Dining Guide

The Food FROM FARM TO FORK

MORE THAN EVER PEOPLE ARE SEEKING ORGANICALLY GROWN FOODS FOR THEIR FAMILIES

Chain The 2012 Food & Dining Guide

A NEW LEAF

LOCAL BUSINESSES AIM TO TURN PASADENA ONTO THE BENEFITS OF TEA

NATURE’S WAY LOCAL RESTAURANTS KEEP FRESHNESS AND SUSTAINABILITY ON THE TIPS OF OUR TONGUES

a special presentation by

2012 DINING GUIDE

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FROM FARM TO FORK

MORE THAN EVER PEOPLE ARE SEEKING ORGANICALLY GROWN FOODS FOR THEIR FAMILIES

BY REBECCA KUZINS

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A NEW LEAF

LOCAL BUSINESSES AIM TO TURN PASADENA ONTO THE BENEFITS OF TEA

BY SARA CARDINE

19 37

THE FOOD CHAIN

NOT SURE WHERE TO EAT TONIGHT? USE THIS HANDY DINING GUIDE TO GREATER PASADENA

NATURE’S WAY

LOCAL RESTAURANTS KEEP FRESHNESS AND SUSTAINABILITY ON THE TIPS OF OUR TONGUES

BY DAN O’HERON

ABOUT THE COVER: Photo courtesy of Kabuki Japanese Restaurant | ABOVE: Photo courtesy Gyu-Kaku

EDITOR Kevin Uhrich DEPUTY EDITOR André Coleman ART DIRECTOR Kent Bancroft JUNIOR DESIGNER Carla Cortez PRODUCTION DESIGNERS Richard Garcia, Rochelle Bassarear FOOD WRITERS Sara Cardine, Rebecca Kuzins, Dan O’Heron ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Dina Stegon SALES AND MARKETING Brenda Clarke, Joseluis Correa, Leslie Lamm, JJ Weiland OFFICE ASSISTANT Gina Giovacchini VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE Michael Nagami HUMAN RESOURCES Andrea Baker BUSINESS MANAGER Angela Wang ACCOUNTING Alysia Chavez, Monica MacCree V P OF OPERATIONS FOR SOUTHLAND PUBLISHING David Comden PUBLISHER Jon Guynn

CONTACT US PHONE (626) 584-1500 FAX (626) 795-0149 MAILING ADDRESS 50 S. De Lacey Ave. Suite 200 Pasadena, CA 91105 ©2012 Southland Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.

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PASADENA WEEKLY DINING GUIDE 2012

BY REBECCA KUZINS

FROM FARM TO FORK MORE THAN EVER PEOPLE ARE SEEKING ORGANICALLY GROWN FOODS FOR THEIR FAMILIES

DIANA SINGLETON HAD TO THINK FOR A MOMENT AFTER BEING ASKED RECENTLY WHY SHE WAS SHOPPING FOR ORGANIC PRODUCTS AT WHOLE FOODS MARKET. “I’ve been buying organic since 1981, so I don’t even think about it anymore,” Singleton said finally. “Organic foods are healthier. I like supporting local and organic farmers; the food is good for you, because the farmers preserve the soil. I want to live longer and I want to feel good.”

Singleton is one of a small but growing group of grocery shoppers.

Still, it is true that many Americans do not share her enthusiasm for fruits, vegetables and other foods grown and raised without the use of pesticides, chemical fertilizers or genetic modifications and which are not processed with chemicals and other additives.

In a recent survey, National Public Radio’s “Planet Money” found that shoppers in 2012 were spending 22.9 percent of their grocery money on processed foods and sweets — almost double what they spent in 1982. Expenditures for fruits and vegetables (14.6 percent) and beverages (11.1 percent) essentially remained the same during the 30-year period, while shoppers purchased less meat (from 31.3 to 21.5 percent) and more grains and baked goods (from 13.2 to 14.4 percent).

These figures indicate that frozen dinners, canned soups, snacks and other high-calorie processed foods are still the staples of many Americans’ diets — and one reason for the massive rise in obesity. But these statistics don’t tell the whole story.

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The growth of processed food purchases has been accompanied by a much smaller but nonetheless significant rise in sales of organic products. According to the Organic Trade Association, a membership-based association for the industry in North America, sales of organic foods and beverages reached $29.22 billion in 2011, a 9.5 percent increase over the previous year and more than 28 times the $1 billion of organics purchased in 1990.

Organic food sales now represent 4.2 percent of all US food sales, up from 4 percent in 2010.

Grocery stores have responded to this increase by offering customers a range of organic products.

According to the association, 55 percent of all organic food and beverages sold in the United States were available at national grocery chains, club and warehouse stores and other massmarket merchandisers — the same places where shoppers have traditionally purchased processed food. Natural health

food stores accounted for another 38 percent of sales, with an additional 7.4 percent being sold at farmers’ markets.

Although organic foods are often more expensive than conventional products, many shoppers are willing to pay higher prices to obtain what they perceive as better quality merchandise. Like Singleton, several customers recently shopping at Whole Foods on Arroyo Parkway cited the “healthiness” of organic products as one of their primary reasons for patronizing the store. Whole Foods, an Austin, Texas-based chain with two stores in Pasadena, boasts it was “the first nationally certified organic grower in the United States.”

Sprouts Farmers Market, another national grocery chain with a store in Pasadena, also offers organic foods. The chain describes itself as a hybridization of natural foods store, a farmers’ market and a conventional supermarket,” featuring both “conventional” and organic produce.

Organic produce can also be purchased at Trader Joe’s, a

PHOTO: Robb Kendrick (Cucumbers)

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national chain launched in Pasadena in the late 1960s. A corporate spokesperson said that 80 percent of the chain’s products are sold “underneath the Trader Joe’s brand” label and contain “no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.”

A group of local residents has plans to open a food co-op in Altadena, which will feature locally and organically grown products. Brian Chiu, one of the organizers of the Arroyo Food Co-op, said the proposed store currently has enrolled 490 member-owners out of the 500 that will be needed to finance the operation.

While the fruit and vegetables sold at Pasadena’s three farmer’s markets are not certified organic, many of the products are organically grown.

And all of the items are certified by county agriculture departments as being locally grown, which means that the farmers are selling the same products that they have personally raised. Pasadena’s farmers’ markets feature

merchandise from vendors who come from a wide swath of southern California, from as far north as Fresno to as far south as San Diego.

Gretchen Sterling, the markets’ manager, said the availability of locally grown products is a key reason for the markets’ popularity: “People want to build a relationship with the people who grow their food,” she said. “Here, they can talk to growers.”

Remarks by some of the shoppers who attended a recent Saturday morning market at Victory Park bear out Sterling’s comments.

Rebecca McMillan said she shops at the farmers’ market because she likes “a sense of community. I do prefer fresh fruits and vegetables to those that have been sitting in the market. There’s a difference — and these are better.”

Another shopper, Karen Brown, said she likes the market’s produce because “it’s fresher, tastier, and I’m supporting local businesses.

And there’s also a greater chance that I’m not eating pesticides.” ■

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PASADENA WEEKLY DINING GUIDE 2012

BY SARA CARDINE

A NEW LEAF LOCAL BUSINESSES AIM TO TURN PASADENA ONTO THE BENEFITS OF TEA

IN THE WORLD OF GASTRONOMY, MUCH ATTENTION IS PAID TO FOOD — WHERE IT COMES FROM, HOW IT IS SELECTED AND PREPARED AND FINALLY PRESENTED FOR DINERS OR LOVED ONES. SOMETIMES OVERLOOKED IS THE ROLE A GOOD BEVERAGE CAN PLAY, EITHER WHEN PAIRED WITH FOOD OR IN A STANDALONE FASHION, IN THE OVERALL ENJOYMENT OF A WELL-ROUNDED MEAL.

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PHOTO: Courtesy of Phoebe Joy Photography (Flour + Tea drink)

The city itself has a rich culinary pedigree, but only recently have destinations dedicated to the enjoyment of one particular beverage begun to enjoy a wider audience in and around Pasadena.

At a time when many businesses try to be all things to all people, these venues stay the course, focusing on enlightening visitors about the culturally accepted ways to consume beverages while also encouraging them to create new traditions.

Take tea, for example, a drink with a very long and sometimes complicated provenance. Though Americans drink a lot of iced tea (something people in tea-drinking countries hardly ever consume), coffee and soda predominate as beverages of choice. Still, in Pasadena, there are a few businesses that strive to wake people up to the virtues of tea.

Open just three months, Flour+Tea (238 S. Arroyo Ave., Pasadena (626/698-1058, flourandtea.com), offers patrons much more than just

bulk leaves and brewing pots.

Instead, you will find a menu that appeals to novices and pros alike — it lets you decide your own mood and palate and then gives you several different ways to build off that basic template.

Shaken teas let customers choose a base tea: oolong, black, green or chamomile. If you are already lost, staff members will tell you oolong offers something mild and black is bolder, while green provides an antioxidant boost and chamomile relaxes. Once you indicate your sweetness level, pick from flavors like lychee, kumquat, honey, blueberry or just go with plain. The ingredients are shaken vigorously with ice and served immediately.

For its bakery component, Flour+Tea serves several goods, baked in-house, many of which use tea as a main ingredient. Try a green tea macaron, or clouds — light as angel-food cakes that replace denser cupcakes but still pack a flavor punch.

“You just have to find —CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Green tea macarons DINING GUIDE 2012 PASADENA WEEKLY

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something that you like,” says proprietor Johnson Wang.

Because of the owners’ connections to Asian distributors and the relationship they keep with their parent companies, TenRen and TenFu Tea, the largest tea growers in the world, customers can come into Flour+Tea and not only choose from a wide selection, but special order rarer varieties direct from China.

“My dream is to let people enjoy tea the way it is in its naked, natural state,” said General Manager Nancy Ou. “Here, you can become your own alchemist.”

Another destination for Pasadena tea drinkers is Bird Pick Tea & Herb (10 S. DeLacey Ave. (626/773-4372, birdpick.com), which opened its flagship store in Old Pasadena in 2008. Since then, Managing Director Lan Ong has quietly watched as coffee drinkers make the switch to a new

morning brew.

“I truly believe that we can revolutionize tea,” Ong says.

“Tea has definitely gained momentum and awareness in terms of health benefits, versatility and consciousness. I have seen numerous health aficionados latch onto tea as a nourishing and stimulating alternative to coffee. It’s amazing to see patrons convert their morning coffee to morning tea.”

The store’s tranquil ambience attracts all levels of tea drinkers — from amateurs to connoisseurs — and a pure tea bar serves up classics as well as infused iced creations.

Bird Pick’s mission, Ong says, is to celebrate tea culture by encouraging customers to indulge in their senses while discovering their perfect cup of tea.

“We aim to share our passion and knowledge by providing information on Chinese Tea Culture, as well as showing the health benefits of tea and perhaps, a new lifestyle,” she adds. ■

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BEST OF PASADENA —2011—

2011 BEST OF PASADENA DINING RECAP BEST RESTAURANT AVANTI CAFÉ 111 N. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-4688 | AVANTICAFE.COM BEST NEW RESTAURANT PLATE 38 2361 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA, (626) 793-7100 | PLATE38.COM BEST BUSINESS LUNCH SMITTY’S GRILL 110 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 792-9999 | SMITTYSGRILL.COM BEST CHEAP EATS MIX N MUNCH CEREAL & GRILLED CHEESE 1005 MISSION ST., SOUTH PASADENA (626) 441-8808 | MIXNMUNCH.COM BEST OUTDOOR DINING LA GRANDE ORANGE CAFÉ 260 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 356-4444 LGOSTATIONCAFE.COM BEST RESTAURANT STAFF CELESTINO’S 141 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 795-4006 CELESTINOPASADENA.COM BEST SPECIAL OCCASION DINING PARKWAY GRILL 510 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 795-1001 THEPARKWAYGRILL.COM BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT TWOHEY’S RESTAURANT 1224 N. ATLANTIC BLVD., ALHAMBRA (626) 284-7387 | TWOHEYS.COM BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK CONRAD’S 861 E. WALNUT ST., PASADENA (626) 577-7603

BEST SUNDAY BRUNCH THE LANGHAM HUNTINGTON HOTEL & SPA 1401 S. OAK KNOLL AVE., PASADENA (626) 568-3900 PASADENA.LANGHAMHOTELS.COM BEST ARMENIAN FOOD ZANKOU CHICKEN 1296 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-1502 BEST BAKERY EURO PANE BAKERY 950 E. COLORADO BLVD., STE 107, PASADENA (626) 577-1828 300 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 844-8804 BEST BBQ GUS’S BBQ 808 FAIR OAKS AVE., SOUTH PASADENA (626) 799-3251 | GUSSBBQ.COM BEST BREAKFAST TWOHEY’S RESTAURANT 1224 N. ATLANTIC BLVD., ALHAMBRA (626) 284-7387 | TWOHEYS.COM BEST BUFFET SOUPLANTATION 201 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-4798 | SOUPLANTATION.COM BEST BURGER TWOHEY’S RESTAURANT 1224 N. ATLANTIC BLVD. ALHAMBRA (626) 284-7387 | TWOHEYS.COM BEST BURRITO BURRITO EXPRESS 1597 E. WASHINGTON BLVD., PASADENA (626) 798-0844

KING TACO 45 N. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 792-0405 | KINGTACO.COM

BEST CALIFORNIA CUISINE GREEN STREET RESTAURANT 146 S. SHOPPERS LANE, PASADENA (626) 577-7170 GREENSTREETRESTAURANT.COM

LUCKY BOY 640 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 793-0120 LUCKYBOYBURGERS.COM

BEST CARIBBEAN FOOD KINGSTON CAFÉ 333 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 405-8080 | KINGSTONCAFE.COM

BEST CHINESE FOOD FU-SHING CHINESE RESTAURANT 2960 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 792-8898 FUSHINGRESTAURANT.COM BEST DELI/SANDWICHES LOVEBIRD’S CAFE 921 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 583-8888 | LOVEBIRDSCAFE.COM PASADENA SANDWICH CO. 259 SIERRA MADRE VILLA AVE., PASADENA (626) 578-1616 BEST CUPCAKES DOTS CUPCAKES 400 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 568-3687 DOTSCUPCAKES.COM BEST DESSERT EURO PANE BAKERY 345 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 844-8804.

BEST FRENCH FOOD CHEVAL BLANC 41 S. DE LACEY AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-4141 | CHEVALBLANCBISTRO.COM

BEST INDEPENDENT COFFEE HOUSE JONES COFFEE ROASTERS 693 S. RAYMOND AVE., PASADENA (626) 564-9291 | THEBESTCOFFEE.COM

BEST LOCAL PIZZA AVANTI CAFÉ 111 N. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-4688 | AVANTICAFE.COM

BEST INDIAN FOOD AKBAR CUISINE OF INDIA 44 N. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 577-9916 AKBARCUISINEOFINDIA.COM

BEST SEAFOOD CAMERON’S SEAFOOD 1978 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 793-3474 | CAMERONS4FISH.COM

BEST JAPANESE/SUSHI KABUKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 3589 E. FOOTHILL BLVD., PASADENA (626) 351-8963 88 W. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 568-9310 KABUKIRESTAURANTS.COM BEST JUICE BAR JAMBA JUICE 64 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 666-1500 204 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 744-5200 | JAMBAJUICE.COM

BISTRO DE LA GARE 921 MERIDIAN AVE., A, SOUTH PASADENA (626) 799-8828 BISTRODELAGARE.COM

BEST LOCAL BREWERY CRAFTSMAN BREWING CO. 1260 LINCOLN AVE., UNIT 100, PASADENA (626) 296-2537 CRAFTSMANBREWING.COM

BEST HEALTH FOOD GRASSROOTS NATURAL MARKET AND KITCHEN 1119 FAIR OAKS AVE., SOUTH PASADENA (626) 799-0156

BEST MEDITERRANEAN FOOD BURGER CONTINENTAL 535 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 792-6634 BURGERCONTINENTAL.COM

OREAN THE HEALTH EXPRESS 817 N. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 794-0861 OREANSHEALTHEXPRESS.COM

BEST MEXICAN FOOD EL PORTAL 695 E. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 795-8553 ELPORTALRESTAURANT.COM

BEST ICE CREAM/ YOGURT/GELATO CARMELA’S ICE CREAM 2495 E. WASHINGTON BLVD., PASADENA (626) 797-1405 CARMELAICECREAM.COM

BEST SOUL FOOD BIG MAMA’S RIB SHACK 1453 N. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 797-1792 BIGMAMASRIBSHACK.COM

BEST ITALIAN FOOD CELESTINO’S RISTORANTE 141 S. LAKE AVE., PASADENA (626) 795-4006 CELESTINOPASADENA.COM

BEST SOUTH AMERICAN FOOD MALBEC NEW ARGENTINIAN CUISINE 1001 E. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 683-0550 | MALBECCUISINE.COM BEST SPANISH FOOD BAR CELONA 46 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 405-1000 BARCELONAPASADENA.COM BEST STEAKHOUSE RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE 385 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 583-8122 | RUTHSCHRIS.COM BEST TACO KING TACO 45 N. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 792-0405 | KINGTACO.COM BEST TEA HOUSE SCARLET TEA ROOM 18 W. GREEN ST., PASADENA (626) 577-0051 SCARLETTEAROOM.COM BEST THAI FOOD SALADANG 363 S. FAIR OAKS AVE., PASADENA (626) 793-8123

BEST MIDDLE EASTERN FOOD SAHARA 2226 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 795-6900 SAHARAPASADENA.COM

BEST VEGETARIAN FOOD MY VEGAN 633 S. ARROYO PARKWAY, PASADENA (626) 578-9017 | MY-VEGAN.COM BEST VIETNAMESE FOOD INDOCHINE 950 E. COLORADO BLVD., PASADENA (626) 584-7118

CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST YEAR’S WINNERS.

VOTING FOR THE 2012 BEST OF PASADENA BEGINS AUGUST 2.

THIS YEAR’S WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN THE OCTOBER 11 BEST OF PASADENA SPECIAL ISSUE. DINING GUIDE 2012 PASADENA WEEKLY

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ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

THE FOOD CHAIN NOT SURE WHERE TO EAT TONIGHT? USE THIS HANDY DINING GUIDE TO GREATER PASADENA

1810 ARGENTINIAN RESTAURANT 121 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 795-5658 1810restaurant.com

AVANTI CAFÉ 111 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena

Owners Marcello Sala and Gustavo Landgrebe established this Argentinian restaurant on the site of another Argentine eatery, the uninspired Gaucho Grill. Amid unpretentious surroundings of brickwork and dark wood tables, 1810 succeeds where its predecessor missed the mark. "It's what we like and what we know," Sala says simply. Dishes fuse varied South American flavors; even a few homemade recipes from Sala's grandmother make an appearance.

Overall, this is a great place to bring the family. "It's no-fuss food, simple and easy," he says.

Avanti Cafe has won Pasadena Weekly’s “Best Gourmet Pizza” for 16 years. Avanti Café is dedicated to providing exciting gourmet cuisine in a comfortable atmosphere and specializes in gourmet pizzas prepared in an imported oak-wood-fired Italian oven, with pizza dough especially formulated to accent a natural oak-wood flavor. Choose from a delicious assortment of California-style toppings, each prepared from the freshest ingredients, or select from their many popular pasta or calzone dishes, and variety of salads

300 PASADENA 3545 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena (626) 351-8858 300Pasadena.com

BAR CELONA MODERN SPANISH RESTAURANT AND TAPAS BAR 46 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 405-1000 barcelonapasadena.com

Sitting home at night isn’t up anyone’s alley so strike up some fun at 300 Pasadena. To keep things interesting, we have daily specials for you and your friends to enjoy like: · Hula Bowl - enjoy a grand luau every Friday night this summer. · Happy Bowl Hour – come relax the day away; weekdays from 5-7pm.

Inspired by the au courant food capital of the world, this stylized version of a modern Spanish tapas bar and restaurant brings Spain’s passion for great food and wine to Old Pasadena with a vibrant selection of tapas (small plates), paella and Spanish entrees, plus specially blended sangria. A stunningly beautiful wine and martini lounge will entice you with live music, flamenco bands and deejays. We have a late-night lounge and menu. Private dining rooms are available.

38 DEGREES ALE HOUSE & GRILL 100 W. Main St., Alhambra (626) 282-2038 38degreesalhambra.com 38 Degrees Ale House & Grill http://www.38degreesalhambra.com, can be found in downtown Alhambra. This good-as-it-gets ale house offers 38 taps of elite craft beer such as Ballast Point Sculpin and Russian River's Pliny the Elder along with over 100 bottled beers and house crafted cocktails. The food features fantastic Burgers and entrees such as Balsamic Baby Back Stack, Blackened Catfish, & Chicken & Dumplings all designed by Chef James Boyle. Visit 38 degrees for a great craft beer & food experience.

A’ FLOAT SUSHI 87 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 379-2221 A Float Sushi dishes up high-quality sushi at some of Pasadena’s lowest prices. A unique dining experience, A’ Float Sushi’s lunch and dinner offerings are delicious delights, such as eight pieces of sashimi for $6.15, lunch special eight-item plates for $6.95, and sushi plates starting at $1.98. Take advantage of 90 minutes of free parking at the Schoolhouse Parking Building nearby.

ALL INDIA CAFÉ 39 South Fair Oaks Ave Pasadena (626) 440-0309 allindiacafe.com “An unassuming” Indian that fans call the best in Pasadena, specializing in a fascinating and extensive menu of Authentic Indian home-style cooking. We use only natural spices and ingredients. We do not add artificial colorings or preservatives. We offer many sumptuous dishes that are lean healthful, and low in fat. Many vegan and vegetarian dishes are also available. We offer daily specials, which include a chicken curry of the day, a vegetable special, a lentil and rice of the day.

(626) 577-4901

Avanticafe.com

BEYOND THE OLIVE 10 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena (626) 844-EVOO (3866) Beyondtheolive.com We are the premier source for the education, tasting and purchasing of California’s highquality, extra virgin olive oils, gourmet vinegars, specialty food products and merchandise.

Our olive oils and vinegars are almost exclusively produced and bottled in California — not shipped from Europe. In this economy, why not support your local economy? We are located in the heart of Old Pasadena at Raymond and Colorado.

BIG DADDY’S FIRE GRILL 2122 E. Foothill Blvd Pasadena (626) 796-1266 bigdaddysfiregrill.com Big Daddy's Fire Grill offers premium quality foods & ingredients, featuring our hand crafted Hamburgers using FRESH 100% Angus Beef, FRESH Grilled Marinated Sandwiches, and FRESH Sausages and Dawgs, which are infused with garlic and FRESH herbs & spices and grilled on a Wood Fire to give our meats the sublime smokiness that can only be achieved when grilling on our Oakwood Fire Grill, which by definition makes Big Daddy's Fire Grill... better than all the rest.

BIG MAMA’S RIB SHACK 1453 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 797-1792 bigmamas-ribshack.com BARBECUE BLUES AND BOOZE. Southern cooking to die for. The best eating this side of the Mississippi! Our unique cooking and Southern hospitality attracts eaters from every—CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

KABUKI

88 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 568-8553 kabukirestaurants.com

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PASADENA WEEKLY DINING GUIDE 2012

ABUKI Japanese Restaurant has been receiving “Best of” awards since 1994.

They have received rave reviews from food critics and writers, but the most important recognition received is from their guests. KABUKI assures their guests will experience the best in service and food. One of the many reasons why they are consistently voted the Best of the Best!

Since 1991, the vision of KABUKI Japanese Restaurant has been to create high-energy, family-friendly and value-oriented Japanese restaurants. It is an everyday mission to deliver quality and freshness, great service, clean restaurants and value to each guest. Ultimately, the hope is that customers will come to appreciate Japanese cuisine as comfort food. This all starts at first step inside the restaurant as guests are greeted with IRASHAI-MASE! Here you will experience the cuisine and beverages passionately crafted by two gentlemen who are not only dedicated to providing the best in Japanese cuisine, but also dedicated to spreading the culture of Japanese dining. The tireless efforts of Executive Corporate Chef Masa Kurihara and Master Sake Sommelier Yuji Matsumoto are aimed to attain total satisfaction from first sip to last bite. They will be heartbroken felt otherwise.

Presently, KABUKI Restaurants, Inc. operates 15 KABUKI Japanese Restaurants in Arizona, California and Nevada. They are committed to bringing the KABUKI Japanese Restaurant experience to many more communities throughout America. Despite recent expansion, the same humble attitudes from 1991 remain; to treat each customer and employee like family and to care about the communities in which they serve.

Come to the place voted “Best Happy Hour” in 2011 by the Readers of Pasadena Weekly, Monday-Friday from 3-6pm and enjoy specially priced appetizers, sushi rolls, beer, wine & more (Pasadena & Old Pasadena locations). Enjoy reverse Happy Hour Monday–Thursday from 9pm-close and Sunday from 8pm-close (Old Pasadena location only). DOMO ARI-GATO GOZAIMASU!

K

HAVEN GASTROPUB 42 S. DeLacey Ave., Pasadena (626) 768-9555 havengastropub.com

he newly opened Haven Gastropub + Brewery breathes new life into the heart of Old Pasadena with its deliciously innovative take on seasonal, gourmet comfort food paired with unique craft beers, boutique wines, and specialty cocktails.

With an exceptional selection of local and international craft beers by the bottle and on tap, Haven Gastropub + Brewery also boasts its very own on-site brewery.

Haven Brewing, overseen by Brewmaster David Larsen, produces year-round brews and small-batch seasonal varietals in a rotating selection of styles, including rich Imperial Stouts, Bavarian-Style Hefeweizen, and hoppy IPAs. But Haven Gastropub + Brewery doesn’t stop at beer - a selection from the curated global wine list and one of the handcrafted preProhibition era cocktails make an unforgettable addition to any dining experience.

Executive Chef Greg Daniels features farmers’ markets specials, house-made

Photo by James Carbone

T

charcuterie, flatbreads, and entrées bursting with local California bounty.

The menu highlights an array of snacks including a Hand Twisted Pretzel with Ilocano Asin Philippine Sea Salt, Beer Mustard, Bacon-Fontina Cheese Sauce;Porchetta di Testa with a Roulade of Hog's Head, Arugula, Lemon-Shallot Vinaigrette & Shaved Pecorino; and Pork Rillettes, a "Confiture de Cochon" served in a Mason Jar with Toasted Sourdough.

Larger plates include Duck Confit Poutine with Port Salut and Pommes Frites; Lamb Flatbread with Merguez Sausage, Arugula, Cherry Tomato, Egg & Housemade Sriracha; and Whole Roasted Suckling Pig - naturally and humanely raised, served family style. Pastry Chef Santanna Salas’ delightfully unexpected dessert menu is the perfect finale with unique classics such as S’Mores with Coconut Marshmallow, Milk Chocolate & Graham Cracker and the Haven Beer Float with Samuel Smith's Organic Strawberry Ale, Vanilla Ice Cream & Warm Cookies.

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LOCAL DINING DESTINATIONS

N

DOWNTOWN/ OLD PASADENA E

W

29 2277

S 46 400 42

113

1

Woodbury Rd.

3 1111 455 48

31

41

21

18 Dee Lacey

533 58

36

4

15

d Raymond

To JPL

49

Fair Oaks

Lincoln Ave.

▼

26

MONTROSE M MONT ONT

ton Blvd.

Washington

Rose Bowl

33 Allen Ave.

Hill Ave.

Lake Ave.

Los Robles Ave.

Raymond Ave.

Rose B owl Dr.

Fair Oaks Ave.

10 25

Orange Grove Blvd.

24

One Colorado

GLENDALE

City Hall Walnut Blvd.

Arroyo del Vista

LOS ANGELES ▼ 22

PASADENA WEEKLY DINING GUIDE 2012

Colorado Blvd.

B

50 17 57

38

16

56

19 California Blvd.

54

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GUIDE TO LOCAL DINING 42. 1810 ARGENTINEAN RESTAURANT 121 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 795-5658 1810restaurant.com

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2. 300 PASADENA 3545 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena (626) 351-8858 300pasadena.com 43. 38º ALE HOUSE & GRILL 100 W. Main St., Alhambra (626) 282-2038 charliestrio.com

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58. DOG HAUS BIERGARTEN 93 E. Green St., Pasadena (626) 683-0808 doghausdogs.com

54. OBA 181 E. Glenarm St., Pasadena (626) 799-8543 | obasushi.com

59. DOG HAUS 410 E. Main St., Alhambra (626) 282-HAUS doghausdogs.com

24. PASADENA FARMER’S MARKET 3 locations: 363 E. Villa St. El Molino @ Union Victory Park @ Sierra Madre pasadenafarmersmarket.org

30. DOMINICO’S 2411 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena (626) 797-6459 originaldomenicos.com

38. REAL FOOD DAILY 899 East Del Mar Blvd., Pasadena (626) 844-8900 realfood.com

9. EDEN GARDEN BAR & GRILL 175 E. Holly St., Pasadena (626) 440-1421 edengardenbarandgrill.com

21. ALL INDIA CAFE 39 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena (626) 440-0309 allindiacafe.com

47. EL PORTAL 695 E. Green St., Pasadena (626) 795-8553 elportalrestaurant.com

53. REDWHITE + BLUEZZ 70 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena (626) 792-4441 redwhitebluezz.com

14. AVANTI CAFÉ 111 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 577-4688 | avanticafe.com

55. FIREFLY BISTRO 1009 El Centro St., South Pasadena (626) 441-2443 | eatatfirefly.com

45. BAR CELONA MODERN SPANISH TAPAS BAR 46 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 405-1000 barcelonapasadena.com

17. GANDOLFO’S NEW YORK DELICATESSEN 105 N. Hill Ave. #102, Pasadena (626) 303-7117 Mobile: (626) 405-2900 gandolfosdeli.com

60. ROY’S HAWAIIAN FUSION 641 E. Colorado Blvd, Pasadena (626) 356-4066 roysrestaurant.com

3. BEYOND THE OLIVE 10 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena (626) 844-3866 beyondtheolive.com 32. BIG DADDY’S FIRE GRILL 2122 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena (626) 698-8139 bigdaddysfiregrill.com

52. BISTRO DE LA GARE 921 Meridian Ave. #A, South Pasadena (626) 799-8828 bistrodelagare.com

MONROVIA

22. NOVEL CAFE 1713 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 683-3309 novelcafe.com

11. A’FLOAT SUSHI 87 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 729-9779

36. BIG MAMMA’S RIB SHACK 1453 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 797-1792 bigmamas-ribshack.com

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newmoonrestaurants.com

105 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena (626) 577-HAUS doghausdogs.com

4. BUCA DI BEPPO 80 W. Green St., Pasadena (626) 792-7272 | bucadibeppo.com 10. BURRITO EXPRESS 1597 E. Washington, Pasadena (626) 798-0844 burritoexpresspasadena.com 46. CAFÈ BIZOU 91 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena (626) 792-9923 cafebizou.com 16. CAMERON’S SEAFOOD 1978 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 793-3474 camerons4fish.com

37. GARNISH CAFE 2277 Huntington Dr., San Marino (626) 844-8889 33. GOOD FOOD MARKET 1864 E. Washington Blvd. #106, Pasadena (626) 794-5367 goodfoodpasadena.com

19. SALADANG + SALADANG SONG 363 & 383 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena (626) 793-8123 (626) 793-5200 15. SCARLET TEA ROOM 18 W. Green St., Pasadena (626) 577-0051 scarlettearoom.com 23. SPRING GARDEN 187 N. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena (626) 396-2531

31. HAVEN GASTROPUB 42 S. DeLacey Ave., Pasadena (626) 798-9555 havengastropub.com

20. THE STILLROOM 181 E. Glenarm St., Pasadena (626) 799-0700 stillroomla.com

27. IL FORNAIO 24 W. Union St., Pasadena (626) 683-9797 | ilforniao.com

35. SUSHI BAR YOSHIDA 2026 Huntington Dr., San Marino (626) 281-9292

48. IX TAPA CANTINA 119 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 304-1000 cantinaixtapa.com 1. KABUKI 88 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 568-9310 kabukirestaurants.com 29. THE KITCHEN 78 W. Union St., Pasadena (626) 796-9802 thekitchenpasadena.com

13. SUSHI ROKU 33 Miller Alley at One Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 683-3000 | sushiroku.com 34. SWEET & SAVORY 2142 Huntington Dr., San Marino (626) 293-8877 sweetandsavorysm.com 50. TOPS WALNUT 1792 E. Walnut Ave., Pasadena (626) 584-0244 topsburger.com

25. LA CARAVANA 1306 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 791-7378

56. TRATTORIA NEAPOLIS 336 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 792-3000 trattorianeapolis.com

39. CANOE HOUSE 805 Fair Oaks Ave., South Pasadena (626) 799-4169 canoehouserestaurant.com

12. MAMMA’S BRICK OVEN PIZZA 710 Fair Oaks, South Pasadena (626) 799-1344 311 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena (626) 405-9877 mammasbrickoven.com

5. CHEERS BAR & GRILL 717 S. San Gabriel Blvd., San Gabriel (626) 353-0091

7. MARGARITA’S MEXICAN FOOD 155 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena (626) 449-4224 margaritasmexicanfood.com

40. VILLA SORRISO 168 W. Colorado Blvd, Pasadena (626) 793-2233 sorrisopasadena.com

18. THE COFFEE GALLERY BACKSTAGE 2029 Lake Ave., Altadena (626) 794-2424 coffeegallery.com

41. MONOPOLE WINE 21 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena (626) 577-9463

44. VINO AT TRIOS 10 N. First St., Alhambra (626) 284-4674 | charliestrio.com

6. NEW DELHI 950 E. Colorado Blvd #205., Pasadena (626) 405-0666 newdelhipalacepasadena.com

8. ZELO’S PIZZERIA 328 E. Foothill Blvd., Arcadia (626) 358-8298

28. COLOMBO’S RESTAURANT & CATERING 1833 Colorado Blvd., Eagle Rock (323) 254-9138 colombosrestaurant.com 57. DOG HAUS

49. NEW MOON 2138 Verdugo Blvd., Montrose (818) 249-4393

26. UEDF TAKE OUT 2191 N. Lake Ave., Altadena (626) 794-0277

51. ZUGO’S CAFÈ 74 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre | (626) 836-5700 zugoscafe.com

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PASADENA FARMER’S MARKET

3 locations: 363 E. Villa St. • El Molino @ Union • Victory Park @ Sierra Madre pasadenafarmersmarket.org ith three markets open each week, Pasadena’s Certified Farmers’ Market offers more opportunities to buy fresh than ever before!

Saturday’s Victory Park market is the largest in the San Gabriel Valley and has fruits, vegetables, eggs, honey, plants, cut flowers, grass-fed beef, fish, bakery items, jams, mustards and other specialty items produced by food artisans.

Why should you care where you buy your produce? Seasonal freshness and ripeness are two big reasons. Walk through the produce aisle of any grocery store and ask yourself ‘where is the fabulous smell of ripe strawberries or peaches?’ It’s not there because of the ‘travel’ factor that requires fruits to be picked before ripeness in order to make the journey to the grocery store. At the area’s farmers markets you will smell the fruit before you see it. Our farmers pick the fruit when it’s ready to get the best taste.

We want you to have the best tasting food for your table!

You should shop more often in the summer to get the freshest items.

That’s one of the reasons we have the summer evening market in the Playhouse District operating each Wednesday evening through September.

Our markets also provide the opportunity to meet the farmers. You can ask questions on how things are grown, and discover that they don’t have to use pesticides or preservatives because shelf life isn’t an issue. Visit our website to learn about our growers - where they grow their produce, what their season is, and at which market they can be found.

Everything at our markets is California grown as part of the California Direct Market Program. This means no resale; no selling of items the farmers didn’t grow themselves. Each grower has a ‘certified producer certificate’ that assures what they grow is inspected by their counties’ Agriculture Department. Sponsored by the City of Pasadena Human Services and Recreation department, each market accepts EBT and the CalFresh Program. Plus, we urge you to comply with Pasadena’s new ordinance about plastic. Please bring your own reusable bags.

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—CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 where. It is true "down home" Southern food, crafted with careful attention to the tradition and love handed down from Big Mama's original personal recipes. HAVE YOU ATE AT BIG MAMA’S YET? Go to our website and see some real something to eat. Hal Ay Loo Ya!

BISTRO DE LA GARE 696 E. Colorado Blvd (Arcade Lane), Pasadena (626) 795-3793 buanathai.com You’ll love the hidden pleasures you’ll discover at Bua Na! Of the many Thai restaurants in Pasadena that deserve five stars in most rating systems, Bua Na is the pick of the glitter.

Out of sight from traffic on Colorado Boulevard and Green Street in the city’s Playhouse District, Bua Na is tucked away in the idle of fashionable Arcade Lane.

BUCA DI DEPPO 80 W. Green St., Pasadena (626) 792-7272 bucadibeppo.com Open daily for lunch and dinner, Buca di Beppo is conveniently located at the corner of Green Street and South DeLacey Avenue in Old Pasadena. Buca di Beppo hosts events of all sizes and offers four different packages to choose from for groups of 20 or more. It’s the perfect setting for any group to experience a fun, energetic and welcoming Italian family style dinner. Buca di Beppo also caters — a perfect fit for business and social events of all sizes.

BURRITO EXPRESS 1597 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena (626) 798-0844 burritoexpresspasadena.com Delicious, fresh and fast, Burrito Express has been serving outstanding meals in the same Pasadena location since it opened in 1978. Our food is prepared fresh daily, using the same recipes for the last 30 years. We received “Best Burrito” honors in the Pasadena Weekly’s 2008 Best of Pasadena readers’ poll and have appeared on the MyFoxLA 2008 Best of L.A. Hotlist. We open for breakfast at 8 a.m. and keep serving until 9 p.m.

CAFÉ BIZOU 91 N. Raymond Ave., Old Pasadena (626) 792-9923 Cafebizou.com Reader Recommended Pasadena’s Best French Restaurant! If you like French food, you will be pleasantly surprised to discover this charming Old Pasadena favorite. Cozy and lit by candles, it features an extensive menu of Francophile favorites. Diner’s favorites include the pink lobster bisque, steak frites with grilled tomatoes, and tuna tartar. But don’t leave without trying the heavenly flourless cake or tiramisu. Come in for our Summer Festival with pre-fix menus for lunch $15 and dinner $25. A favorite with wine buffs for its $2 corkage fee.

CAMERON’S SEAFOOD 1978 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 793-3474 Camerons4fish.com In 1984, Cameron’s Seafood has been serving its freshest seafood, and has become a landmark in Pasadena. Cameron’s brings the ocean home with its San Francisco-style restaurant. Its exhibition-style kitchen allows patrons to watch their fresh catch being cooked over mesquite wood grills that burn all day long. Enjoy our outdoor patio dining or a drink in our friendly bar while watching your favorite sporting event.

CANOE HOUSE 805 Fair Oaks Ave., South Pasadena (626) 799-4169 canoehouserestaurant.com From Pies to Mai Tais. The owners of Wild Thyme Cafe have brought a whole new concept to town, a West Coast Hawaiian restaurant. The Canoe House menu is a Hawaiian fusion concept build around popular island favorites like slow-cooked Kalua pork, macadamia nut-crusted Mahi Mahi, fish tacos, and pineapple upside-down cake, along with American classics like gourmet burgers and grilled sausages. The Canoe House also features a full bar with scrumptious Hawaiian cocktails, Martinis and 12 beers on tap.

COLOMBO’S ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE & JAZZ CLUB 1833 Colorado Blvd., Los Angeles (323) 254-9138 colombosrestaurant.net

and a retro vibe, making this a local institution. The menu was created and refined by Ann and Sam Colombo and their pizzas, pastas, seafood, prime rib and desserts have been honed to perfection. They are famous for their Porterhouse steaks with roasted garlic, and red wine sauce is recommended. However, there is no wrong selection.

COURTYARD CAFE 1547 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 296-1547 courtyardcafeonlake.com Discover Pasadena's newest coffee spot. Tucked away in Hopkin's Village, we offer premium coffees, teas, espresso drinks and smoothies. To accompany your favorite beverage there are homemade breads, cream scones, coffeecakes, cobblers, sugar-free treats, and much more. And our pasties are "handheld" breakfasts like: SF Joe, Creole Chicken, Denver, MooShu, and Italian. Or build your own breakfast Come relax in our courtyard or take-out.

Open from Wed-Sat, 8am. Ample free parking!

DOG HAUS 105 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena • (626) 577-HAUS 93 E. Green St., Pasadena • (626) 683-0808 410 E. Main St., Alhambra • (626) 282-HAUS Dog Haus, Pasadena’s choice for gourmet hot dogs, sausages and burgers, has something for everyone, including hand cut fries, over 30 delicious toppings, handmade milk shakes,80's music and old school bottled sodas. With three locations, including Old Pasadena’s Dog Haus Biergarten, which features craft beers and classic cocktails, Dog Haus is making the San Gabriel Valley Los Angeles’ top hot dog destination. Plus, our food makes being in the Dog Haus fun.

DOMENICO’S 2411 E. Washington Blvd. Pasadena (626) 797-6459 originaldomenicos.com We are a 3rd generation family restaurant that makes pizza the way you want. Every dinner is made with Mama Rosa's original recipes. We are known for our pizzas and our mouthwatering Antipasto Salad. Domenico's is one of Pasadena's oldest restaurant. We are entirely dedicated to providing our guests with the very finest quality cuisine, exceptional service and genuine hospitality at our extraordinary landmark location and awardwinning restaurants

EDEN GARDEN BAR & GRILL 175 E. Holly St., Pasadena (626) 440-1421 Located in downtown Pasadena, in a historic red brick building that surrounds our gorgeous outdoor patio. We offer the best in Mediterranean cuisine, we take pride in our freshens and flavor of every dish. We are the perfect place for an afternoon lunch with friends or colleagues. We also have an incredible new Brunch every Sunday starting at 9:00. We have a brand new banquet hall great for any occasion. Please come in and say hello.

EL PORTAL 625 E. Green St., Pasadena (626) 795-8553 elportalrestaurant.com Pasadena Weekly readers have been rewarding El Portal with the title of Best Mexican Food in the city for years. This charming little hacienda with brick walls, festive colors, fine art and a California elegant courtyard brings the authentic cuisine of Mexico and the Yucatan region to your table. Enjoy premium-tequila margaritas with strolling mariachis on Fridays, a romantic evening of guitar serenades on Saturday nights, ending the weekend with Mariachi Bella on Sunday.

FIREFLY BISTRO 1009 El Centro St., South Pasadena (626) 441.2443 www.eatatfirefly.com Let euphoria settle into your soul as you feast on the scrumptious offerings at Firefly, a quaint bistro located in historic South Pasadena. Come for dinner or Sunday brunch and enjoy unusual, creative menu options (interesting twists on classic brunch dishes) prepared with love and whimsy. Very pleasant patio setting with a canopy allowing filtered sunlight, romantic at night, yet not stuffy. Check out the website for music – wine and song. Also perfect for your event, shower or wedding.

An Eagle Rock tradition since 1954, Colombo's is relaxed fine dining, great nightly jazz —CONTINUED ON PAGE 27 DINING GUIDE 2012 PASADENA WEEKLY

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GARNISH CAFÉ 2277 Huntington Dr., San Marino (626) 844-8889

FIREFLY BISTRO

1009 El Centro St., South Pasadena (626) 441-2443 • eatatfirefly.com

Garnish Café is a full-service café opened by Glorious Gourmet catering in October 2010. This perfect sunny spot for a morning coffee and pastry is tucked away on Huntington Drive in the heart of San Marino. Garnish offers a place to dine in or take out, Monday through Saturday. They source locally using the freshest seasonal ingredients available. Check the Garnish Café facebook page for menu selections

GOOD FOOD MARKET 1864 E. Washington Blvd #106, Pasadena (626) 794-5367 Proudly serving the richly diverse people of Pasadena for over twenty five years, Good Food Market specializes in Middle Eastern, European, Latin, and domestic products. A family owned business; we offer a wide variety of fresh fruits, meats, and cheeses from across the world. Our family encourages you to stop by and explore all that we have to offer. You will enjoy our store as much as we enjoy the opportunity to serve you and your family.

HAVEN GASTROPUB 42 S. De Lacy Ave., Old Pasadena (626) 768-9555 The newly opened Haven Gastropub + Brewery breathes new life into the heart of Old Pasadena with its deliciously innovative take on gourmet, seasonal comfort food paired with unique craft beers, boutique wines, and specialty cocktails. Featuring a 52-tap selection of draft beer and wine, Haven also boasts its very own onsite brewery. Overseen by Brewmaster David Larsen, Haven Brewing produces yearround unique brews, come by for a taste of something different in Old Pasadena.

IL FORNAIO 24 W. Union St., Pasadena www.ilfornaio.com Il Fornaio is an authentic Italian dining experience celebrating a fusion of the finest food and wine. Our culinary creations blend fresh seasonal ingredients with Italian flavors, accompanied by our award-winning wine list, artisan cocktails, freshly baked bread and olive oil. Our four elegant private dining rooms or charming courtyard patio can seat between 20 and 80 people. With an onsite event coordinator who secures every detail from start to finish, Il Fornaio is the perfect backdrop to your rehearsal dinner, bridal shower or wedding.

IXTAPA CANTINA & RESTAURANT 119 E. Colorado Blvd. Pasadena (626) 304-1000 cantinaixtapa.com Ix Tapa, the latest offering from restaurateur Jack Huang, combines a restaurant, sports bar and club with Mexican cuisine. Ix Tapa specialties include pollo en mole poblano (chicken in our house-made, spicy red mole sauce) and chile relleno (poblano pepper stuffed with ground beef or cheese, topped with a red chili) as well as traditional mariscos. The 7,000-plus square feet of space has a resort-like feeling and accommodates live music, dancing and a complete schedule of weekly entertainment options.

KABUKI 88 W. Colorado Blvd., #103. Pasadena (626) 568-9310 3539 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena (626) 351-8963 201 N. San Fernando Road, Burbank (818) 843-7999 Since 1991, our vision for Kabuki Japanese Restaurant has been to create high-energy, family-friendly and value-oriented Japanese restaurants. It is our everyday mission to deliver quality and freshness, great service and value to our guests with the ultimate hope that our guests will come to appreciate Japanese cuisine as comfort food. Experience the cuisine and beverages passionately crafted to provide you the best in Japanese cuisine and to spreading the culture of Japan dining to our guests.

LA CARAVANA 1306 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 791-7378 By far the best Salvadorean place north of LA. We also serve great fruit drinks —CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

hef Paul Rosenbluh joined the Soul Kitchen staff as sous chef in 1997, bringing with him a wealth of experience acquired at some of the country's finest dining establishments. Paul received his training at California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, where his externship included work at Palomino and Cypress Club. He then moved to Austin, Texas, where he served as sous chef at Coyote Café until it closed.

Paul worked at several high-end restaurants, including Granita, Joe’s and Campanile, to develop a feel for Los Angeles tastes. Then, in September 2001, he put his creative mind to work and developed his own restaurant. He joined forces with actor Carl Weintraub, his partner and the restaurant's maitre d’.

With South Pasadena as their location preference, they opened Firefly Bistro on July 18, 2002. Weintraub loves that the restaurant is a family affair, because he believes that "food tastes best when it's prepared with love.”

Since then, Firefly Bistro has been receiving critical nods from the Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Magazine and Angeleno Magazine. Firefly Bistro has the facilities, staff and expertise to host any kind of party or event.

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—CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27 that are perfect during those hot summer days. We serve the most amazing, pupusas, ever, That's literally all that needs . When you eat at La Caravana you feel like you are in San Salvador so next time you are in North Lake come by and visit La Caravana

EL PORTAL RESTAURANT 695 E. Green St., Pasadena (626) 795-8553 elportalrestaurant.com

MAMMA’S BRICK OVEN PIZZA 710 Fair Oaks Ave., South Pasadena (626) 799-1344 311 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena (626) 405-9877 Mammasbrickoven.com One look at Mamma’s Brick Oven menu and you’ll never order ordinary pizza ever again. This ambitious menu boasts everything from artichoke hearts to sundried tomatoes to pesto and goat cheese. Mamma’s offers handcrafted pizza, pastas, calzones, Stromboli and much more. You’ll be the talk of the town when you serve Mamma’s Brick Oven Pizza or Pasta at your next party!"

MARGARITA’S 155 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena (626) 449-4224 margaritasmexicanfood.com The name may say Margaritas, but this is a full-service Mexican restaurant. Tortillas are made by hand daily, and the weekday Pronto Buffet Brunch allows you to quickly and inexpensively eat to your heart’s content. Yes, the margaritas are to die for. Also open for Sunday brunch.

MONOPOLE WINE 21 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena (626) 577-9463 Located in Pasadena’s Playhouse District, Monopole Wine offers hand selected, artisanal wines from Europe and around the globe at a competitive price with an emphasis on educating the consumer. Explore the store with our highly trained staff or relax at our wine bar which in addition to offering a selection of wines bythe-glass, also offers inspired tastings and themed wine flights nightly. With specialty wine tastings and monthly educational events, we encourage you to taste and learn before you buy.

NEW DELHI PALACE 950 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 405-0666 newdelhipalace.com For a dish that truly represents the cookery of northern India’s romantic Punjab region, try the fragrant chicken tikka masala — simmered in a skillet for hours to bring the chicken to a luminous orange glow. The meal is enhanced by the restaurant’s adherence to Punjabi traditions of generosity and hospitality to visitors. Also, don’t miss the New Delhi Champagne brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

NEW MOON 2138 Verdugo Blvd., Montrose (818) 249-4393 newmoonresaurant.com The popular, award-winning New Moon is Zagat listed with locations in Montrose, Downtown L.A., and Valencia. Our families' recipes have been developed over three generations, and continue the philosophy of food as a dynamic and evolving art form. We've updated and re-imagined Chinese classics for contemporary tastes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Nestled in quaint Montrose, we also feature an inviting lounge with a full bar and an extensive wine list.

NEW YORK GANDOLFO’S DELICATESSEN 102 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena (626) 405-2900 gandolfosdeli.com The nation’s only authentic New York style deli franchise was created to deliver the bold and quality flavors of New York to the main streets of America. Gandolfo’s world famous sandwiches are names are the Rockefeller Reuben, the Knuckle, Central Park and the King of Queens. Gandolfo's also offers breakfast sandwiches. Gandolfo’s Catering: We offer delivery service for catered breakfasts, lunches and dinners at your home or office. Try our box lunches. ONE BITE…ANE YOU’RE THERE! —CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

l Portal caters to the entire family, proudly serving “honest-togoodness fresh food” in the form of authentic Yucatán dishes with a Mayan flavor, in addition to traditional Mexican food.

Located in the heart of the Pasadena Playhouse District, El Portal offers warm, comfortable family atmosphere. Enjoy the little hacienda of brick walls, fireplace, fiesta colors and charming courtyard for dining “al fresco,” and have fun with our mariachis from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Fridays. On Saturdays, enjoy guitar music with Duet Alanniz from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., and from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Sundays check out Mariachi Bella.

But at El Portal, the real magic occurs in the kitchen. Our Chef Cesar shares his time and talent with the Langham Hotel in Pasadena and consistently delivers the highest quality cuisine.

After dinner, enjoy any of eight ice cream flavors at Vanessa’s Café, located in Arcade Lane, just across from our bar. Vanessa’s also offers a great selection of specialty coffees, pastries, desserts, fresh-squeezed juices and smoothies.

And when you’re searching for a great place for breakfast, look no further than Yahaira’s Café, also located in Arcade Lane. Yahaira’s is and open for breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon.

Mark your calendar for El Portal’s Tequila Tasting Sept. 13.

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CHEERS BAR & GRILL 717 S. San Gabriel Blvd., San Gabriel (626) 353-0091

usic, people & food come hand in hand since the time of Ice Age. Cheers Bar & Grill is a place for friends, lunch meetings, social gatherings….you can come and sing to impress or just drink to forget. Cheers is the place where people take mini vacations to break away from a hectic day or just to celebrate life as they go along.

Happy hour is from 5pm to 7pm, Monday through Friday. Karaoke begins after 7pm and you will hear people singing in both English and Chinese on two separate stages! Tuesday night Karaoke in English and Spanish. Live music every night till 1:30am. Sunday nights refresh your soul with live Reggae music till 11pm. Starting in September of 2012, Cheers Bar & Grill will be open from 11:30 am to 1:30am. New Happy Hour will then start at 11:30am and go until 7pm, Monday through Friday. Happy Hour offers $2 off all beer – glass/bottle/pitcher, domestic and imports. Parties can be arranged for all ages. Full bar and friendly bartenders serving all cocktails, 8 draft beers and over 20 bottled beers at all times. We offer food from many cultures! Hungarian to Native American, from fried rice to fried portabellas mushrooms. We will continue to modify our events with plans for Salsa Nights, Open Mic, Jazz and Blues. Cheers has a stage with a piano, a keyboard, congas and a drum set so that anyone who wants to share their own music and their talents, can do so. Through music, we can unite all cultures and races, accept the differences and share the beauty of diversities. Through MUSIC we bring WORLD PEACE. Stop in for a drink and a dose of world peace – we are located at 717 S. San Gabriel Blvd. in San Gabriel between Broadway & Mission.

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NOVEL CAFÉ 1713 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 683-3309 novelcafepasadena.com Pasadena’s quintessential neighborhood restaurant is Novel Café. With the arrival of Chef Alberto Morales (Elements Café), Novel Cafe has introduced an exciting new dinner menu, a smart new bar program offering the finest in craft and local beers and small production wines, affording a vibrant bar scene and daily Happy Hour. Enjoy interesting dining options day and night - for a working breakfast, meeting friends for after work burgers and beer, Novel Café Pasadena will satisfy. See you there!

OBA SUSHI 181 E. Glenarm St., Pasadena (626) 799-8543 Obasushi.com One part passion, two parts persistence and a sprinkle of devition are the ingredients that led this band of sushi devotees to open their first restaurant in a nondescript Pasadena strip mail. A staff with a combined 30 years of experience in Japanese cuisine produces the finest Izakaya selections this side of Little Tokyo.

Premium kanchiku and osakaya sakes are crowd favorites, and so are select beers such as Hitachino and Echigo. Gracious service is to be expected, but the real draw is the delectable sushi!

PASADENA CERTIFIED FARMER’S MARKET (626) 449-0179 Pasadenafamersmarket.org Tuesdays – Villa Parke Center Wednesday – El Molino @ Union Saturdays – Victory Park Enjoy fresh local fruits, vegetables and farm products! If you have never been to a Farmers market, you are in for a real treat. You’ll love the experience of buying directly from the farmer that grows the food. What you’ll love even more is the fresh, delicious taste of locally grown, nutritious fruits, vegetables and farm products. Our certified vendors only sell what they grow. Or, to put it another way, they won’t sell you anything that they did not grow. You know where your food came from and who grew it for you! The market is cash only, and we accept EBT

REAL FOOD DAILY 899 E. Del Mar Blvd., Pasadena (626) 844-8900 www.realfood.com The menu contains whimsically-named dishes with Asian, Italian, Indian, and Latin influences. You may also order macrobiotic dishes and seasonal ingredients in rotating specials. Their commitment to using high-quality organically grown produce and ingredients is commendable and you can see the many practices of sustainable and green living right down to the soy ink stained floor. Ann is the author of “Vegan Family Meals, Real Food for Everyone” and “The Real Food Daily Cookbook.”

REDWHITE+BLUEZZ 70 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena (626) 792-4441 redwhitebluezz.com Currently celebrating our sixth year, redwhite+bluezz is known for live jazz every night, cutting-edge American cuisine and Brunch+All That Jazz every Sunday. Our menu reinvents classic dishes with style and panache and features local and sustainably sourced ingredients prepared by Cordon Bleu trained chefs. We feature Pasadena’s best wine list, as well as an acclaimed selection of artisan cheeses and charcuterie. Guests enjoy our contemporary take on historic architecture and our casual yet sophisticated atmosphere.

ROY’S HAWAIIAN FUSION CUISINE 621 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 356-4066 Roysrestaurant.com At Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine, each menu creation is a fusion of flavors found in our freshest local ingredients with European sauces and bold Asian spices and served with the spirit of Aloha, creating a dining experience that leaves you feeling like you’ve found paradise.

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SALADANG & SALADANG SONG 363 & 383 S. Fair Oaks, Pasadena (626) 792-8123 (626) 793-5200 If you want the best Thai food in the San Gabriel Valley, or pretty much anywhere, this is the place to go. Saladang serves more of the traditional Thai food people are familiar with. Saladang Song, song meaning two, offers more seafood and dishes you might not have heard of in a Thai restaurant. The food is an excellent balance of the Thai trinity in many of their dishes. Enjoy your meal at Saladang's.

1810 ARGENTINE RESTAURANT 1810 Argentinean Restaurant 121 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 795-5658 1810restaurant.com

SCARLET TEA ROOM & FINE DINING 18 W. Green St., Pasadena (626) 577-0051 scarlettearoom.com The new Scarlet Tea Room & Fine Dining is sure to evoke romance between couples and laughter between friends, creating memories for a lifetime. The extraordinary ambiance affords itself to afternoon tea getaways or late-night dinner rendezvous with live music ensembles. With an array of imported tea selections and exploratory culinary masterpieces, Scarlet is sure to expand your horizons. Scarlet is not just a tea room — it is a way of life.

SPRING GARDEN 187 N. Sierra Madre Blvd. Pasadena (626) 796-2531 Spring Garden isn’t exactly a great “little” restaurant. It’s a very “large” restaurant, with the edges of the dining room scalloped with booths and a big round table in the middle. Spring Garden is a restaurant that far exceeds your average Chinese establishment since 1976. The quality of the food is authentic, delicious and fresh. Some favorite dishes are honey walnut shrimp, sizzling rice soup, egg foo young and homemade dumplings. The service is exceptional and a pleasurable atmosphere.

SUSHI BAR YOSHIDA 2026 Huntington Dr., San Marino (626) 281-9292 For almost 20 years, Sushi Bar Yoshida has quietly offered the freshest, most delicious fish and traditional Japanese dishes in the San Gabriel Valley. Locals come to savor the traditional Japanese dishes of Albacore tuna, toro, and Japanese scallops prepared as only sushi chef and owner Yoshi can. Yoshida is also a destination for great sushi and unique seasonal items such as live sweet shrimp, lobster, soft shell crab, shirako, and wild salmon. Once you’ve experienced the exceptional fish Yoshi himself selects daily, you’ll join the multitude of regulars who won’t go anywhere else.

SUSHI ROKU 33 Miller Alley at One Colorado, Pasadena (626) 683-3000 Sushiroku.com Sushi Roku’s new menu highlights the innovative, globally inspired Japanese cuisine that has made it an LA fixture. Experience our Sushi Roku 2.0 Signatures, or sample our specialty cocktails, extensive wine, sake, and Japanese beer collection.

Stop by Sundays & Mondays for our re-imagined All Night Happy Hour or visit from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday for Sushi Roku 2.0 Signatures.

SWEET & SAVORY 2142 Huntington Dr., San Marino (626) 293-8877 • Sweetandsavorysm.com Sweet & Savory is the realization of owner Dora Liang’s desire to bring delicious, homemade, American baked goods and comfort-food to her friends and neighbors in the San Gabriel Valley. More than just an award winning bakery, we serve breakfast, lunch, takeout dinners, and cater events. Everything at Sweet & Savory reflects Dora’s style of rustic cooking and baking using only the freshest, seasonal ingredients. Sweet & Savory is the Yin and the Yang we all seek in satisfying our discriminating palate.

mid unpretentious surroundings of brickwork and dark wood tables, 1810 Argentinean Restaurant owners Marcelo Sala and Gustavo Landgrebe succeed where their competitors missed the mark.

“It’s what we like and what we know,” Sala says simply. Dishes fuse varied South American flavors. Even a few homemade recipes from Sala’s grandmother make an appearance. Overall, this is a great place to bring the family.

“It’s no-fuss food; simple and easy,” Sala says.

Taste the Entrana ($16), a skirt steak with mushroom sauce, grilled zucchini and mashers. Minimally seasoned using only salt and top-quality beef, Sala allows the meat to express itself. Traditionally grilled medium well, this dish won’t send you running for a steak knife.

The Milanesa Napolitana ($15) blankets a tender chicken breast with pomodoro sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and thinly sliced ham.

Proudly taking our name after what was known as a spontaneous intellectual meeting called “Cabildo Abierto” in Buenos Aires between May 22 and May 25 in 1810. The meeting came under strong pressure from the militias and a crowd formed in front of the Cabildo. This large group of middle- to upper-class citizens favored the stance of local politicians, and the Cabildo ended up creating the Primera Junta, or First Assembly — the first form of local government in the territory that would later become Argentina.

Spain would never recover dominion over our territory. Every May 25 we celebrate by preparing traditional “criollo” dishes, and it’s fair to say that our whole country stops to commemorate one of our most patriotic holidays.

Taking its name from the Argentinean Revolution of May 1810, this new casual restaurant focuses on traditional Argentinean dishes with only the finest ingredients. Specialties include skirt steak with chimichurri sauce, grilled chicken with mushrooms and garlic sauce and homemade gnocchi.

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THE KITCHEN ITALIAN CAFÉ AND PIZZERIA 78 W. Union St., Pasadena (626) 796-9802 • thekitchenitaliancafe.com The Kitchen Italian Café and Pizzeria is one of Old Pasadena’s hidden gems, well known by businesspeople and pizza lovers alike. Inside the rustic brick building you’ll find New York, Sicilian and Chicago-style pizzas, all made with fresh ingredients and available by the slice, half pan or full pan. Homemade soups, pastas and calzones can be savored for lunch or dinner.

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TRATTORIA NEAPOLIS 336 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 792-3000 trattorianeapolis.com

rattoria Neapolis is a new, upscale-rustic 150-seat foodfocused Italian restaurant from owner Perry Vidalakis, featuring awardwinning Chef Bryant Wigger and General Manager James Bottoms.

The restaurant has a seasonally driven menu of antipasti, pasta, pizza, salads, main courses, side dishes and desserts.

The chef values making items such as pasta, bread and salami in-house.

Trattoria Neapolis has a prime location in a beautiful building with abundant free parking. Hatch Design Group, one of LA’s premier designers, has executed a beautiful design employing marble, imported tile, custom wrought iron and other highquality finishes.

The restaurant features a wood-burning oven imported from Naples and a custom wood-burning grill. The wine program was created by Diego Meraviglia, one of LA’s top Italian wine professionals and vice president of the North American Sommelier Association. The wine program features wines from Italy and California, an affordable selection of 50 bottles no more than $50 per bottle, with many higher value wines on the full list, 24 wines by the glass, custom-made temperaturecontrolled wine storage and our own in-house sommelier.

The beer program features 14 craft beers on tap and more by the bottle. The beer list focuses on artisanal brewers in LA County and Italy and is created by Christian Perozzi, who LA Magazine called LA’s top beer sommelier. The restaurant has a dedicated keg cooler and an inhouse beer sommelier, Hallie Beaune.

The restaurant has a high-quality mixology program of classic and original cocktails created by Vincenzo Marianella, called the Godfather of the LA cocktail scene who was just nominated for American Bartender of the Year, and in-house Bar Manager, Ken Baranda.

The restaurant is working closely with Stumptown coffee, one of the nation’s finest super-premium roasters. The restaurant has already been featured in pieces by Eater LA, Zagat, the LA Times, Daily Dish and other fine media.

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THE COFFEE GALLERY BACKSTAGE 2029 N. Lake Ave., Altadena (626) 798-6236 Coffeegallery.com The Coffee Gallery Backstage is a 49-seat showroom connected to a coffee house called The Coffee Gallery. The Backstage portion hosts live entertainment suitable for all ages with a fine sound system, good lights, comfortable seating and killer atmosphere. Reservations are strongly recommended. The Coffee Gallery has a great selection of coffee, tea, sandwiches, salads, desserts and snacks.

ZUGO’S CAFE

74 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre (626) 836-5700 zugoscafe.com.

THE STILLROOM SEAFOOD RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 181 E. Glenarm St. Pasadena (626) 799-0700 StillRoomla.com Welcome to The StillRoom Seafood Restaurant & Lounge, where you will enjoy handcrafted cocktails, expertly prepared seafood and other restaurant classics in our sultry lounge, stylish dining room, fireside bar or garden patio. With Executive Chef Sam Goldman in the kitchen, we’re certain to appeal to anyone who appreciates a remarkable dining and drinking experience in a unique, inviting environment. Inquire about our on-site private event options and our off-site food and beverage catering services!

TOPS ON WALNUT 1792 E. Walnut St., Pasadena • (626) 584-0244. topsburger.com You can’t leave here hungry. Not with 14 burgers, 13 Mexican dishes, 17 sandwiches, three types of hot dogs, seven salads and 12 types of breakfasts on the menu — all at great value prices. Charbroiled chicken plates, rib-eye steak plates, fish and chips and chicken strips add hearty heft at dinner for those hungry for just a little bit more.

Nothing is pre-cooked. The portions of fresh onion rings and fries, sweet potato fries and zucchini are legendary, as are the best pastrami sandwiches in town.

TRATTORIA NEAPOLIS, ITALIAN RESTAURANT & BAR 336 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena • (626) 792-3000 Trattoria Neapolis is a new upscale rustic Italian restaurant and bar in Pasadena combining the best of Italy and California with an award-winning chef and a highly experienced GM. The restaurant will have a full menu of antipasti, pasta, pizza, salads, secondi, contorni and desserts and strong wine beer, cocktail and coffee programs.

UEDF- TAKE-OUT 2191 N. Lake Ave., Altadena • (626) 794-0277 UEDF is a take-out restaurant where all foods are prepared fresh and on-the-spot. Its specialty is halal foods which is the Muslim terminology for wholesome and without chemicals or preservatives. . Orders are cooked on the spot by its owner, Abdul J. Muhammad Specials on Friday and Saturday include barbeque chicken, string beans, potato salad, mixed cabbage and collards and yams. Stop by, you'll be glad you did.

VILLA SORRISO ITALIAN, SEAFOOD, STEAKS 168 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena • (626) 793-2233 sorrisopasadena.com Located at the western gateway to Old Pasadena, this luxurious Mediterranean gem boasts romantic outdoor cabanas, a crackling fire pit and a lushly landscaped courtyard complete with cascading fountain. The Martini Bar and Lounge is a favorite late-night hangout. In addition to a menu of classic Italian favorites, fresh seafood, steaks and chops, the evening passes into to night at the Villa with live music, dancing, deejays and a wonderful late menu. Private dining rooms are available.

ugo’s Café in downtown Sierra Madre is a small, intimate Italian eatery with a true Roman flair.

Chez Grossi, owner with his wife Sherry, was born and raised in the center of Rome. His love for cooking and great food was instilled by his mother, Palmira. Chez recalls his mother going to the outdoor market every day with her string bag to find the freshest ingredients. On the way home, she would stop at the panificio and the alimentari for fresh bread and cheeses.

Chez’s love for cooking (and eating!) prompted him to open the café five years ago. He wanted an environment that evoked the Italy he knew and loved. Good, fresh food and a great wine list, with 65 different wines, are what have evolved.

Chez also wanted to make dining out a fulfilling experience at reasonable prices. Artisan bread baked during the day and served with extra virgin olive oil and a nice spring mix tossed salad with house-made dressing comes with every entrée.

Most Fridays and Saturdays music is offered by classical guitarist Gary Ibarra.

Menus are available at zugoscafe.com.

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

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ZELO PIZZERIA 328 E. Foothill Blvd., Arcadia • (626) 358-8298 It’s the cornmeal crust that makes this pizzeria stand out from the rest. Zelo Pizzeria in Arcadia is a truly unique place to fill your pizza craving. This locally owned establishment’s signature dish is the fresh corn, balsamic-marinated, oven-roasted red onion pie. Don’t be intimidated and don’t make substitutions! This dish is truly unique and a worthy competitor for the area’s best pizza.

ZUGO’S CAFÉ 74 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre (626) 836-5700 • zugoscafe.com Owners, Chez and Sherry Grossi have built their menus and food preparation using Chez's mother Palmira's ethos: fresh, quality ingredients prepared from scratch. All entrees are served with a side salad and fresh bread, which is baked throughout the day. Their wine list is extensive and features award-winning wines from around the world. While dining at Zugos you feel like you’re in a café in Italy.

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BIG DADDY’S FIRE GRILL 2122 E. Foothill Blvd Pasadena 626-796-1266 bigdaddysfiregrill.com

EST BURGER IN PASADENA!!! Grilled Sandwiches, Dawgs & Sausages. Everything is fresh and handmade with 100% Angus Beef. Big Daddy’s is the only Gourmet burger place that grills and smokes all of its meats on an oakwood fire.

Since it makes us uncomfortable to talk about ourselves, we prefer to let others do all the talking.

PASADENA WEEKLY BY DAN O’HERON: “I was stricken dumb with amazement at the price/quality ratio. “This really tastes good,” I said to a pal.

And again, “This really tastes good.” And to give plain glee greater weight: “Absolutely, it’s ‘a once bitten, twice sighs’ adult hamburger experience.”

ZAGAT EDITOR AND RADIO TALK SHOW HOST MERRILL SCHINDLER says "Big Daddy’s is fast and fun with unexpected pleasures... a serious contender for the title of Best Burger in Pasadena.”

TALKRADIO 790 KABC BY PETER DILLS – “Dining with Dills” Talk Radio on Sunday evenings: “Can Big Daddy be a contender? I’m shouting it from the rooftops… Yes it can!”

LOS ANGELES TIMES PASADENA SUN BY REBECCA BRYANT: “The Pasadena “gourmet fast-food restaurant” delivers on a promise of fresh ingredients… Big Daddy’s is a cut above the double-double.”

PASADENA NOW BY MR. PASADENA: “I am here to tell you that Big Daddy’s Fire Grill is going to be your guilty pleasure… It is the real deal.”

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BY DAN O’HERON

NATURE’S WAY LOCAL RESTAURANTS KEEP FRESHNESS AND SUSTAINABILITY ON THE TIPS OF OUR TONGUES There’s a certain relief in hearing that the term “farm to fork” has not become a wilted metaphor like “fresh as a daisy.”

For awhile, there was a danger that we were getting more aroused by terms like “molecular gastronomy,” those scientific cooking processes that change the chemical structure of ingredients. How impressive is the chemical reaction by which a liquid paste, squirted from a tube, transforms into fluttering pasta when

PHOTO: © 2008, A+R Photography

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PICTURED: Gyu-Kaku’s smokeless brazier (1) Parkway Grill’s herb garden (2)

less heat.”) Vegetarians can have a field day with it hits hot water? To me, it brings more to mind medley of foil-packaged veggies. aspirin than entrée.

No one makes a more daring close call than And what would we do without “irradiation,” Pasadena’s Lennie LaGuire, who provides an ingenious food-zapping technique which colorful spreads of jams and jellies for The gives producers extra time to sell their Market on Holly (57 E. Holly St., products? And don’t forget “flavorites,” the Pasadena, 626/844-8811). Usually very crony of irradiators that manufacture delicate in picking California fruits the flavors and fragrances to make nutritionally moment they ripen, it’s not a dainty hand negligible food seem delicious. Think “fast among blossoms that is caught raiding a food.” neighbor’s tree. You can’t be more local and I like to think that it’s still nature-ripened artisanal than that. (Market owners assured me foods that want to be eaten. Let’s call it that a trade agreement among neighbors had been “Crucial Moment Cuisine” — eat it before it goes 1 signed.) away.

In fishing for seasonal freshness, you can pull out a So what are some local restaurants doing to keep boatload from Cameron’s Seafood (1978 E. Colorado Blvd., words like freshness and sustainability on the tips of our Pasadena, 626/793-3474). At the tongues? moment, fresh Alaskan Copper River Closer to “farm to fork” is Parkway Grill’s (510 S. Arroyo salmon, bright-eyed with moist pink Parkway, Pasadena, 626/795-1001) take on “backyard to gills, is just 24 to 48 hours from the table.” Adjacent to the restaurant, is an herb and spice garden. cutting room here. And, at any given This convenience may be responsible for arguably the best time — by hooking opah in the Caesar salad in town.

For a close-up of freshness — as close as the “cu” in cucumber warm waters around Hawaii — I can expect to taste of the finely — Gyu-Kaku (70 W. Green St., Old Pasadena, 626/405textured pink flesh of this distinctly 4842) diminishes the distance between the point of cooking and 2 rich-flavored fish at just the right time. point of consumption with smokeless braziers centered conveIn a remarkable contrast, at one end of the niently in the middle of every table. pole, owner Pete Gallanis tries to reel in the best catch of Smokeless? the day; at the other, science wants to make cuisine du The circular brazier, topped by a latticed grill that jour from his chubby worms. covers a deep cone of glowing charcoal, is ringed by a Saladish (12 W. Colorado suction coil that inhales smoke before it rises (OK, Blvd., Old Pasadena, begrudgingly let’s give technology credit for “breath-

PHOTO: Courtesy of Gyu-Kaku

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GARNISH CAFÉ 2277 Huntington Dr. San Marino (626) 844-8889

arnish Café is a full-service café opened by Glorious Gourmet catering in October 2010. This perfect sunny spot for a morning coffee and pastry is tucked away on Huntington Drive in the heart of San Marino. Garnish offers a wide variety of pastries, Panini, soups, salads, and coffee drinks, as well as a charming location and atmosphere.

Their hours and selection are perfect for accommodating all of your breakfast and lunch needs. All-day breakfast items like their popular breakfast burritos and sandwiches bring a unique spin to your morning.

The breakfast Panini is a classic savory dish with eggs and bacon and cheese, sandwiched in between two pieces of French toast.

Garnish Café’s personal atmosphere and neighborhood feel gives San Marino what it was lacking before, a place to come in and get your dinner for the family.

The take away dinners, coming in the fall, will make your life even easier. Call ahead and order dinner for one or a crowd. It will be ready for you to pick up that afternoon. Check the Garnish Café facebook page for menu selections.

For lunch, you can grab salads, soups, or sandwiches, like their succulent short-rib Panini, or any of their daily-special salads. A large menu of thirst quenching ice teas in unique flavors like dark cherry and blueberry make it a great place to come in and cool off.

Looking to grab something and go? Call ahead and pick up anything on the menu as well as their pastries, or drinks. Two in-house Frenchtrained pastry chefs make decadent desserts and pastries that will satiate any sweet tooth. This home-style café is the perfect place for a lazy weekend spot or a mid-week lunch stop. Garnish offers a place to dine in or take out, Monday through Saturday. They source locally using the freshest seasonal ingredients available.

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NEW MOON

PICTURED: Cameron’s Seafood (3-4) Lennie LaGuire’s Ellelle Kitchen Backyard Grapefruit Marmalade With Campari (5)

2138 Verdugo Blvd.

Montrose CA 91020 (818) 249-4393 newmoonrestaurants.com ew Moon Restaurants, with locations in downtown Los Angeles, Montrose and Santa Clarita, has a following that goes back three generations. From the very beginning when the restaurant opened its doors in 1956, people began making New Moon their place for special events and for just the occasional night out; it was the combination of great food, attentive service and a relaxed atmosphere that set the pace for New Moon’s enduring success. 3rd generation restaurateur Colin Tom has taken the best of his family’s recipes, brought them up to date and expanded the scope of his menu using an excellent blend of seasonal ingredients; classic Chinese cuisine has been re-imagined with the lightness and freshness that comes from living in California. In downtown Los Angeles, New Moon has been a lunchtime mainstay for the financial and garment districts for years. The combination of table service, takeout and catering has made New Moon a popular choice for the business crowd. Word of mouth and a following from downtown made New Moon Montrose an immediate success when it opened in 2005.

Complementing the quality of the extensive menu was an impressive wine list, a full bar, and Happy Hour menus and special drink prices. With a hip, contemporary setting to match the sophisticated menu, Zagat-rated New Moon has been consistently voted best and favorite restaurant by the readers of both The Foothill Leader and The Glendale News-Press. In 2007, New Moon opened its most stylish location yet in Valenica. With a heated, covered patio, and a room large enough to accommodate large parties, New Moon continues to expand its scope of operation.

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626/304-3109) spouts enough salad recipes to cater to a different taste each day for six

PHOTOS: Nora DeVita (Central Coast Raspberry), BrooklynBoy Design (Grapefruit Marmalade)

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months. The most ambitious green foragers should be flocking to its door. But not so fast. When it first opened, people were speaking ill of the lettuce — that it was yellow and limp, not green and crispy. Lately, I’m hearing that they are turning over a new leaf for good purpose.

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Lennie LaGuire’s Ellelle Kitchen Central Coast Raspberry

REAL FOOD DAILY 899 E. Del Mar Blvd., Pasadena (626) 844-8900 www.realfood.com

or two decades, Real Food Daily has been on the Westside of LA, and many of us have been making the long trek.

Finally, RFD has opened in our town.

Their inviting dining room, expansive menu, organic wine and beer list, and organic juice bar and bakery exemplify how satisfying vegan dining can be.

The menu contains whimsically-named dishes with Asian, Italian, Indian, and Latin influences. You may also order macrobiotic dishes and seasonal ingredients in rotating specials. Their commitment to using highquality organically grown produce and ingredients is commendable and you can see the many practices of sustainable and green living right down to the soy ink stained floor. The Pasadena location uses simple, natural woods on both the walls and as table tops. A large, solid oak community table sits in the middle of a spacious dining room that has banquettes and booths. One booth is large enough to host a party of 12 to 16. A large covered patio with skylights is an inviting oasis from the hustle and bustle of Pasadena’s South Lake Avenue shopping district.

Real Food Daily was started by Ann Gentry, who as executive chef, food educator and pioneer, has raised the standard of vegan and vegetarian cooking in this country. Bon Appétit magazine declared “Ann Gentry, the creator of Real Food Daily, has taken two different California trends — vegetarian foods and the organic seasonal cooking popularized

by Alice Waters of Chez Panisse — and come up with a cuisine that is as interesting and delicious as it is healthful.”

Ann is the author of “Vegan Family Meals, Real Food for Everyone” and “The Real Food Daily Cookbook.” She can also be seen on The Dish Network and Verizon Fios on the Veria channel hosting her own cooking show, “Naturally Delicious.”

Other RFD location are in Santa Monica and West Hollywood, with a fourth outpost opening at Los Angeles international Airport the end of the year.

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PICTURED: Green Earth Vegan Cuisine (6) Salad at Green Street Restaurant (7) Pita Jungle’s Yellowfin Tuna Honey Sesame Salad (8)

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Jungle (43 E. Colorado Blvd., Old Pasadena, 626/4327482) routinely discard limp leaves. And fresh greens undoubtedly are rinsed under cold water and dried. Healthy or bad-for-you dressings won’t stick to wet leaves.

There’s plenty of lettuce around, but you don’t have to have it on your plate every day. Yet Green Street Restaurant (146 Shoppers Lane, Pasadena 626/577-7170), the Aesop-fabled salad maker, presents a problem of sustainability — they sell about 1,000 a week of just one kind, the lovely “Dianne.”

While I admit to being an omnivore, after tasting Green Earth Vegan Cuisine’s (37 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Old Pasadena, 626/584-0268) pairing of lemongrass tofu and a lacy filigree of crunchy yellow pasta, I felt like a dyed-in-the wool carnivore wanting to be sheared. I took a chance that was absolutely delicious.

For risk-free vegans, Orean The Health Express’s (817 N. Lake Ave., 626/794-0861) all vegetable products, styled in true burger joint fashion, contain no milk, meats, fish or refined sugar.

Molecular gastronomy’s effort to take chefs where no spacecraft has gone before is an interesting conversation piece.

But more interesting is talk about farm-to-fork freshness, and the efforts of keeping sustainability a revolving door.

As Meryl Streep might say: “Screw science.” ■

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PHOTO: Courtesy of Saladish

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GANDOLFO’S NEW YORK DELICATESSEN 105 N Hill Ave, Ste 102 Pasadena, CA 91106 (626) 405-2900 www.gandolfosdeli.com

ew York Gandolfo’s Delicatessen The nation’s only authentic New York style deli franchise was created to deliver the bold and quality flavors of New York to the main streets of America. We have always led in food quality, but now we have a highly supportive system to match the quality of our menu. Gandolfo’s is that rare combination of taste, value, and ambiance.

Gandolfo’s world famous sandwiches with sandwich names like the Rockefeller Reuben, the Knuckle, Central Park and the King of Queens. Gandolfo’s has brought New York City to America. Gandolfo’s sandwiches are piled with meat, and the variety of choices can be compared to no other sandwich franchise.

Gandolfo's also offered breakfast sandwiches. It sets itself apart by serving fresh deli sides as an option, next to the ubiquitous bag of chips. People have the expectation that we are an authentic New York deli, and that means fresh-sliced meat and cheese every day. We bake our bread every day, too, and have fantastic pickles. We also serve the best potato salad you'll ever eat.

Gandolfo’s Catering: Gandolfo’s New York Delicatessen is pleased to offer delivery service for catered

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breakfasts, lunches and dinners at your home or office.

Our trained delivery staff is always courteous, on time and professional. We welcome same-day orders, but appreciate as much advance notice as possible so that we can better accommodate your guests. Delivery minimums and charges may apply. Also try our box lunches. ONE BITE…AND YOU’RE THERE! I traveled all over the United States looking for a great sandwich concept to invest in. I wanted to find concept that stood above the rest. From toasted subs, to cold sandwiches all I found was Chips and zero personality. And, then I found myself in Provo, Utah at the original Gandolfo’s New York Deli. That is where I found what I was looking for.

While eating the best sandwich I had ever tasted, I sat in the Gandolfo’s and observed the deli. The friendly atmosphere and the New York style deli case took me straight to the Big Apple; I instantly knew that Gandolfo’s quality ingredients and New York personality were exactly what I was looking for. What can I say, “One bite and I was there!”

Dan Pool Owner and CEO DINING GUIDE 2012 PASADENA WEEKLY

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