Pasadena hotel
 

Looking for a cool hotel in downtown Pasadena for our anniversary. The Hilton and the Westin sound fine, but I was wondering if there is something else we might enjoy more. We will be eating at Il Fornaio (approx Colorado/FairOaks) and going to the Huntington the next day. Thanks

The Courtyard by Marriot is better located than the Westin..and not a typical motel-type Courtyard. The Ritz and the Artists Inn aren't downtown.

Thanks Joe, I will check it out

Hmmm. Well, I can't help you out with hotel suggestions, but....there's a lot of good resturaunts in Pasadena (I live in nearby Glendale, and dine in Pasadena frequently.)
For me, Il Fornaio falls into the Just Okay column. Not bad certainly, but you could do a lot better. For a really memorable meal, try Bistro 45 - I recommend in heartily. It's always listed in Zagat's favorites category, so it's not just me!
If your taste runs to steak, try the old school Arroyo Chop House.
I could go on for awhile on this subject, but that's just two off the top of my head....

Perhaps, the original poster isn't wanting to spend a lot on dinner. Zagat's list IlFornaio at $31 a person, Bistro 45 at $50, and Arroyo at $48. For the prices, Il Fornaio gets outstanding reviews.
Celestino, where we had a great meal is listed at $36.

Well, you're certainly right about the relative cost, Patrick - Bistro 45 is certainly more pricey than Il Fornaio. But for a special occasion like an anniversary...
There's certainly nothing wrong with Il Fornaio in any case. We eat lunch there regularly when we're shopping in the area.

Others we like are Cafe Bizou, Yujean Kang's and the amazing Nonya.