, and fries.

20
Hawg Heaven BBQ & Gastro Pub image 1

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.

Crispy chicken and brisket stand out with great flavor and quality meat. The BBQ chicken sandwich and pulled pork quesadilla come with sweet potato fries. Wings and chicken sandwich are standard.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

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

"The brisket sandwich had really tender and flavorful brisket."

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.

21
Hook Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Casual hamburger joint with a retro vibe and clean, well-lit interior. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting but can be loud due to music volume, making conversation difficult. Outdoor patio offers pleasant seating and welcomes dogs.

Hickory burger and root beer float stand out as solid choices. The menu features a chicken club sandwich and grilled cheese, both served on a toasted hamburger bun.

Sandwiches offer great flavor and variety, including pesto chicken, BBQ chicken, and chicken club options. Prices stay around $8, with combos available alongside beers.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here juicy and flavorful."

"I found the burgers and sandwiches here to be solid and delicious."

"I loved the American food, especially the yummy burgers and fries."

Good to know

1

Prices for burgers start at $11, with combos around $18.

2

Unlimited sauces and pickles are available at no extra charge.

3

Parking is spacious with plenty of available spots.

22
Kings Breakfast & Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small space with cozy indoor and outdoor seating and colorful tile decor creates a down-to-earth vibe. Busy street noise adds liveliness while murals and mountain views enhance the atmosphere. Affordable prices and house-made hot sauces complement the casual burger and breakfast experience.

Burgers come with jalapeรฑo bacon, western bacon, and hot link options. Breakfast items include a spinach and avocado egg burrito with tater tots and a loaded plate called "The One" with bacon, sausage, hash browns, sauce, cheese, and eggs. Fried chicken sandwich offers good flavor.

Fried chicken sandwich features two chicken strips on a bun. It has good flavor but the chicken strips are often overcooked.

People are saying

"This breakfast burrito is super flavorful and loaded with ingredients."

"I thought the burgers were the best I ever had."

"I tried the chicken sandwich and it was delicious."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is large and available.

2

There was never a wait or line at Kings Breakfast & Burgers.

3

The prices at Kings Breakfast & Burgers are more reasonable than many other places.

23
Lucky Boy Drive-In at Walnut image 1
Hamburger restaurant

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.

Pastrami sandwiches stand out with lots of crispy bacon slices and a size that satisfies. Club sandwiches and BLTs offer solid fast food options, while fried chicken and fried zucchini add variety to the sandwich lineup.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were solid and enormous."

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

"The pastrami sandwich is delicious and a good size."

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.

24
OH LA LA image 1
Brunch restaurant

French-style cafe offers a spacious seating area with beautiful interior design and live jazz music on weekends. Atmosphere feels inviting and relaxing, suitable for working or date nights. Bakery features artisan pastries that compete with top Parisian standards.

Fried chicken shines with a crispy sandwich and a fresh side salad that balances the meal. Eggs Benedict stands out as a classic brunch choice with attentive service enhancing the experience.

Fresh sandwiches stand out with options like the caprese sandwich and chicken sandwich with fries. Breakfast sandwiches and fresh pastries add variety to the menu.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and unique."

"Aimee was so accommodating with my sandwich order."

"The American food, like the fried chicken sandwich, was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM on weekdays.

2

Live music is hosted during dinner time on weekends.

3

Parking is difficult to find, with most spots being time-limited.

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