Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Pasadena

Authentic seafood

Seafood that prioritizes the catch over the heavy-handed preparation found elsewhere.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
User
User
User
Updated
01
Kwan Kitchen image 1
Kwan Kitchen image 2
Kwan Kitchen image 3
View all

Small restaurant with modern Thai accents and understated decor creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with fun beats in the background. The vibe feels casual and community-oriented, inviting relaxed dining experiences.

Dishes deliver authentic Thai flavors with great portions. Pad Thai and green curry stand out as true to traditional recipes. Food comes from a kitchen run by Thai people, ensuring genuine taste.

Shrimp appears in several dishes with whole shrimps in deep-fried wrappers and plump shrimp cooked perfectly in the tom yum soup. Dried shrimp adds a distinct touch to the pad thai, enhancing its flavor.

People are saying

"The shrimp in the tom yum soup was cooked to perfection."

"The Thai flavors here are so authentic and bursting with freshness."

Good to know

1

Corkage fee applies if you bring your own wine.

2

The restaurant has a small parking lot that can get crowded.

3

Takeout orders are well-packaged to keep food hot.

02
El Metate image 1
El Metate image 2
El Metate image 3
View all

Cafeteria-style Mexican restaurant offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with a strong sense of community. The vibe is authentic and comfortable, featuring fresh, flavorful salsas and strong, fresh-squeezed margaritas. Regulars enjoy affordable street tacos and a variety of traditional dishes in a casual setting.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with a delicious and genuine taste. Atmosphere feels authentic and true to the cuisine.

Shrimp burritos and fish tacos appear often and taste consistently good. Dishes like ceviche and shrimp diablo add variety to the seafood options.

People are saying

"The fish tacos and ceviche here are delicious."

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

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is from 4 to 6 daily with great deals.

2

Parking is available across the street from the Rose Parade route.

3

Tacos are reasonably priced, making it a great spot for affordable food.

03
Crab Grabber手抓海鲜 image 1
Crab Grabber手抓海鲜 image 2
Crab Grabber手抓海鲜 image 3
View all

Seafood restaurant offers a casual and fun vibe with a spacious interior suited for groups. A free snack bar with diverse options complements the fresh seafood dishes. Decor mixes sailor and traditional Chinese elements but shows signs of wear.

Chongqing-style spicy crab delivers an authentic kick with perfect spice balance. Sichuan-style braised dishes and Chinese cold plates, including handmade sesame balls, reflect decades of experience and true Chinese flavors.

Seafood here stands out for its freshness and rich variety. Options include a seafood boil with spicy Chongqing flavors and dishes like boiling crab, shrimp, and dry pot shrimp.

People are saying

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

"The spicy duck heads have such an authentic flavor."

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.

04
Chong Qing YaoMei Hotpot image 1
Chong Qing YaoMei Hotpot image 2
Chong Qing YaoMei Hotpot image 3
View all

Hot pot restaurant offers authentic Chongqing street feel with vibrant atmosphere featuring Chinese music, mahjong tables, and live performances. A sauce bar provides unlimited appetizers and customizable dipping sauces. The space combines traditional decorations with a modern, lively vibe.

Broth delivers a bold, numbing punch packed with authentic Sichuan flavors. This spot serves a true Chongqing mala hot pot experience that stands out outside China.

A wide selection of fresh seafood and meats is available for hotpot, including unique items like mentaiko fish balls and shrimp paste with distinct granules of shrimp meat. Plenty of seafood and vegetarian options complement the variety.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Chongqing hot pot here to have a rich, numbing-spicy broth."

"I loved the seafood sauce bar with unlimited sides and desserts."

Good to know

1

On Saturdays at 7:30 pm, an authentic dancer performs for a few minutes.

2

They charge around $6.99 per person just to access the sauce and salad bar.

3

Parking is available next door and costs about $5.

05
Top Restaurant image 1
Top Restaurant image 2
Top Restaurant image 3
View all

Takeout-only spot with a mom-and-pop, homey atmosphere and fusion of Chinese, Indonesian, and Hawaiian cuisines. The place draws a steady line at the drive-thru, known for crispy, juicy fried chicken and flavorful BBQ dishes. No indoor seating is available, but parking is ample.

Offers many authentic Indonesian and Hawaiian dishes with a home style feel. Food tastes delicious and genuine.

Seafood dishes include a combo with fried fish, shrimp tempura, and chicken katsu served with Gyoza. The seafood fried rice and egg noodle with seafood stand out for their flavor and portion size.

People are saying

"I loved their authentic, crispy, and flavorful fried chicken."

"The seafood combo here is a really nice sized portion and affordable."

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.

06
Vero's Restaurant image 1
Vero's Restaurant image 2
Vero's Restaurant image 3
View all

Small seating area creates a charming small town feel with a relaxing atmosphere. Family-owned vibe welcomes a mix of diners enjoying homemade style Mexican food and a huge variety of fresh juices. Customers often bring their own beer, adding to the casual, neighborhood spot energy.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with dishes that taste truly genuine. Every bite reflects perfectly authentic preparation and ingredients.

Thierry shrimp ceviche tostada stands out as a unique and affordable option. Weekly taco specials include grilled shrimp tacos on Wednesdays, and the menu features menudo and shrimp broth as well.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

They offer taco deals almost daily.

2

Daily specials are available.

3

This place allows customers to bring their own beer.

07
Madre Maiz Taqueria image 1
Madre Maiz Taqueria image 2
Madre Maiz Taqueria image 3
View all

Small Mexican cantina offers intimate indoor tables and ample outdoor seating with umbrellas. Atmosphere feels cozy and casual with good music and friendly staff. Kitchen is visible and efficient, creating an authentic vibe.

Food bursts with authentic flavors and comes expertly prepared. Meat is marinated to perfection and very juicy, delivering a truly satisfying Mexican cuisine experience.

Grilled shrimp tacos feature perfectly cooked shrimp that is not rubbery and delivers amazing flavors. These tacos stand out as a favorite seafood option with a satisfying taste.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic food, bursting with flavor."

"The grilled shrimp taco is the best seafood I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

There is limited indoor seating for large groups.

2

They have an outdoor seating area which is nice.

3

There is a free parking lot outside.

08
Mama Lu's Dumpling House image 1
Mama Lu's Dumpling House image 2
Mama Lu's Dumpling House image 3
View all

Spacious restaurant blends Art Deco chandeliers with classic architectural details, creating a classy yet casual vibe. Energy runs high with a buzzing atmosphere that suits gatherings and dates, while a bar area adds an adult touch. The space accommodates both small and large parties comfortably.

Dishes capture the essence of Hong Kong cuisine with authentic flavors. Dumplings stand out as absolutely delicious and authentic.

Szechuan Shrimp delivers a bold, spicy punch with rich flavor. The House Special Fish Filet offers a crispy outside and tender inside, packed with taste. Seafood Udon comes with a savory XO sauce for extra depth.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Chinese food here to be delicious and tasty."

"I found the seafood dumplings to be so savory and juicy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking is available around the corner in a lot that costs $1 for the first 2 hours.

3

Prices are affordable, with good portion sizes for the cost.

09
Mills Alley image 1
Mills Alley image 2
Mills Alley image 3
View all

Open kitchen and clean, modern decor create a spacious, inviting atmosphere with well-spaced seating and cushioned chairs. Conversation flows easily thanks to good acoustics despite hard surfaces. Extensive sake selection and fresh, flavorful sushi and skewers complement the artistic Japanese cuisine vibe.

Skewers feature a harmonious blend of salt, sugar, and soy sauce. Pork katsu don tastes exceptionally authentic. The sushi experience transports you to Japan.

Sashimi and hand rolls feature firm, thick slices of fish with a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Dishes like the sashimi platter and chirashi bowl offer a fresh variety of seafood, including grilled fish collar and seafood soba.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The sushi here is so authentic, with fresh fish and perfectly seasoned rice."

Good to know

1

Reservations for the omakase experience are recommended at least one week in advance.

2

Expect a short wait time during weekday dinners.

3

The sushi is priced at $7.00 per piece, which is higher than average.

10
Kyushu Sushi image 1
Kyushu Sushi image 2
Kyushu Sushi image 3
View all

Small, family-run Japanese restaurant with bright red walls and lantern decorations creates a cozy, homey atmosphere. The space feels clean and inviting, with casual and comfortable seating. Fresh, authentic sushi and unique touches like real wasabi and sparkling sake complement the intimate vibe.

Fresh sushi and crab stand out with authentic flavors. Some parts of the restaurant feel less authentic, but the food keeps it genuine.

Fish arrives unbelievably fresh and thick, with every roll featuring whole pieces of fish rather than ground. The seafood shines in dishes like sushi, sashimi, fried oysters, and a rich seafood soup udon with soft, waxy noodles.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and high quality."

"The sushi here is so fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Parking is available on the side, but access requires a left turn on a one-way street.

3

Lunch specials offer good value for those looking for a budget-friendly option.

11
dos besos image 1
dos besos image 2
dos besos image 3
View all

Rustic Spanish decor and warm lighting create a romantic vibe with lively energy. Outdoor patio seating offers a dog-friendly and heater-equipped space tucked away in an alley. Guests enjoy shared plates and wine in a setting that feels like a long, relaxed dinner among friends.

Dishes showcase authentic Spanish flavors with meticulous crafting. The menu stays true to Spanish style, delivering a genuine taste experience.

Seafood paella stands out with fresh ingredients cooked to perfection. Tapas like octopus and shrimp complement the dishes, all delivering rich, flavorful bites.

People are saying

"I found the seafood paella to be amazingly delicious."

"I loved the authentic Spanish food; it was full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size and popularity.

2

Parking is conveniently located across the street in the union structure.

3

The cost for one paella and two cocktails is over $100.

12
Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr image 1
Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr image 2
Tendon Tempura Carlos Jr image 3
View all

Small Japanese restaurant offers cozy atmosphere with authentic tempura and fresh soba. Space feels clean and welcoming but tight, often crowded during peak hours. Casual vibe with a calm pace, resembling a spot tucked away in Japan.

Tempura stands out with its perfectly crispy texture, showing clear dedication to authentic Japanese techniques. The spot offers genuine Japanese dishes beyond sushi, capturing true Japanese vibes.

Shrimp tempura comes plump and tender with a bit of bite in the veggies. Various tempura items like shrimp, baby scallop kakiage, and seaweed sit on perfectly cooked rice.

People are saying

"The seafood tempura is so crispy and not greasy at all."

"The authentic Japanese tempura here is perfectly crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-30 minute wait during peak hours due to limited seating.

2

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

3

The restaurant requires all members of the party to be present before seating.

13
MOOM 48 THAI image 1
MOOM 48 THAI image 2
MOOM 48 THAI image 3
View all

Cozy space with a calm, welcoming atmosphere suits casual lunches and relaxed dinners. Guests find authentic Thai flavors with generous portions and vegetarian options. Location offers easy parking nearby despite a vibrant, busy area.

Offers authentic Thai dishes with good size portions. Food tastes genuine and traditional.

People are saying

"I found the food to be authentic with good size portions."

Good to know

1

During lunch happy hour, a free egg roll and drink are offered with an entrée purchase.

2

Parking can be limited on the streets nearby, but there is a large parking structure on Green Street.

3

The meal cost about $20 USD, including tax and tip, which is reasonable for a sit-down lunch.

14
Nine & Nine Thai Kitchen image 1
Nine & Nine Thai Kitchen image 2
Nine & Nine Thai Kitchen image 3
View all

Small space with exposed brick and unique decor like a bicycle on the wall creates a cozy, casual vibe. Loud noise and bad acoustics make conversation difficult during busy times. Outdoor seating with heaters offers a comfortable alternative.

Food features authentic Thai flavors with a tasty and genuine taste. Service is friendly, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Seafood dishes feature fresh-tasting seafood with well-balanced flavors. Options include grilled shrimp papaya salad, yellow curry seafood, and a spicy-sour Tom yum with shrimp and bean sprouts.

People are saying

"I found the Thai food here to be quite authentic and tasty."

"The seafood Tom yum is amazing, with a perfect balance of spicy and sour."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available or you can park in the Target garage across the street.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours.

3

A party of three can have a full meal for $50.

15
Pasadena Noodle & Grill image 1
Pasadena Noodle & Grill image 2
Pasadena Noodle & Grill image 3
View all

Pho restaurant offers warm, cozy ambiance with plenty of indoor seating and an extensive menu featuring authentic broth and grilled meat options. The atmosphere feels inviting and charming, suited for those who appreciate simple, flavorful Vietnamese dishes.

Broth and meat options for pho are authentic and well-prepared. This spot offers a genuine Vietnamese culinary adventure with flavors true to tradition.

Charbroiled Shrimp with Rice offers a good portion and solid flavor. Fried rice includes shrimp, beef, and chicken, but seafood toppings like fish ball, imitation crab, shrimp, and squid come in smaller amounts compared to other spots.

People are saying

"I found the pho broth to be so authentic and rich."

"I found the seafood here always hit the spot."

Good to know

1

Call ahead to order regular lunch items to avoid long wait times.

2

The menu offers a variety of options, including pho and grilled meat dishes.

3

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

16
Mercado Pasadena image 1
Mercado Pasadena image 2
Mercado Pasadena image 3
View all

Modern Mexican restaurant offers a heated outdoor patio with pet-friendly seating and powerful fans for comfort. Atmosphere feels inviting and cozy, with a great view and lively energy. Specialty margaritas and flavorful dishes like carnitas and enchiladas stand out.

Food offers fresh, light flavors that match what you find in Mexico. Dishes feel well prepared and more authentic than typical US versions, though some find it less authentic.

Shrimp tacos come with a crispy fried texture and pair well with aioli. Fish dishes like sea bass feature crispy skin and flaky white meat, while garlic shrimp offers a distinct flavor profile.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the fish tacos, is flavorful and perfectly cooked."

"I thought the authentic food was fresh and well prepared."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers tacos for $12, a great deal compared to regular prices.

2

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

3

Parking is $2 for 20 minutes, and they do not validate parking.

17
Malbec Argentinean Cuisine image 1
Malbec Argentinean Cuisine image 2
Malbec Argentinean Cuisine image 3
View all

Outdoor seating along a quiet, tree-lined street offers a comfortable atmosphere with shade and a relaxed vibe. Indoor space feels sleek and dark, creating an upscale date-night ambiance despite some heat and noise. An extensive Argentine wine list complements the classy and elegant setting.

Authentic Argentinean cuisine shines through with exquisite flavors and delicious dishes. The staff's accents and passion bring genuine culture and energy to the experience.

Seafood features sweet and refreshing flavors with dishes like octopus al romesco and a trio of cebiches. Clams and mussels come in a white wine sauce that pairs well with bread.

People are saying

"The seafood, like octopus and scallops, was truly delicious."

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and special occasions.

2

All steak dishes are served à la carte, so sides must be ordered separately.

3

Expect higher prices for sides, which can add up quickly.

18
President Thai Restaurant image 1
President Thai Restaurant image 2
President Thai Restaurant image 3
View all

Large space with authentic Thai decor and both indoor and outdoor seating creates a cozy yet busy atmosphere. Crowds and noise levels rise during peak times, reflecting its popularity and fast-paced service. Unique touches include nugget-style ice and offering both chopsticks and forks.

Food features authentic Thai flavors with dishes like Pad Thai and egg rolls capturing true South East Asian taste. The restaurant's interior also reflects an authentic atmosphere.

Steamed fish comes fresh and tender, served with soup that pairs well with rice. Shrimp dishes and fish cakes stand out as tasty options, while the seafood soup is packed with a variety of seafood. Whole striped bass offers a finger-licking good experience.

People are saying

"I found the Thai food here to be really authentic and flavorful."

"The seafood here is delicious, especially the whole fish."

Good to know

1

Parking can be limited at peak times, especially during weekends.

2

Expect long wait times on holidays like Mother's Day.

3

The set meal offers good value for money for two people.

19
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant image 1
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant image 2
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant image 3
View all

Multiple rooms filled with old pictures, cultural statues, and red and white gingham tablecloths create a unique, lively atmosphere. Friendly energy rises with roaming photographers and birthday songs adding to the experience. The setting feels like an Italian dining room with a cozy, homey vibe.

Italian flavors come through as authentic and delicious in the dishes. The setting features authentic Italian decor that adds to the atmosphere.

Shrimp Fra Diavolo stands out with its spicy kick. The seafood pasta and Fettuccine Alfredo also get strong mentions for flavor and richness.

People are saying

"The linguine and clams seafood dish is delicious and plentiful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect large portion sizes; a normal serving feeds about five people.

3

Meatball Mondays offer 50% off any meatball item, including sandwiches and pasta.

Discover more

Pasadena, California

Area guide