Pasadena may be small, but it's thriving — did you know it's home to some of the wealthiest people in California? Though technically a suburb of bustling Los Angeles, this charming spot feels like a breath of fresh air. Tucked at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, it is full of beautiful Craftsman homes, well-preserved historic buildings, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Take a leisurely walk through its tree-lined streets, relax at The Arroyo Seco Park, and don’t miss the South Pasadena Farmers' Market, where local producers sell their freshest goods. This abundance has given rise to a fantastic array of Michelin-starred restaurants — delicious, highly rated, and surprisingly affordable. We’ll highlight our must-visit spots and provide directions for your next culinary adventure — just 20 minutes from downtown LA!
1. Try Italian cuisine at Union
Union Restaurant
#2 of 23294 restaurants in Los Angeles, USA
37 Union St, Pasadena, California, USA
Closes soon: 9PM
Pasta
Pasta is a type of Italian dish that is commonly made from unleavened dough of wheat flour. It is a versatile food that can be served in a variety of ways, such as in soups, salads, or as a main dish with sauces and other ingredients. It's a staple in many cuisines around the world due to its simplicity, delicious taste, and nutritional content.
Kick off your Pasadena visit in the heart of Old Town, and after a day of exploring, fuel up with some serious carbs at Union. This Italian gem, helmed by the California chef Sandro Hernandez, is always buzzing — and that’s both a blessing and a challenge. To snag a table in its loft-style, brick-walled dining room or on the charming patio, you’ll need to book ahead, even on weekdays. But the constant crowd guarantees one thing: every dish is fresh, especially their house-made pasta, crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
Union’s authenticity shines through from the very first bite. Start with wild mushrooms drizzled in Pedro Ximenez sherry vinegar, served with bright yellow polenta and decadent truffle butter. Another must-try is Weiser Farms sunchokes, paired with garlic cilantro crema — a favorite among Italian food lovers. Then, dive into one of their 10 pasta options. Go bold with squid ink lumache and Maine lobster for a unique flavor experience, or try torchetti — twisted noodles smothered in rich pork ragu, topped with creamy ricotta and crispy fried rosemary.
Even if you think you’re too full for dessert, their olive oil cake topped with market-fresh fruit and vanilla ice cream is calling your name. Pair it with an Italian soda or a glass of wine from their thoughtfully curated list — perhaps the Nebbiolo Piemonte 2020. And here’s the cherry on top: Union has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand, meaning you get top-notch food at a price that won’t break the bank.
Dinner – $20-30
2. Sip some French wine at Perle
Perle Restaurant
#5 of 1122 restaurants in Pasadena, USA
43 Union St, Pasadena, California, USA
Open until 9:30PM
Coq au vin
You should take the whole bird (cock), you can not prepare a real dish, for example, from the legs. In the original, only Burgundy wine is added, cognac and bacon are used for cooking (they add extra flavor and taste to the dish), and mushrooms and whole bulb onions are used for garnish.
A regular on Michelin’s radar, the cozy French-inspired bistro Perle in the heart of the city is sure to impress — even if you hadn’t planned on stopping for lunch. The style is consistently charming, from the vintage crystal chandeliers hanging from the sturdy ceiling beams to the cute curtains on the panoramic windows, which create an inviting and intimate atmosphere inside. In the evenings, it’s downright magical, especially on the outdoor terrace, where warmth from the heaters casts a cozy glow on guests’ faces.
Don’t expect any wild surprises on the menu; Chef Dean Yasharian sticks to the tried-and-true classics. Think Burgundy snails glistening in herbed butter with a pistachio-panko crust or comforting coq au vin with bacon lardons and mushrooms. There’s also a vegetarian menu that offers clever twists on traditional dishes — yes, you can enjoy coq au vin made with red wine-glazed soy drumsticks while keeping the other ingredients the same for an authentic taste.
And don’t even think about leaving without trying something sweet! Apple tarte Tatin is a must, especially when paired with a glass of French wine from their selection, like the Domaine Christophe Semaska 2021, sourced from the banks of the Rhône River.
Dinner – $80
3. Savor cheesy delights at Agnes
Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery
#10 of 1122 restaurants in Pasadena, USA
40 W Green St, Pasadena, California, USA
Closes soon: 9PM
Raclette
Traditionally raclette is a dish is of melted cheese and boiled potatoes served with small gherkins and pickled onions along with dried meats, ham, and sausages, etc.
Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery is a modern American gem and cheese shop right on the main street of the historic city center. You might pass by and think it’s just a charming little house with a gabled roof and a simple washed white façade, but inside, you’ll discover a stylish loft space with exposed red brick walls, an open kitchen, and a cozy patio in the back.
The menu here offers a variety of options, including exciting new brunch and dinner items that have just launched. Start your meal off right with a cheese and charcuterie platter featuring a mix of house-made delights and local favorites. For lunch, you can’t go wrong with cornbread eclair and melted leek & spinach dip with raclette cheese and Kool-Ranch wontons, or pork belly served with a cheddar biscuit. Many dishes are designed to be shared, so bring some friends along, or just be careful not to over-order if you're dining solo.
In the evenings, the menu expands even more, showcasing mouthwatering grilled vegetables and meats, seafood, and delicious Italian pasta. You’ll have a tough time deciding between the Pachamama pork chop or steak Vanessa, loaded potato dumplings or ratatouille remix, and a whole range of other small plates that smell absolutely divine.
And if you can manage dessert, don’t miss out on guava tres leches or brown sugar frozen custard. For your non-drinking pals, the Brooklyn wine Unified Ferments ‘Rhododendron’ is a perfect choice. Michelin inspectors are fans of Agnes as well, having featured it in their list of must-visit spots in Los Angeles, so make sure to set aside some time to check it out.
Dinner – $50
To navigate California like a local, check out our other guides filled with tried-and-true recommendations for food-loving travelers!
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2 comments
This article has my taste buds tingling! Do you have any recommendations for a decent wine bar here?