jlh370

This will be the first Valentine's Day for my new husband and I, so I'm trying to come up with something special.

We have never been to Pasadena and thought this would be a good time. I'm planning on getting tickets for the show at the Playhouse and am looking for recommendations for a good romantic dinner place.

I'm read a bunch of threads that mentioned Mi Piace, Il Fornaio and Yugean Kang's. We like all sorts of food as long as it is good! We prefer more unique or quaint places over the more upscaled or stuffy places. Any suggestions would be much appreciated!

Jenny

Patrick

I've always been curious about the restaurant run by the Culinary Institute very near to the Playhouse. It looks wonderful and unique. Any comments?

I highly recommend Celestino from my limited Pasadena experiences.

Jean

I wouldn't consider Il Fornaio romantic. Very good and in a nice location, but not particularly romantic. TVs tuned to sports in the bar area. Tables close together.

I like the Raymond on Fair Oaks, about 10 minutes driving from the Playhouse. Restaurant is in a former caretaker's cottage, so rooms are small and quiet. Booths have high backs which sort of enclose your table in its own private space. Food is very good, Cal-Continental cuisine. Zagat Guide says, "How romantic can you get?"

jlh370

Jean- the Raymond looks really neat. I've read that is expensive but can't find any real numbers. How expensive is it?

Sherri

My husband and I have enjoyed many special occasion meals at the Parkway Grill on Arroyo Parkway - just a few minutes from the Playhouse. Very pretty interior (fresh flowers, twinkling lights) and the food is great. Menu is very unique and it is definitely not stuffy. I would request a table that seats 4 (as opposed to getting stuck at a smaller table for 2) on the main floor or in the window alcove.

Jean

Zagat's says dinner at the Raymond averages $38 per person (food, drink and tip). I think with careful ordering (especially regarding alcohol) this is reasonable, but I'd add a few dollars to your budget just in case the restaurant offers some entree or dessert you just can't resist. BTW, I'd make your reservation right away at whatever restaurant you choose.

Miranda

The Raymond is tops for romance. I can't imagine a nicer place to have a Valentine meal. And it is definitely both unique and quaint! But if it is already booked, the Parkway Grill is very nice. I wouldn't choose Yujean Kang's for this occasion --- way too casual. There's also a nice French restaurant located right around the corner from the Playhouse. I'm drawing a blank on the name --- it's on Green Street. It has a lovely atmosphere and good food and would be an excellent choice for a romantic meal.

emd

I stay at the Ritz Carlton Huntington in Pasadena alot and they recommended Parkway Grill to me. Have goen back several times since initial visit. I second everything on Sherri and Miranda's posts re the Parkway Grill. The menu is good but also "safe"- you can fidn something you'll like on the menu. Nice atmosphere, etc. When I haven;t gone there to eat, I stay close to the Ritz- I like their nicer dining room also, great service.

emd

BTW- if you eat dinner or even have drinks at the Ritz, you can walk around the grounds which are very very nicely landscaped, and take in the covered bridge which has scenes painted on each overhead panel. Quite lovely. The hotel is a very lovely old historic property to roam on. Too bad you can't stay there Valentine's night. Love that place, esp. the club floor w/constant free exquisite food servings and drinks thoughout the day. Very luxurious.

Pisces

Another great spot is Holly Street Bar and Grill. Right behind Old Town, with wonderful owners and lovely service. Their pork is amazing.

http://www.hollystreetbarandgrill.com/

mauibound6mo

I really like JJ's. It's located right in the middle of Old Town