Pasadena Weekly Best Of 11.10.22

Cynthia Bennett & Associates, beautifying the Pasadena area one house at a time

By Alison Stanton Pasadena Weekly Contributing Writer

For more than 40 years, Cynthia Bennett & Associates has been a leading residential design firm in the San Gabriel Valley.

The South Pasadena-based firm was founded in 1981 by Cynthia Bennett, one of the first female general contractors in the industry.

In 2020, her daughter Carolien Fehmers, also a general contractor, took over the firm as the CEO.

“My mother started CBA when I was about 15, so I’ve been around design and construction for most of my life,” Fehmers said.

“I’ve found that it’s very helpful to also have a knowledge of deco rating when doing construction. A lot of contractors don’t have that expertise, but if you’re able to visualize the final look you want while space planning earlier on in the design process, you’ll achieve a much better end result.”

Established as a kitchen and bathroom design firm, the company has since evolved into different areas of residential design, such as addi tions. The firm has rebuilt and remodeled more than 900 homes.

The firm specializes in open plan design, starting with the kitchen/ great room, which offers easy access to the outdoors and is the ideal representation of laidback California living.

Specializing in open plan design, the firm starts with the kitchen/great room.

Carolien Fehmers took over her mother’s firm, Cynthia Bennett & Associates, in 2020. Cynthia

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

“By opening walls between rooms, we instantly transform the multiple home spaces into one large kitchen/great room,” Fehmers said.

Cynthia Bennett & Associates also emphasizes the architectural integrity of the homes it remodels. One of its biggest talents is the ability to combine the modern with the old, while still keeping a home’s architectural elements in complete alignment with the existing house.

Both Bennett’s and Fehmers’ work have been featured in multiple Pasa dena Showcase House projects, as well as several Pasadena ASID Home Tours.

Bennett’s own home was built and designed by her firm in 2002 and has been highlighted in numerous publications, home and garden tours.

Fehmers said clients love working with Cynthia Bennett & Associates be cause of the team’s expertise, precise attention to detail, and easygoing style.

To keep clients on track and prevent them from going over their budget, Cynthia Bennett & Associates doesn’t start construction until every little detail, including the hardware and paint colors, have been specified and included in the plans so that everything is executed seamlessly.

It can also accommodate eco-friendly, energy-efficient and sustainable green projects.

Fehmers enjoys the fact that Cynthia Bennett & Associates can change lives for the better.

“Decorating and remodeling offer immediate results, and right away people’s lives improve,” she said, adding that one of their recent projects took an awkward kitchen/family room for a family with four kids to an amazing space to be enjoyed by all.

“It’s very gratifying to tear something down, then make something more beautiful and functional that someone is going to live with and share with others. That’s what gives me the thrill.”

Cynthia Bennett & Associates www.cynthiabennett.com Before

The firm combines the modern with the old, while still keeping a home’s architectural elements in complete alignment with the existing house.

Cynthia Bennett & Associates/Submitted

As I walked onto the grass of the Rose Bowl Stadium during its 100-year birthday celebration, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of the moment. While the Rose Bowl stands as an iconic architectural feat that’s hosted the largest events in world sports, it symbolizes far more than that. For the past 100 years, it’s drawn crowds from every corner of the Earth, built to become a place of gather ing and pride for the Pasadena community where people of all backgrounds can unite under the Southern California sun.

This year’s Best of Pasadena issue pays hom age to this dream. It’s an ode to the places and experiences that bring people together, wheth er it’s for dinner at Houston’s, a drink at Lucky Baldwin’s or a show at Pasadena Playhouse.

This issue is for both the newest visitor and the oldest resident. It’s a celebration of the community’s forward strides, showcased by the city’s museums, and a reminder that finding

joy can be as simple as a trip to the Pasadena Certified Farmers’ Market or a bundle of flow ers from Jacob Maarse.

As the sun begins to set on the last two years of the pandemic, Pasadena has come to gether like never before as families and friends reunite at the dinner table or on a night out on the town. The city has seen new leadership, in the form of City Manager Miguel Márquez, and suffered the loss of one of our own, John J. Kennedy, an embodiment of the best of this city.

The Best of Pasadena issue serves to honor the city’s achievements by showcasing the community’s favorite experiences and destina tions, ones that unite us all and build relation ships that know no barriers or bounds.

It is this dream of a united community that Kennedy dedicated his life to achieving and a legacy that those he inspired will carry on into the future.

BEST ANNUAL EVENT

Rose Parade

391. S. Orange Grove Boulevard www.tournamentofroses.com

The Tournament of Roses is America’s New Year’s Day celebration, drawing hundreds of thousands of people from around the world each year. With elabo rate floral floats, equestrians displays and musical performances, last year’s Rose Parade brought 6,500 participants to its 5.5-mile route. For the 134th Rose Parade, former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords will be the 2023 grand marshal.

READER RECOMMENDED

Art Night, 100 N. Garfield Avenue www.cityofpasadena.net

Masters of Taste Food and Beverage Festival, 1001 Rose Bowl Drive www.mastersoftastela.com

BEST PUBLIC OFFICIAL

Mayor

Victor Gordo

100 N. Garfield Avenue www.victorgordoformayor.com

Victor Gordo was born in Zacatecas, Mexi co, but immigrated to Pasadena as a child. Since then, he has been a proud prod uct of the Pasadena Public School Sys tem, Pasadena City College, and built a career around serving his city. He began his service to Pasadena in 1997 as the field representative for District 5, which he would later be elected to represent on the city council in 2001. Gordo was elected as mayor of Pasadena in 2020.

READER RECOMMENDED

Tyron Hampton, 100 N. Garfield Avenue www.tyron.us Ruth Martinez, 100 N. Garfield Avenue www.cityofpasadena.net

BEST LOCAL NONPROFIT/ CHARITY

Pasadena Humane Society

361 S. Raymond Avenue www.pasadenahumane.org

For over a century, Pasadena Humane has built programs and services to help save the lives of pets throughout Los Angeles County. Its mission is to serve as a socially conscious shelter operating with a holistic approach to treat each animal on an in dividual basis, and in 2020 committed to using the Capacity for Care model, open ing its doors to any animal regardless of age, behavior or health. Last year, Pasade na Humane helped nearly 40,000 animals through adoptions wildlife rehabilitation, surrender prevention assistance and oth er services.

READER RECOMMENDED Cancer Support Community, 76 E. Del Mar Boulevard

www.cscpasadena.org

Union Station Homeless Services, 825 E. Orange Grove Boulevard www.unionstationhs.org

BEST MUSEUM

Huntington Library 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino www.huntington.org

Alongside its independent research li brary and botanical gardens, Huntington Library is home to a famed art museum with an extensive collection British, Eu ropean, American and Asian works. With more than 45,000 objects spanning over 500 years, the Huntington houses pieces of decorative arts and folk art in the form of paintings, prints and drawings, photog raphy and sculpture across both the Hun tington Art Gallery, the original home of Henry and Arabella Huntington, and the Virginia Steele Scott Galleries of Ameri can Art.

VOTED BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL

BY PASADENA WEEKLY READERS

The Pasadena Unified School District congratulates Pasadena High School for earning the distinction of “Best Public School” by Pasadena Weekly readers. We are so proud of the students, educators, and families who make Pasadena High School a place where kids can thrive and develop critical skills for lifelong success. With programs as diverse as its students and community, Pasadena High School nurtures a wide range of talents, skills, and interests.

APP ACADEMY

Students learn to code to create websites, games, mobile applications, and more.

CREATIVE ARTS & MEDIA DESIGN

Enabling real-world skills and hands-on experience for students interested in Art and Design careers.

LAW & PUBLIC SERVICE

Real-world skills and experience for students pursuing careers in law, government, and public service.

VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS

From music to dance, drama and more, visual and performing arts programs enable students to explore and grow their artistic talents.

MATH ACADEMY

Designed to accelerate the learning curve of mathematically gifted students with a curriculum that matches their abilities.

ADVANCED

College-level courses help students develop the knowledge and critical thinking skills to excel in college.

ATHLETICS

Student athletes and spectators enjoy access to more than a dozen sports, and the life lessons that come with teamwork and disciplined training.

GRADUATES

PHS graduates are accepted at some of the most competitive colleges and universities in the world.

READER RECOMMENDED

411 W. Colorado Boulevard www.nortonsimon.org

Kidspace Children’s Museum, 480 N. Arroyo Boulevard www.kidspacemuseum.org

BEST PRESCHOOL

Pacific Oaks Children’s School 714 W. California Boulevard, Pasadena www.pacificoakschildrensschool.org

Pacific Oaks Children’s School has a histo ry dating back to 1906. A group of Quak er families came together to found the school on the core principles of equal ity, simplicity, nonviolence and commu nity. The school employs Anti-Bias Edu cation goals, which involves guiding stu dents to understand and accept differenc es and treat each other with fairness and equality. The school’s programs are broken down by age, for infants and toddlers, 2to 3-year-olds, 3- to 4-year-olds and 4- to 5-year-olds.

READER RECOMMENDED

Pasadena Christian School,

1515 N. Robles Avenue, Pasadena www.pasadenachristian.org

Kids Klub Pasadena, 380 S. Raymond Avenue, Pasadena www.kidsklubcdc.com

BEST CHARTER/PRIVATE SCHOOL

Pasadena Polytechnic School 1030 E California Boulevard www.polytechnic.org

Founded in 1907, the Polytechnic School carries the mission of preparing students for a purposeful life. The college prepara tory private school has around 850 stu dents enrolled from kindergarten through 12th grade spread across three divisions: lower (grades K-5), middle (grades 6-8) and upper (grades 9-12). Poly also pro vides students with a vast array of extra curricular activities, including arts educa tion and athletics.

Saint Philip the Apostle School, 1363 Cordova Street www.stphiliptheapostle.org

La Salle High School, 3880 E. Sierra Madre Boulevard www.lasallehs.org

BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL

Pasadena High School 2925 E. Sierra Madre Boulevard www.pusd.us/phs

Established in 1891, Pasadena High School is known for its championship-level ath letic programs, which help students de velop leadership and teamwork skills. The school’s prominent alumni include May or Victor Gordo, Gen. George S. Patton, the Van Halen brothers, Assemblymem ber Chris Holden and TV show host Bob Eubanks.

READER RECOMMENDED

San Marino High School, 2701 Huntington Drive, San Marino www.sanmarinohs.org

Marshall Fundamental School, 990 N. Allen Avenue, Pasadena www.pusd.us/marshall

BEST TEACHER

Diana Suarez

Jackson Magnet STEM Dual Language Academy 593 W. Woodbury Road, Altadena www.pusd.us

Diana Suarez is a kindergarten teacher at the Jackson Magnet STEM Dual Lan guage Academy. She has been teach ing kindergarten for eight years with PUSD and is committed to fostering a safe, creative and growth-oriented classroom. She loves sharing her pas sion for literature, language and people with her students.

READER RECOMMENDED

Yvonne Davis, Don Benito Elementary School 3700 Denair Street www.pusd.us

Ashley Webb, Altadena Arts Magnet 743 E. Calaveras Street, Altadena www.pusd.us

BEST LIBRARY

Pasadena Public Library

285 E. Walnut Street www.cityofpasadena.net/library In the past two years, public libraries have played a crucial role in providing educational spaces and opportunities for members of the community. While Pasadena’s Central Library has been closed due to seismic safety issues, the city’s nine other neighborhood branch es have remained open and digital re sources, such as e-books, audio books, movies, TV shows, music, and newspa pers and magazine subscriptions, are available online through the city’s web site. The Pasadena Public Library has been a cornerstone of the city since 1882 and has adapted to serve its com munity during unprecedented times.

Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino www.huntington.org

Altadena Library, 600 E. Mariposa Street, Altadena www.altadenalibrary.org

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

Darling Chiropractic 221 E. Walnut Street

www.darlingchiropractic.wordpress.com

Dr. Harrison Darling, the chiropractor be hind Darling Chiropractic, has a very per sonal story for getting into her field. When she was training for a marathon, she hurt her back. When pain medications didn’t work, she sought out the help of a chi ropractor. Her experience inspired her to want to help others in the same way. She has been practicing in Pasadena since 2011 and has had her own clinic since 2015.

READER RECOMMENDED

Family Chiropractic Center of South Pasadena, 1017 Fremont Avenue, South Pasadena www.southpaschiro.com

De La Cruz Chiropractic, 131 N. El Molino Avenue www.delacruzdc.com

BEST COSMETIC SURGERY

Dr. Gordon H. Sasaki

Sasaki Advanced Aesthetic Medical Center

800 S. Fairmount Avenue www.drsasaki.com

Dr. Gordon H. Sasaki is a triple board-certi

fied plastic surgeon who is also on the fac ulty of Loma Linda University. He’s dedicat ed to personalized patient care and is a rec ognized expert nationally and internation ally. Need a mommy makeover to bring you back to your pre-baby bod? Need a little nip and tuck to boost your self-confi dence? Sasaki can suggest age-appropriate aesthetic needs.

READER RECOMMENDED

Dr. Michael Schwartz, 425 S. Fair Oaks Avenue www.pasadenaplasticsurgery.com

Dr. Warren C. Stout Pasadena Towers, 800 E. Colorado Boulevard www.stoutlaser.com

BEST DANCE STUDIO

Pasadena Civic Ballet 253 N. Vinedo Avenue www.pcballet.com

Ballet has been known to build social skills, instill confidence, and increase both men tal focus and physical coordination. The mission of the Pasadena Civic Ballet is to provide instruction in the art and tech nique of dance within a nurturing, sup portive and creative environment while creating opportunities for performance

and self-growth. Home of the Pasadena Civic Ballet Company, the pre-professional dance school offers classes in ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop and musical theater for stu dents as young as 3 years old.

READER RECOMMENDED Elements Dance Space, 1222 N. Fair Oaks Avenue www.elementsdancespace.com Dance Conservatory of Pasadena, 66 Waverly Drive www.dancepasadena.com

BEST DAY CARE

Kids Klub Pasadena 380 S. Raymond Avenue www.kidsklubcdc.com

Michael and Bambi Wojciechowski opened their first Kids Klub in Pasadena in 1995 af ter looking into day care options for their own children. From the start, they were committed to providing a safe, nurtur ing and clean space for kids, where they could learn through the process of dis covery. Kids Klub is dedicated to working around parents’ busy schedules and mak ing day care a simple process. It offers flex ible day care schedules, ranging from two half days to five full days each week. It also

has nighttime and weekend hours.

READER RECOMMENDED

Altadena Children’s Center, 791 E. Calaveras Street, Altadena www.accc-kids.org

Goodman Family Daycare, 1090 El Campo Drive www.goodmandaycare.com

BEST DAY SPA

Burke Williams

39 Mills Place www.burkewilliams.com

In the wake of the pandemic and its men tal, physical and emotional strains, paying attention to personal well-being remains as pertinent as ever. Located in the heart of Old Pasadena, Burke Williams Day Spa of fers guests a variety of services, from mas sages to facials to skin and nail care. The day spa has also introduced a new “tran quility massage,” a sensory-driven treat ment that blends handcrafted Nepalese singing bowl sounds with light-touch cra niosacral therapy to provide a fully immer sive experience.

READER RECOMMENDED Massage Envy, Multiple locations www.massageenvy.com Happy Feet, 257 E. Colorado Boulevard www.happyfeetmassage.com

BEST MED SPA

OU Beauty Medical Spa 130 N. Brand Boulevard www.oubeauty.com Since 2008, OU Beauty Medical Spa has provided the latest medical outpatient cos metic services, including Botox, Juvederm, Restylane, Dysport, CoolSculpting, laser treatments and high-grade skin care ser vices. It offers affordable pricing and great specials along with name-brand medicalgrade products and a team of highly skilled aestheticians and nurses in a friendly and relaxing environment.

READER RECOMMENDED Skin Deep Laser Medspa, 425 S. Fair Oaks Avenue www.skindeeplaser.com Sasaki Advanced Aesthetic Medical Center, 800 S. Fairmount Avenue www.drsasaki.com

BEST DENTIST

Dr. Michael S. Yung 696 E. Colorado Boulevard www.michaelyungdds.com

Dr. Michael S. Yung keeps his neighbors of all ages smiling, whether with Invisalign straightening, crowns and bridges, den tures or emergency services. If your smile needs to be whiter and brighter, he can also make you dazzle with whitening or ve neers.

www.makandkleigerdds.com

Dr. Natalie Derboghossians at Altadental, 2340 Lake Avenue, Altadena www.myaltadental.com

BEST DERMATOLOGIST

Dr. Janice DaVolio

Huntington Dermatology Group 800 Fairmount Avenue South www.huntingtondermatologygroup.com

In sunny Pasadena, the sun can be your skin’s worst enemy, but Dr. Janice DaVolio is there to help you keep that skin clear and beautiful. She’s not only a top doctor in the San Gabriel Valley, but also a clinical associ ate professor of medicine at the University of Southern California.

READER RECOMMENDED

Dr. Sara Gaspard

Comprehensive Dermatology Center of Pasadena, 625 S. Fair Oaks Avenue www.compdermcenter.com

Dr. Heather Butler

Comprehensive Dermatology Center of Pasadena, 625 S. Fair Oaks Avenue www.compdermcenter.com

BEST EYE CARE/EYEWEAR

Linden

Optometry

477 E. Colorado Boulevard

www.lindenvsp.com

Linden Optometry is a Pasadena institu tion. You can’t help but notice the beauti ful green art deco tile on its storefront. But you’ll want to make sure your eyes are able to admire this architectural treasure wheth er you want glasses or contacts. Its spacious office is for patients of all ages with a dizzy ing collection of 10,000 sun and eyeglasses to choose from.

READER RECOMMENDED

Pasadena Optometry, 960 E. Green Street www.pasadenaoptometrycenter.com

Pasadena Eye Medical Group Huntington Hospital, 10 Congress Street

BEST EYEBROWS/ EYELASHES

Tussanee’s Integrity Lash 202 S. Lake Avenue www.integritylash.com

Getting 30 lashes is no longer punishment; it’s a luxury to help your eyes pop. Tussa nee’s Integrity Lash specializes in providing a flirtatiously natural look. Tussanee as ele vated eyelashes to an art and has high sani tation standards.

READER RECOMMENDED Lashitude, 1214 E. Green Street www.lashitude.com Rachel Wright Beauty, 455 S. Lake Avenue www.rachelwrightbeauty.com

BEST HAIR

www.tanglespasadena.com

In the heart of Old Pasadena, Tangles Salon can help prevent bad hair days. Specializing in curly hair, the salon offers DevaCurl Trans formation if you want to keep your curls or you can bet a Brazilian Blowout or a Japa nese Yuko straightening. If you need color, Tangles has masters of balayage and ombre.

READER RECOMMENDED Salon Aguayo, 408 S. Pasadena Avenue www.salonaguayo.com Union Salon, 174 S. De Lacey Avenue www.unionsalon.com

BEST HOSPITAL

Huntington Memorial 100 W California Boulevard www.huntingtonhealth.org

SALON/

BARBERSHOP Tangles 145 W. Green Street

Since its founding in 1892, Huntington Memorial’s mission has been to enhance the health and well-being of communities across the San Gabriel Valley and beyond. During the pandemic, the hospital’s physi cians, nurses and other caregivers were on the front lines providing specialized aid to those in need. Today, Huntington Memo rial is expanding the surgical services at its acute care campus, using robotic technol ogy to allow for faster and less traumatic in vasive surgery.

READER RECOMMENDED

City of Hope, 630 S. Raymond Avenue www.cityofhope.org

Kaiser Permanente, 3280 E. Foothills Boulevard www.kaiserpermanente.org

BEST LAUNDRY/DRY CLEANER

Magic Cleaners and Laundry 111 N. Lake Avenue www.magiccleanersinc.com There’s no real trick to making laundry and dry cleaning go away, but allow Magic Cleaners and Laundry to help keep your best duds in pristine shape. Magic Cleaners does much more than fluff and fold; it also does alterations and tailoring, luggage and handbag and shoe repair. For newlyweds, they are experts at preserving wedding dresses for future generations, packaging your gown carefully to prevent yellowing.

READER RECOMMENDED

Bryan’s Cleaners, 544 S. Arroyo Parkway www.bryanscleaners.com French Hand Laundry, 606 S. Lake Avenue

www.frenchhandlaundry.com

BEST MASSAGE

Burke Williams

39 Mills Place www.burkewilliams.com

Burke Williams created the original urban day spa in 1984 and draws its inspiration from world-class European day spas. A sanctuary of wellness and beauty, it com bines the finest traditions with nourish ing innovations and dedicated professional therapists to help guests feel relaxed and renewed. Nestled in the heart of Old Town, its Pasadena location offers a tranquil lo cation with luxurious amenities including whirlpools, a sauna, cool mist room, cold deluge for men, 16 massage rooms, six fa cial rooms and four nail care chairs.

READER RECOMMENDED

Massage Envy, 345 S. Lake Avenue, Suite 205 www.massageenvy.com

Sierra Madre Massage Company, 140 W. Sierra Madre Boulevard www.sierramadremc.com

BEST NAIL SALON

Harmony Nail & Threading Salon 54 S. Pasadena Avenue

Those who love their talons can head over to Harmony for their mani-pedi needs. The place is clean, the staff warm, and their work will make your fingers stylish enough to be their own show or part of your next spectacular ensemble.

READER RECOMMENDED Nail Lounge, 2335 E. Colorado Boulevard De Lacey Nail Salon, 42 S. Fair Oaks Avenue

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY

Pasadena Physical Therapy 95 W. California Boulevard www.pasadenapt.com

Competitive athletes, weekend warriors or those recovering from surgery can check out Pasadena Physical Therapy. The staff can help you recover to get into optimal condition for your next adventure in living life in sunny Pasadena.

READER RECOMMENDED

Catz Pasadena Physical Therapy, 801 S. Raymond Avenue www.catzpride.com

Evergreen Physical Therapy, 111 S. Hudson Avenue www.evergreenpt.net

BEST PILATES

Hot Yoga Pasadena 2089 E. Colorado Boulevard www.hotyogapasadena.com.

At Hot Yoga Pasadena, students can do hot yoga; Pilates; Yin Yoga class focused on ligament and joint health; or Hotstan ga, which blends Hot and Ashtanga yoga practices. The studio strives to offer a per sonal experience where the teachers know the students by name. The studio offers drop-in rates, five-class cards and mem berships.

READER RECOMMENDED

Pilates of Pasadena, 990 S. Arroyo Parkway www.pilatesofpasadena.com

Be Pilates, 1393 E. Washington Boulevard www.bepilatespasadena.com

BEST WAXING

European

Wax Center

569 S. Lake Avenue www.waxcenter.com

Even a close shave won’t be as smooth as a waxing. Clients can get it all done here, from a section of their face (eyebrows, ears, sideburns and full face) to a Brazilian wax. And waxing isn’t just for women. Full male waxing services are available here.

READER RECOMMENDED

Wax Candy, 271 Shoppers Lane www.waxcandy.com GlowBeautyCo, 453 E. Colorado Boulevard www.glowbeautyco.net

BEST YOGA

Hot Yoga Pasadena 2089 E. Colorado Boulevard www.hotyogapasadena.com

Hot Yoga Pasadena is dedicated to helping people build their physical, mental and emotional health. It is a Bikram-style hot yoga and hot Pilates studio that offers dai ly classes. Its core values are community, equity, genuine support, effective commu nication and humility.

READER RECOMMENDED

Yoga House, 11 W. State Street www.yogahouse.com

Archetype Yoga, 638 E. Colorado Boulevard www.archetype.yoga

BEST PLACE TO WORK OUT

Hot Yoga Pasadena 2089 E. Colorado Boulevard www.hotyogapasadena.com

Sometimes to be hot, you have to get hot. Hot Yoga is the best place to tune into your own body rhythms and put the bal ance back into your life.

READER RECOMMENDED

Equinox, 300 E. Colorado Boulevard www.equinox.com

Orangetheory, 2091 E. Colorado Boulevard www.orangetheory.com

BEST MARTIAL ARTS

Two Dragons Martial Arts 2490 Lake Avenue, Altadena www.twodragonsma.com

For more than 25 years, Altadena’s Two Dragons Martial Arts studio has sought to bring a rich tapestry of martial arts tra ditions to its community. Led by head instructor and Martial Arts Hall of Fame inductee Sipoo Hearring, Two Dragons teaches Chinese Kenpo, Northern Silum, Classical Asian Weapons Training, and TaiChi Chuan in its Blackbelt Program. By en couraging personal character develop ment alongside technique, Two Dragons focuses on bringing both the physical and mental health benefits of martial arts to its students. Enrollment is available online.

READER RECOMMENDED

Fight Academy, 36 W. Colorado Boulevard www.fightacademypasadena.com

SoCal Kenpo Karate, 47 W. Sierra Madre Boulevard, Sierra Madre www.socalkenpokarate.com

BEST ACCOUNTANT

Steve Ostiller (Ostiller & Hung Accountancy Corp.)

595 E. Colorado Boulevard www.ostillerandhung.com

Not everyone loves numbers. But before death there are taxes, retirement and es tate planning. Count on Steve Ostiller to maximize your money.

READER RECOMMENDED

Amy Sulahian, 810 E. Walnut Street www.sulahianlaw.com Mark Harris, www.accountingman.com

BEST ACUPUNCTURE

Dr. Yawen Cheng Acupuncture & Chiropractic

51 Fifth Avenue, Suite 305, Arcadia www.drcheng.net

Dr. Yawen Cheng needles patients into a better mood through acupuncture, chiro practic adjustments or traditional Chinese medicine. Cheng’s services include advice on nutrition and rehabilitation from illness or injury. Rebalance your life force and re connect with a more comfortable life.

READER RECOMMENDED

Premier Wellness Chiropractic, 2355 E. Washington Boulevard www.pasadenachiro.com Lotus Center for Integrative Medicine, 5910 Monterey Road, Los Angeles www.lotuscenter.com

BEST ARCHITECT

Tyler + Kelly Architecture 80 S. Lake Avenue www.tylerkellyarchitecture.com

Tyler + Kelly specializes in urban infill, mixed-use and industrial projects. They are known for creating contextual archi tecture that balances urban settings with

aesthetic preferences. They aim to create long-lasting, aesthetic and practical archi tecture that engages with an urban set ting.

READER RECOMMENDED

Nott & Associates, 1508 Mission Street, South Pasadena www.nottassociates.com

Hartman Baldwin, 300 S. Raymond Avenue www.hartmanbaldwin.com

BEST ATTORNEY/LAW FIRM Law Offices of Timothy Bowles

1 S. Fair Oaks Avenue www.tbowleslaw.com

Timothy Bowles can help with employ ment law, litigation defense, discrimina tion actions, sexual harassment charges and unpaid wage claims. Need someone to explain the legalese and your best strat egies through the legal tangle? Consult with Bowles.

READER RECOMMENDED

Hahn & Hahn, 301 E. Colorado Boulevard www.hahnlawyers.com

Ellen Driscoll, 65 N. Raymond Avenue, Pasadena www.ellenfdriscoll.com

BEST AUTO REPAIR/BODY SHOP

Crown City Tire 80 W. Bellevue Drive www.crowncitytire.com

Remember! The name is Crown City Tire and Auto Repair. When cars need TLC, bring it to Crown City and this familyowned, community-based shop will di agnose mechanical steeds and get them back into the California car culture, zoom ing off to the next social event.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 30

READER

RECOMMENDED

Hrant Auto Service, 1477 E. Washington Boulevard

Pasadena Automotive Repair, 2364 E. Foothill Boulevard www.pasadenaautomotive.com

BEST BANK

Chase Bank Multiple locations www.chase.com

Those who want to place their money in a secure place should cut to the Chase. There are three convenient locations in Pasadena where customers can save mon ey, secure their valuables or get a mort gage.

READER RECOMMENDED Bank of America, Multiple locations www.bankofamerica.com Wells Fargo, Multiple locations www.wellsfargo.com

BEST CAR WASH

Pasadena Auto Wash 164 W. Del Mar Boulevard www.pasadenaautowash.com Pasadena Auto Wash not only washes cars but performs oil and lube changes and details. Customers can chill in their wait ing room and munch on cookies or listen to tunes.

READER RECOMMENDED

Fast5Xpress, 2400 E. Colorado Boulevard www.fast5xpress.com

Arroyo Car Wash, 605 S. Arroyo Parkway www.arroyocarwash.com

BEST CREDIT UNION

Wescom Credit Union 123 S. Marengo Avenue www.wescom.org

Want to help others and help yourself? Join Wescom Credit Union. Founded in 1934 by 13 Pacific Telephone employees, Wescom helps Southern Californians build better lives through checking, savings, credit cards, and auto and personal loans. Anyone who lives, works, worships or at tends a school in one of the eight counties in Southern California is eligible (as well as UCLA alumni who live anywhere).

READER RECOMMENDED

Pasadena Federal Credit Union, 1285 N. Lake Avenue www.pfcu.org

Schools First Credit Union, The Shops on Lake Avenue 555 S. Lake Avenue

BEST HOME REMODELING

Cynthia Bennett & Associates

501 Fair Oaks Avenue, South Pasadena www.cynthiabennett.com

For more than 75 years, Pacific Oaks has provided children with an education that encourages curiosity, creativity, and respect. We believe these values are even more important than ever, and we are dedicated to preparing our children for whatever challenges the future may bring.

As our nation continues to recover and move forward in these difficult times, early childhood education remains a critical piece of helping families resume their normal lives. It is our honor to enrich the community of Pasadena, and we are grateful for your trust and support.

Thank you for voting Pacific Oaks the Best Preschool in Pasadena. We are proud to have made a positive impact on our community.

READER RECOMMENDED

Samantha Williams Interior Design, 1142 Allen Avenue www.williamsinteriordesign.com

Lightfoot Studios, 30 N. Raymond Avenue www.lightfootstudios.com

BEST HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE

True Blue Maids 2104 E. Walnut Street truebluemaids.com

When you’re inviting someone in your house, you want them to be true blue trustworthy. Call on True Blue Maids to get your house in order and do all your dirty work. They are licensed and bonded insured and available for routine regular cleanings to seasonal services.

READER RECOMMENDED

Maid Brigade, maidbrigade.com

Maid Pro, 2982 E. Colorado Boulevard maidpro.com

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER

Ruben

Marquez

281 E. Colorado Boulevard www.rubenmarquezinc.com

Marquez specializes in new construction projects and residential redesigns. He graduated summa cum laude from the

Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandis ing. His designs are customized to each cli ent, considering their lifestyle, goals and aspirations.

READER RECOMMENDED

Samantha Williams Interior Design, 1124 N. Allen Avenue www.williamsinteriordesign.com

Amy Peltier Interior Design, 2285 Huntington Drive, San Marino www.peltierinteriors.com

BEST LOCAL PHARMACY

Webster’s Community Pharmacy 2450 Lake Avenue, Altadena websterspharm.com

Webster’s in Altadena is more than just a pharmacy. It’s part of the neighborhood. Customers can get their prescriptions filled as well as their heart with personal service and attention. Need a last-minute gift? Need a card for any occasion? Need a good or toy or even socks? Check out the selection at Webster’s.

READER RECOMMENDED

Fair Oaks Pharmacy, 1526 Mission Street, South Pasadena www.fairoakspharmacy.net

Cal Oaks Pharmacy, East California Medical Building 55 E. California Boulevard facebook.com/caloakspharmacy/

BEST MORTGAGE BROKER

Sierra Capital Mortgage 1055 E. Colorado Boulevard www.sierracapmortgage.com

Ready to buy a house or investment prop erty, but confused about mortgage loans? Turn to Sierra Capital Mortgage. Since 1996, it has been helping clients through out California find the best way to finance their dreams, offering a full portfolio of mortgage products that include conven tional, jumbo and FHA/VA loans. Get ready for your dreams to become a reality.

READER RECOMMENDED

Home Bridge, 251 S. Lake Avenue www.homebridge.com Delaware Pacific, 1123 Allen Avenue www.delgrp.com

BEST PET SERVICE

My Pet Garden

Roosevelt Place 2245 E. Colorado Boulevard www.mypetgarden.com Who loves you even when you’re having a

bad hair day? Your dog! Doesn’t your dog gy deserve the best. Go to My Pet Garden for all-natural pet food, boarding, groom ing and even doggy day care.

READER RECOMMENDED

I Dig My Dog, 2160 E. Foothill Boulevard www.idigmydog.com Pasadena Pet, 815 N. Fair Oaks Avenue www.pasadenapet.biz

BEST REAL ESTATE OFFICE

Keller Williams Realty

251 S. Lake Avenue www.kwpasadena.com

Looking for a new home or a commercial property? Keller Williams Realty can help. It has been helping people for 29 years.

READER RECOMMENDED

Compass, 680 E. Colorado Boulevard www.compass.com Coldwell Banker, 388 S. Lake Avenue www.coldwellbankerhomes.com

BEST REALTOR

The Berns Team 251 S. Lake Avenue www.betterwithberns.com

The Berns Team will help buy or sell homes. It has helped over 900 families with their real estate needs and even has a game plan for COVID-19, called the SixDay Blitz. It has been helping homeown ers to maximize the price of their homes. Its team goes beyond the boundaries of the valley.

READER RECOMMENDED

Brian Parsons, 445 S. Fair Oaks Avenue www.theparsonsrealestateteam.com Carly Hernandez, 251 S. Lake Avenue www.carly.com

BEST SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

Villa Gardens 842 E. Villa Street www.villagardens.org

The premier senior living facility, Villa Gar dens offers independent living and assist ed living services as well as memory care. Residents are safe and have enriching cul tural experiences to share with their fami lies and new friends.

READER RECOMMENDED

MonteCedro, 2212 El Molino Avenue, Altadena www.ecsforseniors.org/montecedro Pasadena Highlands, 1575 E. Washington Boulevard www.wellquestph.com

BEST SPEECH THERAPIST

Justine Sherman & Associates 147 E. Olive Avenue, Monrovia www.justineshermanslp.com

Justine Sherman & Associates specializ es in collaborative, holistically delivered, family-centered treatment that empowers people to effectively communicate. Jus tine Sherman & Associates fully recognize that family and individuals beliefs and val ues vary and that should be considered as their speech pathologists work toward a solution.

READER RECOMMENDED

Jabberdogs,

415 Huntington Drive, San Marino www.jabberdogs.com

Pasadena Child Development Association, 620 N. Lake Avenue www.pcdateam.org

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY

AAA

801 Union Street www.aaa.com

Since the start of the pandemic, the tour ism industry has shifted with travelers re portedly relying more on the advice of professional travel advisors than before. Supported by a team of travel inspectors and editors, AAA offers both domestic and international travelers with advice and in sights on transportation, accommodation and experiences. For quick and profession al travel guidance, visit AAA’s website.

READER RECOMMENDED

Montrose Travel, 2342 Honolulu Avenue, Montrose www.montrosecorporatetravel.com

Travelstore, 140 S. Lake Avenue www.travelstore.com

BEST AUTO DEALER

Rusnak

325 W. Colorado Boulevard rusnakpasadenaporsche.com

Do you have a passion for Porsche? Rus nak is where residents turn to make their Porsche dreams come true. Those who can’t afford a new one can check out the preowned vehicles. Rusnak also provides service and parts.

READER RECOMMENDED

Toyota of Pasadena, 3600 E. Foothill Boulevard www.toyotaPasadena.com

Honda Of Pasadena, 1965 E. Foothill Boulevard www.hondaofpasadena.com

BEST MUSIC SCHOOL

Pasadena Music Academy 2982 E. Colorado Boulevard www.pasadenamusic.om

Nurturing a modern-day Mozart? Hoping to explore your musical side as an adult? Pasadena Music Academy offers students and their families a fun, safe place to ex plore their musical talents and inclinations through private lessons in piano, guitar, voice, drums, bass, music production, sax ophone, trumpets and more. It also offers free trial lessons.

READER RECOMMENDED

K Music Academy, 920 E. Washington Boulevard www.kmusicacademypasadena.com

Pasadena Conservatory of Music, 100 N. Hill Avenue www.pasadenaconservatory.org

BEST BRIDAL/TUX SHOP

Panache Bridals of Pasadena 82 S. Fair Oaks Avenue www.panachebridals.com

This shop will help brides live with a little more panache. Panache Bridals carries top national and international brands and of fers a full-service bridal gown shopping experience. Besides bridal attire, it has ac cessories, shoes and evening wear.

READER RECOMMENDED

Lovely Bride, 87 E. Green Street www.lovelybride.com

Connie Tao Designs, 23 N. Mentor Avenue www.connietaodesigns.com

BEST SELF STORAGE

Arroyo Parkway Self Storage

411 S. Arroyo Parkway www.smartselfstorage.com

Arroyo Parkway Storage will keep clients’ goodies for safekeeping in any situation.

READER RECOMMENDED Public Storage,

Multiple locations www.publicstorage.com Storbox Self Storage & The Wine Grotto, 2233 E. Foothill Boulevard www.thewinegrotto.com

BEST ELECTRONICS/ CAMERAS

Samy’s Camera

1759 E. Colorado Boulevard www.samys.com/pasadena

Samy’s Camera has is a photographer’s dream, stocking cameras, lenses, video cams, film or lighting. It offers rentals for dabblers or for those who want to check things out before buying. It also offers professional custom printing services and pre-owned gear. Looking to learn more? Classes are offered by the experts.

READER RECOMMENDED

Audio Elements, 117 Union Street www.audio-element.com

JD Audio Visual, 77 N. Altadena Drive www.jdav.com

BEST FARMERS MARKET

Pasadena Certified Farmers’ Market 363 E. Villa Street www.pasadenafarmersmarket.org

Looking for fresh produce or jams and jel lies? On Tuesdays, drop by Villa Parke Cen ter (about 13 vendors), or on Saturday mornings (about 60) stop by Victory Park for the Pasadena Farmers’ Market. There is fresh fruit, vegetables, plants and flowers.

READER RECOMMENDED

South Pasadena (Thursdays), 920 Meridian Avenue, South Pasadena www.southpasadenafarmersmarket.org Altadena Farmers (Wednesdays), 587 W. Palm Street, Altadena www.altadenafarmersmarket.com

BEST FLOWER SHOP

Jacob Maarse Floral Design

655 E. Green Street www.jacobmaarse.com Located in a renovated Cadillac dealership in Pasadena’s historic Playhouse District, Jacob Maarse Floral Design has served Pasadena since 1966. It creates arrange ments for weddings, funerals, events and

home décor. It offers a variety of flowers, including silk flowers.

READER RECOMMENDED

Duran’s Flowers, 315 S. Arroyo Parkway www.duransflowers.com

The Flowerman, 2450 E. Foothill Boulevard www.flowerman.net

BEST FURNITURE/ ACCESSORIES STORE

Fedde’s 2350 E. Colorado Boulevard www.fedde.com

Fedde’s is a Pasadena institution. It’s been in business since 1937 and is celebrat ing its 85th anniversary. Want new furni ture? Check out its quality sofas, section als, chairs, recliners and other furnishings. Many items are available for immediate delivery. Its motto is: quality home fur nishings, exceptional savings.

READER RECOMMENDED

Sofa U Love, 111 W. Green Street

www.sofaulove.com

Crate & Barrel, 60 W. Colorado Boulevard www.crateandbarrel.com

BEST LOCAL JEWELRY

Altadena Watch and Jewelry 1920 Lake Avenue, Altadena www.facebook.com/altadenawatchco

Altadena Watch and Jewelry store is the place to go for intimate deliberations over jewelry or to get repairs. Lost an earring or inherited something you want to match?

Altadena Watch and Jewelry is the place to go. It not only fixes jewelry and watches, but it can design them. It’s a little treasure of a shop.

READER RECOMMENDED

Baldwin Jewelry, 15 Kersting Court, Sierra Madre www.facebook.com/baldwinjewelers

Estate Jewelers, 700 Fair Oaks Avenue, South Pasadena www.estate-jewelers.com

BEST LOCAL BOOKSTORE/ NEWSSTAND

Vroman’s Bookstore

695 E. Colorado Boulevard www.vronmansbookstore.com

Vroman’s Bookstore was founded in 1894 by Adam Clark Vroman after he sold his beloved book collection to open a store. It is the oldest independent bookstore in Southern California. The store is fa mous for holding more than 400 commu nity events each year and its charitable program, Vroman’s Give Back, which has raised over $783,000 in support of literacy, the homeless and animal welfare.

READER RECOMMENDED

Once Upon a Time Bookstore, 2207 Honolulu Avenue, Montrose www.shoponceuponatime.com

Book Alley, 1252 E. Colorado Boulevard www.bookalley.com

BEST LOCAL MEN’S CLOTHING

Banana Republic 150 W. Colorado Boulevard www.bananarepublic.gap.com

Banana Republic was founded in 1978 and is owned by Gap Inc. The upscale retailer sells versatile, timeless styles of men’s and women’s clothing and accessories care fully designed with high-quality materials.

READER RECOMMENDED

P.M. Jacoy Menswear, 2650 Mission Street www.pmjacoy.com

Mark Piscitelli, 589 E. Green Street www.markpiscitellimensfashions.com

BEST LOCAL PET STORE

My Pet Garden

2245 E. Colorado Boulevard

www.mypetgarden.com

Owned by a former Los Angeles zookeep er Joel Tatum, My Pet Garden’s core phi losophy revolves around nutrition. It offers dog and cat grooming; training; dog day care; boarding; and a range of food, toys and supplies. Its groomers are all a part of a free dog grooming program called Every Dog Has Its Day, which increases adoption chances.

READER RECOMMENDED

Steve’s Pets, 2395 Lake Avenue www.stevespetstore.com

I Dig My Dog, 2160 E. Foothill Boulevard www.idigmydog.com

BEST LOCAL SHOE STORE Run With Us

235 N. Lake Avenue www.clubrunwithus.com

Run With Us was established in early 2000 to address the community’s lack of a store specializing in running. It boasts a large staff with over 110 years of combined ex perience in the running industry, with firsthand knowledge on injuries, training programs and marathon racing. Custom ers can expect a high-quality experience when shopping for the perfect running shoes.

READER RECOMMENDED

DSW, 300 E. Colorado Boulevard www.dsw.com

Lucha’s Comfort Shoes, 921 Fair Oaks Avenue

BEST LOCAL SPORTING GOODS

REI Co-Op

214 N. Santa Anita Avenue, Arcadia www.rei.com

REI has been in business since 1938, when Lloyd and Mary Anderson and a group of 21 of their climbing friends became frus trated with the lack of quality climbing gear and decided to source their own di rectory from Austria. Since then, REI has been a reliable place to find quality out door gear. Because they remain a mem bership service, 70% of their annual profits are invested back into the outdoor com munity.

READER RECOMMENDED Run With Us, 235 N. Lake Avenue www.clubrunwithus.com Big 5, 3719 E. Colorado Boulevard www.big5sportinggoods.com

BEST LOCAL WOMEN’S CLOTHING

Sidecca

1389 E. Washington Boulevard www.sidecca.square.site

For a look that is quirky and shows off ev ery individual style, Sidecca is a perfect stop. The whimsical, retro boutique has a selection of creative women’s clothing, shoes, accessories, décor and gifts. Sidec ca’s goal is to give its customers an enjoy able shopping experience that inspires them to take fashion risks and be confi dent.

READER RECOMMENDED

Banana Republic,

150 W. Colorado Boulevard www.bananarepublic.gap.com

April Blooms Boutique, 14 E. Bellevue Drive www.aprilblooms.com

BEST SHOPPING DESTINATION

Old Pasadena 23 E. Colorado Boulevard www.oldpasadena.org

Old Pas is 22 blocks of refurbished late19th and early 20th century architecture. Locals and visitors encounter many op portunities to shop and dine, as there are many retailers and restaurants in its openair plazas and Colorado Boulevard.

READER RECOMMENDED

Westfield Santa Anita Mall, 400 S. Baldwin Avenue www.shopsatsantaanita.com South Lake Avenue, 201 S. Lake Avenue www.southlakeavenue.org

BEST NURSERY

Armstrong Garden Centers

352 E. Glenarm Street www.armstronggarden.com

Having served California communities for 130 years, Armstrong Garden Centers has a plethora of gardening and landscape ex perience in our unique climate. The com pany strives to provide its customers the best horticultural knowledge and the wid est range of high-quality plants and gar den products.

READER RECOMMENDED

Bellefontaine Nursery, 838 S. Fair Oaks Avenue www.bellefontainenursery.com San Gabriel Nursery & Florist, 632 S. San Gabriel Boulevard www.sgnursery.com

BEST LOCAL TOY STORE

The Dinosaur Farm 1510 Mission Street www.dinosaurfarm.com Established in 1994, The Dinosaur Farm dubs itself as “not your ordinary toy store.” While it carries items unrelated to dino saurs and traditional staples, the shop is known for its wide range of dinosaur toys, books, games, costumes and more. Its on line store also features nothing but prehis toric creatures.

READER RECOMMENDED

San Marino Toy & Book Shoppe, 2476 Huntington Drive www.sanmarinotoys.com Vroman’s Bookstore, 695 E. Colorado Boulevard www.vromansbookstore.com

BEST ANTIQUES

Pasadena Antique Mall

309 E. Green Street www.thepasadenaantiquemall.com

The Pasadena Antique Mall boasts a wide range of inventory from antique furniture to Disney memorabilia. If you can’t find what you are looking for, it offers a “wish list” feature that adds your items to a deal ers’ list. It can then search its inventory and the store’s buyers can keep an eye out for them on acquisition trips.

READER RECOMMENDED

Huntington Collection, 2670 E. Colorado Boulevard www.huntingtonhealth.org/community/ huntington-collection

Pasadena Antique Center, 480 S. Fair Oaks Avenue www.pasadenaantiquecenter.com

BEST RESALE/VINTAGE

Huntington Collection

2670 E. Colorado Boulevard

www.huntingtonhealth.org/community/ huntington-collection

The Huntington Collection is a resale shop benefiting the Huntington Senior Care

Network, a program that helps older and disabled adults remain healthy and inde pendent. It is a small part of the larger or ganization Huntington Health, an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai.

READER RECOMMENDED

Full Circle Thrift, 2245 Lake Avenue, Altadena www.fullcirclethriftshop.org

Meowmeowz, 2423 E. Colorado Boulevard www.meowmeowz.bigcartel.com

BEST APPLIANCES

Snyder Diamond

432 S. Arroyo Parkway www.snyderdiamond.com

Snyder Diamond is a family-owned and -operated business that was established in Los Angeles in 1949. Its three locations feature a large array of decorative plumb ing, fine hardware and brand-name ap pliances at reasonable prices for its local community.

READER RECOMMENDED

George’s Kitchen & Bath, 99 Palmetto Drive www.georgesshowroom.com

Ultra Bathroom & Kitchen/Friedmans Home Experience, 318 E. Huntington Drive www.friedmanshomeexperience.com

BEST OUTDOOR/PATIO FURNITURE RETAILER

Fishbecks Patio Center 150 S. Raymond Avenue www.fishbecks.com

A tradition in Pasadena since 1899, Fish becks Patio Center is one of the region’s largest outlets for outdoor and casual fur niture. Its retro brick warehouse showcas es upscale wood, metal and wicker items perfect for outdoor living in Southern Cali fornia.

READER RECOMMENDED

Patioworld, 520 E. Colorado Boulevard www.patioworld.net

Terra Outdoor Living, 422 S. Lake Avenue www.terraoutdoor.com

BEST FLEA MARKET

Rose Bowl Flea Market 1001 Rose Bowl Drive www.rgcshows.com

The Rose Bowl Flea Market is one of the most well-attended and vendor-profitable flea markets in the nation. Occurring on the second Sunday of every month, the market offers a range of high-quality ven dors that not only attracts shoppers of all ages but worldwide attention.

READER RECOMMENDED

Pasadena Community College Flea Market, 1570 E. Colorado Boulevard www.pasadena.edu

BEST DISPENSARY/CBD

STORE

Sweet Flower

827 E. Colorado Boulevard www.sweetflower.com/stores/pasadena

Sweet Flower is one of Los Angeles’ longest-serving legal dispensaries. Its cannabis selections are finely curat ed and include indica, sativa, hybrid and CBD in a variety of flower, edible, extract, pre-roll, tincture, topical and vape essences. Whether you’re try ing to stimulate your mind, hang with friends or get active, there is the right product for every setting.

READER RECOMMENDED

Essence Dispensary, 908 E. Colorado Boulevard www.essencedispensary.com

Varda, 3341 E. Colorado Boulevard www.vardadispensary.com

BEST SPECIAL OCCASION DINING

Houston’s Restaurant

320 S. Arroyo Parkway www.houstons.com/locations/pasadena

Houston’s has been serving upscale American cuisine since 1977. Each en trée is made from scratch and serves only certified Angus beef such as the hand-selected USDA prime filet, sea soned wood-grilled ribeye and the Ha waiian ribeye steak with a pineapplesoy-ginger marinade. Start out with its popular grilled California artichoke served with rémoulade and pair it with a craft cocktail, beer and wine.

READER RECOMMENDED

Arroyo Chop House, 536 S. Arroyo Parkway www.arroyochophouse.com

Parkway Grill, 510 S. Arroyo Parkway www.theparkwaygrill.com

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT Twoheys Restaurant

424 Fair Oaks Avenue www.twoheys.com

Twoheys diner has been “making mem ories since 1943.” Founded by Jack and Jean Twohey, the family-friendly res taurant specializes in the finest Angus beef hamburgers, old-fashioned but termilk battered onion rings and soda fountain desserts. In fact, it is known for having the best sundaes — like the bittersweet hot fudge — in Southern California!

READER RECOMMENDED

Mijares,

145 Palmetto Drive www.mijaresrestaurant.com

La Grande Orange, 260 S. Raymond Avenue www.lgostationcafe.com

BEST SUNDAY BRUNCH

Millie’s Cafe

1399 E. Washington Boulevard www.milliescafela.com

Readers love Millie’s Café for its fromscratch home cooking. Since 1926, the café uses only the best ingredients: dai ly fresh baked bread, freshly squeezed juices, dairy products from Altadena, and it even grinds every pot of French roast coffee. Whether you’re vegan, a vegetarian, a meat lover or a glutenfree eater, there is a huge selection of egg scrambles and messes, Benedicts, omelets, fluffy pancakes, sandwiches, burgers, tacos, salads and specials for everyone to savor.

READER RECOMMENDED

La Grande Orange, 260 S. Raymond Avenue www.lgostationcafe.com

The Raymond,

1250 S. Fair Oaks Avenue www.theraymond.com

BEST ASIAN FUSION

Daisy Mint

1218 E. Colorado Boulevard www.daisymint.com Asian fusion and Thai are taken to an other level at Daisy Mint. Popular rice noodle dishes include the pad see ew (egg, garlic, Chinese broccoli and black bean sauce) and pad thai (eggs, red and green onion, bean sprouts and crushed peanuts) while the spicy curry dishes are bursting with flavor. Add a side of summer rolls with green leaf, cucum bers, carrots and basil wrapped in rice paper and served with peanut sauce. It’s understandable why Daisy Mint is a popular spot for lunch and dinner.

READER RECOMMENDED

Bone Kettle, 67 N. Raymond Avenue www.bonekettle.com

Ginger and Spice Noodle & Grill, 451 E. Colorado Boulevard www.gingerandspicenoodle.com

BEST ARMENIAN FOOD

Zankou Chicken

1296 E. Colorado Boulevard www.zankouchicken.com/pasadena

Zankou Chicken has been a staple in Southern California since 1983. Founded by the Iskenderian family from Lebanon, the restaurant is known for its authentic and fresh Mediterranean cuisine. Tradition al seasonings and spices are used in the tender spit-cooked chicken, shawarma, tarna, kabob and falafel and served with a side of sliced tomatoes, fresh lettuce, pick led turnips, hummus, pita bread, housemade tahini and a secret garlic sauce.

READER RECOMMENDED

Raffi’s Catering and Banquet, 3887 E. Sierra Madre Boulevard www.raffiscatering.com

Mediterranean Cafe, 273 Shoppers Lane www.kokosmediterraneancafe.com

BEST BAKERY

Seed Bakery

942 E. Washington Boulevard www.seedbakerypasadena.com

Every loaf of bread at Seed Bakery is made 100% with love and uses oldworld milling practices. The 12-hour fermentation process also enhances the flavor and shelf life and makes the bread easier to digest. Owner Joseph Abrakjian uses natural levin and wholegrain flours to create the popular rye, einkorn, spelt and kamut varieties that readers crave. It’s the softest bread in town!

READER RECOMMENDED

Little Flower Bakery, 1424 W. Colorado Boulevard www.littleflowercandyco.com

Dots Cafe, 3819 E. Colorado Boulevard www.dotscafebakery.com

BEST BARBECUE

Gus’s BBQ

808 Fair Oaks Avenue www.gussbbq.com

Gus’s BBQ has been serving mouth-wa tering family favorites since 1946. The secret to the smoked barbecue flavor is the slow-cooking process over pecan logs for 14 hours. Traditional Southern items include the St. Louis spareribs, brushed with Gus’s original barbecue sauce or the Texas prime beef brisket dry rubbed and smoked. Save room for dessert with the orange bourbon pecan bar, a pecan pie on top of a shortbread cookie crust with caramel sauce and French vanilla bean ice cream.

READER RECOMMENDED

Rodney’s Ribs, 902 N. Lake Avenue www.instagram.com/rodneysribs

Dickey’s Barbeque Pit, 2363 E. Colorado Boulevard www.dickeys.com/locations/california/pasadena

BEST BREAKFAST

Millie’s Cafe 1399 E. Washington Boulevard www.milliescafela.com

No matter if you’re vegan, vegetar ian, a meat lover or a gluten-free eat er, readers love breakfast at Millie’s Café the “old-fashioned way, by hand, from scratch, because there is a differ ence.” Dishes include the popular Elea nore R. Special with two eggs over easy, cheddar cheese over rosemary pota toes, salsa, guacamole and sour cream served with a biscuit or toast. There are also messes and scrambles, such as the devil’s mess with three scrambled eggs, Cajun turkey sausage, cheddar cheese, salsa, guacamole and sour cream. Don’t forget to add a side of pancakes, French toast or waffles.

READER RECOMMENDED

Marston’s, 151 E. Walnut Street www.marstonspasadena.net

Lucky Boy, 640 S. Arroyo Parkway www.luckyboyburgers.com

BEST LOCAL BURGER

In-N-Out Burger

2114 E. Foothill Boulevard www.in-n-out.com

In-N-Out defines the classic California hamburger. The fast-food restaurant has been around since 1948 and makes its burgers the old-fashioned way with “qual ity you can taste.” Order a single, “Not So Secret” double-double, 3X3 or 4x4 animal style (on a bun) or protein style (wrapped in lettuce) with 100% American beef, hand-leafed lettuce, tomato, spread, and with or without American cheese. Add a side of freshly cut fries or a shake made with real ice cream, and it’s no wonder there’s always long lines at the drive-thru.

READER RECOMMENDED

Pie & Burger, 913 E. California Boulevard www.pienburger.com

Dog Haus, 93 E. Green Street 105 N. Hill Avenue www.doghaus.com

BEST CALIFORNIA CUISINE

Green Street Restaurant 146 Shoppers Lane www.greenstreetrestaurant.com

Green Street Restaurant is a place where old friends come together to enjoy clas sic California cuisine since 1979. Some of these classics include the Mexican Street

Corn Flatbread with Burrata de Stefano, Cotija cheese, lime crema, cilantro and chili powder; spicy shrimp tacos and the Cali fornia pasta with penne, fresh spinach, ba sil, tomatoes and red chili flakes with an Asian tomato sauce. Don’t forget to check out breakfast and brunch on the week ends.

READER RECOMMENDED

La Grande Orange, 260 S. Raymond Avenue www.lgostationcafe.com

True Food Kitchen, 168 W. Colorado Boulevard www.truefoodkitchen.com

BEST CHINESE FOOD

Panda Inn 3488 E. Foothill Boulevard www.pandainn.com/locations/pasadena

The original Panda Inn is not to be con fused with the Panda Express fast-food chain. Opened by the Cherng family in 1973, Panda Inn celebrates the authentic taste of China’s flavors. Popular items such as the lo-mein with egg noodles, napa cabbage, bean sprouts, spinach, mush room and choice of protein or vegetable; the fried rice with eggs, scallions, peas and a choice of protein or vegetable; and the kon pao chicken with chicken, roasted peanuts, chili and green onions in a spicy sauce delight the taste buds and senses. Don’t forget to add a side of potstickers or vegetable egg rolls.

READER RECOMMENDED

Lunasia Dim Sum House, 239 E. Colorado Boulevard www.lunasiadimsum.com Yang Chow, 3777 E. Colorado Boulevard www.yangchow.com

BEST CUPCAKE

Dots Cupcakes 21 N. Fair Oaks Avenue www.dotscupcakes.com Dots Cupcakes serves up the sweet life

with daily fresh gourmet cupcakes. Found er and owner Hailey Kwon uses pure ingre dients, organic preserves and hand frosts each cupcake with a pretty and playful design. With daily flavors such as the red velvet with cream cheese frosting and spe cialty flavors such as the carmelita with rich chocolate cake and a caramel center topped with cream cheese frosting and caramel pearls, it’s no wonder it’s a “match made in the oven!”

READER RECOMMENDED

SusieCakes, 264 S. Lake Avenue www.susiecakes.com/locations/pasadena Urth Caffé, 594 E. Colorado Boulevard www.urthcaffe.com/pasadena

BEST DELI/SANDWICHES

Roma Market

918 N. Lake Avenue www.instagram.com/romamarket

Roma Market is known for having one sandwich that sells out every time. Owner Rosario Mazzeo invented “the sandwich” in the 1950s and adds mortadella, capicola, salami and provolone to a crunchy sub roll

with a touch of olive oil. At only $5.50, it sells fast due to the fresh and authentic in gredients imported from different regions of Italy. There’s even dried pasta, olive oils, balsamic vinegar, freshly baked bread and more for purchase to make your own Ital ian meal at home.

READER RECOMMENDED

Pasadena Sandwich Company, 259 Sierra Madre Villa Avenue www.pasadenasandwichcompany.com

Perry’s Joint Café, 2051 Lincoln Avenue www.perrysjoint.com

BEST DESSERT

Nothing Bundt Cakes

548 S. Lake Avenue

www.nothingbundtcakes.com

Nothing Bundt Cakes sweetens up any one’s day by using the perfect ingredients to make the moistest and freshest Bundt cakes. The bakery chain offers Bundt cakes in 10 flavors and sizes for any occasion, in cluding the classic vanilla with creamy va nilla frosting, lemon with a sweet snap of lemon and chocolate chocolate chip with chocolate chips baked right into the bat ter. It’s no wonder the bakery dedicates it self to “bringing joy … one cake at a time.”

READER RECOMMENDED

Urth Caffé, 594 E. Colorado Boulevard www.urthcaffe.com/pasadena Dots Cupcakes, 21 N. Fair Oaks Avenue www.dotscupcakes.com

BEST HEALTH/ORGANIC/ VEGETARIAN/VEGAN FOOD

True Food Kitchen

168 W. Colorado Boulevard www.truefoodkitchen.com

True Food Kitchen has roots in the Pasa dena community. Founded by Dr. Andrew Weil, True Food Kitchen uses organic, sus tainable and seasonal ingredients with a health-conscious goal in mind. It’s under standable why readers keep coming for “good food that evokes a good mood.”

READER RECOMMENDED

Urth Caffé, 594 E. Colorado Boulevard www.urthcaffe.com/pasadena Sage Vegan Plant Based Bistro, 41 Hugus Alley www.sageveganbistro.com

18+ audiences only

18+ audiences only

BEST HOT DOGS

Dog Haus

93 E. Green Street 105 N. Hill Avenue www.doghaus.com

Dog Haus’ beef dogs and proprietary sausages are legit, with no nitrates or ni trites, and are hormone and antibioticfree. Known for its signature creations served on King’s Hawaiian bread, the hot dog joint has favorites that include the SoooCali with wild arugula, avocado, to mato and crispy onions; Old Town with smoked bacon, caramelized onions, chipo tle aioli, picked jalapeño and cotija cheese; and Chili the Kid with white American cheese, Haus chili, crispy onions and chi potle aioli. With two locations in Old Pasa dena and Mid-Central, readers enjoy eat ing at the “Haus” they call home.

READER RECOMMENDED

Perry’s Joint Café, 2051 Lincoln Avenue www.perrysjoint.com Dirt Dog, 20 E. Union Street www.dirtdogla.com

BEST INDEPENDENT COFFEEHOUSE

Jones Coffee Roasters

695 E. Colorado Boulevard 693 S. Raymond Avenue 1006 Mission Street 680 S. Arroyo Parkway www.jonescoffeeroasters.com As one of the most local coffee chains in Pasadena, Jones Coffee Roasters pur chases only the highest-quality coffee from farms that use sustainable practices in Guatemala, Sumatra, Tanzania, Burun di and Rwanda. This popular coffeehouse was founded by Chuck and Larry Jones in 1994 and has four locations in the commu nity. Whether you have a hot or iced cup of its blends, seasonals, decafs and teas, the roastery believes in having an established community where customers can sit and enjoy a conversation with friends.

READER RECOMMENDED

Bay Poké has high standards for its ingre dients while keeping the authentic Hawai ian taste. Customers can build their own poké bowl with a selection of ahi tuna, salmon, shrimp, octopus, spicy tuna, spicy salmon, tofu, albacore or scallop with Bay Poké’s signature house sauce or other spe cialty sauces. Don’t forget to have it with a side of their flavored iced tea.

READER RECOMMENDED

Poke Salad Bar, 12 W. Colorado Boulevard www.pokesaladpasadena.com

Veggie Grill, 200 S. Lake Avenue www.veggiegrill.com

BEST ITALIAN FOOD

Domenico’s

2411 E. Washington Boulevard www.originaldomenicos.com

As a third-generation Italian restaurant, every entrée at Domenico’s is made with Mama Rosa’s original recipes. Special ties include the antipasto salad with on ions, olives, tomatoes, mozzarella, provo lone and salami tossed in Italian dressing; meat lasagna; and the Big “D” Special Piz za topped with cheese, pepperoni, sau sage, onions, mushrooms, bell pepper and black olives. As one of Pasadena’s oldest and beloved restaurants, this family serves it right.

READER RECOMMENDED

Union, 37 E. Union Street www.unionpasadena.com

Il Fornaio, 24 W. Union Street www.ilfornaio.com

BEST JAPANESE FOOD

Sugarfish

146 S. Lake Avenue www.sugarfishsushi.com

Magical Realism Fictional Memoir

Realism

Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In Own Words--read by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art surfing, slowly develops the ability to fly. the story evolves, he discovers that he can,

Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In His Own Wordsread by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art of surfing, slowly develops the ability to fly. As the story evolves, he discovers that he can, during flight, by way of olfactory engendered clairvoyance, accumulate and store inter nally essential love; eventually he is able to bestow this love. The following excerpts, inspired by the paintings of Edward Hopper, occur in the story when the protagonist is beginning to collect such essences of primal bliss.

GENRE: Magical Realism

Fictional Memoir

Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In His Own Words--read by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art of surfing, slowly develops the ability to fly. As the story evolves, he discovers that he can, during flight, by way of olfactory engendered clairvoyance, accumulate and store internally essential love; eventually he is able to bestow this love. The following excerpts, inspired by the paintings of Edward Hopper, occur in the story when the protagonist is beginning to collect such essences of primal bliss.

Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In His Own Words--read by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art of surfing, slowly develops the ability to fly. As the story evolves, he discovers that he can, during flight, by way of olfactory engendered clairvoyance, accumulate and store internally essential love; eventually he is able to bestow this love. The following excerpts, inspired by

FIND EXCERPTS on YouTube

Lavender & Honey, 1383 E. Washington Boulevard www.lavenderandhoneyespresso.com Café de Leche, 2477 N. Lake Avenue, Altadena www.cafedeleche.net

BEST POKÉ

Bay Poké 2345 E. Colorado Boulevard www.baypoke.com

Since 1978, Sugarfish only serves sushi one way: Nozawa style (traditional). With 50 years of experience, chef Kazunori No zawa uses only the highest-quality ingre dients and hand-selected fish. With loca tions in Los Angeles and New York, Sug arfish offers pure and simple dishes with its popular “Trust Me” courses that include edamame, tuna sashimi, albacore sushi, salmon sushi, toro hand roll, Japanese yel lowtail, New Zealand sea bream, Hirame sushi or the Blue and Dungeness crab hand rolI. It’s no wonder its motto is “Don’t think. Just eat.”

GENRE:

GENRE:

READER RECOMMENDED

Kabuki, 88 W. Colorado Boulevard 3539 E. Foothill Boulevard www.kabukirestaurants.com

Osawa, 77 N. Raymond Avenue www.theosawa.com

BEST KOREAN FOOD

Chris’ Korean BBQ 2063 E. Colorado Boulevard www.chriskbbq.com

Chris’ Korean BBQ has tender and fresh meat perfect for barbecuing. Open seven days a week, customers can enjoy menu items that include brisket, skirt steak or spicy pork with Korean miso soup, sweet radish wraps or a vegetable pancake as side dishes. It’s the perfect meal for the whole family to enjoy.

READER RECOMMENDED

Seoul Cham Root BBQ, 2139 Foothill Boulevard, La Cañada Flintridge www.seoulbbqlcf.com

Kang Ho Dong Baekjeogn, 5700 Rosemead Boulevard, Temple City www.baekjeongkbbq.com

BEST LOCAL BREWERY

Congregation Ale House 300 S. Raymond Avenue www.congregationalehouse.com Congregation Ale House has been “pour ing for the masses” for all beer lovers since 2010. With a European monastery inte rior with stained glass and skylights shin ing through wooden beams, the gastro pub has a variety of in-house brewed ales, ciders, hard seltzers, IPAs, lagers, Pilsners and stouts. Add a pint with a brew pub pretzel with IPA cheddar sauce, double pepperoni pizza, truffle French fries or the ribeye burger and it tastes like heaven — literally.

READER RECOMMENDED

Stone Brewery, 220 S. Raymond Avenue www.stonebrewing.com

Craftsman, 1260 Lincoln Avenue www.craftsmanbrewing.com

BEST LOCAL PIZZA

The Luggage Room

260 S. Raymond Avenue www.lgostationcafe.com

“Food is love” at The Luggage Room. Housed in the historic 1934 Del Mar Train Station during Hollywood’s Golden Age

era, the pizza joint uses gluten-free or fer mented sourdough crust and local fresh ingredients. Favorites include The Gladia tor with house-made Italian sausage, Mo linari pepperoni, house red sauce and a cheese blend and the farmers market piz za with roasted red beets, beet greens, Cowgirl Creamery Red Hawk cheese and pistachios.

READER RECOMMENDED

Mamma’s Brick Oven Pizza & Pasta, 1007 Fair Oaks Avenue www.mammasbrickoven.com Domenico’s, 2411 E. Washington Boulevard www.originaldomenicos.com

BEST MEXICAN FOOD Mijares

145 Palmetto Drive www.mijaresrestaurant.com

As the oldest Mexican restaurant in Pasa dena, Mijares is known for its authentic and traditional dishes, fresh tortillas, fa mous margaritas and festive patio dining. Original recipes are used from Jesucita Mijares, who fled Mexico during the revo lution 100 years ago. The family tradition continues with savoring dishes that in clude chile rellenos, Corky’s fabulous gar bage burrito with ground beef or chicken, cheese, onion, tomato, lettuce, olives and guacamole and homemade Albondigas soup. At Mijares, “mi casa es su casa.”

READER RECOMMENDED

El Portal, 695 E. Green Street www.elportalrestaurant.com Mercado, 140 S. Lake Avenue www.cocinasycalaveras.com/mercado

BEST SEAFOOD

Fish King

722 N. Glendale Avenue www.fishkingseafood.com

Fish King lives up to its motto “direct, from the sea to you.” Since 1948, the fam ily-owned restaurant prides itself in be ing one of the few independently owned fish markets with high-quality products. Popular items at its Galley Kitchen include the seafood plates, charbroiled plates and combos, bowls, tacos, burritos, soups and chowders, Totorrito (sushi burrito), and the “crunch” sandwiches with fish or shrimp with original marinades and sauc es. There’s also the seafood market with fresh and frozen seafood for purchase to take home.

READER RECOMMENDED

Fishwives, 88 N. Fair Oaks Avenue www.fishwives.com San Marino Seafood, 2150 Huntington Drive www.sanmarinoseafoodrestaurant.com

BEST STEAKHOUSE

Arroyo Chop House

536 S. Arroyo Parkway www.arroyochophouse.com

Readers enjoy eating at Arroyo Chop House for business dinners, special oc casions or to relax after work. The classy steakhouse in the only restaurant in San Gabriel Valley that serves high-quality USDA prime beef from its finest purveyors that is aged and hand-cut daily along with lobster, tuna, crab legs and chicken. Pair it with a side of the popular jalapeño-corn souffle or lobster mashed potatoes and a handcrafted cocktail.

READER RECOMMENDED

Houston’s, 320 S. Arroyo Parkway www.houstons.com Ruth’s Chris Steak House,

369 E. Colorado Boulevard www.ruthchris.com

BEST VIETNAMESE FOOD

Golden Deli

815 W. Las Tunas Drive, San Gabriel www.thegoldendeli.com

Golden Deli keeps readers returning with more than 100 homestyle and authentic Vietnamese cuisine specialties. Since 1981, the restaurant has been serving the best Vietnamese noodle soup, fried egg rolls and its renown pho. The secret to the pho? It is cooked slow and low in kettles until it develops a robust and smooth flavor.

READER RECOMMENDED

Pasadena Noodle & Grill, 2335 E. Colorado Boulevard places.singleplatform.com/pasadena-noodle

Ginger and Spice Noodle & Grill, 451 E. Colorado Boulevard www.gingerandspicenoodle.com

BEST WINGS

Alondra’s Hot Wings

515 W. Main Street, Alhambra www.lovealondras.com

Readers love Alondra’s famous hot wings for the tender chicken meat and the va

riety of sauce flavors. Wings can be or dered bone-in or boneless with a differ ent spice level of Buffalo, barbecue and teriyaki sauces along with Cajun, lem on pepper or seasoned dry rubs. Pair it with a side of hand-cut fries or cheese balls, and these wings tingle the taste buds.

READER RECOMMENDED

Hot Wings Café, 89 E. Colorado Boulevard www.hotwingscafe.net

Bad Mutha Clucka, 55 S. Madison Avenue www.badmuthaclucka.com

BEST TACO

King Taco

45 N. Arroyo Parkway www.kingtaco.com

What started as a taco truck in 1974 ended up becoming “the best in town” at King Taco. Specializing in beef and pork, the restaurant has authentic Mexican cuisine that includes burri tos, sopes, nachos, quesadillas, tama les, rotisserie chicken and tacos. Tacos are served in warm corn tortillas with a choice of protein and topped with fresh chopped cilantro, onions and housemade salsa.

READER RECOMMENDED

Guisado’s, 577 S. Arroyo Parkway www.guisados.la

La Estrella Tacos, 502 N. Fair Oaks Avenue

320 E. Orange Grove Boulevard

BEST BURRITO

Lucky

Boy

640 S. Arroyo Parkway 531 E. Walnut Street

www.luckyboyburgers.com

“Home of the Famous Breakfast Bur rito,” Lucky Boy draws a huge crowd daily. Third-generation owners John Rellos and Christina Karagias pile their breakfast burrito with eggs, potatoes, a choice of protein and cheese wrapped in a grilled flour tortilla. There’s also the carne asada, chicken and avocado bur ritos for lunch or dinner. Doors open at the Arroyo Parkway location open at 6 a.m. until midnight seven days a week.

READER RECOMMENDED

Burrito Express, 1597 E. Washington Boulevard www.burritoexpresspasadena.com

Mijares, 145 Palmetto Drive www.mijaresrestaurant.com

BEST CHEAP EATS

Lucky Boy

640 S. Arroyo Parkway 531 E. Walnut Street www.luckyboyburgers.com

Lucky Boy is a fast-food favorite among readers for a casual spot to enjoy great tasting food. The tasty and affordable menu has a variety of fast-food items that include the famous breakfast bur rito, chili dog, tacos and cheese fries for less than $6 at either location. The Ar royo Parkway location is open seven days a week for 18 hours and meals can be ordered car side.

READER RECOMMENDED

Dog Haus, 93 E. Green Street 105 N. Hill Avenue www.doghaus.com

Tops, 3838 E. Colorado Boulevard www.theoriginaltops.com

BEST BAR

Lucky Baldwin’s 17 S. Raymond Avenue luckybaldwins.pub

This British pub has the brews on lock. Listing all sorts of beers, from Belgian and strong ales to Pilsners, lagers and blondes; pale ales and bitters; IPAs; porters and stouts; brown, red and amber ales; wheat beers; sour and fruit beers; and even ci ders, seltzer and kombucha, Lucky Bald win’s has all manner of drinkers’ favorite brews. Not just one of the over-21 crowd, it also has a full-service kitchen and aims for a family-friendly atmosphere.

READER RECOMMENDED

Dog Haus, 93 E. Green Street 105 N. Hill Avenue www.doghaus.com

Blind Donkey, 53 E. Union Street www.theblinddonkey.com

BEST CASINO

Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel 777 San Manuel Boulevard, Highland yaamava.com

Formerly the San Manuel Casino, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel listens to its guests. After jumping at the chance to make suggested improvements to its ac commodations, the newly named and ex panded Yaamava’ is in a new era. Aiming to be the best at what it does, the resort and casino made numerous, step-by-step experiential changes over the past couple years, from expanded gaming to dining, hotel and entertainment. And the best, our readers feel it is.

READER RECOMMENDED

Pechenga Resort Casino, 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula pechanga.com

Morongo Casino Resort & Spa, 49500 Seminole Drive, Cabazon morongocasinoresort.com

BEST PLACE FOR A NIGHT OUT

Pasadena Playhouse

39 S. El Molino Avenue pasadenaplayhouse.org

Looking for a night out on the town? Look no further than the historical Pasadena Playhouse. Plan a night out with any num ber of the upcoming productions, from Stephen Sondheim’s “Sunday in the Park with George” and “A Little Night Music” to Zora Howard’s “Stew” and even Berna dette Peters in concert.

READER RECOMMENDED

The Ice House, 24 N. Mentor Avenue icehousecomedy.com

A Noise Within, 3352 E. Foothill Boulevard anoisewithin.org

BEST HAPPY HOUR

Yard House

300 E. Colorado Boulevard www.yardhouse.com

Boasting the world’s largest selection of draft beer, it’s no wonder Yard House is a go-to for its happy hour. From 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, customers can get half off select appetizers and all piz za, not to mention $2 off draft beer, wine, spirits and cocktails; $3 off 9 oz. wine; and $4 off half yards. There’s also a late-night happy hour from 10 p.m. to close Sunday through Wednesday that offers the same discounts on alcoholic beverages.

READER RECOMMENDED

The Raymond 1886, 1250 S. Fair Oaks Avenue www.theraymond.com

Dog Haus, 93 E. Green Street 105 N. Hill Avenue www.doghaus.com

BEST LIVE THEATER VENUE

Pasadena Playhouse

39 S. El Molino Avenue pasadenaplayhouse.org

With a mission “to enrich people’s lives through theater, community programs and learning,” according to its website, this iconic, revered, storied theater has been around for a century. Programs in clude, but are not limited to, theater pro ductions, community events and classes, but our readers especially love the former. The Playhouse has put on all sorts of live theater productions, but upcoming ones include “Sunday in the Park with George,” “A Little Night Music” and “Stew.”

READER RECOMMENDED

A Noise Within, 3352 E. Foothill Boulevard anoisewithin.org Sierra Madre Playhouse, 87 W. Sierra Madre Boulevard, Sierra Madre sierramadreplayhouse.org

BEST MARGARITAS

Mijares Mexican Restaurant

145 Palmetto Drive 626-792-2763, mijaresrestaurant.com

A community staple for over 100 years, this authentic Mexican restaurant’s mar garitas are to die for. Choose from an ar ray of flavored choices, blended or on the rocks, or you could keep it simple and go with one of the classics, from the self-ti tled Mijares margarita to the Casa Noble margarita, Ilegal Mezcal margarita or Ali cia’s margarita. Mijares has a whole sec tion of its menu dedicated to the refresh ing beverage, more than most restau rants.

READER RECOMMENDED

El Portal, 695 E. Green Street elportalrestaurant.com

El Cholo, 300 E. Colorado Boulevard elcholopasadena.com

BEST MARGARITAS

Mijares Mexican Restaurant

145 Palmetto Drive mijaresrestaurant.com

A community staple for over 100 years, this authentic Mexican restaurant’s mar garitas are to die for. Choose from an ar ray of flavored choices, blended or on the

ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE

Since 1998 Times Media Group has been a locally owned news and entertainment media company. Fast forward to today and TMG is now one of the largest print and digital media companies in the Southwest. With this level of growth and expansion we need to add to our multi-media sales team.

Times Media Group is seeking an experienced advertising account executive. This is an excellent opportunity for a highly motivated and experienced advertising sales professional.

TMG has grown significantly as a result of its great professional team, and its well-known print and digital media platforms, including the Pasadena Weekly and Arroyo Magazine.

WHAT WE NEED

Two years of outside advertising sales experience is preferred. A good candidate for this position is financially motivated, possesses exceptional organizational skills and is ready to embrace a real opportunity to work on a quality team.

An ideal candidate will be familiar with the San Gabriel Valley area including Pasadena, Alhambra, Altadena, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena and the surrounding areas.

We are seeking an individual who can sell solutions not just ads, who appreciates straight-talk, and is hardworking, motivated, and values working in a positive team environment.

rocks, or you could keep it simple and go with one of the classics, from the self-ti tled Mijares margarita to the Casa Noble margarita, Ilegal Mezcal margarita or Ali cia’s margarita. Mijares has a whole sec tion of its menu dedicated to the refresh ing beverage, more than most restau rants.

READER RECOMMENDED El Portal, 695 E. Green Street elportalrestaurant.com El Cholo, 300 E. Colorado Boulevard elcholopasadena.com

BEST PLACE TO DANCE

Ixtapa Cantina

119 E. Colorado Boulevard cantinaixtapa.com With two full bars upstairs and down stairs, this lounge and nightclub is perfect for dancing the night away. With an ex tensive list for bottle service, not to men tion dinner shows with live music and more, Ixtapa is great for parties or even just an escape into the nightlife of Pasa dena.

READER RECOMMENDED Club 54, 54 E. Colorado Boulevard club54lounge.com Elements Dance Space, 1222 N. Fair Oaks Avenue elementsdancespace.com

BEST PRIVATE EVENT VENUE

Noor

300 E. Colorado Boulevard noorevents.com

If, based on the requirements, you are a qualified candidate and would like to join a quality team and get on with your future, respond with your resume and a cover letter outlining why you believe you are a good fit for the position. We are currently scheduling interviews.

Times Media Group offers a positive work environment, great product line and a significant opportunity for income growth.

Times Media Group: Times Media Group is a digital and print media company that operates in the Phoenix, Tucson, San Diego, Los Angeles & Ventura County markets. It serves a wide variety of demographic audiences and communities.

Booking your perfect event and gathering all your closest friends, acquaintances or colleagues requires the backing of a great private venue. That venue is Noor. Play ing host to everything from weddings, birthdays and showers to corporate meet ings, fundraisers and holiday parties, Noor emphasizes a combination of boutique service with hotel-style packages, allow ing for full service with a personal touch. Spaces include multiple ballrooms, a ter race and a foyer.

READER RECOMMENDED

Altadena Town and Country Club, 2290 Country Club Drive, Altadena altaclub.com

The Castle Green, 99 S. Raymond Avenue castlegreen.com

BEST PUB GRUB

Lucky Baldwin’s 17 S. Raymond Avenue luckybaldwins.pub

Already winner of Best Bar, this British pub also takes the cake for its grub, too. Don’t just throw down some brews, order some food to munch along with it. Complement a variety of bottle and tap selections with classics like fish and chips or bangers and mash, or try out the variety of traditional meat pies, among numerous other op tions from the full-service kitchen that dishes up breakfast, lunch and dinner.

READER RECOMMENDED

Kings Row Gastropub, 20 E. Colorado Boulevard kingsrowpub.com

Der Wolf, 72 N. Fair Oaks Avenue thederwolfpasadena.com

BEST SPORTS BAR

Lucky Baldwin’s 17 S. Raymond Avenue luckybaldwins.pub

Our readers love the brews and the bites here, all the more reason to come check out a game. A staple British pub for over two decades, this bar with a long list of brews and a full-service kitchen menu to complement is also a great sports bar.

READER RECOMMENDED

Yard House, 300 E. Colorado Boulevard yardhouse.com Rocco’s, 44 W. Green Street roccostavern.com

BEST WINERY/DISTILLERY

San Antonio Winery

Multiple locations sanantoniowinery.com

San Antonio is the oldest and largest pro ducing winery in LA, spanning four gener ations and more than a century. Now with several locations ranging from Ontario to Paso Robles, the original is still at 737 La mar Street in Los Angeles. Guests can par ticipate in tastings and flights, tours, din ing and more. San Antonio has estates in Napa Valley, Paso Robles and Monterey.

READER RECOMMENDED

Old Oak Cellars, 2620-D E. Foothill Boulevard inwineinc.com

Villa Laural Fine Wines, 2610 E. Foothill Boulevard villalauralfinewines.com

THANK YOU FRIENDS FOR VOTING

S e l l i n g a h o m e c a n b e a s t r e s s f u l p r o c e s s i f y o u d o n ' t h a v e t h e r i g h t r e a l e s t a t e a g e n t o r t e a m W i t h o v e r 3 5 y e a r s o f c o m b i n e d e x p e r i e n c e , 1 0 y e a r s a s a t e a m , & o v e r 1 , 0 0 0 f a m i l i e s w h o h a v e t r u s t e d u s w i t h t h e i r r e a l e s t a t e n e e d s , y o u c a n r e l y o n u s t o g e t y o u t h e m o s t a m o u n t o f m o n e y i n t h e l e a s t a m o u n t o f t i m e ! A S

W e h a v e a n a m a z i n g t e a m o f B u y e r ' s A g e n t s r e a d y t o h e l p y o u f i n d y o u r d r e a m h o m e & a r e c o m m i t t e d t o n e g o t i a t i n g t h e b e s t d e a l f o r y o u !

E T

S W O R K T O G E T H E R ! T H I N K I N G A B O U T B U Y I N G O R I N V E S T I N G ?

K U S A B O U T O U R 6 D A Y B L I T Z !

SOCAL’S HOME TO GAMING EXCITEMENT

Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel awards their Club Serrano members each month with cars, cash and gifts. Join for free and the next winner could be you!

For a limited time, new members bringing in another casino's player's card will be matched with an equivalent Club Serrano card. Even better, Yaamava' will match your gaming offer! Plus, new members will receive a Buy 1 Get 1 Free Serrano Buffet offer and a chance to win up to $1,000 in Free Play.