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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Old Pasadena

Authentic spots

Made for those who have no patience for watered-down versions and insist on the real thing.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated July 2026
01
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Restaurant

Rustic Spanish decor and warm lighting create a romantic vibe with lively energy. Authentic Spanish dishes offer genuine flavors crafted with care. Outdoor patio seating is dog-friendly and heater-equipped, perfect for relaxed dinners among friends.

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

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, full of authentic flavor."

"The seafood paella here is amazing, truly the best."

"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.

02
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Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio glows with warm lighting and live mariachi music, creating a lively yet relaxed vibe. Authentic Mexican dishes feature rich queso fundido and fresh tortillas. Indoor seating is comfortable but fills with excited chatter, making it quite loud.

Authentic Mexican cuisine shines with well-seasoned dishes and rich queso fundido paired with freshly made tortillas. Live entertainment adds a joyful, genuine vibe to the experience.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the enchiladas."

"The service for dinner spots was so attentive and welcoming."

"The food here is authentic, with tender meat and flavorful broth."

Good to know

1

Mariachi entertainment is available on Thursdays, with boleros on some Saturdays.

2

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

3

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially during live events.

03
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Thai restaurant

Cozy spot with a calm vibe suits casual meals. Enjoy authentic Thai flavors with generous portions and vegetarian options. Easy parking nearby makes visits hassle-free.

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

People are saying

"The Thai food here is packed with flavor and generous with the duck."

"The Panang Curry was rich, creamy, and full of depth."

"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 entrรฉe 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.

04
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Modern Indian restaurant

Modern Indian restaurant shines with authentic flavors like Paneer Masala and Chicken Korma. Spacious, upscale interior features live DJ music blending Indian and pop tracks. Walls display gorgeous paintings, creating a warm, inviting vibe for any gathering.

Food features rich, authentic flavors with dishes like Paneer Masala and Chicken Korma bursting with traditional taste. Appetizers such as Gol Gappa offer a crispy snack experience with potato and chickpeas.

People are saying

"The Indian food, especially the chicken tikka masala, is so creamy."

"I found the food here delicious and flavorful."

"The food here is bursting with rich, authentic flavors."

Good to know

1

Live DJ performances occur on Fridays and Saturdays, enhancing the dining experience.

2

A new lounge with a Punjabi DJ will open soon, adding to the entertainment options.

3

Parking can be challenging nearby, so plan accordingly before your visit.

05
LT9 Teas . Desserts . Foods - Old Town Pasadena image 1

Minimalist design with natural light and plants creates a cozy, calming spot. Milk tea has a robust tea flavor true to Taiwanese style. Limited seating includes a comfy couch with outlets, perfect for studying or relaxing.

Milk tea offers a robust tea flavor true to Taiwanese style. Drinks balance authentic taste with fruit flavors and healthiness, featuring real blueberry and genuine Jasmine tea notes.

People are saying

"The milk teas here are perfectly sweet and full of flavor."

"This Lunch Spot's Hainan chicken is tender and flavorful."

"I loved the authentic tea flavor, it tasted so real."

Good to know

1

There was a parking lot for $10 all day right next door.

2

The kitchen closed at 8pm, even though the store was open until 9pm.

3

The lunch special is available Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 3 PM.

06
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Chinese restaurant

Small, cozy spot with a classic Chinese atmosphere offers authentic savory crepes like Jianbing and Tianjin styles. Bright, clean interior and limited seating make it perfect for quick, casual dining or takeout. Flavors capture traditional Asian street food well.

Jianbing and Tianjin crepes here taste like classic street food with authentic flavors. The dishes capture the essence of traditional Asian cuisine well.

People are saying

"I thought the crepes here were so good and flavorful."

"The congee combo with a fresh Chinese donut is amazing."

"I found the jianbing here to be fantastic and authentic."

Good to know

1

There is no restroom available for customers inside the restaurant.

2

Street parking is difficult; a public lot charges $1 for the first two hours.

3

Parking options include metered street parking or nearby garages.

07
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Mexican restaurant

Small indoor space with homey decor and picnic tables offers a cozy vibe. Family-run spot serves authentic Mexican tortas with large portions that satisfy. Warmth and genuine flavors make it stand out.

Tortas here deliver authentic Mexican flavor with delicious, traditional tortas that capture genuine taste. The food consistently reflects authenticity in every dish.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food tortas to be the best I have ever tasted."

"I loved their wholesome Mexican breakfast with quality ingredients."

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

Good to know

1

The wait time is usually under ten minutes for orders.

2

There are many vegetarian options available on the menu.

3

Indoor seating is limited, but outdoor seating is available.

08
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Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant shines with authentic flavors and classic Japanese decor. Spacious seating and dim lighting create a quiet, charming vibe. Two large TVs showing basketball add a casual touch to the relaxed setting.

Ramen offers authentic flavors that match those found in Japan. Takoyaki stands out as very authentic and pairs well with the menu.

People are saying

"The Yuzu Shio Ramen is light, refreshing, and has a gentle citrus flavor."

"I thought the tonkatsu here was the best, hands down."

"The ramen here has authentic flavors and rich broth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are only accepted for groups of six or more.

2

Prices are affordable, typically under $40 for two people with leftovers.

3

The restaurant allows guests to bring their own cake and champagne at no extra cost.

09
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Nepalese restaurant

Nepalese restaurant serves authentic flavors like Chatpatey with a perfect crunch. Cozy, tasteful decor and soothing Hindi music create a relaxed vibe. Great for vegetarian options and unique Himalayan dishes.

Authentic flavors come through clearly in dishes like Chatpatey, which offers a perfectly balanced crunch. The vibe stays relaxed with cozy, authentic decor enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be so fresh and delicious."

"I experienced authentic flavors with perfectly balanced spices."

"The Masala Chai here is heavenly and the flavors are incredible."

Good to know

1

Parking available in the same building starts from $1 and is very convenient.

2

The menu has many vegetarian and vegan options.

3

You can request mild or spicy food based on your preference.

10
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Mexican restaurant

Fast food Mexican spot serves authentic flavors in a spacious dining area with a bright, clean interior. Prices stay affordable while tacos and burritos keep true to tradition. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and inviting despite occasional sketchy moments.

Mexican food here offers authentic flavors that avoid Americanized twists. The taste stays true to traditional recipes, though tables lack condiments often found in similar spots.

People are saying

"I always come back for the consistent Mexican food here."

"The salsas here are flavorful with a delightful kick."

"I found the Mexican flavors here to be really authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking at King Taco is difficult and often inconvenient.

2

You can only order online after they open at 10am.

3

They charge $1 for an extra hot sauce.

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Old Pasadena, Pasadena

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