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Lunch spots in Old Pasadena

A lunch spot that respects your time without rushing you out the door the moment you finish.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sato Ramen House image 1
Sato Ramen House image 2
Sato Ramen House image 3
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Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant shines with classic Japanese decor and beautiful wall murals. Spacious seating and dim lighting create a quiet, charming atmosphere perfect for a late Sunday meal or midday break. Two large TVs showing basketball add a casual touch.

Lunch here offers a solid option with consistent quality. The spot works well for a late Sunday meal or a midday break.

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."

"This lunch spot has delicious ramen, especially the spicy tonkatsu."

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.

02
Neighbors & Friends Cafe image 1

Cozy cafe offers a communal table and a cheese bar for a warm, friendly vibe. Lunch shines with a delicious sandwich and fresh lemonade. Local artisanal foods in the micro market add a unique touch to the community feel.

Lunch features a delicious sandwich paired with fresh lemonade. The menu offers a terrific variety that suits an afternoon meal well.

People are saying

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

"I loved the gorgeous and delicious charcuterie boards."

"You have to try the Toasted Vegan sandwich at this lunch spot."

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.

03
Champion's Curry Pasadena image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with counter seating offers a cozy, modern vibe perfect for quick meals. Lunch features authentic Japanese curry with grilled vegetables and extra rice options. Service is lovely, making it a great spot for a satisfying lunch without lingering.

Lunch offers curry rice that tastes very good and comes with options like grilled vegetables and extra rice for a more filling meal. It suits a quick, satisfying lunch stop.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese curry here to be authentic and delicious."

"The Tonkatsu here is perfectly cooked, juicy and tender."

"The curry rice lunch here is so yummy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited, and there is no free parking available.

2

The restaurant is located in a small alley, not on the main road.

3

It's advisable to call ahead during holidays and peak meal times to ensure seating.

04
Tortas Mexico image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small indoor space with homey decor and picnic tables offers a cozy atmosphere. Family-run vibe adds warmth and authenticity. Quick service and large portions make it a great lunch spot for fast, satisfying meals.

Quick service suits those needing a fast lunch. Options focus on grab-and-go convenience for a brief stop.

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."

"The Asada and cheese at this lunch spot were outstanding."

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.

05
Chak De California image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Modern Indian restaurant shines with spacious upscale interior and live DJ music blending Indian and pop. Great for late lunch options that satisfy well, perfect for family gatherings. Walls boast gorgeous paintings adding to the warm, inviting vibe.

Late lunch options include great dishes that satisfy well. Reserving a table helps secure a spot for a relaxed lunch experience with family.

People are saying

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

"I found the food here delicious and flavorful."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is outstanding and delicious."

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.

06
Hawg Heaven BBQ & Gastro Pub image 1

Enjoy live jazz music and generous BBQ portions in a lively spot that turns into a small club after dinner. Lunch offers a government provided meal ideal for families seeking a quick, satisfying bite. Noise levels are high, so it suits those who like energetic vibes.

Lunch options include a government provided meal that suits families well. The spot works for a quick, satisfying family lunch during visits.

People are saying

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

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

"Eric is a joy at this Lunch Spot."

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.

07
Me + Crรชpe image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, cozy spot serves authentic savory crepes in a clean, bright space. Perfect for a quick lunch with a chill vibe. Limited seating makes it ideal for takeout or casual solo meals.

Offers a quick lunch on the go with a chill vibe. Suitable for casual meals with others or solo visits.

People are saying

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

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

"The cumin lamb at this Lunch Spot is delicious and crispy."

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.

08
Fishwives image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small, intimate seafood spot with nautical decor offers a quiet vibe at lunch and a lively, friendly atmosphere overall. Bright interior and courtyard seating create a mix of indoor and outdoor dining. Perfect for casual meals or simple dates.

Casual atmosphere defines the lunch experience here with a quiet vibe during midday. It suits a relaxed meal or a simple date with low crowd levels and a comfortable setting.

People are saying

"The seafood here is top quality, especially the crab cakes and lobster roll."

"The American Food here, especially the clam chowder, is amazing."

"This Lunch Spot has great seafood, especially the oysters and clams."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups, due to high demand.

2

There is no parking available near the restaurant.

3

The average cost for a meal for four is around $385, excluding tip.

09
MOOM 48 THAI image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy spot offers authentic Thai flavors with generous portions and vegetarian options. Lunch specials include a free egg roll and drink during happy hour, all at a reasonable price. Easy parking adds to the calm, welcoming vibe perfect for casual meals.

Lunch offers a calm, welcoming atmosphere with a reasonable price around $20 including tax and tip. Lunch specials come with a free egg roll and drink during happy hour, making it a convenient spot for a casual meal.

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."

"This Lunch Spot's curry is rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced."

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.

10
Jimmy John's image 1
Sandwich shop

Quick service delivers sandwiches in about 30 seconds with amazing bread. Friendly staff keep the lively vibe going with rocking music. Perfect for lunch with fast Spicy Italian Unwich and efficient handling of large orders.

Quick sandwiches like the Spicy Italian Unwich make lunch fast and easy. The spot handles large orders well, serving box lunches for teams, though more staff during lunch hours would help.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really tasty and fresh."

"I thought the sandwiches here were great and the quality was fantastic."

"This Lunch Spot's staff always made me feel welcomed."

Good to know

1

The updated hours for this location are Monday to Saturday from 11am to 7pm, and Sunday from 11am to 4pm.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Parking is available but requires a fee.

11
MAMA M SUSHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small interior and cozy atmosphere create a relaxed vibe with live music enhancing intimacy. Lunch offers good value and quick seating, perfect for a calm meal. Outdoor patio provides city views for a peaceful break.

Lunch offers good value with quality food and friendly staff. Seating happens quickly, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed meal.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is always great and fresh."

"The service here is incredible and the staff is super friendly."

"This Lunch Spot's sushi is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers specials every day of the week.

2

Live music is available on Friday nights outside.

3

Parking options include street parking or a nearby lot costing $7 for 2 hours.

12
Sushigah image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small corner sushi spot offers a cozy atmosphere with fresh sushi and house-made fruit shochu. Open at lunch, it serves food with some dishes arriving about 10 minutes apart, making it a great lunch stop. Limited seating includes bar seats for people watching.

Small spot open during lunch offers a great lunch stop option. Food timing varies, with some dishes arriving about 10 minutes apart.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food here has really attentive and friendly service."

"The sashimi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The Lunch Spot here is so fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is located in the same building, making it super accessible.

2

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible through the side entrance.

3

Sushigah has limited seating, so expect a wait during peak hours.

13
LT9 Teas . Desserts . Foods - Old Town Pasadena image 1

Minimalist design with natural light and plants creates a cozy, calming atmosphere perfect for studying or hanging out. Lunch specials offer tender Hainan chicken with rice, soup, and a drink for great value. Limited seating includes a comfortable couch with outlets, blending cleanliness with a homey vibe.

Lunch specials cost around $9 and include two large pieces of tender Hainan chicken over tasty rice. Meals come with a generous portion of chicken soup and a drink, offering good value during weekdays.

People are saying

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

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

"You can get a big plate of food for pretty cheap here."

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.

14
Holy Saints! image 1
Restaurant

Small, quaint spot with an open kitchen that adds energy but can get smoky. Lunch is simple with just three sandwiches, keeping choices clear. Portions are larger than usual, making it a satisfying meal despite limited seating.

Lunch offers a simple menu with only three sandwich choices as the main dish. Options stay focused and straightforward.

People are saying

"The Waldorf salad here is amazing and flavorful."

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

"The food at this Lunch Spot was fantastic and tasty."

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.

15
Himalayan Cafe image 1
Nepalese restaurant

Nepalese restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with soothing Hindi music and tasteful decor. Lunch specials include Chicken Tikka Masala and momo dumplings. Vegetarian options and unique Himalayan dishes make it a warm dining experience.

Lunch features specials like Chicken Tikka Masala, lamb masala, and biriyani. Drinks include chai and mango lassi. Appetizers such as momo dumplings accompany the meals.

People are saying

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

"I experienced authentic flavors with perfectly balanced spices."

"This Lunch Spot's food is so tasty and flavorful."

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.

16
Grandview Palace image 1
Chinese restaurant

Family-owned spot serves generous portions with fast lunch service featuring a simple menu. Known for exceptional Kung Pao and comfortable atmosphere, it welcomes locals without long waits.

Fast service stands out during lunch with a special lunch menu offering soup, salad, entree, and rice. Choices usually narrow to 2 or 3 dishes, making ordering quick and simple.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is hot and crispy, especially the orange chicken."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was fast and friendly."

"They made my son's birthday special and memorable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a special lunch menu with discounted prices.

2

Expect generous portion sizes, often enough for leftovers.

3

Delivery service is prompt, typically arriving on time.

17
King Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Fast food Mexican spot offers authentic flavors in a spacious dining area with a bright, clean interior. Great for affordable, filling lunches but plan ahead for wait times during busy hours.

Offers good value for work lunch with filling options. Requires planning ahead due to potential wait times during short lunch breaks.

People are saying

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

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

"The food at this Lunch Spot is fresh and tasty."

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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