ODE TO VROMAN’S Locals reflect on the venerable institution.
A SPLASH OF BUBBLY
A champagne cocktail retrospective in time for the new year.
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MEET THE MOVERS AND SHAKERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY.
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Pismo Beach is located half way between Los Angeles and the Bay Area and is famous for its miles of beautiful white sand beaches, great accommodations and a rich wine region, only minutes away. Come visit Pismo Beach and try surfing, kayaking, exploring the dunes and our wonderful dining opportunities.
ExperiencePismoBeach.com
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The USC Pacific Asia Museum retools to acknowledge the varied contributions of diverse Asian cultures.
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PASADENA’S RACIAL DIVERSITY
Pasadena ethnic diversity by the numbers.
DIFFERENCE MAKERS
People who impact the lives of others in positive ways.
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K E V I N E D G E P H OTO G R A P H Y
EXPERIENCE CALIFORNIA’S JEWEL The Langham Huntington, Pasadena features lush gardens, world-class dining, spacious guestrooms and the newly restored and rehabilitated iconic Picture Bridge, a historic feature for more than 100 years. The multi-million dollar structural upgrade to the Bridge included the installation of facsimiles of the original oil paintings by landscape artist Frank M. Moore, which serve as a storybook for the state of California showcasing its many jewels. SAFE SMART STAY • Enjoy 10% off our best available rates, resort credit up to $100
and complimentary parking. Rate is fully refundable up to 24-hours prior to check-in and does not require pre-payment. The Langham Huntington, Pasadena is dedicated to the safety and well-being of our guests and colleagues. Visit our website for information about our cleaning and sanitizing protocols to ensure safety and comfort. For Room Reservations, dial (626) 568 3900
1401 South Oak Knoll Avenue, Pasadena, California 91106 USA T (626) 568 3900 F (626) 568 3700 langhamhotels.com/pasadena
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A TASTE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN
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OUT & ABOUT ROAMING SAFELY Let’s Roam is a safe and fun way to get out and about.
30 FASHION MEET THE MAKER Alexandra Grant’s initiative grantLOVE supports artists and arts-based nonprofits.
ON LOCATION A self-driving tour of some of Pasadena’s famous movie locations.
31 SHOPPING HOT SHOP: HOLLIS San Marino’s new lifestyle boutique.
ARTS & CULTURE (SIDE) STREET ART Educational and arts-based programming from Side Street Projects.
32 DÉCOR BACKYARD STAYCATION Making the most of your outdoor space.
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STYLE
VERY PASADENA MIND THE DROPLETS Lian Dolan steps bravely into 2021.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS 36
PET HEALTH LEADING THE PACK The DEN Urban Dog Retreat provides holistic wellness for your best friend.
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WELL BEING SMARTER SIPS The healthful benefits of wellness drinks.
DESTINATIONS 22 TRAVEL GATEWAY TO THE SIERRAS A visit to Grass Valley.
REAL ESTATE Spotlight House #1: South Pasadena Colonial Estate Spotlight House #2: Bellwood Road Beauty
24 GETAWAYS NEWPORT BEACH Eat, stay, and play the Newport Beach way.
FOOD & DRINK
26 NEIGHBORHOODS HISTORIC OLD TOWN MONROVIA A day in one of SoCal’s oldest cities.
56 CUISINE A TASTE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN Pasadena’s bountiful Mediterranean options. A SPLASH OF BUBBLY A champagne cocktail retrospective just in time for the new year.
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RESTAURANT GUIDE The only guide the hungry need.
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BACK PAGE CROSSING OVER The Langham’s historic Picture Bridge reopens after a renovation.
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THE ANNIE CLOUGHERTY TEAM The Top Newport Beach Real Estate Team
Ranked by Real Trends in the top 1/2 of 1% of real estate agents in the nation for 2019 and 2020
LET US GUIDE YOU TO YOUR NEXT BEACH PROPERTY
949.375.3037 | annie.clougherty@compass.com | www.annieclougherty.com DRE 01716801
EDITOR’S LETTER BY CUYLER GIBBONS
2021 2020 A 6
NEW BEGINNINGS ll good things must come to an end, and so must my time at Pasadena Magazine. It’s fitting I think, to begin the new year fresh and ready for change (2020 can’t be gone soon enough). It was difficult to get a breath, and not just because we were all wearing masks. We’ve certainly seen big change in Washington, whether it will change the quality of our discourse or the course of our policy remains to be seen. Will it make a difference? Because making a difference is what it’s all about. Innovating, creating, changing things for the better. This will be my last issue. It’s been a pleasure and an honor to witness and write about so much of what makes Pasadena special. And even more so to have met and worked with so many remarkable people. It really is the biggest small town in America. There are certainly more stories to be told. And more created every day. Stories like those created by our difference makers. These are people in our community stirring things up in a positive way. It’s a subjective list and woefully incomplete. Pasadena is rich in creativity and good will. But I think you’ll agree these are people you’ll want to know, and know about. From social justice reform to homeless services, from immigrant rights to arts accessibility, their work improves all of our lives.
It’s a diverse list; one that reflects the diversity of Pasadena generally. We take a closer look at the numbers behind Pasadena’s ethnic makeup and visit with the USC Pacific Asia Museum to learn about their efforts to “decolonize” their exhibits, thereby recognizing the unique contributions made by distinct Asian cultures. Our regular coverage is all here as well, like arts coverage including a paean to Vroman’s Bookstore in the words of residents who venerate this Pasadena institution to Side Street Projects, which supports over 1,000 local artists; along with things to do (even during COVID) like the new walking tour app Let’s Roam, and a guide to local movie locations throughout Pasadena that make a perfect driving tour. For the hungry we offer a retrospective on Pasadena’s bountiful Mediterranean options, and for the afflicted a retrospective of local prebiotic sodas and adaptogenic elixirs. There are nearby destinations suitable for COVID travel or day trips, as well as style and shopping tips. While “results will vary,” all of it is designed to positively impact your lives. To make a difference. Which is, after all, what it is all about. Thanks for reading, Cuyler
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PUBLISHER Josef Vann GM and EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Cuyler M. Gibbons Jr. cuyler@pasadenarose.com MANAGING EDITOR Sara Smola sara@pasadenarose.com ART DIRECTOR A Hart SENIOR ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Courtney White courtney@pasadenarose.com ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Mia Pierre-Jacques Mia@pasadenarose.com ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Shana Wong sjlwong@hotmail.com NEW YORK SALES OFFICE Cynthia Donaher cynthia@donahermedia.com DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND EVENTS Traci Takeda ttakeda@orangecoast.com SALES AND MARKETING COORDINATOR Zsuzsa Montejano zmontejano@orangecoast.com PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Glenda Mendez DIGITAL DIRECTOR Ping Tsai ptsai@orangecoast.com COPY EDITOR Kamala Kirk CONTRIBUTORS
Mario Boucher, Shannon Brooks, Julie Carlson, Lian Dolan, Kamala Kirk, Paul Mowry, Maya Richard-Craven, Daniel Tozier
HOUR MEDIA CEO Stefan Wanczyk PRESIDENT John Balardo
For subscriptions: 1-866-660-6247 pasadenamag.com/subscribe 479 S MARENGO AVE, PASADENA, CA 91101 PASADENAMAG.COM
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CROWN CIT Y
CROWN CITY D AT E B O O K | O U T & A B O U T | A R T S & C U LT U R E | V E RY PA S A D E N A
ON LOCATION: SEE OUT & ABOUT PAGE 14
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C R O W N C I T Y: D A T E B O O K
THE YOGA EXPO LA
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LIFELINES/TIMELINES: EXPLORING THE HUNTINGTON’S COLLECTIONS THROUGH BONSAI Discover an expansive new way to look at miniature trees in The Huntington’s exhibition. With an interdisciplinary approach that only The Huntington could offer, "Lifelines/Timelines" explores the march of time by comparing the age of selected California juniper bonsai alongside benchmarks in the institution's 100-year history, and with significant pieces in the collections. The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens,1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino, 626-405-2100, huntington.org
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ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: HOW IT WORKS AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR THE FUTURE
As technology becomes more refined, the impact of AI in society will become more profound. In this lecture, Caltech Professor of Computing and Mathematical Sciences Professor Yisong Yue speaks about how artificial intelligence has dramatically changed our world and what it means for the future of material design, robotics, and big data seismology, among other areas of investigation. Online Event, events.caltech.edu/series/ watson
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The 6th Annual Yoga Expo is an all-day yoga event at the Pasadena Convention Center featuring local and national teachers. The Yoga Expo serves as a platform to empower and strengthen the local yoga community— connect with local teachers, bring a friend (or make one), explore yoga studios in the area, and taste local and sustainable food and beverages. Pasadena Convention Center, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena, theyogaexpo.org
Our dynamic universe is ablaze with cosmic fireworks. In Caltech Assistant Professor of Astronomy Mansi Kasliwal’s lecture, she explains how astronomers discover these cosmic fireworks with robotic telescopes and how they have undertaken a global follow-up campaign to characterize these energetic and ephemeral events. Online Event, events.caltech.edu/series/ watson
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WHAT COSMIC FIREWORKS UNVEIL ABOUT THE UNIVERSE
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The Rose Bowl Half Marathon is a truly unforgettable race experience with a one-of-a-kind finish line on the field at the world-famous Rose Bowl! Enjoy the picturesque course through Pasadena, passing landmarks like the Colorado Street Bridge, Old Town Pasadena, and Caltech before a majestic finish. Pasadena, rosebowlhalf.com
Pasadena Playhouse’s nine-week seminar (can be attended in person every Monday or via video) examines the evolution of the American musical from “Evita” in 1979 to “Hamilton.” This seminar will focus on Broadway from the past three decades and lectures will center around how the form has changed since the so-called “Golden Age,” what direction(s) the musical has taken, and what it means to be an “American” musical. Pasadena Playhouse, 39 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena, 626-356-7529, pasadenaplayhouse.org
ROSE BOWL HALF MARATHON AND 5K
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METAMORPHOSES
Primal storytelling and modern sensibility collide in a sensual re-envisioning of Greek myths as gods and mortals alike endure love, loss, and transformation. Swirling with passion, Mary Zimmerman creates this Tony Award®-nominated masterpiece that mesmerizes with tales of Midas, Orpheus, Aphrodite, and more in a whimsical and heartbreaking meditation on the joys and perils of being human. A Noise Within, 3352 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena, 626-356-3100, anoisewithin.org
THE CONTEMPORARY BROADWAY MUSICAL
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Norton Simon exhibit “Unseen Picasso” offers viewers the opportunity to study innovative, seldom seen prints by one of the 20th century’s greatest artists. Norton Simon, 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 626-449-6840, nortonsimon.org Editor’s Note: Due to current events, some events may be rescheduled or canceled.
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C R O W N C I T Y: O U T & A B O U T
ROAMING WITH FRIENDS DURING THE PANDEMIC Let’s Roam is a safely distanced scavenger hunt that will get you out and about.
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by MARIO BOUCHER t’s time to shake off that cabin fever and get outside to stretch your legs. Let’s Roam is a scavenger hunt that allows you, friends, and family to take a hike around Pasadena. Discover or rediscover some of the city’s great cultural and historical locations such as City Hall, St. Andrew Church, and USC Pacific Asia Museum. As a team, you search for statues and art to solve riddles, answer trivia questions, and take photos to earn points for every challenge. If you feel safer at home, Let’s Roam offers a way to turn your home into a world of adventure. Best of all, you get to spend quality time with those you love. Brothers Charlie and Michael Harding founded Let’s Roam by turning a childhood dream into an adventure and tour company that transforms the way people interact with their surroundings. “Our scavenger hunts are a way to experience the city without the stress of an itinerary and in an intimate setting,” says Charlie. “We wanted to share all the best parts of Pasadena with locals and tourists alike—thus, the Pasadena Scavenger Hunt was born.” ON THE STREET Through a digitally-guided adventure, you can explore must-see monuments and hidden gems throughout the city while completing challenges along the way with
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different types of scavenger hunts to choose from: • Date Night: An exciting city tour makes for a romantic and fun date • Ghost: Seek out the city’s haunted history and sinister spirits • Bar: Discover different spirits at the best bars and watering holes ROAM FROM HOME If you feel safer at home, Let’s Roam can turn your home into a virtual game night: • The family edition is great for kids ages 7+ and features entertaining, educational themes to spark creativity and a fun evening of adventure • The date night edition allows couples to go on a fun date with challenges designed to deepen connections and get sparks flying • The virtual game night edition is comprised of five rounds of online games and trivia, including embedded video chat and connecting with friends Let’s Roam offers custom events for everything from birthdays to bachelorette parties. You can also celebrate with people anywhere in the world through a virtual party using video call technology. For more information, visit letsroam.com. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
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C R O W N C I T Y: O U T & A B O U T
ON LOCATION: PASADENA If COVID-19 has you feeling a little stir-crazy, a “drive yourself” tour around some of Pasadena’s notable filming locations might just be the ticket to chase away the pandemic blues.
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by MARIO BOUCHER he Colorado Street Bridge is a noticeable vista thanks to its distinctive Beaux-Arts arches, light standards, and railings. Designated a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, the bridge opened in 1913 and made its first major appearance in Charlie Chaplin’s “The Kid.” In recent years, Jim Carrey jumped off the bridge while attached to a bungee line in “Yes Man,” and Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone took a stroll on the bridge in “La La Land.”
From the Colorado Street Bridge, head north on Orange Grove Boulevard until you reach Walnut Street, where you’ll find the Fenyes Mansion and Pasadena Museum of History (470 W. Walnut St.), seen in the 1979 movie “Being There.” Completed around 1907, the Beaux-Arts style building was the first Finnish Consul in Southern California, which is why Finland’s flag flies alongside the American flag. At 4 Westmoreland Pl., you’ll see the 1908 Arts and Crafts-style Gamble House that was used as Doc Brown’s
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residence in “Back to the Future.” Overlooking the Arroyo Seco’s dry river bed, the Gamble House appears to be entangled with the natural landscape and features strong Japanese architecture. Head east onto Walnut Street to the Pasadena Central Library (285 E. Walnut St.). The Mediterranean-style building has been featured in a wide variety of movies and TV shows over the years, including “Legally Blonde,” “Ghost Whisperer,” and “Hung.” Just a couple blocks south is the iconic Pasadena City Hall (100 Garfield Ave.), which was completed in 1927. The influence of early Renaissance style by 16th century Italian architect Andrea Palladio is apparent in a rectangular edifice with a spacious court. From Charlie Chaplin’s “The Great Dictator” to “The Net” and “A Walk in the Clouds,” it has often stood in for other city halls, including Pawnee on “Parks and Recreation.” On the other side of the street is All Saints Church (132 N. Euclid Ave.), a filming location for “Legally Blonde,” “Cruel Intentions,” and Clint Eastwood’s “Changeling.” The English Gothic-style building also features a parish hall, rectory, and an integrated courtyard. In Old Town Pasadena, Castle Green Apartments (99 S. Raymond Ave.) have been featured as a casino in “The Sting,” a hotel in “Bugsy,” and as a mansion in “The Man Who Wasn’t There.” Just around the corner you will see the Pasadena Civic Auditorium (300 E. Green St.), which has hosted the Emmy Awards and “America’s Got Talent” in its 3,000-seat theater. The historic exterior, inspired by Mediterranean Revival architecture, has been featured on numerous TV shows such as “Alias,” “Penny Dreadful,” and “Scandal.” The Auditorium is part of the Pasadena Civic Center District—the site of many conferences, events, and the Pasadena Ice Skating Center. For a complete guide to local filming locations, visit pasadenamag.com.
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C R O W N C I T Y: A R T S & C U L T U R E
(SIDE) STREET ART Side Street Projects supports artists and communities through educational and arts-based programming. by SARA SMOLA Photos Courtesy of SIDE STREET PROJECTS
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ide Street Projects is breaking barriers to ensure equitable access to the arts within the community. In keeping with its mission to give artists of all ages the ability and means to support their creative endeavors, the local nonprofit serves more than 1,000 artists and over 4,000 children each year. A mobile, artist-run organization, Side Street Projects supports artists and communities through its numerous arts-based programs and projects—including SkillShare workshops, as well as Side Street’s Mobile Youth Education Program that serves at-risk youth. “We are devoted to community-centered artists through communityled programming that promotes creativity, wellbeing, and the potential for collective growth,” explains Side Street Projects Executive Director Emily Hopkins. “In our 28 years, we have become more than just a business. We are a community of artists who support each other through sharing of skills, and a deep love for celebrating the culture of Los Angeles and all that connects us together.” Side Street Projects encourages creative problem-solving within a hands-on artmaking context, which is reflected in their “make do/ DIY” operation. “Our offices are restored vintage trailers and modified shipping containers,” explains Hopkins of the site (located behind John Muir High School). “Our classrooms are housed in buses and trailers. It all runs on a mobile solar energy array.” The artistically-inclined approach works and, with the aforementioned problem-solving mentality in mind, Side Street Projects has been pushing through COVID-19’s accompanying challenges, implementing virtual options of artist projects and developing virtual versions of the “My Masterpieces” public art program that serves all second graders in PUSD, and there is a plan to work with Rose City High School to develop a virtual version of “No Boundaries,” the districtwide art exhibition this spring. Hopkins notes, “Despite going formally on pause, the Side Street community continued to work and connect. As waves of activism passed through our communities, our artists found themselves being leaders in their own networks as everyone looked to support each other on a grassroots level. The community of Side Street Projects never went on pause.”
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INVISIBLE TEAHOUSE
OUR GARDEN OF DREAMS
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C R O W N C I T Y: A R T S & C U L T U R E
ODE TO VROMAN’S The community shares their thoughts and memories about our beloved bookstore.
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by CUYLER GIBBONS he term “venerable institution” gets tossed around a lot, particularly in Pasadena where so many of our institutions truly qualify. Rarely is a bookstore so lauded, and even rarer, still revered far beyond the confines of the city in which it is located, as is Pasadena’s 126-year-old Vroman’s Bookstore. In that rare company of independent bookstores known across the country by the cognoscenti, like Tattered Cover in Denver or City Lights in San Francisco, Vroman’s survived the rise of the national bookstore chains and the advent of the online book retailer. Throughout these sea changes in the bookseller’s landscape—changes that saw domestic independent book sales drop from $15.9 billion in 2009 to just $8.8 billion in 2019—Vroman’s stayed relevant, selling a variety of gifts in addition to its massive book inventory, while hosting daily events—including author signings, workshops, and children’s activities—all year long. To further broaden the appeal of an in-person visit, Vroman’s partnered with Jones Coffee for an on-site coffee bar called The Next Chapter, and installed the 1894 Wine Bar serving a wide selection of wines, and craft cocktails based on famous literary works. Of course, this was all pre-COVID. The disease, required lockdowns, and social distancing have had an existential impact on business. In September, Chairman Joel Sheldon sent out an SOS asking for the community to eschew online options in favor of supporting Vroman’s through in-person gift and book purchases. As this is being written, the community has responded and Vroman’s continues to fight on even as the virus remains a threat. The demise of Vroman’s would be the city’s biggest COVID retail fatality and an irreparable loss to Pasadena. It is our most fervent hope that this does not happen, but regardless of the old girl’s ultimate fate, we wanted to acknowledge her importance to Pasadena and have compiled some of our residents’ thoughts on what Vroman’s means to them.
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C R O W N C I T Y: A R T S & C U L T U R E
“Vroman’s is the Cher of indie bookstores, a one-name icon that everyone in publishing knows. The book business is very East Coast-oriented, but Vroman’s breaks through that bias. To authors, a Vroman’s signing means you’ve arrived. To publicists, it’s the “must-land” Southern California spot. To publishers, it’s a sales bell weather for national success of a title. For me personally, my 20-year publishing career is so intertwined with this store, I’m not sure I would have a writing career without Vroman’s support. Vroman’s is that critical to the writing life of Southern California authors.” – Lian Dolan, Pasadena resident and best-selling author of Helen of Pasadena and The Sweeney Sisters.
@pasadenamag I started reading when I was four years old from that day ‘til today, books are my life and my safe place. I can’t count how many blissful hours I have spent in Vroman’s Bookstore both on Colorado Blvd. and in Hastings Ranch. As a wedding and event designer, many a custom guest book and handcrafted invitation have celebrated love, family, and community. Now it is our time to give back what was freely given to us all. In addition, thank you Vroman’s for your community “Give Back” donor programs. I am always grateful that all of my purchases “give back” and reach many more than just me. Now it is my time to give back...please join me in keeping our Pasadena jewel shining bright! @timelesscelebrations There are so many happy memories. Book signings. Meeting my idol Jimmy Carter and being able to thank him personally for all he’s done. My late mom taking a gleeful [pic] at a Christmas party held there. My then 15-year-old nephew chatting it up with Bill Clinton. The annual purchasing of new Halloween decorations with my best friend after the CSU counselor conference. Teacher’s night, trivia, and Janpardy. Seeing one of my students in line for David Sedaris. My sisters and I gleeful over Walter Moseley. My dad crushing hard on Ariana Huffington. Love you so dear Vroman’s. I will fight for you. I owe so very much! @falconwish93 My mother used to take us there a lot as kids and I remember throwing a temper tantrum outside, after not getting a tiny set of four boxed children’s books. Since I had never done that before or since, my mom went and bought them for me. She wasn’t in the habit of rewarding bad attitudes but hadn’t realized how much I wanted them. Vroman’s was a place of many, many hours poring through and buying books. Although not with attitude! Thanks Mom for my love of reading and thanks Vroman’s for the nurture of it. @gh_wilkejewelry
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Growing up in Pasadena, Vroman’s has always been Pasadena’s bookstore. I’ve been to a lot of great book signing events there. They have everything from kids’ events, to creative art events, and great gift finds. It is one of the last gems left in Pasadena. @thee_jenn Vroman’s is a happy place, one of my favorites in Pasadena. Let’s save it! @geoarte19 I absolutely love Vroman’s. I have spent hours there with my children for story time when they were little, with them meeting book characters, shopping for Christmas presents, and [going] to several book signings. My husband got to meet Muhammad Ali and Joe Frasier there during their book signings. It’s truly one of the last great book stores. I’ve been to it recently to help support it. I hope you can do the same. @anitaz5 I think my mother practically lived at Vroman’s. She collected Newberry and Caldecott books. I remember having Leo Politi sign books to me in his beautiful watercolor work. The addition of the theater next door has made it a real evening gathering place. My father-in-law was their lawyer for years. Vroman’s is part of our family. Please do all you can to save it. I’m going to order books from my home in Seattle! @debratsmith When my kids were young, we made Vroman’s a tradition. On Friday nights we’d go out to eat in the area and walk to Vroman’s afterward for a new children’s book. It’s part of what makes the area feel like home. @rezifuller It’s not just a place to buy books, but a community gathering spot, a place to foster culture, one of the things that defines Pasadena and Los Angeles. @rossreyesphotography
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C R O W N C I T Y: V E R Y P A S A D E N A
MIND THE DROPLETS
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o start 2021 off on the right foot, I gathered advice on how to move forward during this period of paralysis, I mean, uncertainty. I’m not a resolution setter, usually relying on a motto for the year instead of individualized goals, because those would require follow-through and accountability. I like a broader, vaguer canvas upon which to paint my future. But after all that 2020 wrought, I was coming up empty on motivational phrases. Please don’t touch me. Trader Joe’s is terrifying. Mind the droplets. All captured the moment, but none created any momentum to launch me into whatever 2021 will hold. Clearly, I needed some inspiration. I consulted a therapist, called a rabbi, and googled “hurtling towards the abyss.” Not surprisingly, the first two options yielded thoughtful conversations about compassion and connection; the third revealed a Reddit community called Stoner Philosophy, 125,000 members strong who claim to be high or “in a similarly lofty mindset.” Of course, they have their motto ready to go: “We are all hurtling towards the abyss at a terrifying velocity.” Sort of a downer, Stoner Philosophers. Mind the droplets, boys. But Dr. Stephanie Newman of New York City, who bills herself as “The Psychotherapist Next Door,” had a more helpful view of how to move forward during a time when time has no meaning. “Do the things that give you a modicum of control. You can’t stop the pandemic, but you can take care of those in your bubble,” she advises.
Huge relief, Dr. Steph, because I’m wholly unqualified to stop a virus if it means more than wearing my mask and maintaining the flame on my Dr. Fauci shrine. But I have kept my bubble fed, walked, and up to date on her shots. (Sure, I have a husband and adult children, but it’s really my dog who gets most of my attention.) Dr. Newman also suggests, “Focus on what you didn’t have before and what you do have now.” That’s a big idea that will keep us from the edge of the abyss. In the “Didn’t Have Before” column, most of us would put down time, time, and time. In the “What We Do Have Now” column, we can add the weight gain equivalent to a few homemade sourdough loaves and a few extra inches of hair in strange places that take us back to our worst ‘80s look. But we’ve renewed our love of jigsaw puzzles, taught our elders how to turn on their computers and mute their mics, and spent an insane number of hours with the people in our house. Has it all been a lovefest? No, of course not. (My condolences to households with school-aged kids where Algebra 2 and conference calls are all happening at the dining room table on the same Wi-Fi.) But there’s a possibility that if we get back to normal in 2021, we might miss the jigsaw puzzles. Which brings us to the rabbi. That would be Rabbi/ Cantor Judy Greenfeld of Nachshon Minyan of Encino. She goes by the moniker “The Relationship Rabbi,” which proves that, in my sample size of two advisers, having a kicky nickname is a winning schtick. Rabbi Judy Brookes Treidler
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by LIAN DOLAN
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delivered with the warm and fuzzies. She says that this pandemic has allowed us to outreach meaningfully with others, increase our capacity for compassion, and expand our bandwidth for empathy. Rabbi Judy, you are a quote machine! And I really, really hope you’re right about all of the above. But I needed more to help me head into the new year; I needed hope! And she delivered. “Remember, the joy will return,” said the good rabbi. Remember, the joy will return. You’re welcome. Go ahead and steal that as your new mantra. Please, oh please, let the joy return. Along with joy, here is a short list of other things I wish will return: crowded
I consulted a therapist, called a rabbi, and googled “hurtling towards the abyss.” Not surprisingly, the first two options yielded thoughtful conversations about compassion and connection; the third revealed a Reddit community called Stoner Philosophy... movie theaters, bustling bars, raucous weddings, tear-filled graduations, Friday night football, Sunday services, fourth-grade talent shows, unnecessary work off-sites, robotic competitions, overpriced meals, and Hall & Oates. That’s right, I have tickets for Hall & Oates at the Hollywood Bowl in October 2021, a reschedule from May 2020. My high school friends are flying out from Connecticut and, for one night, we’ll be 16 again. I’ll know for sure the joy has returned when I’m in my box at the Bowl in my acidwashed jeans and John and Daryl tear into “Maneater.” Mind the droplets, boys. Mind the droplets. PASADENAMAG.COM
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Celebrate life at MonteCedro
2212 El Molino Avenue Altadena, CA 91001 Schedule a personal tour at 626-788-4924 or online at www.MonteCedro.org
Sponsored by Episcopal Communities & Services (ECS) with it’s nearly 100 years history of community service, financial strength and stability Monte Cedro is a non-profit-retirement community that welcomes people of all faiths.
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D E S T I N AT I O N S
DESTINATIONS T R A V E L | G E TA W AY | N E I G H B O R H O O D
GRASS VALLEY: SEE TRAVEL PAGE 22
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Editor’s Note: Some locations may be temporarily closed due to COVID-19.
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
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D E S T I N A T I O N S : T R AV E L
A GOLDEN GATEWAY TO THE SIERRAS Dig into California history with a stay at the newly restored Holbrooke Hotel in Grass Valley. HOLBROOKE HOTEL by SHANNON BROOKS
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hen the governor’s office reinstated more stringent coronavirus restrictions in advance of the holidays, outof-state travel was explicitly discouraged, making regional adventures in California the most responsible choice for travelers. Fortunately, California has no shortage of fascinating places awaiting discovery—even for those of us who think we know the state pretty well, as I recently learned during an eye-opening visit to the Sierra Foothills, north of Sacramento. My destination? The newly-opened Holbrooke Hotel in Grass Valley, a former mining town steeped in Gold Rush history. Not only was I intrigued by the new hotel, I was curious to explore Nevada County, a popular escape for
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discerning Bay Area residents and Northern California creatives. STAY I was among the first lucky guests to check into the landmark Holbrooke Hotel upon the completion of a meticulous two-year renovation project that honored the property’s original essence while modernizing its infrastructure. Located in Grass Valley’s historic downtown core on Main Street, the iconic structure dates back to 1862. In its heyday, Mark Twain, Jack London, and President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Holbrooke’s guestbook. When you enter the lobby, you can picture their ilk sitting in one of the many cozy nooks with a book and brown beverage in hand. Reimagined with a fictional “intellectual frontiersman” as its muse, the 28-room, three-level hotel retains its historic integrity down to the original brick and
stone walls. The updated design and décor pay tribute to the hotel’s colorful past and Sierra Nevada roots through thoughtfully sourced accents such as taxidermy, antique furnishings and fixtures, and vintage pianos. Local architects and craftspeople were brought in to help preserve and enhance period elements like the woodwork and stained glass behind the bar at the Golden Gate Saloon and the old school elevator. Guest rooms are located on the second floor of the main building, as well as in the adjacent Purcell House. Between the layout, hand-picked antique furnishings, and archival photography on display, every guest room is a bit different. The vibe is stately yet relaxed with soothing white walls, high ceilings, and large windows. All rooms are appointed with clawfoot tubs and even the newer elements have a vintage feel, like the wrought iron bedframes, telephones,
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D E S T I N A T I O N S : T R AV E L
HOLBROOKE HOTEL
GOLDEN GATE SALOON
and sound systems. Essentials like USB ports, high-speed Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth speakers will keep you wired and connected. EAT & DRINK Every local I met was particularly enthusiastic about the opening of the Holbrooke’s restaurant and bar, the Golden Gate Saloon, a watering hole where gold prospectors gathered when it first opened in 1852. Chef Zachary Ahrenholtz, who honed his culinary talents in some of Napa Valley’s best restaurants, developed the hotel’s signature Californio cuisine inspired by the early days of California. Nearly everything that comes out of the kitchen is made from scratch, from the baked goods and tortillas to the smoked meats and addictive sauces. The cocktails at Golden Gate Saloon are another big draw, specializing in elevated classics like the Maple Old Fashioned and Boulevardier. PASADENAMAG.COM
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The hotel also has an underground speakeasy, Iron Door, that’s sure to be a hit once regulations allow them to open. Over the course of my long weekend stay, most of my meals were enjoyed at the Holbrooke, but I did manage to become a daily regular at Cake Bakery & Cafe for coffees and sweet treats. I was also impressed by the flavorful wholesome Mediterranean fare at MeZé, and the dinnertime ambiance and cuisine at Watershed at the Owl. SEE & DO Across the street from the hotel is Mill and Main, a hat shop and women’s clothing boutique owned by Jacqueline Michie, a local milliner who trained under Philip Treacy. Her cool creations can be customized for you right on-site. Mill Street has become pedestrian only and is made for browsing, whether you’re in the market for books, crystals or clothing—or
MILL AND MAIN
simply want to admire the many wellpreserved historic buildings. I took a jaunt to nearby Nevada City, an equally charming former mining town also known for its bohemian spirit. Local artisans sell their wares at the Nevada City Farmers Market on Saturdays. Kitkitdizzi is a well-curated shop carrying a delightful array of housewares, clothing, ceramics, accessories, and beauty potions. The outdoors are a big part of the lifestyle in and around Grass Valley, which sits just under the snow line at 2,400 feet. I took a scenic drive along winding country roads to see the Bridgeport Covered Bridge and South Yuba River State Park, and toured Empire Mine State Historic Park. The Bear Yuba Land Trust is an excellent resource for information on the vast network of regional hiking trails. And if you want to gain elevation, Truckee and Lake Tahoe are less than an hour’s drive away. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
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D E S T I N A T I O N S : G E T A W AY
EAT/STAY/PLAY: THE NEWPORT BEACH WAY Newport Beach offers a plethora of ways to have fun under the sun.
BALBOA PAVILION
by SARA SMOLA
STAY The Resort at Pelican Hill For the most splurge-worthy, A-lister experience, book a bungalow at The Resort at Pelican Hill or opt for one of Pelican’s 128 two-, three-, and fourbedroom villas. The picturesque property is set on 504 acres by the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking coastal views and impeccable five-star service. Amenities include its rejuvenating spa, world-class restaurants, iconic Coliseum Pool, and a Tom Fazio-designed golf course. A FiveStar, Five-Diamond destination, The Resort at Pelican Hill is the ultimate go-to for all
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your needs, perfect for recharging from 2020 and renewing in 2021. 22701 S. Pelican Hill Rd, Newport Coast, 855-3158214, pelicanhill.com EAT & DRINK Malibu Farm Lido On the waterfront in Lido Marina Village, Malibu Farm offers delicious meals with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Founder and chef Helene Henderson ensures the menu is chockful of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options including vegan coconut curry, vegetable paella, and cauliflower crust pizza. The
dedicated carnivore will find solace in savory favorites like the Lido Burger or Soy Ginger Skirt Steak. 3420 Via Oporto, Ste. 101, Newport Beach, 949-791-2096, malibu-farm.com Marché Moderne While flying to France may not be in the plans for Spring 2021, fine dining restaurant Marché Moderne brings a taste of the cuisine to the Newport Coast, featuring classic French cooking techniques with modern touches. Helmed by chef-owners (and husband-wife) duo Florent and Amelia Marneau, the restaurant offers an expansive menu of modern and rustic French cuisine
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D E S T I N AT I O N S : G E TAWAY
THE RESORT AT PELICAN HILL
LITTLE CORONA BEACH
in a sophisticated and relaxed environment. 7862 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 714-434-7900, marchemoderne.net PLAY Newport Beach Boat Rentals Located in the heart of the historic Balboa Fun Zone waterfront, Newport Beach Boat Rentals is home to Newport Harbor’s largest and most diversified rental fleet. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely Duffy boat cruiser, a speedy runabout, or for those looking to really join in the action: a paddleboard or kayak. 600 E. Bay Ave., Newport Beach, 714-263-3911, oceanquestoc.org PASADENAMAG.COM
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Balboa Island Museum For those seeking an educational adventure, the Balboa Island Museum has an array of exhibits related to the history of Newport Beach and Balboa Island, as well as lots of learning opportunities and a museum store stocked with nautical paraphernalia. General admission is free, but the nonprofit organization gladly welcomes cash donations. 210 Marine Ave, Newport Beach, 949-6753952, balboaislandmuseum.org SHOP Lido Marina Village While many are familiar with Newport’s
LIDO MARINA VILLAGE
Fashion Island, for a more relaxing shopping experience (yet no less luxe), Lido Marina Village offers a relaxed waterfront complex of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Lido’s boutiques include fashion-forward brands like Jenni Kayne, Clare V., and LoveShackFancy, as well as beauty and wellness-focused shops Aesop and Le Labo. For coastal-inspired décor visit Serena & Lily, while those seeking a more laid-back California vibe can check out interior designer hotshot Amber Lewis’ newly opened Shoppe Amber Interiors. 3434 Via Lido, Newport Beach, lidomarinavillage.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
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D E S T I N AT I O N S : N E I G H B O R H O O D
MYRTLE AVENUE
JAKE’S ROADHOUSE
HOP SECRET BREWING COMPANY
HISTORIC OLD MONROVIA Spend an entertaining day in the nearby enclave of Monrovia.
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by CUYLER GIBBONS n 1887, the city of Monrovia became the fourth city to incorporate in Los Angeles County, making it one of the oldest cities in Southern California. Once the home of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Upton Sinclair, today Monrovia is home to 37,000 people as well as a palpable sense of the past, with over 1,800 pre-1940 homes still in existence. Take a stroll down Myrtle Avenue, the center of Old Town, for a taste of Monrovia’s 135-year history. Have a seat next to Mark Twain, whose bronze likeness occupies a bench in front of the public library at the center of Myrtle Avenue. For a more immersive historical experience, visit the Monrovia Historical Museum. Once the site of the municipal pool, the historic building was turned into a museum rather than torn down. Inside you’ll find a wealth of exhibits illustrating the past, from period clothes to a large collection of old phones to artifacts of the city’s founding fathers. In addition to the history of Monrovia, one wing of the museum also houses natural history displays. There are several interactive exhibits that will appeal to children. And one of the best things about the museum is that it’s free. As long as you’re in a historical frame of mind, stop by Kaleidoscope Antiques and browse the expansive collection. Since 1985, founder Linda Taylor has been curating a fascinating assortment of antiques, curios, and collectibles. If you get hungry, a number of appealing options await. For some pizza (both classic pies and a number of specialty pizzas), wings or pasta, stop by the popular
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Old Town Pizza right on Myrtle Avenue. If it’s barbeque you’re craving, Jake’s Roadhouse has you covered. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Jake’s award-winning barbeque will leave you more than satisfied. For something a bit more refined and unique, try The Peach Café. Just a block off Myrtle on East Colorado Boulevard, The Peach Café serves breakfast and lunch including honey maple waffles studded with maple bacon, fruit pancakes, and amazing huevos rancheros, along with a host of artisanal coffee concoctions. For a little mid-day exercise visit Monrovia Canyon Park. This is a beautiful and relatively easy 3 miles out and back hike suitable for all levels of hikers. Weekends can be crowded and there is a $10 fee to park in the lot. Weekdays are far less impacted and lot parking is only $5. Weekend or weekday, however, the waterfall is a suitable payoff. After your hike, treat yourself to a little liquid refreshment at Hop Secret Brewing Company. A labor of love by former Fire Department Financial Officer Gary Gates, Hop Secret offers craft-draught brew in an inviting atmosphere graced with local art, a mere 25 feet from where the beer is created. If you’re enjoying Monrovia on a Friday, don’t miss the Friday Night Street Fair & Market. Street performers and local merchants share their wares, along with a robust farmers market and rides for children. The fair is a festive evening out with food, activities, and cool stuff that appeals to all ages. Best of all, it’s right in the heart of historic Old Town Monrovia.
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SHARING YOUR EXPERIENCES. INDULGING YOUR CURIOSITY. AT VILLA GARDENS, pursue your passions and life to the fullest.
Lounge in cheerful courtyards with green lawns and flowering trees, and share stories with fun and engaging people. All while being in the heart of Pasadena. Surround yourself with beauty, culture and smiling faces in a continuing care retirement community. At Villa Gardens, you’ll love where you live.
LIVE
C A L L O R V I S I T U S 626.4 63.5300 villagardens.org
WHERE
842 EAST VILLA STREET
YO U LOV E
A Front Porch Retirement Community.
PA S A D E N A , C A 9 1 1 0 1 CA License #197602345 COA #195
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HOLLIS: SEE SHOPPING PAGE 31
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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S T Y L E : FA S H I O N
MEET THE MAKER: ALEXANDRA GRANT Multi-hyphenate Alexandra Grant shares her thoughts on her fundraising initiative, grantLOVE, which produces and sells apparel, accessories, jewelry, as well as artwork and home goods to benefit artists and arts-based nonprofits.
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by SARA SMOLA
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What was your path to becoming an artist? My interest has always been on the connection between literary writing and painting, and though that part of the path has been linear, the path on the ground has taken me through interesting terrains. Playing basketball in high school and college taught me discipline and teamwork; it was through studying mathematics I explored pattern recognition and mapping; and work in design fields helped me learn how to make confident decisions quickly and trust my instincts. The great thing about being an artist is that nothing I’ve ever learned in any part of my life has ever been lost...I get to use all parts of my imagination and problemsolving every day. What inspired you to create grantLOVE? In addition to figuring out how to have the space and time for myself to be safe, creative, and curious, I’m also dedicated to doing this for other artists when I can. This is what I would call being an artistcitizen. I was inspired to create grantLOVE because I wanted to give back to the creative community and because I’m interested in new models of funding for the arts. I was inspired by Robert Indiana’s LOVE symbol, and the lesson learned in art history class that he never controlled his intellectual property.
So I trademarked my LOVE symbol with the intention of creating a philanthropic brand. It allows me to work directly with [artsbased] nonprofits to develop fundraising and friend-raising projects. What’s next for you and grantLOVE in 2021? 2020 was a year that brought so many challenges to everyone’s lives across the globe! grantLOVE changed and adapted too: in March we pivoted an in-store event with Oscar de la Renta to an online sale of prints to benefit Project Angel Food. In October, we opened our first retail pop-up shop at the Orange County Museum of Art to create the grantLOVE x OCMA Fund for Artists to bring more diverse artists to the museum’s permanent collection. My show of paintings and sculptures at OCMA—”Telepathy Is One Step Further Than Empathy”— and the pop-up will be open through early 2021. The pop-up will include new LOVE prints made in collaboration with the Berlin-based Spanish illustrators and artists Cachetejack. And in April 2021, my work will be featured at the Marfa Invitational Fair in Marfa, Texas. That too was delayed from earlier in 2020 and so it will be great, as the Invitational’s Michael Phelan says, “to get the band back together.” For more information on grantLOVE, visit grantlove.com.
Necklace image courtesy of grantLOVE; Portrait by Vero Bielinski
rtist Alexandra Grant has her hands in many pies to say the least. A multi-hyphenate powerhouse—an exhibiting visual artist, filmmaker, cofounder of publishing house X Artists’ Books, just to name a few of the pies— it’s not hard to deduce that Grant’s skillset and talent run through many channels. After an early life spent moving around, Grant settled down in Los Angeles in 2001, creating the framework and home base for her practice and life as an artist, which included a stint as an adjunct professor at ArtCenter College of Design. “I lived in South Pasadena for many years, and it was there that I found community and developed the work that led to my early exhibitions at The Museum of Contemporary Art and other institutions and galleries,” says Grant. With the arts close to her heart, Grant created the initiative grantLOVE in 2008, an artist-owned and operated project that produces and sells original artworks and editions, apparel, accessories, jewelry, and home goods to benefit artists and arts-based nonprofits. In addition to hoodies, tees, and totes, Grant recently launched LOVE necklaces, handmade in California and available in both sterling silver ($175) and 18K gold ($775). We chatted with the artist to find out more: NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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STYLE: SHOPPING
HOT SHOP: HOLLIS San Marino’s HOLLIS offers one-of-a-kind antiques, handmade furniture, and home accessories.
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Store images by Minh Tran; portrait by Stephen Busken
by SARA SMOLA
t’s safe to say that an appreciation for good design runs in the family in the case of Mik Hollis, whose mom Susanne Hollis (of Susanne Hollis Antiques) has been a go-to source in the interior design community for over 30 years. The younger Hollis has taken the reigns, leading his family’s business at a turning point for the beloved Hollis brand. Although Hollis may have found his niche, he admits that his love of antiques came “rather begrudgingly,” pointing out, “My childhood summers were filled with buying trips to Europe and Asia with my mother, which I hated at first. But over time the learning about decorative arts and how it connects to world history made me realize that this can be a lifelong pursuit. I’ve been in the family business all of my life [and] I feel PASADENAMAG.COM
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fortunate to be in a position to expand on my mother’s legacy, and to be taking our family practice into a new generation.” Hollis is in the process of opening two new locations, including the HOLLIS Antiques flagship which recently moved to 1975 Lincoln Ave., Pasadena, as well as an entirely new shopping experience, aptly named HOLLIS, in San Marino this winter. “It may seem counterintuitive to open a new shop [during the COVID-19 pandemic], but our business has always been based on our relationships,” says Hollis, who notes that the pandemic has actually increased business. “As people are spending so much time inside, they are prioritizing all things that make their house a home. We feel privileged to be working with our almost 40-year history of clientele,
to bring more joy and happiness, and even a sense of security and stability during an unprecedented time.” For the design-savvy, San Marino’s HOLLIS aims to create a new kind of shopping experience that offers an ever-evolving sense of discovery of fine antiques, traditional handmade furniture, unique home accessories, and access to a custom furniture workshop. “Add to that a very high level of customer service, and we hope to continue being Pasadena’s trusted design resource in the age of misrepresented online merchandise,” says Hollis. “We are rethinking what brickand-mortar needs to be so it can give you everything online can’t.” To discover more, visit HOLLIS at 2650 Mission St., San Marino. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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ST YLE: DÉCOR
BACKYARD STAYCATION: MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE Pandemic home remodeling is booming so we might as well make the most of what’s right in our own backyards, literally. by SARA SMOLA photos courtesy of STRUXURE
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hile COVID-19 put a stop to many activities and gatherings throughout 2020, the silver lining of the shelter-in-place directive was that it forced people to turn their attention to what was in their own backyard...literally. From sprucing up the landscape to installing pools and water fixtures to planting gardens, it seems everyone has been doing design overhaul with no signs of stopping. To ring in 2021, we recommend creating a staycation destination right in your backyard, making the most of Southern California’s indoor-outdoor living thanks to StruXure. Founded in 2011, StruXure offers modern-day pergolas designed to improve your formerly underutilized space in a variety of models including the Pivot 6, Pivot 6 Slide, and Pan 6. While our eastern counterparts may be bundled up by the fireplace during a snowstorm, Pasadenans can take advantage of the mild 60-70ish weather we’ve been waiting for since August’s sweltering temps and continue to enjoy the great outdoors, albeit from the comfort of our homes. Get ready to fire up the BBQ, heat the pool, and pour a much-needed drink.
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When designing an outdoor space, site, function, and budget are all important factors to consider. StruXure CEO Scott Selzer shares his tips on making a decision: “What can my property accommodate? What kind of space do I want/need? How much money am I willing to spend? How can I create a space that can be used yearround? Will the upgrades increase my property value? The answers to all of these questions will help inform choices well beyond furniture selection, like whether to add fixed structures, water features, or built-in appliances.” An added bonus is that the additional space could prove to be a worthy investment for when it’s time to sell, maximizing square footage and value of that space. “As outdoor living continues to rise in popularity, statistics show that homes with comfortable outdoor spaces are increasingly attractive to buyers,” Selzer reveals. Selzer recommends matching the pergola to your home’s architecture and color scheme—and then turning that protected space into any “room” your family desires. Selzer notes, “The benefit of a sturdy, fixed structure with pivoting louvers is that it can be utilized in every season, whether you want shade, airflow, sunlight, or rain protection.”
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STYLE: HOME
COLONIAL ESTATE This architecturally significant colonial home is attributed to Donald D. MacMurray and located on over a half-acre on coveted Arroyo Square in the prestigious West Arroyo district of South Pasadena. Offering a seamless floor plan, the home features five bedrooms including the sumptuous master suite, large public rooms (all opening to the gardens), three fireplaces, hardwood flooring, and an updated kitchen. Mature and plentiful gardens feature a pool, spa, sport court, and a three-car garage. This property is represented by Rita J. Whitney of The Agency. For more information, contact Whitney at 626-755-4988 or ritajwhitney@gmail. com; or visit ritajwhitney.com.
BELLWOOD ROAD BEAUTY Boasting pride of ownership, this beautifully maintained home is on the market for the first time since 1974. The gracious living room features gleaming wood floors and a handsome brick fireplace. The adjacent sunroom showcases a gorgeous view of the outdoors and sparkling pool. The classic dining room with an elegant chandelier flows into the fully remodeled kitchen with newer stainless steel appliances and a cozy breakfast nook. All three bedrooms and the hall bath are located in the south wing of the home. The third bedroom adjoins a ¾ bath and a laundry area which accesses the circular patio around the pool. Additional highlights in the large backyard include a freestanding charming ‘’home office’’ (123 sq. ft.) surrounded by colorful landscaping, fitted with lighting and secured by an automatic gate. Other features include Andersen windows, new exterior paint, and a new water heater and A/C unit. This property is represented by Janice Lee of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties. For more information, contact Lee at 626-616-2789 or janicelee@bhhscal.com.
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S
HEALTH& WELLNESS P E T H E A LT H
| WELL BEING
LEADING THE PACK: SEE PET HEALTH PAGE 36
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S : P E T H E A L T H
LEADING THE PACK DEN Urban Dog Retreat is a Los Angeles-based grooming and pet daycare facility with an emphasis on holistic healing and wellness. by KAMALA KIRK photos courtesy of DEN URBAN DOG RETREAT
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or many dog owners, our four-legged furry friends are like our children, so it should come as no surprise that people are placing greater importance on the well-being and health of their pets. DEN Urban Dog Retreat is an oasis for dogs and their owners that offers a variety of petfocused wellness services in Los Angeles. It was founded in 2019 by husband-and-wife team, Victorious and Lindsay Velez, who created the unique sanctuary out of necessity for their own dogs. “My wife is a dog trainer who has owned her business, Eastside Hounds, for over 10 years, and clients were always mentioning how pet grooming places were
stressful environments for dogs with the metal cages and loud music,” says Victorious. “So we decided to create our own place and that’s how this journey began. We started the business out of our home, but as it grew and gained momentum, that’s when we knew we had to find a bigger space.” After finding the perfect location, the couple immediately got to work custom designing the entire facility, from the stunning barn doors to a vintage Victorian bathtub. Victorious is a licensed contractor who has built interactive environments for festivals like Coachella, so he and his wife put their design skills together to create the ultimate space for dogs and their owners. DEN Urban Dog Retreat has everything from an outdoor play area with grass to a patio garden and a
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relaxing meditation space. In addition to a cage-free grooming spa, training facility, retail store, and doggy daycare, they also offer pack hikes in nature and a shuttle service that will pick dogs up at home. The wellness center includes an array of innovative holistic healing services such as reiki and touch healing, sound baths, dog massage, and acupuncture. People can participate in reiki sessions with their dogs, massage training classes, intuitive healing and reading, and animal communication to establish a deeper connection with their pets. A nutritionist is also available for consultations about diet and general well-being, and a portion of proceeds from every holistic service goes to their Baloonicorn Foundation, which facilitates assistance and special care for dogs in need. “Our expert practitioners are very in tune with the dogs and are able to pick up on things and help guide them, making them feel more relaxed,” say Victorious and Lindsay. “We have reiki practitioners and certified dog massage therapists, as well as sound bath and intuitive healers. If you’ve ever experienced a sound bath and its benefits, it resonates deeply with dogs because one of their strongest senses is hearing and those vibrational frequencies help put them at ease. When people are stressed, their dogs absorb some of that stress too, but when you’re relaxed and balanced, so is your dog.” For those that have recently fostered or adopted a dog, Victorious and Lindsay recommend booking a sound bath or reiki session, which offers an opportunity for bonding with a new pet. In situations where someone has returned to work after spending months in quarantine with their dog, DEN Urban Dog Retreat helps dogs dealing with separation anxiety by socializing them with other dogs during pack hikes and playtime. They offer overnight pet sitting services for people going out of town who don’t want their pets to have to deal with the stress of staying in an unfamiliar environment. Different membership packages are also available that feature special rates, free classes and workshops, and more. “We’re a win-win business,” say Victorious and Lindsay. “We offer high-end quality service, people are grateful and happy, and their dogs love coming here. It’s such a blessing to be able to wake up daily, go for hikes in nature with cool pups, and hang out and play here all day. The response has been incredible—we’ve had so many satisfied customers leave positive reviews and say that their dog has never experienced anything like this before. It’s incredible.” For more information, visit denurbandog.com
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S : W E L L B E I N G
SMARTER SIPS From prebiotic sodas to adaptogenic elixirs, wellness drinks offer beneficial ingredients that can help support and boost health. by KAMALA KIRK photo courtesy of ELEMENTS
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ith an increased focus on self-care and wellness these days, more people are turning to functional beverages, which provide various health benefits such as strengthened immunity and improved digestion. Over the past few years, wellness drinks have continued to gain popularity as they offer a healthier alternative to sodas and other commercial beverages. “Consumers continue to be more educated about what they put in their bodies and they want beverages besides water, but ones that have health benefits,” says Steven Izen, founder of Elements, a line of functional wellness drinks made with clinically effective levels of adaptogens. “I created Elements after learning about adaptogens, which are powerful super plants, and their unique ability to help the body regulate stress levels and balance itself. Until recently, adaptogens were relatively niche, expensive, and mainly found in unpalatable powder or pill form. I wanted to create an easy, accessible way for people to take adaptogens daily—a canned drink with a refreshing tea-like taste and functions you feel.” After connecting with family, friends, clients, and innovators in the beverage space, Izen identified sleep, calm, focus, and vitality as key areas of need. He worked with an ethnobotanist and a doctor of psychonutrition to create four different formulas designed to reduce stress, improve sleep, increase energy, and boost brain power and concentration. “Our beverages can be consumed daily or even twice a day to manage stress and regulate cortisol,” shares Izen. “They are pre-dosed in the right amount to benefit from the herbs and plants included. We always
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recommend waiting 30 minutes after drinking to feel the stress-relieving effects of the beverages. The benefits of the adaptogens actually compound over time if you drink them consistently.” Allison Ellsworth is the co-founder of Poppi, a line of prebiotic sodas that are infused with apple cider vinegar. In addition to having much less sugar than traditional soda, Poppi is also designed to improve gut health and boost immunity. “Prebiotics are types of dietary fiber that feed the friendly bacteria in your gut,” Ellsworth points out. “The prebiotic powers come from apple cider vinegar, which is the ‘food’ for the probiotics. It is best known for its digestive abilities and detox benefits for the gut. The prebiotics are added to the beverage by including the key ingredient of apple cider vinegar.” In addition to using all-natural and organic fruit flavors from extracts and high-quality apple cider vinegar, Poppi is vegan, kosher, non-GMO, and gluten-free. Regular consumption also helps relieve bloating while supporting glowing skin. The prebiotic sodas are available in a variety of flavors ranging from watermelon to blueberry, which are designed to keep palates entertained. “Our beverages are made to be consumed more than once a day and we want our fans to enjoy them as much and as often as they like,” says Ellsworth. “Everyone is different, but some customers find that drinking them on an empty stomach helps aid digestion better. We are seeing the wellness drink trend continue to grow due to the fact that people care more about what they put in their bodies and they are also realizing that beverages don’t have to be packed full of unhealthy ingredients.”
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S : W E L L B E I N G
ESSENTIAL PROTEIN Collagen is an important building block in the body that strengthens skin and improves elasticity. The most abundant protein in the human body, collagen plays a crucial role in tissue development, skin strength, and elasticity. Over time, the pace of collagen depletion in our bodies accelerates, resulting in visible wrinkles and a loss of firmness. Besides age, other extenuating factors that are responsible for collagen loss include stress, pollution, and genetics. “Collagen plays a vital role in the structure and elasticity of skin,” says Tammy Yaiser, VP of Product Development at Algenist, an award-winning skincare brand. “It has continued to be a highly sought-after ingredient in skincare formulas. There are an increasing number of different collagen ingredients on the market with distinctions amongst them.” According to Yaiser, there are two primary sources of collagen: vegan and animal-derived. Traditionally, collagen
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has come from animal sources such as cows, pigs, and fish. Modern science has enabled formulators to create plantbased alternatives that structurally mimic animal-derived collagen while offering equivalent benefits for skin. Topical and ingestible collagen products have become increasingly popular in the beauty and wellness industry for those looking to boost collagen production. “The adoption of healthy habits can help preserve higher collagen levels, like healthy eating and staying hydrated,” adds Yaiser. “Incorporating collagen topically through a skincare routine can help improve the overall appearance of skin while helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and helping to boost skin hydration. In addition to improvements in the visible appearance of your skin, healthy collagen levels provide additional whole-body benefits.” For more information, visit algenist.com.
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U S C PA C I F I C A S I A M U S E U M
As acts of violence and racism directed at Asian Americans increase, USC Pacific Asia Museum prepares to decolonize their exhibits with plans to release seven new exhibits that explore and celebrate the diversity of Asian American cultures.
he USC Pacific Asia Museum (PAM) is dedicated to the arts and culture of Asia and the Pacific Islands. In response to the death of George Floyd, the museum released a statement which revealed that it would be planning to decolonize its exhibits. “As the leading university art museum dedicated to the arts and cultures of Asia and the Pacific Islands, USC PAM is aware that historically, museums played a key role in constructing Orientalism and we must play an equally key role in deconstructing it,” says Nathalia Morales-Evanks, head of communications and marketing for the museum. USC Pacific Asia Museum Director Bethany Montagano is prepared and determined to implement the changes, saying, “The notion of Orientalism collapses identities amongst Asian peoples amongst one very problematic stereotype where people still refer to Asian people in the United States as ‘Orientals.’ It’s a brand that was really meant to cast Asian people in the United States as foreigners. Asian American communities in the United States have seen their sense of belonging demeaned. There’s increased acts of violence and increased acts of racism projected on Asian Americans right now. That is why it is important to deconstruct the Orient right now. We have to play an equally important role in deconstructing it.” All of the exhibits will be reevaluated and interpreted within the museum. PAM plans to look at its own practices and methodologies. A plan has been conducted to face the remnants of colonization head on. The museum will be going through collections and identifying objects that may be problematic. They will also make the effort to be cross-cultural between the City of Los Angeles and Asian American communities in Los Angeles. When working to decolonize their exhibits, they will strive to build a more inclusive and community outreach-based museum.
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by MAYA RICHARD-CRAVEN
The museum plans to release seven unique exhibits which explore and celebrate the diversity of Asian American cultures. The first exhibit, “We are Here,” features seven female artists and gives voice to a rising generation of Asian artists from different perspectives. But not all of the exhibits are your typical displays. “ALLOS: The Story of Carlos Bulosan” is a play that talks about issues of immigration, migration, and stereotypes that come with being Filipino.
Decolonizing exhibits wouldn’t be possible without tackling the concept of the model minority. “Debunking the Model Minority” is from the vantage point of Asian American students that feel like they are living under two opposing spectrums: the model minority myth and being perceived as perpetual foreigners. “Debunking the Model Minority Myth” sheds light on what it’s like to experience the pressures that Asian American students are supposed to live up to. The
museum hopes to encourage communities to work together to debunk stereotypes and myths about Asian Americans in general. The next exhibit, “Stronger Together: Black Liberation and Asian Solidarity,” explores the intersectionality between the greater struggle of Black and Asian people. It focuses on stories of empowerment and models of solidarity that date back to the 1950s. Pulitzer Prize winner and author Viet Than Nyugen writes extensively about the refugee experience in the exhibit “Southeast Asian Refugee Narratives.” This exhibit was created to spark a dialogue about what happens when a group’s land and identity have been stripped from them. Cambodians, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese people’s stories are all included, which leads to the following exhibit, “Mapping L.A.: Asian American Migration Experiences.” It is an immersive event where USC animation students created a projection-mapping experience that explores the histories of diverse neighborhoods including Chinatown, Little Tokyo, and Koreatown. Its purpose is to create a conversation between the museum and these communities. “Crossroads: Exploring the Silk Road” was also created to deepen relationships between the museum and Asian American communities. But “Crossroads” is about making content accessible to families and children. It’s a story about exchange and how humans need one another. The final exhibit, “Intervention: Perspectives for a New PAM,” will show off the work that has been completed over the course of the next year. It is a reminder to let in and invite community voices to shape a larger narrative. This exhibit will include work created by male, female, and nonbinary artists. Montagano emphasizes, “It’s going to be a new awakening for PAM, where this young Asian voice can represent diversity and nuance, and we are really excited to amplify that.”
Photo by Reanne Estrada, Privacy Prophylactics, 2019–present, mixed media (printed masks with faces harvested from *thispersondoesnotexist.com), Courtesy of the artist
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A NEW CULTURAL PERSPECTIVE
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AMERICAN INDIAN .3%,
BLACK OR AFRICAN AMERICAN (NON-HISPANIC) 9.8% BLACK OR AFRICAN AMERICAN (NON-HISPANIC) 6.5%
IDENTIFY AS OTHER 2.5%
ASIAN (NON-HISPANIC) 17.2%
AMERICAN INDIAN 1.6%,
WHITE (HISPANIC) 39.4%
by CUYLER GIBBONS
NATIONALLY
IDENTIFY AS OTHER .8%
AMERICAN INDIAN 1.3%,
ASIAN (NON-HISPANIC) 5.9%
BLACK OR AFRICAN AMERICAN (NON-HISPANIC) 13.4%
CALIFORNIA
WHITE (NON-HISPANIC) 60.1%
iversity is more than just a noble goal. It is a necessity. Diversity is an engine that powers a vibrant and dynamic economy and civic life. Of late, in the face of significant civil unrest that has pitted an aggrieved African American community against the police, and a presidential administration that has consistently painted immigrants—mostly those from predominantly black and brown countries, as responsible for all manner of societal ills—the idea of diversity as aspiration has taken it on the chin. Fortunately, in Pasadena, we continue to embrace the concept, understand its value, and enjoy a truly diverse population that keeps us pointing toward the future rather than mired in a discordant past. While we cannot ignore the structural inequities that still erect economic and social barriers, with a City Council that mirrors the diversity of the city itself, and a commitment to promoting the advantages inherent in such a diverse population, we can be confident Pasadena remains focused on righting not just economic inequality but fostering educational and judicial equity as well. As James T. Ellison said, “The real death of America will come when everyone is alike.”
ASIAN (NON-HISPANIC) 15.2%
PASADENA
WHITE (HISPANIC) 18.5%
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WHITE (HISPANIC) 34.8%
“Diversity is not about how we differ. Diversity is about embracing one another’s uniqueness.” -Ola Joseph
WHITE (NON-HISPANIC) 36.5%
PASADENA’S RACIAL DIVERSITY
WHITE (NON-HISPANIC) 35.4%
DIVERSITY
Source: USA Census Data
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e c n e r e id ff rs e k a m DIFFERENCE MAKERS
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Meet the movers and shakers in our community whose work is making a positive difference in the lives of others. by MARIO BOUCHER, JULIE CARLSON, CUYLER GIBBONS, SARA SMOLA, and DANIEL TOZIER
f you were to randomly survey people about what they want to accomplish in their life, a certain majority will respond that they “want to make a difference.” Nevertheless, it’s woefully easy to get caught up in the quotidian reality while trying to keep your life together and on track. It’s easy to lose sight of your noble intentions. Some individuals, however, have integrated noble goals with their work and daily lives. People whose influence acts like a stone thrown into a lake, the positive effects rippling outward and washing over countless other individuals. These are Difference Makers, people who touch other lives in profound and positive ways. The Pasadena community has no shortage of such people. We meet a number of them here.
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ALLEN EDSON
Pasadena NAACP President
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llen Edson, the current president of the Pasadena NAACP, was born and raised right here in Pasadena. Although he went north and lived in the Bay Area for 30 years, he returned in 2012 and plans to stay. At least until he deploys an exit strategy that involves cold lemonade and a Moroccan beach. Until then, we can count on Edson to press forward on the issues vital to the African American community. Given his recent success, he’s on somewhat of a roll. Transparency around police activity, particularly when a police shooting is involved, has been a source of tension for many years. At least since 2015, when Councilman John Kennedy of the 3rd District put forth legislation requiring police oversight, the issue has been on the legislative table. The recent George Floyd murder, and resulting discord, served as a significant catalyst. “It was beautiful to see it evolve,” says Edson. “From the Juneteenth caravan from Brookside Park, where we presented a list of 12 demands, to yesterday when the Tornek-Kennedy proposal was decided.” This now-adopted proposal creates an independent auditor position, chosen by vote of the City Council along with a police oversight commission. As Edson says, “A lot of times, information is suppressed…the auditor will be independent and will conduct their own investigation.” The method for choosing the Police Commission members was undecided at the time of this writing, but several community organizations will be given a role in the selection. It is expected that the NAACP will be one. As for the others, Edson believes “they should have some experience working on police issues.” As vital as police oversight is, aid for the business community suffering through the trials of the pandemic weighs heavily as well. Edson is particularly proud of his organization’s role in helping local businesses through the local NAACP Stimulus Fund. “A lot of CARES Act funding (the federal COVID relief program) didn’t get to African American business,” says Edson. The local stimulus money was funded entirely through donations and has passed out over $30,000 in $2,000 grants to help local struggling African American-owned businesses. Edson, who is finishing up a successful first term as Pasadena’s NAACP president and is up for reelection in November, says, “I don’t take anything for granted. It’s a challenge, but I feel confident.”
ANNE MISKEY
Union Station Homeless Services CEO
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nne Miskey is driven by the passion to create change and support people experiencing homelessness, poverty, racism, and violence. From her native Canada to Pasadena, Miskey has excelled in providing strategic, innovative, and effective solutions.
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After earning a degree in religious studies from the University of Toronto, Miskey worked as director of the Oakville Community Foundation and the United Way of Oakville. “I wanted to know how can we get to the root of societal problems, how do we fix them, and what [is the] role of funders like governments, businesses, and various philanthropies,” says Miskey. “That was the first time in my career that I started to believe you had to bring people together from all parts of society, all different sectors, and not just the nonprofit sector.” In 2010, Miskey moved to Boston to become the executive director of Funders Together to End Homelessness and also worked on former First Lady Michelle Obama’s Joining Forces Campaign to help veteran homelessness. She spoke on women and youth homelessness at the White House. “If you are truly going to solve problems, you have to fix all the systems that drive people into homelessness and create systems that actually work for people,” explains Miskey. In 2015, Miskey moved west to take over as CEO of the Downtown Women’s Center in Los Angeles, dedicated to the needs of women experiencing homelessness. “That was my first time actually working on the ground with direct services,” says Miskey, who discovered that working on policies in an office and directly in person on the street was the best way to see how people are being affected and to find solutions. “I believe that you have to bring the two together and you have to work on both to see what could be done to make permanent change for people.”
The idea is that the client, and how we treat our clients, is the most important thing, to treat people with respect and dignity. —ANNE MISKEY
In June 2018, Miskey was hired to be the CEO of Union Station Homeless Services in Pasadena. “I love the opportunity in Pasadena of being closely connected to the community and working with a broader group of people, all populations, and communities,” says Miskey, who is also co-chair of the Business Oversight Committee that helps Pasadena businesses and organizations achieve racial equality and maximize operational effectiveness. “The idea is that the client, and how we treat our clients, is the most important thing, to treat people with respect and dignity,” emphasizes Miskey. “We have a philosophy that we don’t lead people out of homelessness, we walk beside them on their journey.” COVID-19 has forced Union Station Homeless Services to deal with the closing of food banks, but the organization was able to overcome the challenge. “We went from 2,000 meals a week to 8,000 meals a week overnight,” says Miskey, adding that the organization partnered with many local businesses to deliver the meals. “In my work, just to see what little you had to often do to change someone’s life is incredibly inspiring.”
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DIFFERENCE MAKERS
DR. ANNIE CHIN SIU Orthodontist
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on’t just take, give something back,” a teacher once told Dr. Annie Chin Siu, a now-retired orthodontist. Throughout her life, Dr. Siu has lived by those words as an active member of her community. Growing up in San Francisco’s Chinatown as one of seven children, Dr. Siu learned early on that education, hard work, and perseverance would open the door of opportunity. With her “can do” attitude and saving money working jobs—from grammar school through university—she was able to pay for her first year of dental school.Originally, Dr. Siu considered being a dental hygienist. It was her brother who encouraged her to be a dentist, saying, “Don’t just take the low road, take the high road and be brave.” In 1950, Siu was the first woman and first Chinese woman to attend the University of California, San Francisco’s dental school. “They were taking six names for students to go into orthodontics,” Dr. Siu says. “Another student, who I didn’t admire, was so sure he would get a spot. So, I raised my hand before he did and got it.” She married Tim Siu, whom she’d met at the University of California, Berkeley. The couple settled in Alhambra, but it was hard for Dr. Siu to find work as a dentist. No one would hire a woman, much less a Chinese woman. A former
Be brave by opening doors and walking through them to experience new opportunities for yourself and others. —DR. ANNIE CHIN SIU
classmate in Westwood asked Dr. Siu to work in his office. In 1955, Dr. Siu decided to open her own practice. She later moved her office to 806 S. Garfield Ave., which was designed in front of her home. Still believing in the importance of education, Dr. Siu went on to teach as well, becoming a professor for undergraduate orthodontics at the prestigious Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC. A professor suggested Dr. Siu join local groups to get to know the neighborhood and the community, which she turned into lifelong commitments. Dr. Siu has served on the boards of the YMCA, United Way, and was president of the Alhambra Chamber of Commerce. Since 1956, she has been an active member of Soroptimist International of Alhambra, San Gabriel, San Marino, helping women and girls. She also implemented the Rose Queen and Court luncheon in Alhambra, now celebrating 32 years. In 2015, Dr. Siu published her memoir, “Roads Into and Out of Chinatown.” “Making a difference in people’s lives is creating the network of life—like weaving a fabric that supports and enhances life,” says Dr. Siu. “Be brave by opening doors and walking through them to experience new opportunities for yourself and others.”
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DR. GAY Q. YUEN
Friends of the Chinese American Museum President
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r. Gay Q. Yuen turned a childhood trauma into a career of helping others overcome their own personal issues. “I knew what had happened to me should not have happened,” says Dr. Yuen, referring to being slapped by a teacher and bullied by many students for not speaking English after her family immigrated to Los Angeles from Hong Kong when she was only 6 years old. It led Dr. Yuen to suffer from personal issues like selfhatred while growing up. She “decided that no other child will ever be slapped again” and attended UCLA, where she focused on ethnic studies and “began to understand the experience of being an immigrant.” Dr. Yuen received her bachelor’s degree in Chinese studies from UCLA, followed by a doctorate in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis on language literacy and learning from the University of Southern California. She worked primarily in bilingual and multicultural education, promoting cross-cultural understanding and educational equity for Asian Americans and other students of color. “Part of my awakening began in the 1960s with civil unrest and continued with the 1992 Los Angeles riots through the current situation,” says Dr. Yuen. “Unfortunately, things haven’t really changed much since.
I wanted to encourage people to help other people because no one should stand alone. —DR. GAY Q. YUEN
Yet, I think this time, there is a realization that we need to act now against racism through economy access and education.” Dr. Yuen dedicated her life to education as a school teacher and as an administrator for the Los Angeles Unified School District, where she established the first Mandarin immersion program. For 30 years, she was a professor of teacher education at California State University, Los Angeles, where she served as the chair of the Division of Curriculum and Instruction, and many graduate education programs. Dr. Yuen was instrumental in developing the statewide bilingual and English as a Second Language standards, now part of the guidelines for the education and assessment of K-12 students, and the credentialing of bilingual teachers in California. She has also received many awards along the way for her work in education, women’s rights, and social justice. “The best payback was to teach and educate people, especially the younger generation, and help change attitudes toward people,” says Dr. Yuen. “I wanted to encourage people to help other people because no one should stand alone.” Dr. Yuen remains active serving on local boards, including the Asian Pacific Advisory Council at Pasadena City College, helping to improve relationships within the community and
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attract more Asian students to the college. “We’re right at the edge of an awakening,” says Dr. Yuen. “I can’t imagine going back again. It’s your action that you can control.”
GERDA GOVINE ITUARTE Poet
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hen referencing living in Pasadena for over 30 years, Gerda Govine Ituarte jokes that Pasadena is in her DNA—but the truth is that her DNA will forever be intertwined in Pasadena’s. Dubbed “The Poetry Lady,” Govine Ituarte’s contributions and advocacy have impacted Pasadena’s arts and culture environment due to her role in helping to shape the city into the arts and culture hub it is today. But the path to poetry wasn’t a straight line. “Initially, I wanted to be a high school teacher of shorthand and typing,” explains Govine Ituarte. “Because I went to, at that time, a vocational school and I was told by the guidance counselor that I couldn’t go to college. But, I had two African American shorthand and typing teachers who went to college.” Govine Ituarte applied to New York University as her only choice—and was accepted. “I worked during the day and I went to school at night,” she explains, acknowledging her goal of achieving a debt-free education. Her hard work paid off resulting in earning a bachelor’s degree, two master’s degrees, and a doctorate of education in business subjects and higher and adult education administration and research from New York University and Teachers College, Columbia University. Govine Ituarte began a deeper exploration into poetry in 2010 after her daughter’s death as a way of “coping,” writing every morning after she woke up. “I started writing and my husband (artist Luis Ituarte) said, ‘I’ll do the artwork and Spanish version,’” resulting in Govine Ituarte’s first book being in English and Spanish. “I’ve been writing [poetry] ever since,” says Govine Ituarte.
For me, it was about whenever people pulled out the arts and culture tapestry, I wanted poetry to be one of the threads in that tapestry. —GERDA GOVINE ITUARTE
Just a few years later, Govine Ituarte’s former role as the executive director of the City of Pasadena Commission on the Status of Women (and subsequent connections), came into play when she received a call from the City of Pasadena’s Cultural Affairs Division requesting that she create a poetry component for the city’s National Endowment for the Arts Grant, resulting in an idea for a lunchtime series (later leading PASADENAMAG.COM
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to poetry readings at Pasadena City Council meetings, which continue to this day). Govine Ituarte’s “Poetry Within Reach in Unexpected Places” series emphasizes “within reach”—making poetry accessible to everyone of a variety of backgrounds, incomes, and ages. “I knew I couldn’t do it by myself so I called nine poets and all of them said yes,” says Govine Ituarte. “My husband named us The Pasadena Rose Poets and we started at the senior center doing those lunchtime readings, and then we started being invited by the library to do ArtNight, to read at the library at various branches, a couple times [we did something] for Black History Month. For me, it was about whenever people pulled out the arts and culture tapestry, I wanted poetry to be one of the threads in that tapestry.” In addition to her community impact, Govine Ituarte’s poetry has appeared in the Altadena Poetry Review, “Hometown Pasadena,” Pasadena/San Gabriel Valley Journal, and many other publications. Her poetry collection includes “Poetry Within Reach in Unexpected Places,” “Future Awakes in Mouth of NOW,” “Alterations|Thread Light Through Eye of Storm,” as well as her inaugural tome, “Oh, Where is My Candle Hat?” in English and Spanish.
GINA STOVALL Clothing Designer
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ith the ever-revolving stream of massproduced products circling through big name retailers, the struggle to keep up with the latest styles and trends has led to consumer (and bank account) burnout. However, small designers are making a big impact on the fast fashion industry, creating ethically and locally produced clothing. Shopping with one local label in particular, Two Days Off, is an investment in both the environment and the community. Two Days Off founder Gina Stovall felt compelled to do something after learning about the environmental impact of the fashion industry. “ I knew at some point I would want to start a business that worked to address the climate crisis, but it wasn’t until 2017 that the thought of a clothing line came to mind,” says Stovall. “I learned to sew when I was young and loved designing and making my own clothing, but before then had never thought about making them for other people. But as I started to learn about sustainable and slow fashion, I became intrigued by the idea of a creative business that de-emphasized consumption and instead was value-driven.” At the time, Stovall was a geologist and earth scientist by day (armed with a master’s degree from Columbia University, where she focused her work on climate research and solutions), while at night slowly building her clothing business. After the label began to gain momentum, Stovall officially left her day job at the beginning of 2020 to focus full time on Two Days Off. In keeping with her sustainable and eco-friendly ethos, Stovall’s clothing line focuses on made-to-order and smallbatch production, quality fabrics that wash and wear well, using carefully crafted construction techniques and designing for versatility. “I stick to natural fibers like linen and cotton because they will biodegrade or can be recycled, and source deadstock and vintage fabrics that already JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
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DIFFERENCE MAKERS exist as opposed to making new ones whenever I can,” explains Stovall. “And I focus on sourcing from small, local businesses that have similar values to my own.” While Two Days Off may be small in size, the label is heavily contributing to the growing impact in the fashion world, as both big brands and consumers are taking notice of the green movement: retailers are changing their production to adapt more sustainable and ethical practices, and consumers are actively seeking to support local makers and purchase high-quality, ethically made goods.
JOHN PEREZ
service calls while minimizing physical encounters with people,” he says. Even when dealing with more than 30,000 people protesting on the streets, Perez adds, “It is a fine balance between allowing people to protest peacefully and keeping the peace.” Perez called the shooting of Anthony McClain in August a tragedy and made sure that “within a couple of days, I released videos and the coroner’s report, wanting to be transparent because our residents want us to be better and not police a certain way that involves pre-conceived racism,” he says. Perez believes “intervention is the future of law enforcement” and is working with a gaming company to develop a training program that breaks down choices available to officers. “We can do better,” says Perez. “I just want to fix things. That’s what keeps me motivated to do my best.”
Pasadena Police Chief
We can do better. I just want to fix things. That’s what keeps me motivated to do my best. —JOHN PEREZ
As chief, Perez launched several initiatives in an attempt to find ways to improve how officers do their job and help the department better relate to its community. Among his restructuring platforms, Perez instituted a mandatory video review, allowing officers to evaluate their techniques, and a 30-day review process for any officer use of force. Police use of force decreased 50% in the program’s first 18 months. “It was a real game changer because it helped to improve an officer’s performance before disciplinary action,” says Perez. Anticipating a surge in calls after the pandemic hit last March, Perez and his staff “were set up really well for COVID-19 and able to handle between 10,000 and 12,000
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LYNELL GEORGE Journalist and Essayist
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n “Angeleno born and bred,” Lynell George spent much of her life across the stretch of Los Angeles County: Jefferson Park, Crenshaw District, Culver City, Venice, Echo Park, and San Gabriel Valley. Her self-described “nomadic habits” opened her eyes to the region’s complexity, which served as inspiration for much of her writing, including her first book, “After/Image: Los Angeles Outside the Frame.” “I worked as a bookstore clerk, an editor, and have taught, but mostly I’ve lived my life as a writer,” says George. “For years, as a staff reporter, I covered sense of place, human behavior, and the arts for both LA Weekly and the Los Angeles Times, and I always tell people that there are many Los Angeleses, that it is too vast to be summed up in a sentence. This has always been, and continues to be, true.”
What does it take to create a writer’s life? Your own life? You start with what is known and then you push off deep into your imagination. You speak it, until it is so. —LYNELL GEORGE
George was a lifelong reader who started writing with the intention of recapturing a mood and/or extending the scenario of the stories she enjoyed as a child. “I liked books where girls hatched outlandish plans, where they flouted rules or lived richly in their imagination,” notes George, whose childhood writing evolved into a successful career and lauded accomplishments—including a Grammy Award for her liner notes in the Otis Redding album, “Live At
Lynell George photo by Kirk McKoy
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ohn Perez’s lifelong passion is that law enforcement can make the world a better place. Growing up in La Puente, Perez grew up with violence in his neighborhood. At age 14, Perez experienced personal tragedy when one of his cousins was stabbed and killed as an innocent bystander during a gang fight. “I believe I had a lot of early insight into the law,” says Perez. When he turned 18, Perez joined the Pasadena Police Department as a cadet and steadily climbed the ranks to become chief of police in 2018. “I’m the first police chief from within the organization in 35 years,” he notes. Along the way, Perez earned a doctorate in public administration and worked as an undercover officer, was on SWAT teams, supervised gang units, and commanded divisions. He is in charge of 325 employees and an annual budget of $82 million. “During the 1992 riots, I was working in narcotics enforcement and I saw a lot of violence that impacted individuals and families,” says Perez. “In the 1990s, I saw a lot of changes, including trust with police officers. I’ve seen my share of complaints about excessive force and harassment over the years.”
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The Whisky A Go Go: The Complete Recordings.” “Also, I didn’t realize this until much later, but I was writing, in a certain way, to reflect the world and relationships around me. I came to realize that that was missing and that it was in certain ways very important, though I didn’t have words for that inclination as a child.” In 2016, George was among several artists and writers selected to create a piece for a year-long initiative honoring the life and legacy of celebrated writer and native Pasadenan, Octavia E. Butler. The commission sparked a realization in George: “I realized that another piece was starting to write itself in the pages of my own notebooks,” she says. “I was most transfixed by some of the modest, everyday items and the daily dedicated rituals Butler employed to create what became an extraordinary life. I was especially taken by the dime store notebooks, her bus passes and transit timetables, her library card, her calendars in which she made promises to herself and articulated her writing goals. Just as noteworthy were her calculations: the checks she was waiting for and the money that had to go out to pay her monthly bills. The juggle of the everyday.” George’s deep dive exploration into Butler’s life, both the everyday and creative process, birthed her recently released book, “A Handful of Earth, A Handful of Sky: The World of Octavia E. Butler” (published by Angel City Press). The title is an homage to a Butler quote: “She was often asked, ‘What is science fiction?’ Her response was, ‘A handful of earth, a handful of sky, and everything around and in between,’” explains George. “In other words, she grounded her ‘worlds’ in recognizable landscapes—a bit of this and a bit of that. A recipe. And in the same way she did exactly this with her own life. What does it take to create a writer’s life? Your own life? You start with what is known and then you push off deep into your imagination. You speak it, until it is so.”
them edit their own listings, the app has been able to offer Pasadena the most accurate, up-to-date information. The app’s design is straightforward and clean, making it a breeze to navigate through the various Pasadena eateries and find your favorite spot. One click reveals the updated business hours for each restaurant, any ongoing specials, contact information, and links to all the delivery services they’ve partnered with.
ROB MCCLINTON
ROBERT SHAHNAZARIAN
Small World Communications Owner
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hen COVID-19 restrictions threatened restaurants across Pasadena, digital strategist Rob McClinton picked up the tools of his trade and began working on ways to save the city’s renowned food scene. As the owner of Pasadena-based marketing company, Small World Communications, McClinton had plenty of experience developing businesses’ online presence and connecting them with prospective customers. Wanting to use his expertise to help struggling eateries, he teamed up with the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce and created the app Be Local Strong: Pasadena. When trying to support local restaurants in the early days of the pandemic, McClinton and his family continually ran into the same problem. With federal and state restrictions in constant flux, it became difficult to figure out if their favorite places were still open, if their hours had changed, and whether or not they were offering delivery and takeout. Be Local Strong: Pasadena was created to clear that hurdle by congregating all the information required for Pasadena’s dinner time decisions into one place. And by turning control over to restaurant owners and letting
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Restaurants are taking so many hits from so many different directions. It was important to me to give everyone a boost and help them get as much business as possible. —ROB MCCLINTON
To maximize the benefits for restaurants, McClinton is keeping the service free to all and, unlike similar apps, isn’t charging restaurants to be listed. “Restaurants are taking so many hits from so many different directions,” he explains. “It was important to me to give everyone a boost and help them get as much business as possible.” Be Local Strong: Pasadena has helped thousands of users rediscover the city’s incredible food scene, and with a similar app for shops and retailers in the works, McClinton isn’t done helping yet.
NOOR Senior Vice President of Sales
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hen a pandemic forces everyone indoors and asks them to remain socially distanced, event spaces are going to take a hit. And NOOR, one of Pasadena’s premier event spaces, was no exception in that regard. In 2010, Robert Shahnazarian and his wife Maggie co-founded NOOR. For their 10-year anniversary, they were rewarded with the pandemic. NOOR could have panicked or just gone underground and hoped to wait it out. Fortunately, Shahnazarian was not one to let NOOR sit idle. He had a crew to continue to keep engaged and a community he felt passionate about that needed help. Not just physical help, but the psychological kind that comfort food provides. A week after the lockdown occurred, Shahnazarian called his chef and his partners to discuss what they could do to keep their facility working and their staff active. Sometimes nothing says goodwill more than warm soup, and that’s what NOOR set out to provide. Every Friday, the staff began producing 32-ounce pre-packaged soups for distribution to anyone who showed up at the door. The kitchen served everyone from the local homeless to young JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
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DIFFERENCE MAKERS professionals living in the apartments above the NOOR event space—there were no restrictions. “It was about serving the community,” Shahnazarian says. And that they most certainly did. While the soup kitchen was active, NOOR ladled over 14,000 free servings to the hungry people of Pasadena. People that were hungry not just for food, but for the connection that such a communal endeavor provides. Eventually with the help of a grant through the city’s “Great Plates Delivered” program, NOOR was able to transition to serving 300 meals a week, delivered directly to seniors that were stuck at home and needed help. NOOR is philanthropic not only by principle but by association, serving as a popular event space for many of the city’s numerous charitable events. Yet, while 95% of the weddings (NOOR’s other main revenue source) simply
It was about serving the community. —ROBERT SHAHNAZARIAN
rescheduled for later in the year, many of the charities were unsure how to proceed during such an uncertain public health crisis. NOOR, sensing the symbiosis with its nowtested home delivery system, proposed a solution. “NOOR to Go” brings the popular catering menu to individual homes. Nonprofits and other organizations can still “gather” for their fundraising galas, just in a situation where everybody stays home. Because of prior experience, NOOR can confidently deliver up to 300 meals along with a gift bag, champagne, and wine to the organization’s members, who can then enjoy the program of events via Zoom from home. Local food needs and the necessity of a new business model during a time when large gatherings are impossible collided in the form of this pandemic. Thanks to Shahnazarian and the team at NOOR, that collision was a catalyst for positive change.
STEPHEN NOWLIN Curator/Artist
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usic was part of the fabric of Stephen Nowlin’s home. He grew up with sound and it inspired his visual imagination. “My parents (Ray and Roberta Nowlin) were musicians and they practiced at home all the time, so I was swaddled in music from birth,” says Nowlin. “Growing up, there was no stereo system in the house, just live performance—syncopated, emotional, sometimes annoying but beautiful music with breadth and depth—and for me its influence somehow translated into the making of visual images and objects rather than sounds from an instrument.” Nowlin’s parents performed with an orchestra and rehearsed at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. With his older sisters keeping an eye on him, a young Stephen would walk across the row of seats and side aisle to get close to the
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interior walls with pictures of faux three-dimensional folds of hanging curtain. “I ran my palm across the wall’s surface and marveled at how its flatness could permit the magical illusion of those curtains,” he explains. Nowlin helped build a model of the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) for architects Ladd & Kelsey, worked in the Astro-Electronics Lab at California Institute of Technology, drafted computer circuits for the Mount Wilson and Palomar Observatories, and participated in Caltech’s Experiments in Art & Technology program, working with computer animation pioneer John Whitney. After receiving his MFA degree from ArtCenter College of Design, Nowlin saw his work exhibited at the Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery and the Los Angeles Institute of Contemporary Art, among others. He curated over 40 exhibitions and collaborated with architect Frederick Fisher on Fisher’s design for the Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery on ArtCenter’s campus. “As a curator, I’ve explored the intersection of science and art, which for me is a way of probing the poetics embodied in humankind’s long and varied search for truth,” said Nowlin. COVID-19 altered the way the ArtCenter operates, forcing the reimagination of how to teach art in a pandemic world. “ArtCenter’s curated spaces, expanding to include galleries at both Pasadena campuses and downtown LA when the pandemic hit, have shifted to a robust schedule of virtual exhibitions that will continue to enrich its programs even when some form of normality returns,” he says.
As a curator, I’ve explored the intersection of science and art, which for me is a way of probing the poetics embodied in humankind’s long and varied search for truth. —STEPHEN NOWLIN
“ArtCenter’s mission statement, ‘Learn to Create. Influence Change,’ was made for this kind of moment,” says Nowlin, adding that artists always find a way to communicate their ideas and connect with audience regardless of circumstances. “Uncertainty causes anxieties of course, but it also motivates us to forge new ideas and discover greater knowledge. Art can and should examine the anxieties of our current uncertainties, to help shepherd us toward critical thinking, change, and truth.”
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P E O P L E T O W AT C H 2 0 2 1
MIKE HANEY
ARROYO INVESTMENT GROUP CAPITAL RESEARCH+CONSULTING MARKETING DIRECTOR
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WHO WE ARE: Our two firms oversee more than $5 billion in client assets. ARROYO INVESTMENT GROUP: manages client portfolios while working closely with a client’s trusted group of professionals. Capital Research + Consulting designs, implements and monitors corporate/ government retirement plans.
+ YOUR STORY: Since graduating from USC in 1973 I have dedicated my life to helping people, our community and charities. I joined Arroyo Investment Group in January 2006 after thirty years of service for the City of Glendale. I started in the Police Department and then later transferred to the Fire Department in 1980. I promoted through the ranks to Battalion Chief my last eleven years of service. I am proud to say that I have reinvented myself four times: Pro Golfer, Police Officer, Firefighter, and Investment Advisor Representative. I like to tell clients that I have been helping people since college; it is just a different uniform. BEST ADVICE: Make sure you work with a CFP® and that their performance numbers are GIPS verified. Stay invested. Success begets success. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2020 2021“Service Above Self Award” Glendale Sunrise Rotary. All-American Golfer for U.S.C. in 1973, Co-Captain for the Trojans in 1973. Seven-Time Club Champion Oakmont Country Club. 2006 – Glendale College Hall of Fame. 1994 - Albert G. Cornwell Award “Above and Beyond” American Red Cross. 1994 – California Golden Bear Award – American Red Cross for exceptional service. 1992 – Protector of the Public Award. BUCKET LIST: Play Augusta National Golf Club ADDRESS: 15 S. Raymond Avenue Suite 200, Pasadena, CA 91208 PHONE: 818-720-7740 ONLINE: ArroyoInvestmentGroup.com CapitalResearchandConsulting.com EMAIL: MHaney@ArroyoInvestmentGroup.com
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P E O P L E T O W AT C H 2 0 2 1
JOHN ODELL, CFP®
ARROYO INVESTMENT GROUP/ CAPITAL RESEARCH+CONSULTING PRINCIPAL
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WHO WE ARE: Our two firms oversee more than $5 billion in client assets. Arroyo Investment Group manages client portfolios with a minimum of $200,000 while working closely with a client’s trusted group of professional specialists such as accountants, attorneys and thirdparty administrators. Capital Research + Consulting designs, implements and monitors corporate/ government retirement plans. With so much litigation in the retirement plan arena, employers hire our firm to establish proper processes adhering to the highest industry standards while providing a tremendous employee benefit.
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BEST ADVICE: Managing wealth requires prudent mentoring and validation. When seeking a wealth manager, first, find someone who is a CFP®. Only 20% of financial professionals hold this highly regarded certification. Finding a CFP® in your area can be found on the CFP® website. Next, ensure your wealth manager’s performance numbers are GIPS verified. Only 1,600 firms worldwide adhere to GIPS standards, the highest standards in the investment industry. Firms not adhering to GIPS standards cannot assure prospective clients that their historical track record is both complete and fairly presented. A list of GIPS verified managers can be found on the GIPS website. If your wealth manager is not a CFP® with a GIPS verified track record, find one that is! PROUD MOMENT: Seeing our GIPS verified investment returns outperform their benchmarks with less risk. In our business, that is nirvana. BEST PART OF MY JOB: Working with a client over a long period of time and watching their life dreams become reality! ADDRESS: 15 S. Raymond Avenue, Pasadena PHONE: 626.844.1441 ONLINE: ArroyoInvestmentGroup.com CapitalResearchandConsulting.com EMAIL: jodell@arroyoinvestmentgroup.com
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FOOD & DRINK
FOOD& DRINK C U I S I N E | C H E E R S | R E S TA U R A N T G U I D E
CHAMPAGNE COCKTAILS: SEE CHEERS PAGE 57
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FOOD & DRINK: CUISINE
A TASTE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN These local restaurants showcase the best of the region’s diverse cuisine and flavor profiles. by KAMALA KIRK
CAVA Founded in 2010 by three childhood friends that are first-generation Greek Americans, CAVA has since expanded to over 100 locations nationwide. Their food is inspired by the hospitality and flavors of the Levant region of the Mediterranean, emphasizing nutrition-forward, wellsourced, and boldly flavored meals. Their fully customizable menu offers a variety of greens and grains, mezze dips and spreads like their signature Crazy Feta and creamy hummus, and homemade falafel and fire grilled Harissa Honey Chicken served with unlimited toppings like olives, pickled onions, and freshly made dressings and vinaigrettes. For those who prefer a more curated experience, they recently launched chefcurated bowls and salads, such as fan-favorite Harissa Avocado and Greek Salad, as well as Roasted White Sweet Potato + Super Greens for those who prefer a vegetarianforward option. “CAVA means ‘wine cellar’ in Greek, but to us CAVA is celebrating family and friends,” says Ted Xenohristos, co-founder and chief concept officer. “It’s about good food and generosity.” 345 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
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HUMMUS LABS Inspired by his mother’s recipes, owner Joseph Badaro fuses traditional Lebanese dishes with New Age flavors to create innovative cuisine that is fresh and modern. Fresh batches of hummus are made daily in a variety of unique flavors including cilantro jalapeno, garlic, and roasted tomato habanero. The Shawarma Nachos regularly sell out and combine hand carved beef, marinated shawarma spices, pan seared tomatoes, and onions on a bed of house made pita chips. Popular signature platters include chicken kabob, filet mignon, Mediterranean salmon, and falafel—all of which are served on a bed of rice or lettuce with pita bread and an array of 10 different side options such as tzatziki, feta cheese dip, and Baba Ghanoush. “Guests can tailor their platters to their exact liking,” shares Badaro. “We’re a combination of quality and innovation. We’ve made Mediterranean food exciting again.” 950 E. Colorado Blvd., Ste. 104, Pasadena
FATHER NATURE LAVASH BISTRO Voted one of Pasadena’s Heart Healthy Restaurants, the second generation-owned establishment has been serving authentic and healthy Mediterranean cuisine since 1984. Focusing on quality and consistency, one of their house specialties is the Double Pleasure Wrap, which combines two favorites into one: chicken shawarma and falafel mixed with romaine lettuce, tomato, white onion, parsley, and homemade tahini. Other favorites are the Grilled Chicken Wrap made with allnatural white meat chicken, garlic aioli, and homemade tahini; and the Old Town Salad, which includes tomato, cucumber, red and green bell pepper, pickled turnips, green onion, and crispy Lavash chips. The mouthwatering homemade Vegan Baklava is the perfect ending to any meal. 17 N. De Lacey Ave., Pasadena
ZANKOU CHICKEN Family-owned and operated Zankou Chicken opened their first restaurant in Beirut in 1962, and now has 11 additional locations in Southern California. Their popular Chicken Tarna dish features hand sliced, boneless chicken marinated in an herb and spice bath using traditional herbs and spices, then spit roasted to perfection. They’re also known for their Rotisserie Chicken, which can be enjoyed in freshly baked pita bread topped with hand diced tomatoes and coupled with their creamy garlic sauce: a rich blend of garlic and a handful of other secret ingredients. The Baklava is an indulgently sweet dessert that has been in the family for years and is a must-try with chopped walnuts and orange blossom nestled between flaky and buttery filo dough. When it comes to preparation, Zankou Chicken has a “no canned goods” policy and makes all of their dishes from scratch. “We use only the finest ingredients in all of our dishes and we are committed to ensuring freshness in everything,” says Vartkes Iskenderian, co-owner of Zankou Chicken. “The Iskenderian family wanted to share authentic experiences with their community and knew the best way to do so was with delicious food using tried-and-true family recipes.” 1296 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
Photos: CAVA Image by Alex Lau
The geographical diversity of the regions located around the Mediterranean Sea contributes to an array of versatile foods and flavors. While many Mediterranean dishes share common elements, there are different culinary variations that come from each culture. From Greek to Lebanese, Pasadena is home to a wide variety of eateries that each offers a distinct take on Mediterranean cuisine.
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FOOD & DRINK: CHEERS
A SPLASH OF BUBBLY by DANIEL TOZIER What’s a party without the pop of a champagne cork as it flies across the room? For decades, we’ve opened bottles of bubbly to celebrate everything from marriages to job promotions, and most recently, the new year. Lucky for us, these Pasadena restaurants are far from finished with their celebrations as their bartenders are mixing up a few delicious champagne cocktails worth raising a glass to. FOOTHILL RESTAURANT Lillet Spritz A unique take on a French classic, Foothill Restaurant’s Lillet Spritz makes for a wonderfully boozy addition to any dish from their delicious brunch menu. For this bubbly drink, Lillet Blanc, a mildly sweet white wine with notes of honey and spice, is mixed with a pour of champagne and a dash of house-made rose water. A splash of soda water blunts the otherwise sharp palate, leaving patrons with a perfectly crisp cocktail. The drink comes garnished with a slice of orange and a sprig of rosemary, lending it robust notes of winter and making it a complex yet sippable drink for the season. 2835 E. Foothill Blvd.
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WHITE HORSE LOUNGE French 75 This classic cocktail was being mixed in bars across New York as early as the 1920s, even making an appearance in the classic film “Casablanca.” The bartenders at White Horse Lounge have always had a knack for reviving cocktails that have unjustly fallen out of vogue and their French 75 is yet another success. Combining London dry gin with freshly squeezed lemon juice, a splash of simple syrup, and a sparkling pour of California Brut makes for an effervescent drink, just tart enough without overpowering. The crystal cut wine glass it arrives in and the bar’s vintage atmosphere only add to the timeless feel of this reborn classic. 41 S. De Lacey Ave.
EDWIN MILLS BY EQUATOR Lychee Sake Mimosa Stand on Colorado Boulevard on a Sunday morning, throw a rock in any direction, and you’ll hit a restaurant serving bottomless mimosas. Edwin Mills by Equator is one such restaurant, but what sets this eclectic spot apart is its full menu of more than 10 varieties of the classic brunch cocktail including strawberry coconut, peach raspberry, and pomegranate. All the fruit mixes are made in-house from scratch and, because they’re bottomless, you can jump from one to the other, working your way through the varied selection. But it’s their lychee sake mimosa that really stands out. It’s a unique take that works surprisingly well with the sake’s sweet floral notes balancing out the crisp tart flavors of the dry champagne. 22 Mills Pl.
LA GRANDE ORANGE CAFÉ All Dressed Up The team at La Grande Orange Café is bringing back their popular seasonal cocktail, All Dressed Up, just in time for winter. This drink brings together Fords Gin, a well-rounded blend from London that’s perfect for mixing cocktails, a dash of Leopold Cherry Liqueur, a bit of lemon juice, and sparkling white wine grown and bottled in Paso Robles in partnership with the restaurant. One might expect so many uniquely sharp flavors to clash, but by some kind of alchemy they come together incredibly well. The cocktail, served chilled in a 1920s-style champagne glass, offers warm spiced notes of orange and hints of caramel, perfect for sipping on a cold winter’s night. 260 S. Raymond Ave.
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F O O D & D R I N K : R E S TAU R A N T G U I D E For a complete listing of our restaurant guide, please visit pasadenamag.com
experience with its glamorous dining room, fabulous Piano Bar, and scrumptious dinner menu. The Wagyu Beef Burger is to die for. L-D Sun.; D Daily. 237 S. Brand Blvd. 818-839-4130 michaelmina.net $$$
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KATSUYA JAPANESE This popular sushi restaurant has mastered the California roll and every other variation. Expect innovation and fancy presentation. L-D daily. The Americana at Brand, 702 Americana Wy. 818-244-5900 sbe.com/ katsuya $$$
BON APPETEA CAFE CAFÉ A cozy and inviting café with a generous offering of delicious coffees and teas, as well as sandwiches and sweet treats. L-D daily. 7 S. 2nd St. 626-281-2266 bonappeteacafe.com $
MI CORAZON MEXICAN This family-owned Mexican restaurant is the story of an American dream realized. Each menu item is made patiently from scratch daily. L-D daily. 1402 W. Kenneth Rd. 818-500-8100 mi-corazon.net $$
FOSSELMAN’S DESSERT Quality ingredients and a variety of inventive flavors have earned this institution a loyal following since it opened in 1919. L-D daily. 1824 W. Main St. 626-282-6533 fosselmans.com $ ALTADENA BULGARINI GELATO DESSERT Husband and wife Leo Bulgarini and Elizabeth Foldi serve up delicate scoops of heaven at this award-winning gelateria. Dessert daily. 749 E. Altadena Dr. 626791-6174 bulgarinigelato.com $$ PIZZA OF VENICE ITALIAN A locally sourced neighborhood pizza joint looking to change the way you view pizza. With an ever-changing menu, this pizzeria believes in chef creativity and food sustainability. L-D daily. 2545 N. Fair Oaks Ave. 626-765-9636 pizzaofvenice.com $$ ARCADIA BOILING POINT TAIWANESE Experience a tour of hot soups with delicious regional flavors. From Japanese miso and spicy Taiwanese broths to Korean kimchi and Thai sapor, Boiling Point makes a killer bowl of soup. L-D daily. 206 1st Ave. 626-461-6688 bpgroupusa.com $$ THE DERBY AMERICAN One of Southern California’s original steakhouses. Enjoy the famous rack of lamb, tender ribeye, and fullservice bar. L-D Mon.-Fri.; D Sat.-Sun. 233 E. Huntington Dr. 626-447-2430 thederbyarcadia. com $$ DIN TAI FUNG DUMPLING HOUSE CHINESE The master chefs at this dumpling hotspot churn out perfectly round pouches filled with your choice of pork and/or crab in a perfectly seasoned broth. Call in the morning to reserve a bowl of their famous small dumpling soup, which is only served on weekends and always sells out by noon. L-D daily. 400 S. Baldwin Ave. 626-4468588 dintaifungusa.com $$ MATT DENNY’S ALE HOUSE AMERICAN Scrumptious pub and comfort foods from around the world. We recommend the sky high pastrami or try da’ corned beef! L-D daily. 145 E. Huntington Dr. 626-462-0250 mattdennys.com $$ ECHO PARK TAIX FRENCH RESTAURANT FRENCH This Eastside institution has been serving classic, indulgent, buttery French cuisine since 1927. Specialties include garlicy escargot, steak frites, and frog legs. A late night menu is available until 1 a.m. L-D daily. 1911 Sunset Blvd. 213-484-1265 taixfrench.com $$ GLENDALE BOURBON STEAK AMERICAN This modern American steakhouse offers a timeless
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PORTO’S BAKERY AND CAFE CUBAN This Cuban bakery specializes in hot-pressed pork sandwiches and stuffed potato balls. Order one of the festive and ornate cakes for your next party. B-L-D daily. 315 N. Brand Blvd. 818-956-5996 portosbakery.com $ HIGHLAND PARK THE HIGHLAND CAFE CAFE This eclectic hang fits perfectly into the diverse and blossoming surrounding area. You can stop in for lunch or spend all day parked on a couch with a cup of artfully brewed coffee. B-L daily. 5010 York Blvd. 323-259-1000 thehighlandcafela.com $$ LA CAÑADA HILL STREET CAFE AMERICAN Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and American. This restaurant has it all. It’s perfect for nights everyone in the family wants something different. B-L-D daily. 1004 Foothill Blvd. 818-952-1019 hillstreetcafelacanada.com $$ SAKANA SUSHI & GRILL JAPANESE Japanese fusion in a sleek setting. They have over a dozen rolls, sashimi platters, and a premium sake menu. Catch live jazz here on weekends. L-D Mon.-Sun. 2383 Foothill Blvd. 818-957-9922 thesakana. com $$ TAYLOR’S STEAKHOUSE STEAK HOUSE Steak aficionados have already heard about this award-winning restaurant. Its prime rib cuts are always masterfully grilled. L Mon.Fri.; D nightly. 901 Foothill Blvd. 818-790-7668 taylorssteakhouse.com $$$ MONROVIA CAFE MUNDIAL ITALIAN The quaint outdoor area is great for lunch and the intimate dining area is ideal for evening time. Try one of the more creative dishes like the filet mignon pizza or just stick to the classics. L Tues.-Fri.; D Tues.-Sun. 514 S. Myrtle Ave. 626-303-2233 cafemundial.org $$ CAFE LUMAR CROATION The Croation creations at this quaint cafe are exotic enough to appease the curious palate, but delicious enough to appeal to all. B-L Sun.; L-D Tues.-Sat. 136 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-357-2184 cafelumarmonrovia. com $$ PASADENA 1810 ARGENTINEAN From delectable empanadas and crispy croquetas to tender strips of churrasco, this Argentinean grill serves the most traditional meals you will ever taste. L-D daily. 121 W. Colorado Blvd. 626-795-5658 1810restaurant.com $$ ALEXANDER’S STEAKHOUSE STEAK HOUSE Posh spot fusing steakhouse classics with Japanese cuisine and a signature cotton candy
dessert. D daily 111 N. Los Robles Ave. 626-4861111 alexanderssteakhouse.com $$$$ AMARA CHOCOLATE & COFFEE CAFÉ Unique confections and coffee featuring the richest cacao as the main ingredient. B-L-D Tues.-Sun. 55 S. Raymond Ave. 626-7441765 amaracafe.com $ THE ARBOUR AMERICAN Farm-to-table Californian fare and craft cocktails in a relaxed, fashionable space with a woodsy feel. L-D Mon.Fri.; D Sat.-Sun. 527 S. Lake Ave., Ste. 120 626396-4925 thearbourpasadena.com $$$ ARROYO CHOP HOUSE STEAK HOUSE An allAmerican steakhouse that only serves the best with USDA Prime Beef, market-fresh seafood, and gourmet desserts. D nightly. 536 S. Arroyo Pkwy. 626-577-7463 arroyochophouse.com $$$ BAR CELONA SPANISH Trendy, lively locale featuring tapas galore and a full bar. Bar open late. L-D daily. 38 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-405-1000 barcelonapasadena.com $$ B-MAN’S TERIYAKI & BURGERS JAPANESE/ AMERICAN This casual Japanese eatery is known for its curry fries, teriyaki bowls, and curry with rice. B-man’s also serves burgers to satisfy your American fast food cravings. B-L-D daily. 3007 E. Huntington Dr. 626-568-0386 bmans.com $ BISTRO 45 CALIFORNIAN/FRENCH Winning wine lists and first-rate fare; try the port-braised “volcano” Colorado lamb shank. D Tues.-Sun. 45 S. Mentor Ave. 626-795-2478 bistro45.com $$$ BLAZE PIZZA ITALIAN A modern-day pizza joint known for its custom-built artisanal pizzas, freshly made salads, blood orange lemonade, and s’more pies. B-L-D daily. 667 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-802-5352 blazepizza.com $ BONE KETTLE ASIAN Stylish restaurant for shareable Indonesian dishes revolving around slow-cooked bone broth. L-D daily. 67 N. Raymond Ave. 626-795-5702 bonekettle.com $$$ BUCA DI BEPPO ITALIAN Family-style platters and Italian-style camaraderie. L-D daily. 80 W. Green St. 626-792-7272 bucadibeppo.com $$ CAFE SANTORINI MEDITERRANEAN Hummus, kabobs, and a romantic ambience with upper patio seating. L-D daily. 64 W. Union St. 626-564-4200 cafesantorini.com $$ CAMERON’S SEAFOOD SEAFOOD A Pasadena institution that boasts some of the best ceviche in the San Gabriel Valley and a fresh fish market daily. L-D daily. 1978 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-7933474 camerons4fish.com $$ CELESTINO RISTORANTE & BAR ITALIAN Pumpkin tortellini and penne with prosciutto in a vodka sauce top the list at this Sicilian eatery. L Mon.-Fri.; D nightly. 141 S. Lake Ave. 626-7954006 celestinopasadena.com $$$ CITY THAI THAI Thai restaurant with great fried rice, curry, salads, and fine noodles. Free delivery within three miles of eatery (with $20 minimum purchase). L-D daily. 48 S. Fair Oaks Ave. 626-5771500 $$ THE COUNTER AMERICAN If you’re a picky eater and craving a good burger, stop by to customize a gourmet burger, built to your exact specifications. L-D daily. 140 Shoppers Ln. 626440-1008 thecounter.com $$ THE CRACK SHACK AMERICAN A trendy destination for Californian fried chicken and egg creations with craft cocktails. L-D daily. 30 W.
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Photo by Johnson Diep
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ith build-your-own versions of everything from pizza to burrito bowls, it’s no surprise that newly opened Paper Rice is filling a void with their build-your-own spring rolls and spring bowls, a delicious new twist on traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Start building your bowl with a base of noodles or salad, then top with one of seven proteins, farm fresh veggies and herbs, and a variety of toppings such as fried garlic or scallions. For an added kick, Paper Rice offers several housemade Vietnamese-influenced sauces (based on family recipes) including citrus, spicy, savory peanut, savory ginger, and mustard soy. If you don’t want to “spring” for the DIY option, Paper Rice also offers a made-to-order selection including bánh mì, a traditional Vietnamese sandwich that is a fusion of veggies, meat, and herbs on a sourdough bun; as well as xôi chiên, a fried sticky rice patty filled with ground pork, shrimp, onion, and wood ear mushrooms. L-D daily, 20 Union St., Ste. 150, Pasadena, 626-345-5333, paperrice.com. -S.S.
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F O O D & D R I N K : R E S TAU R A N T G U I D E Green St. 424-901-0077 crackshack.com $$ DAISY MINT THAI Accessible and exotic choices please everyone in the crowd at this affordable little find. The BYOB policy makes it a popular hang amongst Pasadena City College students. L-D daily. 1218 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-792-2999 daisymint.com $$ DAN MODERN CHINESE CHINESE The newest member of the xiao long bao club in Pasadena, Dan Modern Chinese is approaching traditional cuisine in a new, modern way. L-D daily. 146 S. Lake Ave., Ste. 105 626-817-9799 danmodernchinese.com $$ DOG HAUS BIERGARTEN GASTROPUB Grab a brat and a brew at this lively urban gastropub. L-D daily. 93 E. Green St. 626-683-0808 doghaus. com $ DOTS CUPCAKES DESSERT The finest ingredients make for top-tier cupcakes in innovative flavors such as tiramisu and carrot cake. Mon.-Sat. 400 S. Arroyo Pkwy. 626-5683687 dotscupcakes.com $ EDEN BAR AND GRILL MEDITERRANEAN Come for the lamb kabob and falafel, stay for the belly-dancing performance. This lively atmosphere guarantees much more than a good meal. L-D Tues.-Fri.; D Tues.-Sun. 175 E. Holly St. 626-440-1421 edengardenbarandgrill.com $ EL CHOLO MEXICAN A local landmark that’s been serving up carne asada and margaritas in L.A. for almost a century. L-D daily. 300 E. Colorado Blvd. Ste. 214 626-795-5800 elcholopasadena.com $ EL PORTAL MEXICAN Traditional Yucatan/ Mexican cuisine with a killer enchilada de mole topped with sesame seeds. The atmosphere is warm and festive, complete with indoor or courtyard seating. B-L-D Mon.-Thurs.; L-D Fri.-Sun. 695 E. Green St. 626-795-8553 elportalrestaurant.com $$ EDWIN MILLS BY EQUATOR NEW AMERICAN This intimate urban tavern gastropub is located in the heart of Old Pasadena and offers New American plates and specialty cocktails. B-L-D Thurs.-Sun.; D Mon.-Wed. 22 Mills Pl. 626-5648658 edwinmills.com $$ ENTRE NOUS FRENCH Revel in authentic French flavors and exceptional service. Add a glass of wine and you’re in for a dinner you won’t soon forget. D Tues.-Sun. 119 W. Green St. 626844-4500 entrenousfrenchbistro.com $$$ EUROPANE BAKERY & CAFE CAFÉ The coffee and renowned baked goods are delightful, the sandwiches and salads fresh and satisfying, but the real draw is the slow-paced environment. No one will blink twice if you post up for hours. B-L daily. 950 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-577-1828 $$ FIG SPROUT AMERICAN Roasted free-range chicken is the signature of this funky counter with creative sides and soft drinks. L-D Mon.-Fri.; L Sat. 63 S. Raymond Ave. 626-219-6936 figsprout. com $$ FLOAT CAFÉ Famous craft floats, sandwiches, and coffee located in the beautiful Britishinspired Burlington Arcade. B-L-D daily. 380 S. Lake Ave. 626-844-3488 floatpasadena.com $ FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE AMERICAN High-end steakhouse chain with aged prime beef and classics such as lobster tails and pork chops. L-Mon.-Fri.; D-daily. 179 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-639-0490 flemingssteakhouse.com $$$
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FOOTHILL AMERICAN Foothill’s tantalizing menu selections include classic dishes prepared with the elevated flavors of today. The bar menu includes local craft beers on tap, boutique wines, and handcrafted cocktails. L-D Tues.-Fri., B-L-D Sat.-Sun. 2835 E. Foothill Blvd 626-449-2337 foothill.co $$ GALE’S RESTAURANT ITALIAN The large selection of meats and rich pastas are a tribute to the hearty cuisine of Tuscany. D Sun.; L-D Tues.-Sat. 452 S. Fair Oaks Ave. 626-432-6705 galesrestaurant.com $$ GALANGA TAKE TWO THAI Delicious fusionstyle Thai food sure to curb your cravings. There curries are always served piping hot and don’t forget dessert! L-D daily. 400 S. Arroyo Pkwy. 626577-6599 galangataketwo.com $$ GIN SUSHI JAPANESE Traditional sushi restaurant with fresh rolls and sashimi. L-D daily. 3589 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-440-9611 ginsushi. com $$ GO CHINA CHINESE A cozy restaurant, affordable prices, and delicious Chinese fare. The Dynamite Chicken is a must-try entrée! L-D daily. 136 N. Lake Ave. 626-793-3888 gochinarestaurant.com $ GRANVILLE AMERICAN A modern-casual restaurant specializing in wholesome handcrafted recipes and libations. L-D Mon.-Fri.; B-L-D Sat.-Sun. 270 S. Lake Ave. 626-360-7633 granvillecafe.com $$ GREAT MAPLE AMERICAN Great Maple is a modern American eatery specializing in elevated comfort food with a twist. L-D daily, B- Sat.-Sun. 300 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-714-7625 thegreatmaple.com $$ GREEN STREET RESTAURANT AMERICAN Whether you’re looking for small bites to share, a three-course sit-down dinner, or a boxed gourmet meal to-go, this restaurant has it all. B-L-D daily. 146 Shoppers Ln. 626-577-7170 greenstreetrestaurant.com $ GUISADOS MEXICAN Traditional homestyle braises on fresh handmade tortillas. B-L-D daily. 577 S. Arroyo Pkwy. 626-449-2999 guisados.la $ GYU KAKU JAPANESE Grill your own steak or seafood at the table and wash it down with some sake. L-D daily. 70 W. Green St. 626-405-4842 gyu-kaku.com $$$ HIMALAYAN CAFE HIMALAYAN A mix of traditional Himalayan, Nepalese, and Indian dishes. Vegetarian options available. L-D daily. 36 S. Fair Oaks Ave. 626-564-1560 himalayancafela. com $ HOUSTON’S STEAK HOUSE A Pasadena favorite that consistently gets rave reviews for its prime cuts. L-D daily. 320 S. Arroyo Pkwy. 626577-6001 houstons.com $$$ INTELLIGENTSIA COFFEE & TEA COFFEE This cafe is the home of a brew that’s been so hyped by L.A. baristas, it’s now considered a requisite at every trendy restaurant in the county. B-L-D daily. 55 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-578-1270 intelligentsia.com $$ IX TAPA CANTINA MEXICAN The grilled fish tacos make for a great bar snack. They also have a dangerous happy hour. L-D Tues.-Sat. 119 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-304-1000 cantinaixtapa. com $$ KINGS ROW GASTROPUB AMERICAN Jungli
Maas, Trotter Hash, Shepherd’s Stack, and other entrees only recognizable by serious pub-goers. They’ve got a jolly-good happy hour from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. and all day on Tuesdays. B-L-D daily. 20 E. Colorado Blvd., Ste. 102 626-793-3010 kingsrowpub.com $$ THE KITCHEN ITALIAN CAFE AND PIZZERIA ITALIAN This Italian eatery serves Sicilian, New York, and Chicago deep-dish pizza. They’re also known for their hearty calzones. L-D daily. 78 W. Union St. 626-796-9802 thekitchenpasadena. com $$ LA GRANDE ORANGE CAFE CALIFORNIAN Quality ingredients do the heavy lifting to create regionally-inspired takes on American classics. If you’re craving a drink, look no further than The Otis Bar next door, where you can enjoy signature craft cocktails, especially during happy hour, available every day until 7. L-D Mon.-Fri.; B-L-D Sat.-Sun. 260 S. Raymond Ave. 626-356-4444 lgostationcafe.com $$ LEMONADE CALIFORNIAN This convenient and healthy lunch favorite has a great selection of salads, sandwiches, and soups. L-D daily. 146 S. Lake Ave. 626-304-7700 lemonadela.com $ LITTLE FLOWER CAFE This café and candy kitchen is filled with sweet and savory delights. Don’t leave without trying one of their famous handmade caramels! B-L-D daily. 1424 W. Colorado Blvd. 626-304-4800 littleflowercandyco. com $$ THE LUGGAGE ROOM PIZZERIA ITALIAN Plentiful chopped salads and large pizzas for sharing. Gluten-free dough is available. D Mon.Fri.; L-D Sat.-Sun. 260 S. Raymond Ave. 626-3564440 theluggageroom.com $$ LUNASIA DIM SUM HOUSE DIM SUM Dim sum, traditional Chinese dishes, and chef specialties in a spacious setting with white tablecloths. L-D daily. 239 E. Colorado Blvd. 626793-8822 lunasiadimsumhouse.com $$ MAGNOLIA HOUSE AMERICAN A hideaway for those in the know. Enjoy unique, delicious craft cocktails and a small-plate menu inspired from around the world. B-L-D daily. 492 S. Lake Ave. 626-584-1126 themaghouse.com $ MALBEC ARGENTINEAN CUISINE ARGENTINEAN This popular Pasadena restaurant is a great introduction to Argentinean food. Try the empanadas to start and one of the grilled steaks for your main. L-D daily. 1001 E. Green St. 626-683-0550 malbeccuisine.com $$ MAMA’S BRICK OVEN PIZZA & PASTA ITALIAN If you’re not in the mood for a whole pie of the same flavor, try their New York grab ‘n’ go style slices to sample their selection. L-D daily. 1007 Fair Oaks Ave. 626-799-1344 mammasbrickoven.com $ MARSTON’S RESTAURANT AMERICAN Old-fashioned, home-style cooking makes this breakfast nook addicting. B-L daily. 151 E. Walnut St. 626-796-2459 marstonsrestaurant.com $ MEDITERRANEAN CAFE MEDITERRANEAN Consistently fantastic kabob plates keep this place busy. L-D Mon.-Fri.; L Sat. 273 Shoppers Ln. 626-793-8844 kokosmediterraneancafe.com $ MENDOCINO FARMS AMERICAN These farmfresh artisan sandwiches and sides are made with locally-sourced ingredients. L-D daily. 238 S. Lake Ave. 626-773-3140 mendocinofarms.com $$ MERCADO MEXICAN Sleek, contemporary digs doling out creative Mexican meals and
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F O O D & D R I N K R E S TAU R A N T G U I D E more than 70+ tequila options. L-D Sun.-Fri.; D Sat. 140 S. Lake Ave., Ste. 101 626-345-5778 cocinasycalaveras.com $$ MI PIACE ITALIAN An Old Pasadena favorite. The desserts and pastries are worth the splurge if you have room. B-L-D daily. 25 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-795-3131 mipiace.com $$ MILLIE’S CAFE AMERICAN This popular cafe serves homemade American breakfast and lunch with vegetarian options. B-L daily. 1399 E. Washington Blvd. 626-486-2407 milliescafela. com $$ MINT LEAF INDIAN Featuring an array of rich traditional favorites alongside lighter takes on classic recipes, Mint Leaf offers a fresh take on traditional Indian fare. L-D daily. 2535 E. Washington Blvd. 626-460-8776 mintleafpasadena.com $$ NICK’S ON SOUTH LAKE AVENUE AMERICAN Nick’s on South Lake Avenue features classic American comfort food, craveable bar snacks, plus unique cocktails and an extensive wine list. L-D daily. 336 S. Lake Ave. 626787-1444 nicksrestaurants.com $$ NODA SUSHI JAPANESE Sashimi for one or the specialty love boat for a hungry couple. L-D Mon.Sat. 546 S. Lake Ave. 626-793-2600 $ NOTHING BUNDT CAKES BAKERY Nothing but great cakes at this location! Moist cake covered with rich frosting, what could be sweeter? B-L-D Mon.-Sat. 548 S. Lake Ave. 626-792-8200 nothingbundtcakes.com $ THE ORIGINAL TOPS AMERICAN Quality is never scarified for cheap prices at this fast food counter and drive-thru. They serve breakfast starting at 6:30 a.m. and a mean pastrami burger at lunchtime. B-L-D daily. 3838 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-449-4412 theoriginaltops.com $ PARKWAY GRILL AMERICAN An innovative menu inspired by Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Try the grilled spring lamb lollipops with crispy goat cheese polenta croquettes and pine nut fig relish in a pomegranate mint syrup. L-D Mon.-Fri.; D Sat.-Sun. 510 S. Arroyo Pkwy. 626795-1001 theparkwaygrill.com $$$ PAUL MARTIN’S AMERICAN GRILL AMERICAN Stylish, eco-minded local chain serving seasonal American fare, craft beers, and artisanal cocktails. L-D daily. 455 S. Lake Ave., Ste.102 626-773-7600 paulmartinsamericangrill. com $$ THE PIE HOLE DESSERT With organic coffee blends and a full, sweet, and savory breakfast pie menu available all day long, this is a café you don’t want to miss. B-L-D daily. 59 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-765-6315 thepieholela.com $ PIE’N BURGER AMERICAN Juicy patties, a thick piece of gooey American cheese, and creamy Thousand Island melt together on a warm, crispy bun. Some Pasadena locals are religious about this classic burger joint. B-L-D daily. 913 E. California Blvd. 626-795-1123 pienburger.com $$ PLATE 38 AMERICAN Affordable and convenient gourmet food. Weekly jazz bands add flair to this low-key setting. L-D Mon.-Fri.; B-L-D Sat.-Sun. 2361 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-793-7100 plate38.com $ POKE SALAD BAR HAWAIIAN This fun, atmospheric locale is home to the proclaimed “sushi-fusion style.” For an added unique spin, try your dish burrito style! L-D daily. 12 W. Colorado
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HIGHLIGHT COFFEE
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ocated on the ever-gentrifying Lincoln Avenue in North Pasadena, a caffeine pickme-up from Highlight Coffee is the highlight of many mornings. The artfully yet minimally designed space is worthy of spending a morning or afternoon study session. (Editor’s note: Currently the shop is open for “grab n’go” only.) The menu boasts an ample selection of beverage options including coffee, tonics, and expresso-based drinks (we suggest sampling a customizable latte in one of Highlight’s signature flavors: butterscotch or orange-vanilla). There’s a strong selection of teas (available hot or iced)—just add milk (almond milk and Oatly are available!) for a chai or matcha latte. The only caveat? Street parking can be scarce during peak hours. Open daily, 2071 Lincoln Ave., Pasadena, 626-345-5269, highlightcoffee.com. -S.S. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
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F O O D & D R I N K : R E S TAU R A N T G U I D E Blvd. 626-304-3100 pokesaladpasadena.com $ POKEMIX HAWAIIAN Enjoy their delicious poke bowls with handcrafted tea and homemade boba drinks! For a spicy finish, try a drizzle of their mango Sriracha sauce on top. L-D daily. 99 S. Lake Ave. Ste.102 626-345-5585 pokemix.com $ PORTA VIA ITALIAN FOODS ITALIAN DELI A casual lunch spot and boutique grocer that sells read-to-serve gourmet seafood, poultry, and meat by the pound. While you’re shopping, pick up one of the artfully made artisan paninis or sandwiches. B-L-D daily. 1 W. California Blvd. 626793-9000 portaviafoods.com $$ THE RAYMOND 1886 AMERICAN Chef Tim Guiltinan cooks up fresh and contemporary takes on gourmet American classics. The mixologists at the 1886 Bar in the back are famous for pouring some of the best cocktails in the city. D Sun.Thurs.; L-D Fri.-Sat. 1250 S. Fair Oaks Ave. 626441-3136 theraymond.com $$ REAL FOOD DAILY VEGAN Meat-free meals with organic, hearty ingredients served in an airy, happening space. L-D Mon.-Fri.; B-L-D Sat.-Sun. 899 E. Del Mar Blvd. 626-844-8900 realfood. com $$ ROOTS & RYE AMERICAN Made-to-order açaí bowls and toasts with unlimited fixings. B-L daily. 36 W. Colorado Blvd., #7 626-345-5055 ourrootsandrye.com $ ROSE TREE COTTAGE TEA HOUSE Enjoy a traditional English-style afternoon tea with fine linens, china, and a dainty platter of scones. B-L daily. 801 S. Pasadena Ave. 626-793-3337 rosetreecottage.com $$$ ROUNDS PREMIUM BURGERS AMERICAN The juicy patties and crispy yet doughy brioche rolls have won this burger joint a cult-like following. Choose from sauces including pesto mayo, jalapeño ranch, or Tabasco ketchup, and add on a premium topping of avocado mash, homestyle chili, or a fried egg for a buck. L-D daily. 46 N. Lake Ave. 626-304-9810 roundsburgers.com $ THE ROYCE WOOD-FIRED STEAKHOUSE AMERICAN This elegant restaurant in the iconic Langham Hotel features the finest selection of USDA Prime Cuts, Australian Wagyu, and authentic Japanese Kobe Beef, expertly prepared over a wood-fired grill. D Tues.-Sat. 1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave. 626-585-6410 roycela.com $$$ RUSSELL’S AMERICAN This cozy and bistrostyle locale is known for their hearty breakfast fare and delicious burgers. On weekends, come early to avoid the long lines! B-L-D daily. 30 N. Fair Oaks Ave. 626-578-1404 russels.juisyfood. com $$ RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE STEAK HOUSE This steakhouse chain has filet, petite filet, ribeye, cowboy ribeye, t-bone, New York strip, and porterhouse, all masterfully prepared. D daily. 369 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-583-8122 ruthschris.com $$$$ SAGE VEGAN BISTRO VEGAN Sage founder Mollie Engelhart brings her love of gardening and cooking to the Pasadena area through a rotating menu of seasonal, organic, and local food. B-L-D daily. 41 Hugus Alley 626-564-8111 sageveganbistro.com $$ SALADANG GARDEN THAI Don’t expect “regular” Thai fare here. This unique find specializes in obscure appetizers and rice vermicelli noodles B-L-D daily. 383 S. Fair Oaks Ave. 626-793-5200 saladang-garden.com $$
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SALT & STRAW DESSERT This “farm-to-cone” ice cream shop offers high-quality, artisanal treats. L-D daily. 39 W. Colorado Blvd. 626-3040303 saltandstraw.com $ SMITTY’S GRILL AMERICAN Nostalgic American homecookin’ in a romantic setting. The meatloaf and chicken pot pie are delicious, as long as you’re not set on believing your mom makes it better. L-D Mon.-Fri.; D Sat.-Sun. 110 S. Lake Ave. 626-792-9999 smittysgrill.com $$$ THE STAND AMERICAN A fresh spin on American classics! The Stand offers the comfort of early century diners, featuring comfortable space, sincere hospitality, and honest foods. L-D daily. 36 S El Molino Ave. 626-714-7117 thestand. com $$ STONEY POINT ITALIAN The old school charm and pianist have long made this establishment a local favorite. The food is good and the martinis are even better. L-D Tues.-Fri.; D Sat.Sun. 1460 W. Colorado Blvd. 626-449-9715 stoneypointrestaurant.com $$$ SUGARFISH BY SUSHI NOZAWA JAPANESE Celebrated local sushi chain serving traditional rolls and sake in a chic, intimate space. L-D daily. 146 S. Lake Ave., Ste.108 626-298-8386 sugarfishsushi.com $$$ SUSHI KIMAGURE IKE JAPANESE Chef Ike San made a controversial decision when he relocated from his popular Hollywood destination. He hasn’t had a hard time getting his loyal customers to follow him east. He serves the freshest, melt-in-your-mouth sashimi in its purest form. The uni and octopus are world-class. L-D Tue.-Fri.; D Sat. 220 S. Raymond Ave. 626-5350880 $$$ THE TAP ROOM BAR The Tap Room at the Langham Pasadena is an upscale bar featuring classic handmade cocktails, premium beers on tap, upscale bar food, and live music. 2 p.m.-1 a.m. Mon.-Thurs.;12 p.m.-2 a.m. Fri.- Sat.;12 p.m.-12 a.m. Sun. 1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave. 626-5683900 langhamtaproom.com $$$ TARANTINO’S PIZZERIA ITALIAN Large portions of homestyle Italian food featuring housemade sauce and pizza dough since 1984. D Sun.; L-D Mon.-Sat. 784 E. Green St. 626-7967836 tarantinospasadena.com $ TATSU RAMEN JAPANESE These savory, umami broths are made every day in-house from scratch and take at least 14 hours to complete. Vegan and gluten-free options are available. L-D daily. 319 S. Arroyo Pkwy. 626-345-5688 tatsuramen.com $$ TENDER GREENS AMERICAN The curators of this mini-chain establishment have taken salad to a whole new level. We recommend the herbbrushed albacore or backyard marinated steak. The artisanal cheeses make for a fine finishing touch. L-D daily. 621 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-4051511 tendergreens.com $ THE TERRACE NEW AMERICAN The Terrace serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, as well as a Dim Sum Sunday Brunch. The California bistro-style menu is comprised of the freshest seasonal and sustainable ingredients. B-L-D daily. 1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave. 626-585-6218 langhamhotels.com $$$ TIBET NEPAL HOUSE TIBETAN A taste of Tibet in Old Pasadena. This restaurant offers one of the only nearby opportunities to try this unique and flavorful cuisine. Yak is a specialty, but there’s also vegetarian and vegan options aplenty. L-D
daily. 36 E. Holly St., Ste. #3905 626-585-0955 tibetnepalhouse.com $$ TRUE FOOD KITCHEN AMERICAN Relaxed, eco-chic chain serving health-conscious fare including vegan options, plus cocktails. L-D daily. 168 W. Colorado Blvd. 626-639-6818 truefoodkitchen.com $$ URBAN PLATES AMERICAN Delicious real food made from scratch featuring hand-tossed salads, sandwiches, pizzettes, soups, and braises. L-D daily. 269 S. Lake Ave. 626-800-4448 urbanplates.com $$ URTH CAFFE CAFE This Westside favorite has come to the Playhouse District. It’s a beautiful location with a big fireplace, plenty of cushy seating, and an outdoor area. Come here for a cup of meticulously brewed coffee, a handmade pastry, or a healthy bite. B-L-D daily. 594 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-844-4644 urthcaffe.com $$ SAN GABRIEL NATURE PAGODA CHINESE This place has been specializing in foods with medicinal properties since 1997. L-D daily. 312 W. Valley Blvd. 626-570-8333 naturepagoda.com $$ NEWPORT SEAFOOD CHINESE Expect long waits and expect it to be worth it. Their specialty lobster, fresh from the tank and battered and dipped in salt and pepper, is a must-try splurge. L-D daily. 518 W. Las Tunas Dr. 626-289-5998 newportseafood.com $$ SAN MARINO COLONIAL KITCHEN RESTAURANT BRITISH A traditional British breakfast and lunch favorite. The sandwiches and omelettes are scrumptious. B-L-D daily. 1110 Huntington Dr. 626-289-2449 $$ JULIENNE FINE FOODS AND CELEBRATIONS AMERICAN This charming restaurant includes a gourmet market selling prepared meals and boutique wines. B-L daily. 2649 Mission St. 626-441-2290 juliennetogo. com $ ROSE GARDEN TEA ROOM TEA HOUSE High tea at The Huntington is the perfect way to start or end an afternoon tour of the library and gardens. Reservations required. B-L Sun.; L Mon., Wed.Sat. 1151 Oxford Rd. 626-683-8131 huntington. org $$ SAN MARINO SEAFOOD SEAFOOD A restaurant and market that boasts some of the freshest seafood around. L-D daily. 2150 Huntington Dr. 626-943-8862 sanmarinoseafoodrestaurant.com $$ SILVER LAKE CAFE STELLA FRENCH A lively nook tucked into the heart of Sunset Junction. You can easily spend three hours wining and dining with friends here. The garlicky, buttery, and creamy French food is indulgent. The mixologists next door make a superb cocktail. D Mon.; B-L-D Tue.-Sun. 3932 W. Sunset Blvd. 323-666-0265 cafestella. com $$$ GINGERGRASS VIETNAMESE Delicious Vietnamese food in a casual setting. We recommend the crispy fried calamari, special tofu, clay pot curry vegetables with shrimp, and wok-tossed noodles with beef. Bring a few friends along to enjoy a family-style meal. L-D daily. 2396 Glendale Blvd. 323-644-1600 gingergrass.com $$ LAMILL COFFEE COFFEE Intelligentsia’s rival. This fancy coffee shop pours water at just the
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F O O D & D R I N K R E S TAU R A N T G U I D E right temperature over your choice of grounds, letting the brew slowly drip one drop at a time into your cup. B-L-D daily. 1636 Silver Lake Blvd. 323-663-4441 lamillcoffee.com $$ L&E OYSTER BAR OYSTER BAR If you’re turned off by the consistency and flavor of oysters, this restaurant might change your mind. The daily dozen is a variety of half shells so fresh and subtle you’ll hardly know you’re eating seafood. D nightly. 1637 Silver Lake Blvd. 323660-2255 leoysterbar.com $$$ PHO CAFE VIETNAMESE This Silver Lake secret gives some of the best noodle shops in Garden Grove a run for their cash-only. The vegetarian pho chay combines flavorful vegetable broth with plump, juicy pieces of fried tofu and shiitake mushrooms. L-D daily. 2841 W. Sunset Blvd. 213413-0888 $ SPERANZA ITALIAN D nightly. 2547 Hyperion Ave. 323-644-1918 $$ SOUTH PASADENA An Italian restaurant that’s always coming up in conversation on the East Side. It’s great for a romantic evening, a family dinner, or a night out with friends. The whole king crab legs with lemon are a satisfying splurge. 1886 BAR AT THE RAYMOND BAR Situated in a speakeasy-style locale, their handcrafted cocktails are made in house, including syrup. Now that’s craft! D Tues.-Sun. 1250 S. Fair Oaks Ave. 626-441-3136 theraymond.com $$$ BISTRO DE LA GARE FRENCH An authentic French menu and thorough wine list put this tasty eatery at the top of the restaurant scene in Pasadena. Reservations highly recommended. D Wed.-Fri.; B-D Sat.-Sun. 921 Meridian Ave. 626799-8828 bistrodelagare.com $$$ COS&PI AMERICAN A chef-driven concept that lets the food speak for itself with a focus on cooking done right and a heavy emphasis on local seasonal ingredients. B-L daily. 303 Pasadena Ave. 626-460-6030 cosandpi.com $$ FIORE MARKET CAFE CALIFORNIAN A neighborhood favorite offering fresh and locally grown food. This retreat is a good choice if you’re looking to catch up with a friend over a leisurely meal. L-D Mon.-Sat. 1000 Fremont Ave. 626-4412280 fioremarketcafe.com $$ GUS’S BBQ BBQ Features Southern classics like Memphis-style baby back ribs and beer-braised Texas brisket. Happy hour is Mon.-Fri. from 3 p.m.-6 p.m. L-D Mon.-Fri.; B-L-D Sat.-Sun. 808 Fair Oaks Ave. 626-799-3251 gussbbq.com $$ MIKE & ANNE’S AMERICAN Vegetarian basil risotto, seared scallops, and ricotta stuffed with zucchini blossoms offer delicious alternatives to conventional dining. B-L-D Sun.; B-L-D Tue.Sat. 1040 Mission St. Ste. 102 626-799-7199 mikeandannes.com $$ SHIRO ASIAN FUSION A modern eatery with tastes of China, Japan, and beyond. Begin with the crispy spring roll filled with fresh lobster, scallops, and sea bass. Then try the sizzling catfish stuffed with ginger, sprinkled with cilantro, and served with a ponzu sauce. D Wed.-Sun. 1505 Mission St. 626-799-4774 restaurantshiro.com $$$ TOMATO PIE PIZZA JOINT ITALIAN This New York-inspired pizzeria will save you a trip back East for a slice of authentic-tasting pie. L-D daily. 1130 Mission St. 626-399-0459 tomatopiepizzajoint.com $
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HOWLIN’ RAY’S
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far cry from the standard (and slightly bland) poultry picnicking go-to, Howlin’ Ray’s fried chicken is truly something to howl about. An offshoot of the much-beloved Chinatown flagship, Howlin’ Ray’s has finally opened in Pasadena, sharing its fiery take on hot chicken with the community. Howlin’ Ray’s knows a thing or two (or three or four) about crafting a tasty combo—founder Johnny Ray Zone paid his dues in the kitchen under prominent chefs such as Thomas Keller, Gordon Ramsay, and Nobu Matsuhisa. The poultry-centric curated menu offers wings, fried chicken boxes, and a weekend special of chicken and waffles, but it’s “The Sando” that many hungry patrons flock to. Featuring a battered, juicy boneless breast; slaw, “comeback sauce,” and pickles piled high in between a soft, butter bun, The Sando is an “egg-cellent” choice. Diners can choose their desired level of spice with six options, starting at the no heat “Country” to the tear-inducing “Howlin.’” At this time (due to COVID-19), Howlin’ Ray’s is only available for delivery, but the “Howlin’ Crew” is working towards offering pre-orders for pick up and hopes to have this available for everyone again as soon as safely possible. L-D Tues.-Sat., 296 N. Allen Ave., Ste. 1, Pasadena, 213-935-8399, howlinrays.com. -S.S. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
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B A C K PA G E
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ith 2020 behind us, it’s time to cross over the proverbial bridge to new beginnings. Fittingly, the iconic Langham Huntington, Pasadena unveiled its newly restored and rehabilitated iconic Picture Bridge, a historic landmark feature on the grounds for nearly 90 years. The bridge underwent a multimillion-dollar structural upgrade amid the property’s temporary suspension of operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Picture Bridge was originally constructed between 1911 and 1914 as a redwood footbridge by architect Myron Hunt. In 1932, Stephen Royce
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hired local painter Frank M. Moore to paint scenes of California to be displayed on the bridge’s gables. Today, the centerpiece of the recent restoration project is the installation of replicas of the bridge’s original oil paintings by Moore, which give name to the landmark. In 2013, after more than 80 years of exposure to the outdoor elements, all of the oil paintings were carefully removed from the bridge to halt their deterioration and then stored in a climate-controlled art storage facility where they continue to reside. Facsimiles of the original paintings have been developed, installed, and once again grace the Picture Bridge.
Photo by Kevin Edge Photography
PICTURE BRIDGE
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