Joe's Profile
Japanese Teppan style restaurants (Tokyo Wako) in Pasadena area...
Taking our son out to Tokyo Wako in Pasadena for his birthday tomorrow. It's not be best of restaurants but he likes it so we're going. Up until recently, they were running a special where if you bought one dish, you'd get the 2nd one for free (Monday-Thursday). Apparently, that is no longer. When I called to inquire about specials, they said the only one that is currently running is in The LA Times. I've searched everywhere and can't find it. Does anyone know of such a coupon or has one?
Thanks in advance!
Hollywood Area Funky Restaurant
The Velvet Margarita for sure! Not sure about the size of your party but I know they have a private room upstairs. Usually very busy on weekends and they take reservations a week in advance (at least, I think). Aside from funky, the food is pretty good too.
Please help - Romantic"ish" Restaurant Needed - Malibu or environs
Geoffrey's in Malibu is very romantic and waterfront. Might be a little pretentious and expensive for some but hey, that's Malibu for you.
This is where I proposed to my ex-wife. Good and bad memories :-)
http://www.geoffreysmalibu.com/
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Geoffrey's Malibu
27400 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
LA lounge bars who serve the best Cosmo's, Martini's and other well drinks...
Originally had planned a get together @ The Standard roof top bar in Downtown LA to celebrate a special occasion with 10-15 people. With the rain coming, this might present a problem for this weekend. We're looking for similar loungy kind of place and not a club setting who server good Cosmo's, Martini's and other well drinks as well as finger foods without breaking the bank but not necessarily a dive bar. Obviously, if we were planning on going to The Standard roof top bar and forking over $12.00 per cocktail and paying a $20.00 cover charge, we're anticipating a little investment and a dent in our wallets.
Closer to Pasadena the better but no further then Downtown LA.
Romantic Restaurants in the Santa Clarita Valley
Only places that comes to mind is Le Chen in Aqua Dulce. Very romantic with good food and great wine list. Only a 15 minute drive on Sierra Hwy from Downtown Santa Clarita.
http://i.pbase.com/u35/digipets/large/31748557.LeChen.jpg
Middle Eastern Restaurant Delivery, 30-40 people?
I think what people might realize is that there is a difference inmiddle-eastern foods, depending on the country of origin. For instance, Shamshiri is a Persian food establishment, which is very different then let's say a Lebanese, Israeli (Haifa, which I believe is Israeli based), Western Armenian (Syria/Lebanon) and Eastern Armenian (Armenia/Russia). They all have the same base but with very different and distinct flavors and sides.
Middle Eastern Restaurant Delivery, 30-40 people?
I think one can do much better then BG. For Middle Eastern standards, they would be graded very low in quality, flavor and authenticity. As mentioned above, check out Carnival in Sherman Oaks, which has very good food or Marouch in Hollywood.
Favorite Armenian bakeries/restaurants
I love Cafe Bravo. Up until 4 years ago, I worked a block from there and have eaten there a few dozen times. Sadly, the old man who opened the joint died 2 years ago of a massive heart attack and although their food is still good, it's not as good as it was. Also, their menu is a bit more on the Armenian-Russian side. Consider the fact the he migrated from Armenia to Iran and eventually to here, it's clear why that is. They make a tasty chicken Kebob and delicious Ikra (eggplant dip). One of the best I've had.
Favorite Armenian bakeries/restaurants
Well, pretty much everything there is good. It all depends on what you like. If you go on a weekend and towards the earlier part of the day, they serve-up a killer kaniafa (sp?), which is usually eaten as a breakfast sweet. They have AWESOME cakes as whole or as individuals servings. Delicious cookies and if your friend likes Baklava, theirs is one of the best around.
While there, go next door to Garo's Basturma and let him score some tasty basturma. If he's middle easter, he'll love it.
Favorite Armenian bakeries/restaurants
I know both well and IMO, Vrej Pastry on Allen is by far better. Sarkis Bakery just has the name and the curb appeal but no where near as good as Vrej's.
Favorite Armenian bakeries/restaurants
Bakeries: Hands down, Sassoun Bakery on Santa Monica Blvd. (just west of Normandie). Lahmajun (Armernian pizza) is the best in town. Also try their spicy cheese breads. They're very good, albeit spicy and greasy. Glendale location seems to be of same quality and freshness.
If you meant bakeries, as in pastries and sweet stuff. In Pasadena, on Allen. Vrej Pastry. Much better then other bakeries.
Restaurants: Marouch Restaurant on Santa Monica (corner of Edgemont). Personally, my favorite middle eastern eatery in Southern California. A close 2nd is Carousel in Glendale and a 3rd is Carnival in Sherman Oaks.
The above is guaranteed to satisfy all his cravings.
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Carousel Restaurant
304 N Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91203
Carnival Restaurant
4356 Woodman Ave, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Vrej Pastry
1074 N Allen Ave, Pasadena, CA
Marouch Armenian & Middle Eastern Cuisine
4905 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029
REVIEW w/ pics: Father's Office
Kind of like that, yes. The burger itself is not on a traditional bun with traditional condiments. It's on a French roll (I think) with non traditional seasonings.
One the most delicious things I've bit into. I can't believe it's called a hamburger. It's almost an insult!
REVIEW w/ pics: Father's Office
Definitely worth the effort to at the very least to have tried it. I'd kick myself in the behind if I was anywhere in the vicinity and not go there.
In-N-Out is a icon in burgers but comparing it to FO's is like comparing apples to oranges. 2 very distinct and very different burgers. Both good but in their own ways.
Pie n Burger- WORST EXPERIENCE EVER
Funny you mentioned that. I just tried the Top's Kobe Burger yesterday for the first time and we absolutely loved it! A close 2nd to Father's Office burgers. Only bummer is that we've waited so long, considering how close it is to us.
Pie n Burger- WORST EXPERIENCE EVER
Pie n Burger just plain old sucks. The only thing they do good are their pies; NOTHING ELSE. If you like their food, it's either because you're taste buds like diner style greasy bland food or because you're part of the herd.
Thanks for being honest. Too many times people rave about it and I just don't get it!!!
Pubs/Bars That Serve Food in Pasadena
Crown City Brewery on Raymond or as someone already mentioned, The Yard House @ The Paseo.
In Arcadia, you have Matt Denny's on Huntington and BJ's just east of it. Both within 5 miles of Pasadena.
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Crown City Brewery
300 S Raymond Ave # 2, Pasadena, CA
Matt Denny's Alehouse Restrnt
145 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia, CA 91006
B J's Restaurant
400 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia, CA 91006
Tops Kobe Cheese Burger is Tops
Ok, we finally went and had lunch yesterday @ Top's (on Colorado). We ordered the Kobe Beef Burger and asked for it to be cooked medium rare and cut in half. We also ordered a small order of fries and small rings.
Long story short, we got a burger that was slightly over cooked (medium well) and even than, it was damn good. I can't wait to try it again when it's cooked to perfection. To say that we were pleasently surprised is an understatement. In fact, upon our return to my girlfriends sisters house, we got them all so worked up by talking about how good the burgers we just were, they drive 20 minutes to pick up more Top's Kobe Burgers to feed 4 more mouths. Every one of them was impressed and loved the burgers. Luckily for them, their burgers looked to be cooked just right.
Instead of rings, they ordered battered zucchini. They also love that as well.
This could be real dangerous and could affect my waste line. Top's is only 2 miles from our house and I could see us caving in to the temptation of the Kobe and finding ourselves back at the counter or drive through ordering more delicious burgers. Damn you, Top's!
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The Original Tops
3838 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91107
Thoughts on Best Burger in LA?
Fast Food=that's a no brainer. In-N-Out any day! Too bad for people who are not on the west coast. They truly are missing out.
High End= Another no brainer; Father's Office. Some say it's too gourmet but I say it's the best creation I've tasted in a while. Tried 25 Degrees recently and was not impressed.
Pub=not really certain
Old Time Burger joint=Well, considering it's been there since 1957, I guess you can call it old time. Top's Burgers on Colorado in Pasadena. Their classic burger or Pastrami burger is awesome. To boot, with their latest Kobe Burger creation, they rank 2nd (1st being FO's) in the gourmet burger business. A must try.
REVIEW w/ pics: Father's Office
Spot on! That was almost the same exact experience and reaction we had upon our first visit a couple of years ago. I've yet to find an establishment that is able to generate the kind of flavor that FO's burgers generate. The pics are great, thank you. They made me hungry!
Pasadena Bistro - Madeleine or Cafe Bizou
If you don't mind driving for 7 minutes to the west, head over to Eagle Rock and take her to Cafe Beaujolais. I've yet to take anyone there who doesn't love it.
They arguably have the best French Onion soup I've had to date and I've had a bunch.
They have a signature Halibut dish that's mouth watering. The Filet Mignon is amazing as well as the Salmon. They have an extensive French wine list at very reasonable prices. The servers are all French and believe it or not, they're extremely friendly and helpful. Ask them to suggest a wine and they will. Best of all, you''ll walk out spending $100-$120 for the two of you, including a bottle of wine and tip. Most items on the menu are $15.00-$20.00. When busy, it can get a little loud. Reservations on a weekend is recommended. I think their theme is "French food without the attitude".
http://dailynosh.blogspot.com/2005/08/cafe-beaujolais.html
Cafe Beaujolais
1712 Colorado Blvd
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
(323) 255-5111
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Cafe Beaujolais
1712 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041
looking for the best Indian food
This might be out of your way but in Pasadena, Mezbaan Indian Cuisine is fantastic. I've been going there for better part of 10-12 years and have always loved their food. Ambiance and decor leaves a lot to be desired but it will do. On Weekends, they have live entertainment and it's very interesting. I've also tried other Indian establishments in the Pasadena area (All India, Akbar's, Radhika's, Sitar, New Delhi Palace) and haven't found anything close to Mezbaan. In my opinion, the most over rated place is All India Cafe. It's decor is more appealing but the food is bland and not very good. I don't know why the place is always packed. I've never figured that one out.
Like any Indian food, if you don't have an iron clad stomach, go easy on the curry and the spices. Otherwise, you'll pay later!
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Mezbaan Indian Cuisine
80 N Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103
Restaurants you love that are rarely mentioned on Chowhound
Not sure why but Di Pilla's in Rosemead is seldom if at all ever mentioned when it comes to Italian Restaurants. Yes, there are fancier and hipper places but when it comes to good ol' hearty Italian Food and authentic sauces, not much can beat Di Pilla's. Living in Pasadena, I've hit-up every Italian establishment in town and the only one I routinely return to is Di Pilla's. We try to go there once every couple of weeks. I've never had a bad food experience there. Some of the servers are okay, not great. It's owned by an Italian man and his wife and she's always there making her rounds table to table talking to customers. She's very warm and friendly. To boot, prices are very reasonable and portions are big. Every entry comes with soup or salad and unlimited supply of delicious bread. Wine list is very limited but enough to suffice.
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Di Pilla's Italian Restaurant
9013 Valley Blvd, Rosemead, CA 91770
Need Dinner Place - Downtown LA
I agree. Although we've only dined at Cafe Pinot once, our experience was wonderful. We were staying at The Standard Hotel next door and pretty much stumbled across it. We were pleasantly surprised. The food was spot on and the service was very attentive. I'm wondering why we haven't made our way back their now. No excuse I guess.
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Cafe Pinot
700 West Fifth St., Los Angeles, CA 90071
Fredo's Philly's in Pasadena...
No gristle to speak of during my experience. To be fair, I've only been once but I'll pay attention and report back, if any is encountered.
where to go in Monrovia for dinner?
Does anyone happen to know what happen to Amori's?
Fredo's Philly's in Pasadena...
I've read lots of good things about this little joint so I decided to go check it out yesterday. Knowing the mini-mall and the overall area, I wasn't expecting a fancy place. Just a good hole in the wall serving-up some authentic fresh cheese steaks.
Once I arrived, it was exactly as I thought it would be. The service was a bit slow but once I got a hold of the sandwich, all that didn't matter anymore. I ordered the works Cheese Steak. The roll was fresh and soft. The meat a little overcooked but had just the right balance of cheese, meat, bell peppers, mushrooms and seasoning. Although it was a large, I devoured it and was left craving for more. Very well done!
Good fresh food, good portions with reasonable prices. If you're from the Philly area, they have Tasty Cakes as well as Hank's Root Beer, which will surely give you some melancholy for Philly. Just be patient as the service isn't the fastest. To be expected, considering it's recent popularity.
http://www.fredosphillys.com/
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Fredo's Phillys
720 N Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91104
Really good salads???
Ditto for Green Street, albeit not the exact area you're looking for but it's pretty close.
Also consider Crocodile Cafe across the way from Green Street. Both have good salads but Green Street has their own little unique signature salads that's worth trying (i.e. Diane Salad, etc.).
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Green Street Restaurant
146 S Shopper's Lane, Pasadena, CA 91101
Need Dinner Place - Downtown LA
Roy's Asian Fusion on Figueroa and 8th (south east corner). Although it's theme is seafood, there are some great beef choices (short ribs are delicious) as well as chicken. If you do like seafood and sushi, they have a delicious Blackened Ahi & Mahi-Mahi for your entree. Don't overlook their Prix Fixe menu. It includes everything (including desert) and for a very reasonable price.
They have some exotically blended sushi rolls you're sure to enjoy. I love their Tuna Tar Tar for appetizer and their Chocolate Soufflé for desert. If you're a dark chocolate aficionado, you can't go wrong with this.
http://www.roysrestaurant.com/
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Roy's Restaurant
800 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Tops Kobe Cheese Burger is Tops
Pie and Burger? Are you kidding me? Excluding their fresh pies, their burgers, fries and food in general are down right awful! It's greasy, frozen patty burgers, small and tasteless. I couldn't imagine of a more generic burger than the ones @ Pie and Burger. Think outside the box and judge for yourself. You don't have to like an establishment's food just because the majority says you do. Judge for yourself and I guarantee you, 8 out of 10 times people will think P&B's food is down right awful.
Speaking of Top's. I've been going there for a better part of 25 years (far less currently) now. In fact, I went to high school with the Bicos' brothers, who are now the owners of the various Top's around town. I used to love their Tops special burger. a Cheeseburger with Pastrami. As I've gotten older, I've phased out such diets for obvious reasons. One can't go to such establishments and compare them to higher end burger joints, i.e. Father's Office, 25 Degrees, Hamburger Hamlet, etc. It's a fast food place with fair and clean food. Judge it for what it is, in comparison.
I personally haven't tried the Kobe Burger yet but I will. It's on my way home and only 2 miles from my house.
What is good at Porto's?
You can't go to Porto's and not have their Potato balls. Very good and a must.
That said, if you're having lunch and are into pork, a few Cuban style sandwiches to pick from. If you're like me and don't care for pork, you can try their Ropa Vieja (sp?) sandwich. So good and tender. Served on a soft french roll bread.
Also, another must for me is their cheese Guava pastry. YUM!!!
