0 Followers
Mendocino Farms
Master Critic Review
Mendocino Farms
8.3
Since 2005, this farm-to-table chain creates unexpected culinary adventures with sandwiches and salads using Scarborough Farms greens and fearless flavor combinations. The Pasadena location features craft beer, wine on tap, and outdoor patio seating with validated parking behind the restaurant.
Must-Try Dishes:
Not So Fried Chicken Sandwich, Peruvian Steak Sandwich, Avocado & Quinoa Superfood Ensalada
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Unexpected ingredient combinations with farm-sourced produce and craft beverages
Who should go: Health-conscious diners, lunch groups, craft beer enthusiasts
When to visit: Lunch hours for fresh offerings, weekdays less crowded
What to order: Not So Fried Chicken, Peruvian Steak, Banh Mi variations
Insider tip: First 90 minutes parking free in lot behind restaurant
Logistics & Planning
Parking: First 90 minutes free in validated lot behind restaurant, then $2/hour. Street parking available on Colorado Blvd with 2-hour limits.
Dress code: Casual comfort - athleisure, jeans, business casual all appropriate. Think lunch-meeting ready.
Noise level: Conversational-friendly - moderate ambient noise allows easy table talk without feeling library-quiet.
Weekend wait: 10-15 min typical, counter-service format means no traditional wait
Weekday lunch: Peak lunch (12-1pm) expect 5-10 min order line, otherwise minimal wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive options including Brussels Sprout & Kale, Avocado & Quinoa, multiple veggie-forward salads
Vegan options: Yes - several options available, can modify many items. Staff knowledgeable about plant-based substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free bread available for sandwiches, salads naturally GF, cross-contamination awareness in prep
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Solid daytime first date option - casual vibe removes pressure, patio seating provides ambiance, and counter-service means no awkward check dance. Better for lunch/early dinner than evening romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed - it's counter-service ordering. Seating is first-come during busy lunch (12-1pm), but turnover is quick. Patio fills fast on nice days.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly - casual counter-service format, reasonable prices, familiar options alongside adventurous choices. High chairs available. Best for ages 5+ who can handle sitting at table-style seating.
Good for solo dining? Excellent solo spot - counter seating at bar, communal table options, and fast-casual format means no awkwardness. Bring laptop for working lunch.
Can I host a business lunch here? Ideal for casual business lunches - conversation-friendly noise level, 90-min free parking perfect for meetings, varied menu accommodates dietary needs. Not appropriate for formal client entertainment.
Do they have outdoor seating? Yes - spacious patio is a highlight with ample seating. First-come basis, no reservations. Popular during good weather, arrive early for lunch or off-peak hours.
Best For
Better for: Creative flavor combinations that surprise without intimidating, healthier fast-casual than typical chains, excellent for dietary restrictions with transparent sourcing. The craft beverage program (beer/wine on tap) elevates it beyond typical sandwich shops.
Skip if: You want traditional deli sandwiches, need quick grab-and-go (order/wait time adds up), prefer familiar comfort over culinary experimentation, or seeking fine-dining ambiance. Also skip if you're on tight budget - $$ pricing means $15-20/person.