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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of South Pasadena

Food spots

Made for those who view dining out as an essential part of their daily routine.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
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Updated July 2026
01
Dumpling Tops image 1
Dumpling Tops image 2
Dumpling Tops image 3
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Asian restaurant

Cozy spot offers authentic Taiwanese cuisine with standout sesame balls. Family-friendly vibe fills space with lively energy. Diverse vegan menu sets it apart from typical noodle places.

Food features authentic Taiwanese cuisine with flavorful and delicious dishes. Sesame balls stand out as a notable specialty.

People are saying

"The dumplings here are perfectly juicy and flavorful."

"The seafood soba noodles were savory and authentic."

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

Good to know

1

There is free parking available in the back of the building around the corner.

2

The parking lot behind Dumpling Tops is small and often crowded.

3

A reservation is recommended for evening visits.

02
Oak Tree Inn image 1
Chinese restaurant

Dining room offers a comfortable, welcoming space with table linens and art. Food serves authentic Cantonese flavors that are fresh and well-seasoned. Atmosphere stays calm and relaxing, perfect for family-style dining with smooth service and no wait times.

Food features authentic Cantonese flavors with dishes that are well-seasoned and fresh. Prices stay fair and service runs smoothly with no wait times.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's food is fresh and tastes great."

"I found the Chinese seafood here to be the best."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high customer volume.

2

Parking is free but fills up quickly during peak hours.

3

Lunch specials include generous portions, soup, and rice.

03
Visionarium Live Italian image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant blends live jazz music with an intimate, cozy vibe and authentic 70s decor. Dishes highlight fresh ingredients like house made purata, while walls showcase Italian gourmet products. Space feels like a lively, personal residence with thoughtful art.

Food features fresh ingredients and thoughtful presentation with dishes like house made purata standing out. Walls display Italian gourmet products including olive oils and fashion items for sale.

People are saying

"They had an excellent variety of wine."

"The live music here creates a wonderful, fantastic atmosphere every night."

"The food here is delicious and thoughtfully presented."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for popular events like the outdoor jazz night.

2

The rooftop hosts movie nights with a charming setup on an adjacent wall.

3

Food and drink credit equal to the ticket value is provided for events.

04
Hawaiian BBQ image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small space with Hawaiian-themed decor offers huge menu of fresh, grilled dishes. Family-owned vibe creates hometown casual atmosphere with simple seating and TV. Generous portions shine in musubi and BBQ plates that satisfy multiple families.

Food features freshness and a huge menu with quick, grilled options that lean toward healthy. Platters serve multiple families with delicious, hometown-style dishes.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really delicious."

"I thought the Hawaiian BBQ here was one of the best I've ever had."

"The Thai tea here is legit and perfectly sweet."

Good to know

1

Everything on the menu is under $15, with large spam and chicken musubi for about $3.

2

Combo meals include any two meats, offering good value.

3

Expect generous serving sizes that are satisfying.

05
Cos & Pi image 1
Brunch restaurant

Small, cozy spot offers creative dishes and affordable avocado toast with a shaded patio for outdoor seating. Atmosphere is chill but loud, making it lively yet sometimes hard to chat. Food stays consistently delicious and service keeps the vibe relaxed.

Food here stays consistently delicious and creative with a focus on healthy dishes. Service supports a relaxed vibe while keeping the quality high.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be perfectly cooked and delicious."

"The breakfast burrito here tastes amazing and savory."

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a small lot behind the building.

2

There is plenty of free street parking nearby.

3

Seating is available both inside and outside.

06
Aro Latin image 1
Latin American restaurant

Spacious, modern space offers ample outdoor seating and a small front patio where dogs are welcome. Elevated Mexican dishes blend tradition with innovation, delivering delicious flavors. Skilled bartenders serve distinctive cocktails amid live music and a warm, relaxed vibe.

Elevated Mexican cuisine blends tradition with innovation in every dish. The food consistently earns praise for being delicious and well-prepared.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is flavorful and cooked to perfection."

"The service here is so warm and welcoming for date spots."

"The food here is delicious and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM, Monday to Friday.

2

The restaurant is not kid-friendly; parents should consider this before visiting.

3

Street parking is available up and down the block.

07
Bluefin Sushi and Roll image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers a cozy atmosphere with fresh sushi that arrives fast and tastes great. Lively music adds energy while comfortable seating invites you to relax and enjoy.

Food arrives quickly and shows great quality. The dishes taste delicious and prompt compliments to the chef.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"I found the sushi here to be fresh and delicious."

"The food here is great, especially the fresh fish."

Good to know

1

This restaurant is not an all-you-can-eat place.

2

Prices are fair for the quality of sushi offered.

3

The restaurant is very small, so expect limited seating.

08
Katsu Jin image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot offers authentic dishes served fast with beautiful presentation. Casual, mom-and-pop vibe blends with a traditional sesame grinding ritual. Space feels modern yet chill, perfect for a quick, comforting meal.

Food comes out fast and looks beautifully presented. Dishes taste authentic and show high quality in preparation.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the katsu, is juicy, crispy, and flavorful."

"The spicy miso ramen at these dinner spots is super flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

The wait is around 30 minutes on Saturday evenings.

2

Free parking is available for customers.

3

Reservations are suggested to ensure seating during busy times.

09
Kontentsu South Pasadena image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese spot shines with flavorful ramen broth and fresh, hot dishes served fast. Simple, classy decor and great lighting set a relaxed, elevated casual vibe. Menu suits picky eaters and dietary needs with extensive ramen options.

Food features well cooked and seasoned dishes with flavorful Ramen broth and noodles. The kitchen delivers fresh, hot Japanese food promptly to the table.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and well-seasoned."

"The ramen broth here is out of this world."

"The ramen here is amazing, with a flavorful broth and noodles."

Good to know

1

The price for a bowl is around $20 after tip and tax.

2

The restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan options.

3

Expect generous portion sizes, especially for ramen.

10
Tokoro image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese spot offers fresh sushi with great flavor in a cozy, Ghibli-themed setting. Regulars love the affordable prices and chill vibe, even when patrons get loud. Background music and baseball on TV add to the casual feel.

Food here is consistently excellent and really good. The dishes deliver great flavor and quality every time.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"It's a warm, chill place that feels comfortable."

"I found the food here to be really great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Thursday from open to close with a buy one get one for a dollar on beers.

2

Parking is available behind the restaurant and there is also street parking nearby.

3

The average price per person is around $25 or more.

11
Shiro image 1
French restaurant

French restaurant offers sizzling catfish and duck breast with a Japanese and West Coast twist. Cozy, elegant space features beautiful floral decor creating an upscale yet casual vibe. Enjoy refreshing cocktails and well-crafted desserts for a special dining experience.

Cuisine blends Japanese ethos with French and West Coast influences. Dishes like sizzling catfish and duck breast stand out for their quality and flavor.

People are saying

"The seafood here is super fresh and full of flavor."

"The staff here makes you feel so welcome, like family."

"The food here is delicious and top-notch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

2

Fried catfish may run out quickly, so order early.

3

Shiro has been a top-rated restaurant for over 35 years.

12
Bissell House 1887 image 1
Bed & breakfast

Victorian house offers historic charm and a cozy atmosphere with a grand piano and library for relaxing. Chef-prepared breakfasts on gorgeous china and a large variety of teas create a fantastic dining experience. Comfortable beds and thoughtful amenities blend old style with modern comfort.

Chef-prepared breakfasts offer a fantastic dining experience every morning. A large variety of teas, always available coffee, and all-day continental breakfast and snacks complement the beautiful breakfast spread served on gorgeous china.

People are saying

"This charming Victorian house offers a cozy and comfortable Bed and Breakfast experience."

"This historic house feels like stepping back in time with its charming period decor."

"The food, especially the chef-prepared breakfasts, was fantastic."

Good to know

1

The Bissell House 1887 is a historic inn with unique Victorian architecture.

2

The location is convenient, close to the South Pasadena station for easy airport access.

3

Expect a clean and comfortable stay with thoughtful touches throughout the house.

13
Griffins Of Kinsale image 1

Irish pub offers great Irish food and a strong beer selection. Dark wood and a pirate ship sculpture create a gritty vibe. Frequent live music, from salsa to rock, keeps energy high, while outdoor seating adds a relaxed touch.

Irish food and pub food stand out with great taste and aroma. The menu pairs well with an awesome selection of beers.

People are saying

"This pub always has great live music for a fun evening."

"I thought the burgers were delicious, especially the bacon."

"The food here is great and tastes wonderful."

Good to know

1

Griffins Of Kinsale is open late, making it a great spot for night owls.

2

The pub hosts live music every Friday and Saturday night.

3

Salsa dancing takes place every Thursday night at the pub.

14
Trader Joe's image 1
Grocery store

Spacious store offers eclectic international products and a large parking lot for easy access. Quality food at fair prices includes fresh fruits and Korean frozen foods. Bright, cozy vibe makes shopping simple and pleasant.

Quality food comes at fair prices, making healthy eating easier. Frozen foods include selections from Korea and Asia, offering global flavors. Fresh food and fruits stay consistently fresh and affordable.

People are saying

"I found plenty of parking available here."

"The Grocery Store staff are always friendly and helpful."

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful with the food."

Good to know

1

Trader Joe's has a large parking lot that's easy to access.

2

The parking lot can be wild sometimes, especially during peak hours.

3

The store has a spacious layout with plenty of checkout lanes.

15
Hi-Life Burgers image 1
Fast food restaurant

Quaint hamburger joint with classic diner feel offers fresh, made-to-order American classics like chili cheese fries. Booths seat four tightly in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with covered outdoor seating. Soft music keeps the vibe comfortable for quick or casual meals.

Food comes out fresh and made to order with consistently good quality. The menu features all-around American classics like chili cheese fries, offering satisfying portions at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"I loved the char-grilled burgers that tasted like outdoor BBQ."

"I loved their American Food, especially the chili cheese fries."

"The burgers here are juicy, flavorful, and taste like they're from a BBQ."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.

2

Expect large portion sizes, especially with fries.

3

Zucchini fries are best eaten immediately to avoid sogginess.

16
The Munch Company image 1
Sandwich shop

Soft calming music and plenty of seating create a soothing spot. Friendly family operation adds a wholesome vibe. Fresh, creative sandwiches like turkey fig and brie pair well with quality smoothies and teas, showcasing a return to original, amazing recipes.

Freshness and good quality define the food here. Smoothies and teas complement the menu, and the current offerings reflect a return to the original, amazing recipes after changes by previous owners.

People are saying

"The smoothies here are SO fresh, especially the peach."

"I thought this was the best sandwich around."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Ordering online is recommended to avoid delays since only two owners handle orders.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours; reservations are not accepted.

3

Half portions of all sandwiches are available for those wanting smaller sizes.

17
Ono Hawaiian BBQ image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Hawaiian spot serves fresh BBQ dishes with large portions perfect for sharing. Casual vibe with clean indoor and outdoor seating and cool air-conditioning makes it comfy. Plenty of parking adds to the easy visit.

Food comes out freshly made to order with large portions. BBQ dishes stay consistently high quality across visits.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ chicken was amazing."

"I found the bathrooms to be clean."

"I thought the food here was delicious and always done well."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back lot, but can be hard to find during busy hours.

2

The self-serve section includes various sauces like teriyaki and katsu.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment, including the bathrooms.

18
Seรฑor Fish image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot serves fresh fish tacos with rich flavors like Chile verde. Counter service keeps it quick in a relaxed atmosphere. Portions are generous, making it a solid choice for authentic eats.

Authentic Mexican food offers rich and delicious flavors with decent portions. Dishes like Chile verde stand out, and the food consistently satisfies across various plates.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos here to be excellent."

"I found the chorizo breakfast burrito to be magical."

"I thought the food was rich and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can get tricky because the small lot fills fast.

2

The restaurant is counter service with a spartan dining area.

3

The prices at Seรฑor Fish are reasonable.

19
Bistro de la Gare image 1
French restaurant

Small space offers intimate French bistro vibes with cozy sidewalk seating. Food shines with authentic French flavors and perfect seasoning. Warm atmosphere and subtle elegance make it a relaxed spot for genuine conversation.

Food features authentic French flavors with fine quality and perfect seasoning. Portions come ample and dishes are well-presented.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The staff's helpful input made ordering French food a breeze."

"The wine selection here is wonderful and extensive."

Good to know

1

The South Pasadena Farmer's market occurs every Thursday from 4 to 7 PM.

2

Parking can be difficult to find during the Farmer's market hours.

3

Weekend crowds could have lines, so reservations are suggested.

20
Cannonball image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio creates a cozy atmosphere with trains adding unique charm. Food offers incredible flavors and cocktails pair perfectly. Decor inside matches the inviting vibe, making it a charming spot true to South Pasadena.

Food features incredible flavors and extraordinary quality. Cocktails complement the dishes well, making the dining experience truly great.

People are saying

"You have to try these biscuits; they're so flaky and buttery."

"The cocktails here were perfect and well made."

"The food here is delicious, especially the flaky biscuits."

Good to know

1

Making a Resy reservation is highly recommended.

2

Parking options include valet, street meters, and a paid structure nearby.

3

Expect long wait times during peak dinner hours.

21
Radhika Modern Indian image 1
Indian restaurant

Sleek and modern Indian restaurant offers flavorful dishes in a cozy atmosphere that feels like home. Enjoy a quiet vibe and a pleasant outdoor space. Portions are reasonable and prices fair, making it a great spot for tasty, well-prepared meals.

Food here is consistently full of flavor and well-prepared. Indian dishes stand out as amazing and delicious with great quality.

People are saying

"I found the fish chowder and fried amritsari fish to be amazing."

"The takeout here is so tasty and flavorful."

"The food here is amazing, flavorful, and delicious."

Good to know

1

There is convenient public underground parking just around the corner, making access hassle-free.

2

Expect no wait for parking or a table during off-peak hours.

3

The restaurant was not busy at all on a Tuesday evening.

22
Winchell's Donut House image 1

Large donut shop offers freshly baked donuts and quick breakfast sandwiches. Open 24 hours with friendly staff and easy parking. Clean, efficient spot for fast, fresh bakery treats any time.

Freshly baked bakery goods stand out here, making it a solid choice for a quick breakfast. The food consistently feels fresh and straightforward.

People are saying

"These donuts are so fresh and taste like pure heaven."

"The coffee here is served by such kind and efficient employees."

"The food here is always freshly baked."

Good to know

1

Winchell's Donut House is open 24 hours for all your donut cravings.

2

Parking is easy to find, but it can be limited due to nearby stores.

3

The medium coffee costs $4.98, which may be considered high by some.

23
Poke Salad Bar image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small space offers a quiet, green atmosphere with limited seating, ideal for takeout. Fresh, generous poke bowls provide great value and customizable options. Staff handle allergies well, ensuring tasty flavors without skimping. Interior can feel stuffy without air conditioning.

Food comes fresh and generous in portion size with tasty flavors. Staff accommodate allergies and pack orders without skimping.

People are saying

"I thought the poke here was the freshest and tastiest I'd ever had."

"The food here is delicious and really fresh."

"The poke salad here has really generous portions."

Good to know

1

Free street parking is available all around the block.

2

The portions are generous, making it easy to share a large bowl.

3

Extra toppings like crab salad and seaweed cost a bit more.

24
Heirloom Bakery & Cafe image 1

Cozy bakery offers unique pastries and a shaded patio perfect for relaxing. Food shines with fresh ingredients and melt-in-your-mouth flavors. Mornings bring a friendly, lively vibe that keeps guests coming back.

Food features fresh, high quality ingredients made from scratch daily. Meals offer incredible flavors and consistently deliver a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

People are saying

"The coffee here is awesome, and the food is great too."

"The breakfast here is amazing and delicious."

"The food here is fantastic, made with high-quality ingredients."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, but there are nearby lots and street spaces.

2

Expect to pay around $15 to $20 per person for a meal.

3

A $1.00 charge applies for almond milk in drinks.

25
Ai Japanese Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy booths and a lively sushi bar create a home-like atmosphere perfect for families and intimate nights. Authentic Japanese dishes offer large lunch combos with great taste and cocktail pairings. The vibe stays down-to-earth and warmly welcoming throughout.

Food offers authentic Japanese flavor with large lunch combinations that often leave leftovers for takeout. The dishes consistently deliver delicious taste and pair well with cocktails.

People are saying

"I thought this Japanese food was the best sushi in town."

"The lunch spot specials are delicious and economical."

"The food here is remarkably delicious and like home-cooked Japanese cuisine."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is available behind the restaurant, but can be limited during peak hours.

3

Combo lunch prices are reasonable, offering good portion sizes.

26
Silverlake Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small space with outdoor seating creates a casual vibe. Rich, spicy ramen and vegetarian options stand out. Food arrives hot and fresh, with quick service and low prices on rolls and rice bowls.

Food arrives hot even with delivery and stays well packaged. Offers tasty broth, quick service, and a variety of rolls, rice bowls, and desserts at a low price.

People are saying

"The ramen here is so flavorful, especially the broth and egg."

"The food here is great with generous portions."

"There was tons of parking available."

Good to know

1

There was tons of parking available at Silverlake Ramen.

2

The $19 combo includes one ramen and one side, offering good value.

3

I went for lunch on a weekday and there was no wait.

27
Golden China Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Family-run spot offers huge menu with fresh vegetables and tasty dishes. Generous portions shine in a vibrant atmosphere perfect for gatherings. Lunch specials bring great deals and parking is usually easy.

Food features a variety of fresh vegetables and stays fresh and hot even with delayed pickup. Dishes are consistently delicious and tasty with a good selection to choose from.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and bursting with flavor."

"The lunch specials here are a great deal and generously portioned."

"The dinner combo was excellent and surprisingly varied."

Good to know

1

The lunch specials offer great value and attract many customers.

2

Parking is usually available near the restaurant.

3

The portions are generous, often enough for two meals.

28
South Pasadena Farmer's Market image 1

Small farmers' market offers fresh breads and grilled chicken with a family-oriented vibe and live music. Plenty of shady spots create a cozy, community feel perfect for families. Specialty vendors and free samples add to the relaxed atmosphere.

Many vendors offer fresh breads, produce, and meats alongside hot food options. Food stands feature items like papusas and grilled chicken, creating a diverse and tasty selection.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh produce and baked goods at the Farmer's Market."

"I loved the food, especially the papusas and sweetened pecans."

"I found the farmers market to have a really nice vibe."

Good to know

1

The market is only open for a few hours every Thursday.

2

Pets are not allowed at the market.

3

There is plenty of free 2-3 hour street parking on nearby streets.

29
Habit Burger & Grill image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Outdoor patio with heaters creates a warm spot amid a noisy, teen-filled crowd. Charbroiled burgers and the ahi tuna sandwich offer fresh, hot food served with friendly service. Unique specials and fresh drinks add to the lively, clean environment.

Food comes out hot and fresh with consistent preparation to your liking. The ahi tuna sandwich stands out as a notable fast food option. Service is friendly and the environment stays clean.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers were juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked."

"This fast food place has the friendliest staff I've ever experienced."

"The food here is always hot and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back lot.

2

Habit Burger & Grill currently offers a 'grown-up meal' for $6.00, including a charburger, small fries, a drink, and a burger gummy.

3

The pricing for the burgers seems kind of pricey.

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