Any insider tips for The Arbour?

Free parking behind building on Hudson

What should I order at The Arbour?

Sea bass, duck, seasonal vegetables

When should I visit The Arbour?

Dinner service for romantic fireplace seating

Who should go to The Arbour?

Couples and business diners seeking sophistication

Any insider tips for Nick's South Lake Avenue?

Private dining room seats 13-24 guests

What should I order at Nick's South Lake Avenue?

Butter cake, sea bass, asparagus fries

When should I visit Nick's South Lake Avenue?

Weeknight dinner to avoid crowds

Who should go to Nick's South Lake Avenue?

Business diners and special occasion celebrants

Any insider tips for Magnolia House?

Happy Hour 3-6pm weekdays for best deals

What should I order at Magnolia House?

Craft cocktails, mushroom toast, deviled eggs

Who should go to Magnolia House?

Happy hour seekers and cocktail enthusiasts

What should I order at Smitty's Grill?

Pot pie, cornbread, grilled artichoke

When should I visit Smitty's Grill?

Early dinner to avoid wait times

Who should go to Smitty's Grill?

Families and comfort food enthusiasts

Any insider tips for GRANVILLE?

No reservations except for groups of 12+

What should I order at GRANVILLE?

Chipotle club, Brussels sprouts, craft cocktails

When should I visit GRANVILLE?

Weekend brunch or sunset cocktails

Who should go to GRANVILLE?

Health-conscious diners and rooftop enthusiasts

Best Trendy American Restaurants in Pasadena (91101)

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

Notable Picks

#1 The Arbour

8.8

$$$ South Lake

Vibes: Date Night Magic Outdoor Dining Oasis Instagram Worthy Wonders

Upscale farm-to-table dining showcasing California's agricultural bounty with rustic elegance. The kitchen delivers expertly executed seasonal dishes like Mediterranean sea bass and duck, while the intimate fireplace setting creates romance.

Must-Try Dishes: Mediterranean Sea Bass, Duck Confit, Truffle Crusted Chicken

What makes it special: Farm-to-table philosophy with sustainable local sourcing

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#2 Nick's South Lake Avenue

8.4

$$ South Lake

Vibes: Business Lunch Power Players Date Night Magic Group Dining Gatherings

Upscale-casual American bistro delivering refined comfort classics with exhibition kitchen flair. The warm butter cake achieves legendary status while Chilean sea bass and prime steaks showcase culinary expertise.

Must-Try Dishes: Warm Butter Cake, Chilean Sea Bass, Prime Rib Dip

What makes it special: Exhibition kitchen and impeccable hospitality standards

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#3 Magnolia House

8.2

$$ South Lake District

Vibes: Happy Hour Hotspots Late Night Legends Instagram Worthy Wonders

Century-old craftsman bungalow transformed into trendy gastropub with craft cocktails and global small plates. The eclectic atmosphere features bizarre artwork, cozy lounges, and weekend DJ sets creating vibrant nightlife energy.

Must-Try Dishes: Bourbon Burger, Mushroom Toast, Brussels Sprouts

What makes it special: Historic 1912 bungalow with unique cocktail program

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#4 Smitty's Grill

8.0

$ Civic Center

Vibes: Comfort Food Classics Family Friendly Favorites Business Lunch Power Players

Since 2002, this beloved neighborhood spot serves elevated American comfort fare with Wine Spectator-awarded selections. Iron skillet cornbread and homemade chicken pot pie embody the cozy booth atmosphere locals cherish.

Must-Try Dishes: Chicken Pot Pie, BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Iron Skillet Cornbread

What makes it special: Wine Spectator Award winner with 20+ year legacy

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Worthy Picks

#5 GRANVILLE

7.9

$$ South Lake District

Vibes: Rooftop Views Revelry Healthy Haven Brunch Bliss Spots

Farm-fresh California cuisine meets craft cocktails at Pasadena's only rooftop bar. This modern-casual concept emphasizes organic ingredients, hormone-free meats, and scratch-made dishes with global influences.

Must-Try Dishes: Chipotle Chicken Club, Thick-Cut Pork Chop, Brussels Sprouts

What makes it special: Only rooftop bar in Pasadena with panoramic views

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