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Best Date Night Italian Restaurants in Pasadena (91101)

4 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

$$$ South Lake District
Over 20 years of Drago Brothers excellence delivers seasonal Italian cuisine on a picturesque garden patio. The award-winning wine list and fresh seafood specialties make this a destination for special occasions and business dinners alike.
Must-Try Dishes: Florentine T-Bone Steak, Black and White Ravioli, Branzino al Sale
What makes it special: Drago Brothers' authentic regional specialties
8.4
$$ South Lake District
Fresh pasta flown overnight from Bologna creates an authentic Roman street cafe experience in The Commons courtyard. Their dedication to traditional recipes and proper technique shows in every perfectly al dente strand of handmade pasta.
Must-Try Dishes: Carbonara, Tagliatelle with Truffle Sauce, Cacio e Pepe
What makes it special: Daily pasta shipments from Bologna Italy
$$ Playhouse District
Authentic Neapolitan pizzeria in the Playhouse District serving wood-fired pies with imported Italian ingredients and a fermented dough that cooks in 90 seconds. The casual yet refined atmosphere and dedication to traditional techniques have made it a local favorite since opening in 2014.
Must-Try Dishes: Margherita D.O.P., Diavola with Spicy Salami, Settebello with Truffle Oil
What makes it special: True Neapolitan certification with imported Italian flour and San Marzano tomatoes

Worthy Picks

7.9
$$$ Playhouse District
Farm-to-table Italian meets California's seasonal bounty around a stunning wood-fire oven. The lush patio creates an oasis where rustic Italian traditions blend with local farmers market finds.
Must-Try Dishes: Wood-Fired Pizza, 24-Month Prosciutto San Daniele, Squash Blossoms
What makes it special: Wood-fire oven centerpiece with farm connections