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Local picks

Unique food in Old Pasadena

Food that offers something genuinely unique instead of the same tired menu found everywhere else.

Based on 567 Opinions
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01
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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.

Incredible food serves as a key draw, surprising many with its quality. Events and drinks support a strong sense of community around the meals.

Menu offers unique flavors and pairings like Vegan Strawberry Shortcake Cheezecake and almond-based vegan cheese. Customizable charcuterie boards to go add to the distinct options available.

People are saying

"The food and coffee here are so yummy."

"The vegan cheesecake and almond cheese had super unique flavors."

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.

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Modern Indian restaurant offers a spacious, upscale interior with vibrant, lively music from a live DJ blending Indian and pop tracks. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, suited for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. Walls feature gorgeous paintings and intricate designs, enhancing the cool, contemporary vibe.

Offers a wide variety of fusion Indian cuisine with dishes full of flavor. Gobi Manchurian stands out with perfect heat and balanced sweetness. Food delivers great value with quality and quantity.

Live drumming and guest musicians create a fun and unique vibe. The menu features many unique and delicious items, including authentic Indian dishes from Chak De California.

People are saying

"I found the food here delicious and flavorful."

"The menu had many unique and delicious items."

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.

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Interior features life-size Samurai warrior sculptures and fashionable, trendy decor with dim, warm lighting creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Lounge music plays softly, enhancing a unique vibe that sets it apart from typical sushi restaurants. Creative cocktails and beautifully presented dishes add to a special dining experience.

Food features delicious flavors and quality ingredients served in an upscale atmosphere with attentive service.

Lavish sushi presentations and a DIY handroll class create a unique dining experience. The Emerald cocktail features ignited rosemary for a fragrant smoke effect, adding to the distinctive vibe.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The sushi here is so fresh and beautifully prepared."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

2

Brunch service starts at 10am on weekends.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

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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.

Food stands out with strong flavors and consistent quality. Dishes like patatas bravas, celery salad, hot honey pizza, and anchovy toast pair well with cocktails.

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

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

"I appreciated the food; it was amazing."

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.

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125-year-old building blends old-world charm with modern elegance through stunning architecture and lush landscapes. Outdoor courtyard and rooftop offer breathtaking views and multiple photo spots, while indoor ballroom provides a magical reception space. Atmosphere shifts from nostalgic and romantic during ceremonies to lively with live jazz and swing bands.

In-house catering delivers very tasty food that impresses guests. Almost every guest compliments the flavor and the attentive wait staff.

A mix of rustic charm, romantic atmosphere, and luxury amenities creates a unique setting for weddings. Rich history adds extra character to the venue.

People are saying

"The food here was very tasty and complimented by guests."

Good to know

1

There is no on-site parking for guests at Castle Green.

2

Castle Green only hosts one wedding per day for exclusivity.

3

The venue accommodates up to 200 guests comfortably.

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Pastry shop offers cozy, elegant interiors with comfortable seating and a charming European cafรฉ vibe. Displays feature fancy, beautifully flaky pastries including croissants and tarts, accompanied by modern, trending music. Tiny fans above desserts keep the environment neat and inviting.

Food shows consistent good quality and solid service. Selection stays limited but maintains a reliable standard.

Pastries feature unique layers and flavors like matcha pistachio and rose lychee. Each item offers a distinctive taste rarely found in most bakeries.

People are saying

"The pastries here have such unique flavors, like matcha pistachio."

"The food here was good, especially the quiche."

Good to know

1

The spiral croissants are available from 9:30am to 10am.

2

Parking garage across the street costs $10.00.

3

Street parking is available but can be challenging.

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Outdoor patio offers warm lighting and live mariachi music, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Indoor space fills with excited chatter, making it quite loud. Seating is comfortable and the building has a sleek design.

Mexican fare stands out with delicious food and cocktails served in a setting that combines outdoor dining with warm lighting and lively music.

Menu features many tempting and unique Mexican dishes. Staff create amazing options, including distinctive desserts rarely seen elsewhere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the calamari and queso fundido."

"The Mexican dishes here are amazing and unique."

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.

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Ramen restaurant with classic Japanese decor featuring beautiful wall murals and dim lighting creates a quiet, charming atmosphere. Spacious seating allows for comfortable dining without feeling crowded. Two large TVs showing basketball add a casual touch to the otherwise relaxed setting.

Great ramen stands out with curry options adding variety for groups. A clean dining environment pairs well with a selection of appetizers and drinks that complement the food.

The restaurant features a unique style that stands out visually. The yuzu shio ramen offers a distinct citrus flavor, while the shoyu ramen delivers a light yet flavorful taste.

People are saying

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

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.

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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.

Food features great taste with a notable green tea flavor standing out. Cleanliness issues appear with dirty tables and floors during dining.

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

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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Minimalist design with natural light and plants by windows creates a cozy, calming atmosphere. Seating is limited but includes a comfortable couch and outlets, making it suitable for studying or hanging out. The space combines cleanliness with a homey vibe, appealing to those seeking a quiet spot.

Lunch boxes cost around $10 and offer a generous portion of economical Taiwanese food. The menu includes simple, tasty dishes that fit a budget and reduce food waste.

Unique egg waffles come with condensed milk and a variety of toppings like milky jelly, handcrafted mochi, cheese foam, organic oats, and crystal boba. The place offers distinctive combinations and a great selection of bobas.

People are saying

"I thought the Hainan Chicken was only okay."

"Their unique egg waffles are a treat to try."

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.

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Super elevated, well designed space with an organized and thoughtful atmosphere. Lines form early due to high demand, creating a lively, bustling vibe. Pastries and bagels stand out for their artisan craftsmanship, flaky croissants, and flavor-packed fillings.

Creative flavors inspired by Asian cuisine and seasonal ingredients stand out. Drinks like matcha and hojicha latte pair well with warm, tasty food.

Bagels have a soft, flavorful texture that stands out. The Burnt Onion Cream Cheese bagel offers a smoky, charred onion flavor that is very distinct.

People are saying

"These bagels have a unique soft-chewy texture and great flavor."

"The food here, especially the bagels, is so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends, with lines starting as early as 8am.

2

Street parking is available, but it can fill up quickly during peak hours.

3

There is a limit of four items per person, so consider bringing a friend.

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Old Pasadena, Pasadena

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