Culinary Scene
Sip, Savor & Style
Michelin Rated
Pasadena is the perfect place to sample global cuisine at a Michelin honored restaurant.
Every foodie has at least one Michelin Star-rated restaurant on their bucket list. While most of the acclaimed restaurants may be out of reach for many of us, Michelin has expanded their list to include more attainable options, with the Bib Gourmand and the Plate Michelin ratings.
Bib Gourmand
The Bib Gourmand is an esteemed rating given to friendly restaurants that serve good food at moderate prices. In the 2016 edition of the Paris guide, a brand new L’assiette or The Plate symbol was launched to recognize restaurants that simply serve good food. These are places where almost anyone can enjoy a fine meal without breaking the bank.
Union
Union is a lively yet intimate California-inspired Northern Italian restaurant and wine bar. Enjoy their sustainably raised and prepared meats and fish, or try their seasonal varieties of handmade pastas. A menu favorite is the squid ink lumache. Shaped like a shell, covered in a lemon and truffle butter sauce, and topped with fresh Maine lobster, this dish is sure to please even the most seasoned palate. The menu is nicely complimented by a curated wine list featuring selections from both Italy and California.
Plate Michelin
Fresh ingredients, carefully prepared: a good meal.
Agnes
Agnes is a cheesery and restaurant that Michelin refers to as the coolest cat in Pasadena. Featuring a cheese shop, bar, full-service restaurant and outdoor patio, this newcomer is a welcome addition to Green Street. Some of the notable dishes mentioned by Michelin include a cornbread eclair with chicken liver mousse, cavatelli with braised lamb and lamb fat gremolata, and a half chicken with smoked jus. The latter is brined, steamed, and charred over open flames until the skin is crisp as a chip. If you were able to save room for dessert, try the tres leches with corn pudding.
Perle
Perle’s menu features sustainable-focused, classic French dishes as well as modern, seasonal creations influenced by California’s fresh cuisine. This cozy French bistro offers Parisian classics such as duck à l’orange, Burgundy snails, and Gran Marnier soufflé. The intimate décor and authentic food offerings from their Michelin-trained chef will transport you to France without having to leave Pasadena.