Pasadena Foodie Secrets: Top Local Dining Spots!
Secret Los Angeles
Billie Eilish’s Favorite Restaurant in Los Angeles The Grain Café is a peaceful spot featuring an eclectic menu of vegan, natural, and organic options, including sandwiches, pizzas, and more. With delicious offerings like sandwiches, salads, and calzones, you have to try the huevos con chorizo breakfast to see why it’s a local favorite (and a hit with Billie too!). Oh, and don’t miss the crepas and chilaquiles for the complete dining experience!
Kathy
YUME is a hidden gem that offers Japanese dishes with a modern twist 🍣✨ ✔️ Perfect for a date night spot with its cozy minimalist interiors that makes you feel as if you’re in Japan 🇯🇵 ✔️Had an AMAZING meal here and everything was packed with flavors 🫶 You can tell that they only serve fresh fish for sushi and sashimi, so you won’t be disappointed✨
Life by Vivien
Pink Pepper Thai My favorite Thai restaurant in LA is such a vibe - whether you’re dining indoors with lovely floral decor or on the outdoor patio with a breeze and plenty of natural lighting, this spot is perfect for delicious authentic classic Thai dishes. Every dish had incredible flavors and textures and the portions were generous! Here’s everything we tried: Appetizers : Kan Tok - Thai Platter** (you HAVE to try this, it’s incredible, their fried coconut shrimp is made in house!) : Chicken Satay* Soup :Tom Kha soup with Chicken *the broth is so tasty Main : Khao soi Beef Short Rib *noodles are so flavorful : Curry Salmon **salmon is so tender! : Pad Thai with Shrimp *so flavorful! Dessert : Mango Sticky Rice **perfect melt in your mouth flavors : Fried Banana *so tasty, perfect complementary textures I enjoyed every single dish I tried and happily enjoyed all the leftovers for days - it was still so good!
Los Angeles4 everybody
Jiro Style Ramen, right here in Los Angie. At Tsujita Annex in West LA, Jiro-style ramen is a specialty that aligns with the authentic features of this style. Tsujita Annex is known for its rich, flavorful ramen and adheres closely to the traditional Jiro-style with its robust broth, substantial portions of toppings, and emphasis on a hearty, satisfying meal. The restaurant’s approach to Jiro-style ramen aims to capture the essence of the original while catering to the local palate. — Jiro-style ramen is a distinct type of ramen that originates from Ramen Jiro, a famous ramen shop in Tokyo, Japan. It’s characterized by its hearty, rich, and indulgent style. The key features of Jiro-style ramen include a thick, flavorful broth, a heavy dose of garlic, a significant amount of bean sprouts, and a generous portion of fatty pork. The noodles are usually thick and chewy, and the dish is often topped with extra slices of pork and sometimes a raw egg.
Time Out LA
Nossa Caipirinha Bar What: $10–11 cocktails and wines, $5–8 beers, discounted food items When: Daily 4–6pm Why we love it: After a short stint as a sit-down restaurant, this Brazilian eatery in Los Feliz flipped into a neighborhood watering hole inspired by the country’s botecos. Now, Nossa Caipirinha Bar offers five well-balanced renditions of its namesake drink—Brazil’s national cocktail—as well as a host of traditional bar snacks like cheese bread and coxinhas (chicken and paprika croquettes). At happy hour, snack on discounted bites like $9 chicken heart skewers, $14 fried calamari and $13 coxinhas.
Time Out LA
Maple Block Meat Co. Barbecue What: $9 five-piece wings, $10–12 nachos, $10 sliders, BOGO drinks When: Mon 5–9pm, Tue–Fri 5–6pm Why we love it: Meat butchered on premise, brisket smoked over peach wood logs, a pitmaster from Texas—this Culver City barbecue joint checks all the right boxes, including an excellent happy hour menu. Steeply discounted bar bites are available before 6pm, including nachos topped with your choice of smoked brisket or pork belly, a set of smashburger sliders and smoky, juicy wings with house white barbecue sauce or honey Sriracha. Best of all, it's available all night on Mondays. For drinks, there's a buy-one-get-one free deal on nearly all drinks, which you can also get the last hour of service any day of the week. (Some top shelf label exceptions do apply.)
Kathy
Ramen Akira is a newly opened modern ramen spot in Koreatown that brings amazing flavors in a bowl 🍜 ✔️The server recommended the yuzu ramen, and I decided to be adventurous and try it. I was a bit worried it would be too citrusy, but the broth was super creamy with a subtle hint of yuzu 🍊 I definitely recommend trying it if you want to experience something different! :) ✔️I wanted to eat outside cause of their super cute patio, but it was way too hot 😭 I’ll be definitely back to enjoy the patio 👀🌸
See also
Top Anonymous Recommendations in Fairfax - Discover Trending Suggestions & Local Reviews Near LA
Kathy
The art room DTLA is a hidden gem located in DTLA where you can enjoy some artworks while sipping on amazing cocktails. 🖼️🍸 ⤷ I got the coconut and my friend got Margo’s, and we both loved our drinks 💗 If you’re looking for a summer drink, I highly recommend the Fridas Coconut 🥥 ✔️ They have many pieces of artwork hanging around, so be sure to check them out while enjoying your drinks 👀✨ ✔️ I think their menu is fairly priced considering their location and that tax is included in all menu prices 👍
Los Angeles4 everybody
Enchant LA! Sometimes pretty places aren’t equally tasty but I would say this place has both down. I got to dress and have some sweet quality time over good korean flavors (kim chi pasta & bulgogi quesadillas were really good!) 🌸Garden Style Brunch&Bar🌸 ☕Modern Asian Fusion🥂Wine🍸Cocktail Kept things light w a citrus shrimp salad but then indulged in other great menu items. We went for lunch but it’s good for dinner dates tooooo 🤓
Secret Los Angeles
Have a martini at Musso & Frank Cinephiles, this one’s for you. Pretend it’s the 1920s and take your date out for a romantic night of Old Hollywood charm at the legendary Musso & Frank. Known as the oldest restaurant in Hollywood and often referred to as the “genesis of Hollywood,” this iconic steakhouse in LA, feels like you’ve stepped back into a bygone era. The restaurant was known as the go-to spot for the Hollywood elite, even boasting a secret back room for industry insiders. It’s been memorialized in countless films, most notably Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Cozy up in one of the old-school wooden booths and order their world-famous martini for a night to remember.
Secret Los Angeles
Stowaway This basement-level piano bar is subtly marked by a small arrow-shaped light at its entrance. While lacking a traditional stage, the setting boasts a fairly grand ambiance, featuring a curving wood bar, a 7-foot grand piano, and a charmingly kitschy old oil painting portraying a reclining blond burlesque dancer. The menu offers indulgence with its selection of cocktails. Despite its subterranean setting, the venue’s wooden floors and high ceilings create an atmosphere that easily transports guests away from the basement vibe.
Ally Grammin
Mariscos Zazazá Located in an alley just off the LA River Bike Path you’ll find a lunch window serving up the prettiest seafood plates in a sunlit patio that will transport you straight to a resort in Mexico. The yellowtail tostada with crisped capers is a must and their bottled hot sauces are some of the best in the city.
Ally Grammin
TARTINE If you are looking for a solid cafe for meetups with friends, brunch with the parents or a spot to work for a few hours - this is the all purpose place. 🥐 All of the pastries are excellent but I have a particular fondness for the seasonal cornmeal tea cake. 🍞 Whatever you order, do NOT skip their bread. Tartine’s country loaf is in regular rotation in my house.
Secret Los Angeles
Roscoe’s Hollywood Harlem native Herb Hudson opened this Hollywood staple in 1975, and their tasty soul food has been enjoyed by generations of Angelenos and celebrities including Shaquille O’Neil, Stevie Wonder, and Barack Obama. The menu goes beyond the staple chicken and waffles to include classics like corn bread, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy. The Hollywood location is open until 4am on weekend nights, but you’ll find a handful of other Roscoe’s outposts in L.A. that are serving food until midnight.
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Happening in DTLA
LAX-C is a large Asian supermarket known for its extensive selection of Thai and other Asian groceries. The store, often referred to as “Thai Costco,” offers a variety of products, including fresh produce, meats, seafood, spices, sauces, and packaged goods. Its bulk-buying model provides customers with competitive prices and a broad assortment of goods. LAX-C caters to both individual shoppers and local restaurants, making it a central hub for authentic Asian ingredients and culinary supplies in the area. The store’s layout and offerings reflect its commitment to serving the diverse community of Los Angeles with high-quality, specialty items. I go for their hot foods often bc it’s made fresh and so authentically. All a true taste of Thailand in LA :)
Secret Los Angeles
Grab a sweet or savory slice at Quarter Sheets Quarter Sheets in Echo Park serves up unique savory and sweet slices. Chefs Hannah Ziskin and Aaron Lindell create a menu that feels like an elevated, adult version of a fun kids’ birthday party. Their pizza and cake offerings have earned them “Best Restaurant” rankings from the New York Times and Los Angeles Times in 2023, plus a spot in the California Michelin Guide. Try their creative pizzas with toppings like Funyuns or shrimp cocktail, and don’t miss Ziskin’s gourmet slab cakes. Staff favorites include their Bar Pie and Vodka Pesto. And yes, expect a line when you get there!
Gluten Free Girls LA
BBCM is a chic cafe in West Hollywood. I ordered an oat milk latte and a glutenfree orange cranberry muffin. My gluten-free muffin was moist and tasted great. Wish they had more options, but grateful for the muffin. I asked and they also have gluten free toast (although it’s not listed on the menu). Will definitely be coming back again!
Gluten Free Girls LA
Millie's Cafe is incredible and also vegan friendly! Today I went with the vegan/gluten-free waffles (whipped cream is also vegan).. the texture and flavor was perfect. My mother who isn’t a fan of gluten free texture even approved! You can add chocolate chips, blueberries, bananas, strawberries etc.. I also got a Lavender oat milk latte and vegan sausage. Next time I plan on trying the gluten free pancakes! Will definitely be coming back. 10/10
The Restaurant Guide
Donna’s LA: Upgraded Italian American classics in a fun, flower-bombed room in Echo Park. Donna’s is inspired by an east coast, red sauce joint. The menu is made up of those Italian-American classics that you expect, but done really well with California ingredients. Here at Donna’s we’re loud and lively, with warm and familiar service. We’ll remind you what comfort feels like. And you’ll have the best night out (since the last time you were here).
Gluten Free Girls LA
Amara kitchen -A farm to table restaurant with two locations in Los Angeles (Highland Park and Altadena). This cozy cafe has multiple CLEARLY marked gluten free options (desserts and main dishes) and is good for celiacs with no cross contamination when mentioned. Today I had the “green eggs” -two poached eggs (I asked for mine over hard), roasted sweet potatoes, mixed greens, avocado, pesto, beet puree, pickled cabbage, pickled carrots and cherry tomatoes, toasted sesame seeds, served with house-made bread whole grain gluten free bread. The house made gluten free bread was fantastic. The eggs and veggies were definitely good, although next time I would probably order something I couldn’t find elsewhere. I also bought their gluten free chocolate chunk cookie which was excellent. They even make a vegan version. Highly recommend this place and will definitely be coming back.
The Restaurant Guide
Leona’s sushi house LA: Michelin Guide ‘23! Choose between the charming sushi bar, the high-ceiling dining room facing Ventura Boulevard, or center patio lounge to enjoy Japanese Peruvian food with an Italian touch. Influencers and foodies alike are raving about Leona’s. Their Michelin-recognized cuisine and crafted cocktails are a must-try. Take your dining experience to the next level. 🌟🥩🍣
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citygirlvibes
LAVO Los Angeles - a sophisticated Italian eatery located in the heart of the Sunset Strip. Always a consistent great time, with delicious food and a lively vibe. The perfect dinner before a night out! Enjoy a selection of LAVO's greatest brunch and dinner hits with our specially curated prix-fixe menus, available July 12th-26th, during the LA Restaurant Week.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Broken Shaker is an elevated oasis in the heart of Downtown LA, located on top of the lovely Freehand Los Angeles. Colorful, bright and buzzing, the rooftop comes surrounded with amazing and panoramic views over the Los Angeles skyline and the downtown area. Open from noon to midnight, this is a venue to enjoy both sunny poolside hours, as well as fun filled evenings under the LA stars. As a winner of Tales of the Cocktail’s Best American Hotel Bar award, it should be no surprise that Broken Shaker serves up delicious cocktails. While dips in the refreshing rooftop pool is reserved for guests staying at the hotel, anyone is welcome up to the rooftop for an abundance of drinks, vibes and views.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Perch LA with amazing views over the whole city or among the skyscrapers. Located in downtown, and offering fantastic views of the entire city, Perch operates both as a bar and a bistro, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a place to eat and drink. Offering both indoor and outdoor seating options as well as comfortable lounge furniture and a relaxed ambience, you'll be hard-pressed to find a more welcoming spot to watch the sunset while enjoying some drinks. With classy furniture, lush plants, fire pits and fireplaces, and stylish decor that transports you straight to the French Riviera, Perch stands out in more ways than one; Here, you'll be able to shed your worries and the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the moment.
Los Angeles4 everybody
Chinese in West Hollywood! Modernized Dim Sum fa sho 😋 🥟 Ok, I have one traditional place for dim sum and it is in the SGV, it’s meant to family time and Sunday Breakfast. Soooo, West Hollywood + Dim Sum for dinner never went together in my mind. Buutttttt, BAO DIM SUM HOUSE reinvented that. And I am here for it bc it’s actually good. Shiu Mai (we got chicken) was very hefty, Har Gow was shrimp filled with a light wrap, sauces on the table were on point and other items like Spare Ribs were prepared very traditionally. Now, if you live in LA proper, you don’t always have to go to the valley for your dim sum fix 😋 🥟
Secret Los Angeles
Mr. Beef From The Bear Will Pop Up In L.A. This Weekend Only With Authentic Italian Beef Sandwiches! This weekend only — you can experience Mr. Beef from FX on Hulu’s The Bear in Los Angeles. For two days only, July 13 and 14, L.A.’s Uncle Paulie’s will host this special pop-up featuring Chicago’s renowned Italian beef sandwiches with giardiniera. It’ll be a warm weekend so you’ll also get a chance to enjoy refreshing Italian ice from Coco’s to Go-Go, courtesy of the show’s culinary producer, Courtney Storer who will also be on site. Don’t miss out — sandwiches are available exclusively in person from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.
DTLA Insider
🔥 Stumbled upon a little hidden gem of a 🇲🇽 restaurant today and am still 🤯…. Carnes Asadas Pancho Lopez🌶🔥 • Tortas Ahogadas, Carne En Su Jugo + more • Michelin Bib Gourmand • 5 STARS 🌟 on Yelp Come and try our delicious Molcajete and pair with our tasty Michelada 🍹with your choice of beer 🍺. 🍴 Have You??
DTLA Insider
🦩 Cocktails, Bites, Good Vibes, and Flamingo’s at The Arts District’s 🍹 Lounge. Great Music! Cute cocktails and late night kitchen. Come check us out. 🪩🦩🪩🦩
See alsoExperience Fairfax: Top Local and Trending Insights near LA
The Restaurant Guide
JOSÉ ANDRÉS' RETURNS TO LOS ANGELES The Bazaar: a vibrant mix of sophisticated cuisine! José Andrés’ is excited to announce its return to Los Angeles with the opening of brand new restaurants in Downtown Los Angeles at The Grand LA and Conrad Los Angeles. Designed by the legendary Frank Gehry, architect of Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Grand LA represents the completion of his vision for Downtown Los Angeles. The new 305-room Conrad Los Angeles, the contemporary luxury brand’s debut in California, will be home to two original concepts from ThinkFoodGroup. Located on the 10th floor arrival lobby and with sweeping views of downtown LA, a new open-air, rooftop dining destination will offer a Latin- and Asian-inspired menu, as well as a dedicated pool-side menu designed for light and leisurely snacking and sharing. A second original concept restaurant, also located on the 10th floor, will be dedicated to classic Spanish flavors and dishes that come alive from morning to night with California’s vibrant, farm-fresh ingredients.
DTLA Insider
🇮🇹 Donna’s 🍝 East coast style Italian lands in L.A in one of the 🔥 must try restaurants in the city.
Discover Local Food Gems in Pasadena: A Foodie's Paradise Near LA
When it comes to local food, Pasadena is a treasure trove of culinary delights just waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a foodie looking for trending eateries or someone eager to uncover hidden gems, Pasadena offers a plethora of dining experiences that are sure to leave you satisfied. This guide is your ticket to the best local food secrets in the area, gleaned from real opinions and insights shared on Kikihub. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
Charming Breakfast Spots to Start Your Day Right
One of Pasadena's best-kept secrets is its extraordinary breakfast scene. For those who cherish a hearty morning meal, Lincoln Pasadena is a must-visit. From its fluffy buttermilk pancakes to the savory eggs Benedict, this spot offers an array of delectable brunch options. Locals rave about the avocado toast, featuring fresh ingredients and a perfect balance of flavors. If you're in the mood for something sweet, don't miss their mouth-watering pastries.
Julienne is another beloved brunch destination in the heart of Pasadena. Known for its quaint ambiance and delightful menu, it serves up artisanal coffee and a variety of fresh pastries that draw in crowds every weekend. Their seasonal brunch items, like the French toast with fresh peaches, make it a hit among local food enthusiasts. According to reviews on Kikihub, Julienne is a place where a leisurely breakfast turns into an unforgettable dining experience.
Lunch Delights: Dining Like a True Foodie
For lunchtime adventures, you're in for a treat. Pasadena is home to several trending eateries that have quickly become local favorites. A standout is Roma Market, a historic deli known for its legendary sandwiches. The signature sandwich, featuring a simple yet delicious combination of Italian meats and cheeses, is a lunchtime staple among locals.
Another joint you can't afford to miss is the Pie 'n Burger. This classic burger joint offers mouth-watering burgers and pies that have made it an iconic spot in Pasadena. According to local secrets shared on Kikihub, the hickory burger is a must-try, perfectly paired with a side of their crispy, golden fries. And don't forget to finish your meal with a slice of their famous homemade pie!
Top Dinner Destinations for an Elevated Experience
As the sun sets, Pasadena's culinary scene shifts gears, showcasing some of the finest dinner establishments near LA. Union is a top choice among locals for its creative Italian cuisine and intimate setting. Known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, Union presents a seasonal menu that never fails to impress. Try the tagliatelle with pork ragu—it's a dish that comes highly recommended by foodies on Kikihub.
Another stellar dining option is The Raymond 1886, renowned for its innovative American cuisine and historic charm. The dinner menu is diverse, featuring everything from hearty steaks to delicate seafood dishes. Locals particularly enjoy the braised short ribs and the seafood risotto, paired wonderfully with one of the expertly-crafted cocktails from their award-winning bar.
Trendy Eateries You Need to Visit
Pasadena is not just about the classics; it’s also home to a slew of trendy eateries that are making waves in the food scene. Ramen Tatsunoya is one such spot, celebrated for its authentic ramen bowls. This restaurant has quickly gained a cult following, thanks to its rich, flavorful broths and tender noodles. According to real opinions on Kikihub, the spicy miso ramen is a crowd favorite.
For fans of Korean cuisine, Bibigo Kitchen offers a contemporary twist on traditional dishes. This trendy eatery is known for its bibimbap and Korean BBQ offerings, which are perfect for sharing with friends. The modern decor and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular spot among younger foodies looking to capture the perfect Instagram shot.
Quaint Cafés and Vibrant Cocktail Bars
No exploration of Pasadena's food scene would be complete without mentioning its impressive array of cafés and bars. Lavender & Honey Espresso Bar is a cozy café that's perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Their specialty lattes and honey lavender toast have become local favorites, offering a unique blend of flavors that delight the taste buds.
Meanwhile, for those looking to unwind with a cocktail, 1886 Bar at The Raymond offers a fantastic selection of craft cocktails in a stylish setting. The bartenders here are true mixologists, crafting unique drinks that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Regulars on Kikihub suggest trying the Pisco Sour or the Old Fashioned for a truly memorable cocktail experience.
Pasadena’s food scene, with its blend of local secrets and trending eateries, offers something for every food lover. Whether you're starting your day at a beloved breakfast spot, enjoying a classic lunch, indulging in a top-tier dinner, visiting a new trendy place, or relaxing at a charming café, these local insights will ensure you have a dining experience that's nothing short of spectacular. Dive into the delicious world of Pasadena's local food culture and savor every moment of your culinary journey.
