Diners' Choice: Good for special occasions restaurants in Pasadena

OpenTable

Updated December 05, 2024

Looking for the best special occasion restaurants in Pasadena? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Shiro Restaurant

4.9

4.9 (1603)

$50 and over

Contemporary French

Pasadena

About the restaurant

Open for indoor and outdoor dining and curbside takeout. Outdoors dining is subject to the weather. We have heaters but not for all tables. Please dress warmly. If there is a chance of rain we will have to cancel.

Shiro has been named the Zagat Guide's number one restaurant and is consistently one of the highest rated establishments in the guide (#5 in 2011; #2 for service in 2013). Shiro is summed up by it's ingredients. Menu items are driven by the best available, nothing less is acceptable. For over 35 years, diners have enjoyed our French and Pacific Rim inspired menu. A tradition of fine dining with excellent, friendly service. We may supplement our menu with a special Taste of Shiro (soup or salad, meat or fish, dessert). Wed/Th. The evening's menu is posted around 3pm.

As much as we love them, we must ask that your dogs and other pets stay home. Service dogs, of course, are welcome.

Top review

JuneVIP

Dined 5 days ago

The truffle ravioli appetizer is fantastic (it's not on the menu but almost always a special.)

Parkway Grill

4.8

4.8 (2478)

$50 and over

Californian

Pasadena

About the restaurant

The Smith Brothers trend-setter in regional American cuisine, Parkway Grill continues to define dining in the city and beyond. Parkway Grill specializes in a seasonal, market-driven approach to cooking that incorporates diverse influences and classic French technique. Throughout its over 30 years, Parkway’s innovative chefs have showcased an intriguing array of dishes using locally sourced ingredients.

Demonstrating the ultimate commitment to fresh produce, Parkway Grill planted its own organic vegetable and herb garden behind the restaurant, which continues to thrive for over 25 years on a piece of prime real estate in the heart of Pasadena.

Top review

eric

Dined 1 day ago

This remains the best “special occasion” restaurant on this side of LA. The ambiance , the food, and particularly the high level of service never lets one down. We came here last night to celebrate my bride of 43 years birthday. Jose, our waiter, made us feel like we were the only ones in the restaurant from the beginning, after a very nice hostess spent a few minutes after seating us discussing the challenges of a Christmas Season birthday.

Ruth's Chris Steak House - Pasadena

4.7

4.7 (4025)

$50 and over

Steakhouse

Pasadena

About the restaurant

Now Open: We look forward to serving you soon.

Ruth's Chris Steak House in Pasadena, CA serves the finest USDA Prime beef available, broiled at 1,800° and served on 500° plates, so your steak stays hot, juicy and delicious from first bite to last. Enjoy our New Orleans-inspired appetizers, USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, signature side dishes and homemade desserts. All this while you enjoy our warm, inviting atmosphere and Ruth’s Chris’ genuine hospitality. So whether you’re a regular or have just been wondering what all the buzz is about, Ruth's Chris is the perfect excuse to enjoy the perfect night out. Dinner is served nightly, reservations are suggested and private dining and offsite catering may be arranged.

Top review

Caysen

Dined 5 days ago

THE FOOD IS ALWAYS GOOD. SPICY SHRIMP NEVER FAILS AND CAN NEVER GO WRONG WITH A MEDIUM WELL FILET😋

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4.7

4.7 (1887)

$30 and under

Argentinean

Pasadena

About the restaurant

Please note, that our outdoor seating is first come first serve. If you have a reservation through OpenTable, you will be seated, however, please allow a few extra minutes to ensure that we can properly sanitize your table.

Argentina is world famous for its cuisine. From homemade salads, pastas and fish to an abundant selection of our signature grilled meats, Malbec Argentinean Bistro brings you the best authentic cuisine prepared on our genuine Argentinean grill.

For reservations of parties larger than 6, please reach out to the restaurant directly. We will require a credit card hold to secure large party reservations.

Top review

Cecilia

Dined 5 days ago

Excellent service and exceptional food. Extensive menu selections

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Popular dish

Arroz Con Mariscos For One

Alexander's Steakhouse - Pasadena

4.7

4.7 (2270)

$50 and over

Steakhouse

Pasadena

About the restaurant

You will enjoy the beautiful patio setup we have in Pasadena. We have instituted all health and safety precautions to ensure all of our guests and employees feel safe and can enjoy themselves. If you have any questions, please contact us and our team will take the pleasure of assisting you.

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Alexander's Steakhouse offers a fine dining interpretation of a Modern American Steakhouse with hints of global influences throughout the menu. Featuring classic cuts such as Ribeye, Bone-In New York and Filet Mignon, to sustainable seafood, our signature Hamachi Shot and a large selection of Wagyu. We also highlight dry-aged steaks and offer the finest and most luxurious products available including two tasting menus and a Extensive Wine List. A full bar featuring some of the most unique specialty cocktails is a great way to begin your evening here at Alexander's Steakhouse.

Top review

Mitchell

Dined 6 days ago

Beautiful restaurant and ambiance. Service was perhaps best we have ever experienced. This really is a steakhouse so be aware that other entrees are limited. I ordered the cod and it was very good. Another in our party ordered a steak and she said it was perfectly done. Location is very good next to the beautiful Pasadena city hall. There is ample underground parking with some validation by the restaurant. I definitely recommend this restaurant for those that want red meat.

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Fleming's Steakhouse - Pasadena

4.7

4.7 (1437)

$50 and over

Steakhouse

Pasadena

About the restaurant

Your Pasadena Fleming's is conveniently located on the corner of Marengo and Colorado Boulevard. Fleming's in Pasadena is an outstanding choice to enjoy an exceptional Prime steak, glass of wine or handcrafted cocktail. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, hosting a business dinner or simply wanting to enjoy a night out - we will create a safe and memorable evening in our Dining Room. If you prefer to enjoy your fine dining experience at home, you can order and pay for lunch or dinner online and then pick up curbside or select from one of our delivery partners.

Top review

OpenTable DinerVIP

Dined 3 days ago

Everything was just wonderful. Our server had a great personality and was an excellent waiter. The food was timed perfectly and everything tasted so delicious. It is a big treat for us to come to this restaurant, but we feel it is worth every penny for the experience.

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4.7

4.7 (59)

$31 to $50

Afternoon Tea

Montrose

About the restaurant

Welcome to Sugarbird Cafe, Montrose, CA's unique scone and tea cafe.
Nestled in a cozy, shaded outdoor courtyard, it's the perfect spot for casual tea under the Cali sun, with limited indoor seating for a more intimate vibe. Variety of scones, from classic strawberry buttermilk to unique Cali-inspired flavors like fig rosemary, all perfectly crunchy outside and moist inside. Elevate your tea experience with our handcrafted teas, delightful tea sandwiches, and house-made jams. Please note, we need 36 hours advance notice for special dietary requests for wheat-free, vegan, or kids menu, 10 & under. 18% gratuity is auto-included on the bill & parties of 6 or more will have a 20% charge.

Join our community for a taste of global afternoon tea menu at our outdoor garden.
To ensure your spot, BOOK 36 hours in advance—text 818-282-7299 to CONFIRM your reservation for same-day reservations. Don't miss out; we're featured in [LA Times]. Sip, savor, and make tea time your daily retreat!

Top review

Bette

Dined on Dec 14, 2024

My three great friends and I met a Sugarbird to celebrate a Christmas tea, and it couldn’t have been nicer. The outdoor seating area feels like a little room with the umbrellas and the pretty tables. We were lucky to have cool but not cold weather, and were prepared to sit outside, so being in the sun added to the feeling of enjoying a backyard tea. The scones were outstanding, particularly the blueberry lemon, and the feta chive. All the sandwiches were beautifully prepared and the sweets were fantastic as well. Our servers took such good care of us and gave us plenty time and space to enjoy each other without rushing at all. This is a yearly tradition for us and we all agreed it was one the loveliest times we’ve had together. Keep it up, Sugarbird! P.S, they have scones to go, and you can also get frozen ones to take home and bake. Certainly did that!!

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Experience

*Wheat Free Casual Tea - Scones + Tea Only

Experience

*Orginal Casual Tea - Scones + Tea Only

Experience

Afternoon Tea ( 6 or more) w/ tea sandwiches*

KAVIAR Pasadena

4.6

4.6 (563)

$31 to $50

Sushi

Pasadena

About the restaurant

Upscale Japanese kitchen serving up an exquisite selection of sushi and fusion masterpieces. We are the pinnacle of quality, and the cornerstone of service. Join us and create incredible memories in our peaceful and cozy environment.

Top review

Raffaele

Dined on Dec 15, 2024

Perfect experience good food!! 200%!recommended.. is expensive but you will be happy !

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Tokyo Wako - Pasadena

4.5

4.5 (76)

$31 to $50

Asian

Pasadena

About the restaurant

Treat yourself to an explosion of flavor with sushi and steaks at Tokyo Wako in Pasadena. This Japanese restaurant serves Asian-inspired cuisine in a sleek space. Tokyo Wako offers an extensive menu that includes appetizers, seafood dishes, salads, soup, noodles and a host of entrees — all cooked with fresh ingredients. Enjoy sashimi, nigiri and innovative sushi rolls. Tokyo Wako also serves Japanese yakiniku, grilled meat dishes, delivering the perfect yin to seafood's yang. Complement your meal with an exotic cocktail. Popular with the locals in Pasadena, Tokyo Wako caters to private events. It boasts banquet rooms that can be used for everything from large corporate events to business functions. Located on Colorado Boulevard, this restaurant is open daily.

Top review

Ruben

Dined 3 days ago

It was great. Was seated at exactly our reservation time. Food was great tasting. For a special occasion it was great. A little expensive for everyday dining but great for once in a while.

Pez Coastal Kitchen

4.5

4.5 (56)

$31 to $50

Seafood

Pasadena

About the restaurant

Executive Chef & Proprietor Bret Thompson, with a rich culinary background spanning prestigious establishments in the U.S. and abroad, brings his expertise to Pez Coastal Kitchen. Joined by his wife Lucy Thompson-Ramirez, they have left an indelible mark on the Los Angeles dining scene with their previous ventures, including the beloved Pez Cantina and LA Burrito Co. in Montebello, but at Pez Coastal Kitchen,Chef Bret’s focus shifts to innovative techniques such as curing, smoking, and specialized dry-aging of seafood which will be a distinctive feature.

The menu at Pez Coastal Kitchen reflects our culinary team's commitment to excellence, offering a tantalizing array of appetizers, chilled seafood, crudos, family-style entrees, exceptional sides, and innovative desserts. From Chilled Beets with hazelnuts to Whole Fried Fish and decadent desserts like Warm Chocolate Butterscotch Peanut Butter Cake, each dish is crafted with precision and creativity.

Top review

Kim

Dined 1 day ago

Really great venue! Delicious food , nice ambiance, awesome service.

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