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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Pasadena

Unique spots

Made for those who are constantly hunting for the unconventional and the obscure.

Based on 530 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
The Patrician Hollywood Universal image 1
The Patrician Hollywood Universal image 2
The Patrician Hollywood Universal image 3
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Historic villa-style guest house offers breathtaking ridge-top views and museum-like antique decor. Atmosphere blends old world charm with laid-back California vibes, creating a peaceful and elegant retreat. Hosts provide a warm, inviting environment with thoughtful touches and excellent morning amenities.

TJ stands out as a phenomenal conversationalist with interesting life stories and a thoughtful, generous nature. The home features furniture and objects, each with its own interesting story or origin.

Personalized service from the house manager creates a stay unlike typical hotels. The lodging offers a memorable and distinctive experience that stands out from corporate chains.

People are saying

"TJ's hospitality and thoughtful touches made my stay truly unique."

"Chatting with TJ, the host, made for a magical evening."

"You'll have interesting conversations with the host, TJ."

Good to know

1

Guests must remove their shoes indoors.

2

There is plenty of parking available for guests.

3

Some rooms have a shared bathroom, while others are private.

02
mandarin coffee stand image 1

Small coffee stand nestled in a charming arcade with outdoor seating and a Parisian alleyway vibe. Atmosphere feels cozy and moody, with antique decor and a library-like ambiance. Spot attracts those seeking a quiet place with unique coffee flavors and occasional pop-up baked goods.

Specialty drinks include an osmanthus latte and various pour-over coffees with balanced acidity and unique flavors. The menu offers lots of interesting drink options beyond the usual standards.

Coffee features unique blends with less acidity and distinct tastes like Osmanthus Latte and Toasty espresso. The shop offers seasonal drink options and an antique vibe with elegant decor.

People are saying

"I loved the Vienna latte; it's so creamy and smooth."

"I found the coffee here to be unique, creamy, and smooth."

"I'd go back to try their interesting specialty drinks."

Good to know

1

Parking is metered near the coffee stand.

2

The coffee stand is cashless, accepting only card payments.

3

Expect long lines on weekends, often requiring a wait of 30-45 minutes.

03
Saucy Chick Indi-Mex Eatery image 1

Small indoor space with extensive outdoor patio seating creates a casual, LA chill vibe with friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Busy with takeout and delivery but remains unhectic and pleasant for dining in. Decorated with taste, featuring live music and henna art during visits.

Owners take an interesting fusion risk and pull it off. Menu offers unusual combos like lamb tacos and eclectic flavor combinations.

Indian styled Mexican food creates unique flavor pairings that blend both cuisines. Rotisserie chicken stands out with its distinctive taste in this Indi-Mex mash-up.

People are saying

"The food here is a delicious and fun fusion of Indian and Mexican flavors."

"I loved the unique mash-up of Indian and Mexican flavors."

"I found the flavor combinations and fusion risk really interesting."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

2

There is a parking lot available at the restaurant.

3

The restaurant provides Halal options for diners.

04
Pasadena Antique Mall image 1

Spacious antique mall with soft lighting and an elegant layout creates a calming atmosphere. It offers a vast selection of vintage and collectible items, including unique pop culture and Disney memorabilia. The environment is quiet yet bustling, with convenient amenities like bag check and a lounge area.

Lots of interesting items fill the space, including jewelry, books, and collectibles. The store offers a mix of unique pieces and historical finds that catch the eye.

A consignment store offers a wide range of unique items from various vendors. The selection includes many interesting pieces perfect for home or gifts.

People are saying

"I found thousands of vintage items, like clothes, books, and furniture."

"I found so many interesting and unique items here."

"I found so many unique items, from furniture to collectibles."

Good to know

1

Parking at Pasadena Antique Mall is convenient and validated.

2

Prices can be high on some items, so budget accordingly.

3

Accessibility is good as it is located in a shopping mall.

05
Norton Simon Museum image 1

Museum combines impeccable architecture with world-class South and Southeast Asian sculptures and paintings. Quiet, spacious galleries lead to tranquil outdoor sculpture gardens with a cafe by a pond. Noise from nearby freeway can intrude but overall setting remains peaceful and well curated.

Exhibits feature a collection of South and East Asian artifacts alongside 17th-18th century European art. Descriptions provide clear explanations that enhance understanding of each piece.

A standout feature includes a unique Southeast Asia department with special exhibitions. The collection holds many unique paintings and sculptures that offer a distinct cultural experience.

People are saying

"I found this museum to be a surprising gem."

"I found the collection of Asian artifacts and European art really interesting."

"I found the collection incredible, with unique paintings and sculptures."

Good to know

1

Admission is $15 for adults; children 18 and younger enter for free.

2

Free admission for all visitors on the first Friday of every month from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

3

The museum is open late on Friday and Saturday nights.

06
Salt & Straw image 1
Ice cream shop

Small space with limited seating encourages takeout and street-side enjoyment. Unique, creative ice cream flavors offer a layered tasting experience with options like olive oil and honey lavender. Sampling is allowed, and waffles are made fresh in front of customers, adding to the interactive vibe.

Offers ever-changing seasonal flavors with interesting ice cream combinations like strawberry balsamic and pear with blue cheese. Encourages trying unique tastes that stand out from typical options.

Flavors stand out for their unique combinations like olive oil ice cream. Each option offers a distinctive tasting experience that changes periodically.

People are saying

"I tried some truly unique ice cream flavors, like Pear Blue Cheese."

"I thought the ice cream here was awesome and one of the best."

"I tried their interesting flavors like pear and blue cheese."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited to street parking only.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during weekends.

3

Two double scoop cones cost a bit over $20.

07
Wanderlust Creamery image 1
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop inside a food hall offers unique travel-inspired flavors with Asian influences and vegan options. The atmosphere is fun and nice, though seating is limited. Free samples encourage trying a wide variety of creative, high-quality scoops.

Ice cream flavors stand out as interesting and exotic, with several vegan options that offer unique tastes. Each flavor surprises with its distinct and uncommon profile.

Flavors feature Asian-inspired and travel-themed tastes like Mango Sticky Rice and ube pandan tres Leche. Each option offers a creative and unique twist on ice cream.

People are saying

"The ice cream flavors here are inspired by travels and unique Asian influences."

"The ice cream flavors here are so unique and globally inspired."

"The ice cream flavors here are interesting and exotic."

Good to know

1

Wanderlust Creamery offers a variety of unique flavors inspired by different countries.

2

Vegan options are available with non-dairy ingredients.

3

Prices are high for the portion sizes, with scoops costing around $10.

08
Ladies and Gentlemen - A Cocktail Experience image 1

Speakeasy-style cocktail bar features a hidden basement entrance and sleek vintage decor with modern touches. Atmosphere stays intimate and stylish with house music at moderate volume, creating a perfect setting for special occasions. Cocktails come in curated sets, showcasing creative, artful presentations with unique flavor combinations.

A speakeasy entrance hides behind a flushed toilet leading to a uniquely interesting room. The bar offers an ambience and concept that stands out, with interesting cocktails to match.

A speakeasy entrance leads to cocktails with unique flavor combinations and fun presentations. Drinks like the PB and J cocktail offer an edible cocktail experience that stands out.

People are saying

"I've never had a better old fashioned cocktail."

"The cocktails here are unique, with smoky infusions and floral notes."

"The cocktails here are inventive and well-curated."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a spot, especially on weekends.

2

You must order cocktails in sets of three, costing $75 each time.

3

The entrance is through a hidden door in a fake restroom.

09
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.

Cheese selections offer a great variety with flavors that stay interesting and fresh. Pineapple Glazed Pork Meatballs combine a crispy exterior with a unique pineapple flavor. The interior blends modern design with a fresh vibe.

The space flows seamlessly between dining room, bar, and market, creating a versatile layout. Unique dishes like curry creamed kale, cornbread eclairs, and beet carpaccio come on eclectic china plates.

People are saying

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

"The cornbread eclairs are unique and bomb."

"The atmosphere is an interesting blend of modern industrial and cozy."

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.

10
NOSTALGIC CAFE image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop with vintage-style dรฉcor and mid-century modern furniture creates a cozy, moody ambiance filled with soulful jazzy tunes. Comfortable seating and eclectic personality invite relaxation, making it a favored spot for reading or working. Atmosphere reflects a nostalgic past with antique decor and warm lighting.

Unique comfy chairs and whimsical decor create an interesting atmosphere. The drink menu blends classics and unique options for an engaging experience.

Whimsical decor includes a grandfather clock and vintage vinyl player that match the nostalgic theme. Unique comfy chairs and distinctive coffee and teas add to the experience.

People are saying

"This cafe feels so cozy and welcoming, like a vintage escape."

"The atmosphere and decor here are interesting and take you back in time."

"The unique decor and comfy chairs make it a great study spot."

Good to know

1

Seating is very limited, especially for groups larger than two.

2

They accept all electronic payment options.

3

Finding street parking is challenging, but there are nearby parking lots.

11
Oakobing image 1
Dessert shop

Small dessert shop offers Korean shaved milk ice with a dense, creamy texture and unique flavors like Injeolmi and Black Sesame. Bright, modern interior includes six small tables and some outdoor seating, creating a cozy spot to chat. Music plays softly, adding to a relaxed, cool atmosphere.

Shaved ice offers a unique creamy texture unlike typical versions. Plenty of unique flavors provide a distinct dessert experience.

People are saying

"The shaved ice desserts here are so light and refreshing."

"The shaved ice here has a unique, creamy texture unlike any I've tasted."

"The shaved ice here is creamy and not icy at all."

Good to know

1

Parking is not available; consider nearby metered parking.

2

Expect a long line, especially on weekends.

3

Only credit and debit cards are accepted for payment.

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Pasadena, California

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