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Pez Coastal Kitchen
Master Critic Review
Pez Coastal Kitchen
8.6
Executive Chef Bret Thompson brings innovative sea-to-table cuisine with specialized dry-aging techniques for seafood. The restaurant features an emerald marble bar, shellfish towers reminiscent of Parisian brasseries, and a California-Mediterranean coastal atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dry Aged Kingfish Ceviche, Whole Fried Fish of the Day, Chilled Seafood Tower for Two
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Only restaurant in Pasadena specializing in dry-aged seafood techniques
Who should go: Seafood enthusiasts seeking upscale coastal dining
When to visit: Weekend brunch or cocktail hour Tuesday-Friday
What to order: Seafood tower, dry-aged kingfish, craft cocktails
Insider tip: Reserve patio seating for prime people-watching
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, nearby parking structures $8-12, street parking challenging after 5pm especially weekends
Dress code: Smart casual to business casual - think nice jeans with a blazer or cocktail attire
Noise level: Moderate buzz - lively bar scene but dining room allows conversation
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, bar seating sometimes available sooner
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, peak 12:30-1:30pm may have 15 min wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 4-5 creative options beyond salads, including pasta and risotto
Vegan options: Limited - 2 modified dishes available, call ahead recommended
Gluten-free options: Yes - most seafood dishes naturally GF, dedicated fryer available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - sophisticated but not stuffy, emerald bar creates intimate atmosphere, sharing plates encourage conversation, and patio offers romantic ambiance
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely Friday-Sunday nights, but bar seating often available for full menu. Tuesday-Thursday walk-ins possible, especially before 6:30pm or after 8:30pm
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens than young children - no kids menu but will modify dishes, sophisticated atmosphere more suited for special occasions with well-behaved older kids
Best For
Better for: Superior dry-aged seafood program unmatched in Pasadena, cocktail program rivals downtown LA spots, brunch seafood towers more impressive than competitors
Skip if: Want budget-friendly seafood (try Fisherman's Outlet), need large group space (EMC Seafood better), prefer traditional preparations over innovative techniques