Pasadena enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it the ideal city for Sunday brunch.
With views of the majestic San Gabriel Mountains and an unbeatable culinary scene, Pasadena offers many options for an incredible weekend brunch.
From gourmet favorites to authentic Mexican joints, Pasadena’s brunch spots run the gamut. You’ll find charming hideaways, buzzy new hotspots, and Pasadena mainstays all dishing up delicious morning fare.
Whether you crave eggs Benedict and bottomless mimosas or sweet and savory pancakes, Pasadena has a top-notch brunch establishment for you.
From unique breakfast creations to classic staples done right, indulge yourself on the weekend at these remarkable brunch destinations across the city.
This guide covers the 21 best brunch restaurants and cafés to check out on your next trip to Pasadena.
1. Great Maple Best Brunch Sport
With its airy interior, gourmet dishes, and crave-worthy millionaire’s bacon, Great Maple tops the list of best brunch spots in Pasadena.
This contemporary American restaurant on South Fair Oaks Avenue excels at creative takes on traditional breakfast fare.
The menu contains gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options but still satisfies heartier appetites with choices like steak and eggs.
Customer favorites include the lemon ricotta pancakes with blueberry compote and the croque madame with béchamel sauce.
Great Maple uses high quality, seasonal ingredients to elevate basics into culinary works of art. Don’t miss their millionaire’s bacon candied with bourbon butter – it lives up to the hype
Beyond the food, customers rave about the delightful drink options and airy, sunlit ambiance. The diverse drink selection ranges from cold press juices to specialty cocktails like the Great Maple Old Fashioned with bacon-infused bourbon.
Hanging greenery, pale woods, and abundant natural light give the space warmth.
With its gourmet fare, full bar, and chic but cozy interior, it’s easy to linger for hours at Great Maple.
This hotspot exceeds expectations for creative cuisine and big flavors. It earns its place among the best brunch restaurants in Pasadena.
Location: 300 E Colorado Blvd Ste. 114, Pasadena, CA 91101-2265
Contact: +1 626-696-3265
Email: info@thegreatmaple.com
2. El Cholo Cafe
For a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine in a festive historic setting, head to El Cholo Café.
This LA legend has been serving up traditional dishes since 1925 including at brunch. It retains old Hollywood charm yet feels vibrantly modern.
El Cholo Café occupies a sprawling Craftsman house just off East Colorado Boulevard. Vintage black and white photos lining the walls hint at its extensive history.
But crowds still flock for the generous portions of classics like enchiladas, tacos, and fajitas.
At brunch, favorites include their pancake sampler letting you enjoy buttermilk, blueberry, and chocolate chip pancakes in one go.
Other highlights like breakfast burritos, huevos rancheros, and potent margaritas make El Cholo a quintessential LA brunch experience.
Despite its longevity, the restaurant keeps up with the times by adding new menu items and cocktails.
But they retain several original recipes using housemade components like the green corn tamales.
Expect warm hospitality and lively ambiance at this uniquely American social eatery.
Location: 300 E Colorado Blvd, Ste 214 Suite 214, Pasadena, CA 91101-2265
Contact: +1 626-795-5800
Email: info@rmgroupllc.net
3. Green Street Restaurant
For quintessential Sunday brunch under the California sun, make a reservation at Green Street Restaurant.
This spacious European cafe occupies a picturesque setting along South Shopper’s Lane near Old Pasadena.
An ivy-covered trellis and white picket fence surround the plush patio seating.
Inside, Green Street Restaurant exudes vintage charm with its dark woods, oriental rugs, and fireplace lounge.
The bar stocks an extensive collection of wines, beers, and craft cocktails. Live music on weekends creates an charming ambiance.
The diverse brunch menu combines continental fare and California cuisine.
Offerings range from wild mushroom toast to three-cheese omelets and freshly baked croissants. Standouts include the salmon benedict served with dill hollandaise and the fluffy French toast souffle.
Fresh salads, artisanal sandwiches, and brick oven pizzas round out the offerings.
With its beautiful setting, attentive staff, and scrumptious European-style dishes, Green Street Restaurant makes brunch feel gracious. It’s a Pasadena staple for leisurely weekend dining.
Location: 146 Shoppers Ln, Pasadena, CA 91101-2618
Contact: +1 626-577-7170
Email: info@greenstreetrestaurant.com
4. Madeline Garden Bistro & Venue
Nestled amidst lush gardens and burbling fountains, Madeline Garden Bistro provides Pasadena’s most idyllic brunch setting.
The venue occupies a secluded Craftsman home surrounded by lawns, flowers, and trees. Visitors feel transported, as if dining at a villa garden in the Mediterranean countryside.
The charming courtyard cafe serves a seasonal menu of California-inspired bites and beloved breakfast classics.
Consider starting your meal with Madeline’s refreshing watermelon mint agua fresca. Appetizing dishes include avocado toast on thick sliced bread, acai bowls loaded with fruit and granola, and poached eggs over smoked salmon.
Brunch cocktails like blood orange margaritas, peach bellinis, and pomegranate mimosas complement the garden ambiance.
Charming details like string lights, candles, and flowers create a magical setting. For California-inspired delicacies in Pasadena’s most picturesque restaurant courtyard, Madeline Garden is a stellar brunch find.
Location: 1030 E Green St Ste 102, Pasadena, CA 91106-2437
Contact: +1 626-795-5599
Email: madelinegarden@gmail.com
5. Craft by Smoke and Fire
For brunch with a fun Nashville kick, visit Craft in East Pasadena. This hotspot slings barbeque favorites from pulled pork sandwiches to brisket by the pound.
At brunch, those same smoky, fork-tender meats star in creative morning plates.
The brunch menu offers Southern comfort food classics with an inventive twist. The barbecue brisket hash comes topped with fried eggs, while the chicken and waffles plate upgrades to praline bacon waffles.
Other options include breakfast tacos, biscuit sandwiches, and chicken fried steak with sausage gravy.
Cold-brew coffee, mimosas, and blood orange margaritas pair perfectly with the flavorful fare. Live music on the patio enhances the festive atmosphere.
The industrial chic decor with corrugated metal walls feels invitingly casual. For incredible bbq with a fun twist, Craft brings a lively taste of Nashville to Pasadena’s brunch scene.
Location: 30 W Green St, Pasadena, CA 91105, United States
Contact: +1 626-529-5584
6. True Food Kitchen
When you crave healthy, inventive fare in a stylish setting, make a reservation at True Food Kitchen in East Pasadena.
This eco-conscious chain offers global flavors and ingredients focused on nutrition and sustainability.
Yet the vibrant atmosphere and satisfying plates appeal even to indulgent eaters.
True Food Kitchen’s ingredient-driven menu spotlights antioxidant-rich and anti-inflammatory fare. Dishes use nutrient dense components like whole grains, greens, nuts and lean proteins.
Brunch plates range from Latin egg white frittatas to a Thai shrimp and ancient grain bowl.
Cold-pressed juices, immunity-boosting shots, and gluten-free pancakes fuel the body and delight the palate.
For vibrant, sustainably sourced fare in a stylish setting, True Food Kitchen excels at healthy brunch in Pasadena.
Location: 168 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105
Contact: +1 626-639-6818
Email: tfk1013@truefoodkitchen.com
7. Mi Piace
For a taste of Italy in downtown Pasadena, make reservations at Mi Piace. This modern Italian eatery occupies a sunlit corner space in One Colorado.
Its minimalist contemporary interior balanced by rustic touches provides sleek yet welcoming ambiance.
At brunch, Mi Piace offers traditional fare like frittatas and Nutella-stuffed piadine sandwiches alongside inventive specialties.
Customer favorites include the lobster omelette baked with Boursin cheese and chives and the lemon curd stuffed waffle.
Salads, pizzas, and pastas round out the Italian-focused offerings.
Pair your meal with a blood orange mimosa, Italian coffee or glass of sparkling wine. Then finish with a creamy tiramisu or lemon mascarpone mousse cake.
The covered patio lets you linger outdoors. With its upscale setting and beautifully executed dishes, Mi Piace is a premier spot for Italian brunch in downtown Pasadena.
Location: 25 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105-1901
Contact: +1 626-795-3131
Email: judith@mipiace.com
8. The Raymond 1886
Step back in time at the elegant Raymond 1886 restaurant situated within the stately Craftsman-style Raymond Hotel.
This Pasadena fine dining institution has wowed guests since 1886 with its refined setting and outstanding New American fare.
Rich woods, plush seating and chandeliers fill the historic interior, while the manicured garden patio provides charming al fresco dining.
Live piano music enhances the cultivated ambiance. Attentive service and tableside finishes for dishes like Bananas Foster reflect the restaurant’s traditional sensibilities.
The brunch menu changes seasonally but consistently delivers excellence in execution and flavor.
Not to miss items include Maine lobster Florentine showcasing poached eggs, crab cakes Benedict and fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes.
The Raymond 1886 is perfect for an indulgent special occasion Sunday brunch celebration in Pasadena.
Location: 1250 S Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105-3417
Contact: +1 626-441-3136
Email: info@theraymond.com
9. Celestino Ristorante
For a leisurely Italian brunch complete with fresh pastas, bellinis and espressos, plan a visit to Celestino.
This neighborhood gem occupies a historic Craftsman cottage with a blooming ivy-covered patio. Inside, exposed brick walls, wine displays and classic Italian décor set the scene.
Celestino Ristorante makes everything in-house from scratch using family recipes. Start with bruschetta or antipasti plates before moving into richly sauced pastas and risottos.
Customer favorites include the lobster ravioli in mornay sauce and gnocchi in a gorgonzola cream.
The pastries and dessert menu also impresses with items like tiramisu and panna cotta. Enjoy them with an Italian coffee, or sip on a fresh bellini or limoncello cocktail as you dine.
For authentic Italian fare in charming trattoria surroundings, Celestino is a top Pasadena brunch choice.
Location: 141 S Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101-2673
Contact: +1 626-795-4006
Email: celestinopasadena@gmail.com
10. Sage Vegan BistroSage Vegan Bistro & Brewery
Pasadena’s Sage Vegan Bistro proves that brunch favorites shine without meat, dairy or eggs. This contemporary plant-based restaurant crafts satisfying plates from quinoa, tempeh, tofu and vegetables.
The creative globally inspired menu offers flavors to wow all palates.
Popular dishes like the chickpea flour Socca scramble with mushrooms, kale and vegan feta mimic classic omelets and scrambled.
Sweet plates like their signature maple coconut waffles and cinnamon roll pancakes satisfy sugar cravings.
Artisanal coffees, house kombuchas, and Sage’s own craft beers pair perfectly.
The sustainable interior features reclaimed materials, hanging plants and a living wall for an earthy yet upscale ambiance.
With its playful meatless takes on brunch classics, Sage brings healthy flavor to Pasadena’s weekend dining scene. It caters to vegans, yet impresses all diners.
Location: 41 Hugus Aly, Pasadena, CA 91103-3644
Contact: +1 626-564-8111
Email: info@sageveganbistro.com
11. The Terrace at The Langham Huntington
For an elegant brunch experience unlike any other, head to The Terrace at the legendary Langham Huntington hotel.
Situated in a Spanish-Moorish style building dating to 1907, this swanky restaurant drips with Gilded Age glamour.
Columns, archways and glittering chandeliers fill the palatial interior and palm-lined terrace. Couples and families dine on refined cuisine while an orchestra provides live entertainment. Fresh floral arrangements adorn each linen-topped table.
The brunch menu presents elevated staples like smoked salmon Benedict on homemade English muffins alongside luxe one-offs like lobster and corn fritters.
Everything tastes as exquisite as the surroundings imply. For special occasion brunch in one of Pasadena’s most storied venues, the Terrace at the Langham sets the opulent standard.
Location: 1401 S Oak Knoll Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106
Contact: +1 626-585-6218
Email: tllax.info@langhamhotels.com
12. Gale’s Restaurant
Channeling Tuscan countryside charm, Gale’s Restaurant provides a romantic enclosed patio for brunch al fresco.
Stone walls, leafy trellises, and blooming planters surround the tables and fountain in this hidden garden.
The menu focuses on rich continental classics perfected with quality ingredients.
Must-try dishes include the herb-crusted Norwegian salmon benedict and baked French toast with caramelized bananas and vanilla mascarpone.
Other highlights include crab cakes and steak and eggs.
Fresh-squeezed juices, eye-opening bloody marys and festive mimosas complement the memorable food.
For special occasion brunch in elegant outdoor surroundings, Gale’s offers European flavors and pastoral vibes befitting the good life in Pasadena.
Location: 452 S Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105-2634
Contact: +1 626-432-6705
Email: gale@galesrestaurant.com
13. Russel’s Restaurant
For a refined Sunday brunch experience featuring American cuisine with global accents, make reservations at Russell’s.
Tucked inside the elegant Langham Huntington hotel, this contemporary fine dining spot impresses at every meal.
The serene dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows provides garden views. In nice weather, the patio surrounded by roses and fountains sets a gracious outdoor stage.
Live entertainment on Saturdays and Sundays enhances the sophisticated ambiance.
Brunch standouts include steak and eggs featuring Wagyu ribeye and classic eggs Benedict upgraded with black truffle and foie gras.
Other options range from lemon ricotta pancakes to a croque madame with sherry mornay sauce. Each plate exhibits quality and creativity.
Handcrafted cocktails like the grapefruit brûlée use fresh ingredients while the global wine and beer lists offer more pairing options.
For an elegant Sunday brunch experience with outstanding contemporary American fare, Russell’s delivers.
Location: 30 N Fair Oaks Ave One Colorado, Pasadena, CA 91103-3609
Contact: +1 626-578-1404
Email: frank@russellspasadena.com
14. Lunasia Dim Sum House
Take an Asian culinary journey without leaving Pasadena at Lunasia Dim Sum House.
This sleek restaurant offers Hong Kong style Cantonese fare perfect for groups brunching together.
Tables share orders of delicate dumplings, fluffy bao buns, turnip cakes and other small plates.
Top dim sum picks include har gow shrimp dumplings, roasted pork buns, and custard tarts.
Traditional tea complements the meal, or spice it up with a cocktail like the Lychee Perfect Serve.
The modern zen-inspired decor provides a soothing backdrop for conversation and feasting. For exquisite handmade dim sum in an upscale setting, Lunasia excels.
Location: 239 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101, United States
Contact: +1 626-793-8822
Email: admin@lunasiagroup.com
15. Copa Vida
For authentic south-of-the-border fare in vibrant surroundings, visit Copa Vida in Old Pasadena.
This Baja California style cafe and eatery occupies a sunny corner spot with an inviting patio. Colorful Mexican tiles, natural wood and hanging greenery give off relaxed vibes.
The made-from-scratch menu stars classic Mexican breakfast plates like huevos rancheros and breakfast burritos loaded with chorizo.
Lighter options such as breakfast tostadas or chilaquiles with salsa verde provide more choices.
Housemade aguas frescas, fruit juices and smoothies provide natural energy boosts. And you can sip on stellar coffee sourced from Copa Vida’s own roasteries.
The friendly staff and cozy interior make you feel miles away in Mexico. For authentic regional fare with zero pretension, Copa Vida is a top choice.
Location: 70 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105-1935
Contact: +1 626-213-3952
Email: laynee@copa-vida.com
16. La Grande Orange Cafe
Pasadena’s La Grande Orange Cafe provides a laidback brunch experience paired with savory contemporary American fare.
This spacious converted railroad station houses an airy cafe filled with sunlight.
The expansive dog-friendly patio features lush landscaping, market lights and soothing water elements.
La Grande Orange keeps its brunch menu seasonal, local and creative.
Past hits include forbidden rice porridge with figs, brown butter banana waffles and a fried chicken club sandwich with bacon aioli. Juices, agua frescas and coffee drinks are farm fresh.
The California casual ambiance encourages lingering over brunch cocktails like their Grapefruit Spritz.
With its excellent food and inviting outdoor space, La Grande Orange Café excels for leisurely weekend dining.
Location: 260 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105
Contact: +1 626-356-4444
Email: cafegroup@lgohospitality.com
17. Nick’s Pasadena
For a quality affordable brunch in friendly surroundings, visit Nick’s on East Colorado Boulevard.
This airy Australian-inspired cafe slings classic breakfast combos alongside lighter choices like avocado toast and acai bowls.
Hearty plates like the brekkie burger with a beef patty, fried egg and bearnaise sauce satisfy bigger morning appetites.
Lighter options such as the breakfast tostada please too. Fresh juices, smoothies and an expansive coffee bar provide natural energy boosts.
The laid back ambiance encourages lingering on the charming tiled patio. With its fresh and healthy fare at family-friendly prices, Nick’s keeps it simple for foolproof weekend brunch in Pasadena.
Location: 336 S Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101-3508
Contact: +1 626-787-1444
Email: hello@nicksrestaurants.com
18. Amara Café
For seasonal brunch dishes in an intimate setting, make reservations at Amara Cafe. This neighborhood New American bistro occupies a minimalist industrial space on Green Street.
Abundant natural light streaming in makes it feel cozy, not stark.
Amara Café constructs its menus around what’s fresh and seasonal from local purveyors.
Recent standouts include foraged mushroom toast, watermelon feta salad and poke tacos with sweet chili sauce. Their cocktails shine too, like the refeshing Amara Spritz.
Personable service in the laidback dining room encourages lingering over brunch.
For handcrafted plates showcasing seasonal ingredients, Amara Café delivers quality execution and cozy charm. It’s a consistent neighborhood favorite.
Location: 55 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105-1934
Contact: +1 626-744-1765
Email: info@amarachocolate.com
19. Cos & Pi Cafe
Nestled in a quiet East Pasadena neighborhood, Cos & Pi Cafe charms with its intimate patio for weekend brunch al fresco.
Flowering trees and homemade baked goods wafting from the kitchen add to the charm.
The fresh California-Mediterranean menu changes regularly based on seasonal ingredients.
Recent options have included wild mushroom toast, chicken sausage omelets and BLT Benedict with jalapeno hollandaise.
Housemade granola, yogurt bowls and pastries provide healthier starts or sweet additions.
The staffers know regulars by name, enhancing the neighborhood vibe. For a homespun brunch experience on the lovely patio, Cos & Pi delivers.
Location: 303 Pasadena Ave, South Pasadena, CA 91030-2904
Contact: +1 626-460-6030
Email: contact@cosandpi.com
20. Edwin Mills by Equator
For artisanal third-wave coffee drinks and brunch bites in stylish minimalist digs, visit Edwin Mills inside One Colorado.
This outpost of San Francisco roaster Equator Coffee serves direct trade brews and breakfast fare without fuss.
The concise menu spotlights superfood-packed acai bowls, avocado and beet tartines, chia pudding and more.
Cold brews, cortados and espresso drinks made with house roasted beans provide caffeination.
The sleek modern interior and soundtrack of mellow music encourage lingering solo or chatting with friends.
For an unpretentious quick brunch paired with incredible coffee in downtown Pasadena’s hippest dining complex, Edwin Mills delivers quality and taste. It’s a neighborhood gem for fuss-free mornings.
Location: 22 Mills Pl, Pasadena, CA 91105-1910
Contact: +1 626-564-8656
Email: party@edwinmills.com
21. Plate 38
Embodying relaxed sophistication, Plate 38 tops Pasadena’s list for farm-to-table bistro fare.
Tucked into a Huntington Collection hotel, this neighborhood favorite offers approachable elegance.
The softly lit dining room dotted with vintage touches leads out to an inviting patio. Live music on weekends encourages lingering over brunch cocktails and plates designed for sharing.
Plate 38 constructs seasonal menus mainly using ingredients from local LA purveyors and markets.
Recent options have included burrata avocado toast, braised short rib Benedict and wild mushroom quiche. Each dish exhibits creativity and skill.
Handcrafted drinks like the jalapeño pineapple margarita sing with fresh flavors too. For a swanky yet down-to-earth brunch experience in Pasadena, Plate 38 delivers.
Location: 2361 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91107-4263
Contact: +1 626-793-7100
Email: info@plate38.com
Final Thoughts on Finding the Perfect Sunday Brunch Spot in Pasadena
With its plentiful sunshine and dynamic dining scene, Pasadena offers incredible variety when it comes to Sunday brunch options.
From buzzy new hotspots like Craft to Pasadena mainstays like Celestino Ristorante, you’ll find the perfect spot to suit your weekend breakfast cravings.
Whether you seek a leisurely patio brunch at Green Street Restaurant, sweet and savory Mexican flavors at Copa Vida, or refined fare at The Langham’s The Terrace, Pasadena restaurants deliver excellent food with standout service.
From authentic dim sum at Lunasia to juicy barbecue at Craft, global cuisines meet California casual vibes.
Bookend your meal with artisanal coffees at Edwin Mills or fresh pastries from Plate 38. And don’t forget the brunch cocktails – blood orange margaritas, spicy Bloody Marias, tangy micheladas and more.
With so many excellent brunch spots, Pasadena offers memorable ways to celebrate sunny Southern California weekends. Use this guide to discover your new go-to spots!
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