By William Chen
Pasadena’s food scene is growing in flavors, turns, and destinations. From bold new restaurants to time-honored local favorites, there’s something for every palate. Here’s a roundup of what’s opening, some hidden gems locals love, and how food trends are shaping our culinary map.
What’s New in Town
Tosakko Ramen & Yakitori
Sparking excitement near the Civic Center, Tosakko brings authentic tonkotsu ramen and a variety of yakitori skewers. Rich broths, crisp textures, and a menu built for both meat lovers and vegetarians make it a satisfying stop for either lunch or dinner. Many claim this is the brand’s first U.S. location. Location: 245 E. Colorado Blvd.
Levant Mediterranean Oven & Grill
This modern Mediterranean spot sets itself apart with stone-fired breads, flame-grilled meats, and traditional favorites like shawarma, falafel, and kebabs served alongside house-made sauces. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or a full sit-down feast, this place hits the mark. Location: 117 W. California Blvd.
Love Baked Wings & Dalah
If you want crunch without the guilt, Love Baked Wings flips wings and tenders into a lighter form with baked crusts and crispy texture. Meanwhile, Dalah is turning heads in its bright space on Cordova Street, offering inventive Thai dishes like beef cheek curry that feel like street-food elevated.
Local Favorites Worth Standing By
While the new spots are dazzling, longtime Pasadena residents have stood by some indispensable eats—hidden gems and neighborhood staples that feel like home.
Perle
Love French cuisine? Perle in Old Pasadena continues to impress with French classics—from coq au vin to steak frites—and desserts that live in the memory, like a perfect apple tarte Tatin. Great for special occasions, sure, but its comfort factor makes it a go-to any night.
Union
Known for flavorful, Northern Italian fare and farmer’s-market driven menus, Union remains a reliable perch for everything from fresh pasta to roasted vegetables and classics like mussels. The perfect dinner out when you want something hearty, familiar, and thoughtfully prepared.
Lunasia
If dim sum is your passion, Lunasia is beloved for soup dumplings, house dim sum fare, and special additions like lemongrass lamb chops. It relocated on Colorado recently and keeps delivering that silky, steamed-to-order magic.
Food Trends & the Shifting Flavor Map
The feel of Pasadena is changing—not just with new openings, but with how we’re eating. A few patterns worth noting:
- Healthier takes on favorites: Think baked not fried, lighter sides, and flavor over fat. Places like Love Baked Wings are meeting this moment.
- Global street and comfort food: Ramen houses, Thai street-style, Mediterranean grills—these are no longer niche but front of house.
- Café culture and dessert bars: Pastries, specialty teas, and premium coffees are growing fast. Space matters—cozy corners, sharing tables, casual vibes count.
- Evenings map differently: Restaurant openings are clustering—Old Pasadena near Raymond & Union, and Colorado Boulevard courtyards are seeing concentrated growth. These spots are becoming destination walks for dinner, drinks, or desserts.
Where to Start Tonight
If you’re looking for a dinner plan, here’s a small crawl to get your evening started:
- Begin with ramen and skewers at Tosakko.
- Pop over to Levant for Mediterranean warmth and vibrant flavors.
- End with dessert or tea—try Bu Pastry Bar or Nana’s Green Tea to wind down with something sweet and relaxed.
Pasadena’s food world is growing richer, more varied, and more walk-friendly. Whether you’re craving new places or returning to a beloved standby, there’s always something worth tasting.