Pasadena’s vibrant food scene continues to flourish with a host of new restaurants and food trucks offering diverse culinary experiences. Here are some noteworthy additions to check out:
New Restaurant Openings
26 VietCafe
Located at 3562 E. Foothill Blvd., 26 VietCafe brings comforting Vietnamese dishes with a subtle Cantonese twist. Their generous portions of pho, Vietnamese crepes, and grilled pork over rice vermicelli noodles have quickly become local favorites. Don’t miss their taro sago dessert for a sweet finish.
Cheesesteaks by Matu & HiHo Cheeseburger
Sharing a space at 625 E. Colorado Blvd., these sister restaurants specialize in 100% grass-fed and finished Wagyu beef. Cheesesteaks by Matu offers premium cheesesteaks, while HiHo Cheeseburger serves up high-quality burgers, both emphasizing top-notch ingredients from the beef to the buns.
Dumpling WEI
After a period of construction, Dumpling WEI has reopened at 1615 E. Washington Blvd. This woman-owned establishment focuses on traditional Chinese and classic Chinese American comfort food. Signature dishes include pork & cabbage buns, tomato and egg noodles, and dried chili spiced crispy chicken.
Wagyu Master Shabu House
For an authentic Japanese hot pot experience, Wagyu Master Shabu House at 300 E. Colorado Blvd. Suite 240 offers an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring premium vegetables, seafood, sashimi, and a build-your-own sauce station. Their dessert selection, including egg tarts and Swiss rolls, is also noteworthy.
Panini Kabob Grill
Situated at 300 E. Colorado Blvd., Ste 114, Panini Kabob Grill has expanded its Mediterranean offerings to Pasadena. Known for its scratch-made, high-quality dishes, the restaurant features charbroiled kabobs, vibrant salads, and creamy pastas, all made from fresh ingredients.
Bevel Coffee
After operating as a pop-up, Bevel Coffee has established its first brick-and-mortar café at 1866 N. Allen Ave. on the Altadena/Pasadena border. The café serves specialty coffee roasted in-house, along with pastries, bagels, and sandwiches, providing a cozy spot for coffee enthusiasts.
Food Trucks to Follow
Dinas Dumpling
Dinas Dumpling is a modern Chinese food truck offering authentic handmade dumplings in a fast street style. Their menu includes rainbow dumplings, scallion pancakes, and five spice noodles. While their schedule varies, they are available for private events and catering.
El Taquito Mexicano Truck
Located at 510 S. Fair Oaks Ave., El Taquito Mexicano, also known as The Taco Truck, is renowned for its flavorful chicharrones tacos and al pastor with red sauce. It’s a go-to destination for authentic Mexican street food, especially for late-night cravings.
Fat Boy’s Food Truck
Since 2019, Chef Michael Gray has been serving innovative takes on classics from burgers to Southern delights. Signature items include the Screaming Mikey burger topped with jalapeños and the fried chicken sandwich served over a homemade Belgian waffle. Check their website for the latest schedule.
Rodney’s Ribs Food Truck
For barbecue enthusiasts, Rodney’s Ribs Food Truck at 902 N. Lake Ave. offers big and juicy ribs, tender brisket, and flavorful sides like baked beans and potato salad. The owner is known for excellent customer service and consistently impressive food.
The Beast Burger
Serving Northeast LA, The Beast Burger food trailer offers handcrafted burgers with unique twists. Favorites include The Beast Burger featuring bison and bacon onion fig jam, and the Stinky Bacon Burger with blue cheese dressing and Gruyère. They also cater to plant-based diners with options like the Anti Beast burger.
With these new additions, Pasadena’s culinary landscape continues to offer exciting and diverse dining options for residents and visitors alike.