Bistro 45 in Pasadena made our birthday celebration truly unforgettable! This family-owned gem treated us like royalty from the moment we arrived. The food was amazing, but the incredible service made the evening especially memorable. The staff was warm, friendly, and wonderfully attentive, making everything feel effortless. Owner Robert personally walked us through the menu, and his hospitality made each of us feel special and genuinely cared for. And the cocktails? Absolutely delicious! Before we had even finished one, our attentive servers were offering another. I ordered the seared scallops with creamy mashed potatoes, and my husband had the filet. Both dishes were outstanding--beautifully prepared and every bit as delicious as we had hoped. Thank you, Robert and the entire Bistro 45 team, for an evening filled with wonderful food, fabulous drinks, and such thoughtful hospitality. We can't wait to return! read more

I can't believe we've lived in Altadena almost 15 years and had no idea this place existed. Our waiter, William was just a delight. The salads were unique and refreshing. My scallop entree was insanely delicious. Scallops wet perfectly cooked. The cauliflower side was tasty as well but the carrot puree was so good I used the extra cauliflower to soak it up. My husband had the pasta special which just had too much wine flavor for him in the bolognese but that's more of a taste preference than the chef's fault so even he said he'd absolutely come back. The grand finale was the chocolate soup. Just do it! read more

Bistro 45 - Pasta Special-Bolognese - New American Near Me - Pasadena, California

So glad I randomly stumbled on this place and decided to have a meal there . I was greeted and treated like an old friend whom they were very happy to see. I felt like I am visiting a family of friends for an exquisite dinner! All people who work there are very chill , gracious, accommodating and very professional - all in one . Great background music ( which was not very loud ! Hard to find in LA), great lighting! Fresh flowers everywhere . And the whole atmosphere of the place is very relaxing and comforting . It have 3 dining areas- 2 indoors and one on the patio ( with a lovely fountains ) Food and presentation- beyond expectations! read more

See all

Had an extremely enjoyable dinner here on a Tuesday evening before catching a show at the comedy club half a block away. I love places like this where the owner is actively involved interacting with guests, especially since it was early before the dinner rush. As a result, instead of being overly polite and sterile, it felt more like you were going to a friend's restaurant where they dispense with some of the usual niceties, and instead joke with you. The ribeye with potatoes & carrots were cooked perfectly and the bouillabaisse entree had an excellent flavor. We also gobbled down the apple tart in 15 seconds. Finishing it up with a complimentary dessert wine taste made it even more memorable. Wish I didn't live over an hour away! read more

See all

Last night I took my cousin to Bistro 45 for her birthday and it was pure magic. We had a paint & sip at 7 pm, so we came in for an early 5 pm dinner. It was quiet when we arrived and completely packed by the time we left, always a good sign. The space has that classic bistro charm, black and white checkered floors and warm energy. The owner is fully present and involved, kind, and genuinely passionate. He checked in on us and shared details about sourcing and partnerships, from local purveyors to prime ingredients like Wisconsin beef. I love those details, so it made the night even more special. We had the short rib with polenta and natural jus, rich and tender, and the 11 ounce Niman Ranch pork chop with shaved Brussels sprouts, parsnip puree, apple, pear, and mustard seed. The pork chop was incredible, perfectly balanced and generous enough for leftovers the next day. We also shared a salad with a memorable vinaigrette and a beautifully fried goat cheese round that was crisp outside and creamy inside. Everything paired beautifully with a Syrah blend that felt like it could go with anything. For dessert, the Fuji apple tart tatin with creme fraiche ice cream and caramel sauce stole the show. The apples were perfectly sweet and tart, and the ice cream was cool, creamy heaven. We were truly loved on all night. Thoughtful service, intentional sourcing, fantastic food. Worth every penny. Bistro 45 may be my new favorite spot for birthdays and big celebrations. read more

Bistro 45 - Just two ladies eating their best life! - New American Near Me - Pasadena, California

This was such a special experience. The food was so good, service was top notch, and everything tasted fantastic. I have a hard time trying new things but I'm so glad I came to Bistro45. We'll be back very soon. read more

See all

i dined here for the first time and had a very good experience. the staff are quick to greet you and are attentive. all of the dishes we tried were very flavorful and the ingredients tasted very fresh. I got the chicken dish and it was seasoned nicely and paired well with the vegetables. the lemon trio for dessert was also a nice palate cleanser to the end of the meal, but beware because it is very very tart. the owner/manager Robert goes around and checks in on every table and that was a nice touch. it seems like this restaurant is very well run and there are a lot of regulars here (and for good reason). thank you for the great experience. read more

See all

Excellent presentation and flavor. Ingredients tasted like they came straight from the local farmers market. The soup was so sweet. Pork tenderloin was lean and tender too Love the service here. Really feel pampered here read more

See all

Caitlyn greeted us and made us feel welcome right off the bat! Charming restaurant with a great vibe. Food was excellent. Service was incredible and so was the ambiance. read more

See all

The WHOLE TEAM IS AMMMAZING; THE FATHER AND SON DUo are unparalleled, absolutely the best of the besttttytttxghducbfhchc.

Top notch place, great food, even better hospitality and people. Hidden gem in Pasadena!!!

We are recurring customers coming here for a special date night. We love the casual but posh ambience the moment we walked in. The bar at the entrance always look so cozy. I love the decor and lighting of the restaurant. It definitely sets the mood for the evening. We arrived early but were seated right away. Funny that we weee seated almost at the same table we did last time. . The server came and shared with us the special of the evening. To share, we had the tiger prawn, no difference than a mini lobster. It tastes really good and the owner said it's from Nigeria. For entree, I had the boullonaise, a salmon seafood spicy broth and my boyfriend had the scallops. I enjoyed every bit of my entree and the soup was flavorful and they are generous with the seafood. My boyfriend's scallops were yummy too. For dessert, since we couldn't make a decision, we ordered by the upside down pineapple cake with coconut gelato and the chocolate terrine with berry sorbet. Both were delightful. What a wonderful date night! We both will return and pamper ourselves with a spectacular dinner experience. read more

See all

We stumbled onto this place while visiting our friends who were in town. The food was great and so was the service. I loved that the staff all had a great sense of humor. The restaurant was cozy and despite being a full house, still felt very intimate. read more

I've been to Bistro 45 many times with family and friends over the last decade and it's always an amazing experience but last night I went there for an event for the first time and really saw how this place shines! Review long overdue. This restaurant has that intimate small town feel where you're properly greeted and treated like family throughout. Everyone we encountered was lovely but it was beyond good service- there was an extra layer of warmth and care that was genuine and not stuffy. The ambience is elevated but cozy and intimate. You might feel like you're in Europe, NYC, or someone's patio in their beautiful home depending on where you're sitting. Last night there were multiple events and normal dining parties going on but it still blended seamlessly and despite how busy they were they service never faltered. And now for the food. The food has always been solid and intentional here. Quality ingredients that feel hand chosen, great cocktails, and fabulous wine. However last night really blew me away. The duck was phenomenal. I inhaled it despite trying to savor every bite. The sauce was so good and the vegetables it came with were cooked to perfection. The salad was fresh and tasty. I wish I had partaken in more of the passed appetizers but I was busy mingling but the tuna I had that was apparently flown in that morning was so fresh. I fell in love with the champagne their served and I can't decide whether I liked my dirty martini (which was perfectly made), or the white, or the red wine they paired with the meals. The chocolate soup was the most wonderful ending and I tried a bite of my friend's butterscotch which was yummy too. What a lovely evening in multiple ways. I'd strongly consider hosting an event here in the future. Thank you so much! read more

Bistro 45 - New American Near Me - Pasadena, California

The food was incredible. The ambiance was immaculate. The service was attentive without being annoying. We had a large group, but they put up with and took care of us perfectly. I know your default is to read the negative reviews, but read this one, stop reading, and then head to the Bistro. read more

Bistro 45 - A partially eaten dessert that I was too eager to dive into before taking a picture. - New American Near Me - Pasadena, California

Came here for a birthday celebration & we had a wonderful experience! They had beautiful, elegant decor with indoor & outdoor seating, with a private parking lot or street parking. The staff were friendly & attentive, they always refilled our water & bread. The food was fantastic! We enjoyed the Hanger Steak, Rib-eye, Chicken, & the Fuji apple tart. All the meats were tender & flavorful & the birthday dessert was delicious ! I would definitely return to try more items on the menu. Make sure you make reservations ahead of time because there's limited seating, especially if you have a big party. read more

See all

I was here for a work dinner and wow! This place is awesome! The food and service was incredible. Everything from our appetizers to dessert was yummy and Robert and Deborah are both amazing. You can feel the soul of this restaurant and that they really care about what they serve and making their guests feel welcomed. read more

Visited Bistro 45 for the first time tonight to celebrate my husband and my 15th anniversary after reading positive reviews. The food and service were exceptional. Every dish was cooked perfection and was super flavorful. The gazpacho was so complex and delicious. The calamari was so tender with the most unctuous spicy tomato ragu. My chicken and my husband's pasta were both stunning. And the pineapple upside down tart with coconut gelato was unbelievably good. They made a special presentation of our dessert to celebrate our anniversary too. Our waiter was funny and attentive, and the owner made a personal visit to our table at least twice. This was possibly one of the best meals my husband and I have had in years. We cannot wait to return. read more

See all

Came here as part of a group birthday dinner and had reservation at 6pm on a Saturday. We were seated promptly, it wasn't too busy but picked up shortly after. There was parking in the back but spots are a little limited. The interior was nice, I wouldn't call it very modern but a little old school but bright which I actually like. I'm not a huge fan of super dim lighting where I can barely see anything. They started us off with fresh bread and butter which was absolutely delicious. You could tell it was freshly baked and I could eaten an entire loaf. We shared appetizers of the octopus and beet salad. I loved the beet salad with the fried artichokes and the dressing was great. The octopus was decent but pretty skimpy portion wise for the price. I got the hangar steak which was cooked perfectly. I got to try a piece of the duck which was extremely tender and some of the bouillabaisse which was delicious too esp with their bread dipped in. I knocked off a star cuz our main waitress was not the friendliest and also some confusion about the birthday dessert. When we mentioned it was our birthdays when we were looking at dessert menu she said they would just pick something if we didn't choose. We ended up going with the Meyer Lemon Trio which was not my favorite of the night. I thought the lemon curd was way too tart but the soufflé was good. They did charge for that which I thought they would provide something complimentary esp given the price point of everything. Not that I expect free things but when they called about what the special occasion was it made it sound like that was the expectation. Overall the experience was good, most of the food was great. It's def more of a special occasion type of place given the prices for the average person. read more

See all

Great food! Amazing service. Loved the king salmon and the lettuce salad. The servers are so knowledgeable and friendly

A hidden gem I didn't know about until it was recommended to me. Max was our server, who was so good at explaining everything and letting us be. We thoroughly enjoyed everything we ordered. I loved the interior of the restaurant; it had an old-school charm that I love to see still exist. I got the hanger steak, which was perfectly charred. The star of the show was the butterscotch dessert, one of the best desserts I have ever had in my life. I'll be back! read more

Bistro 45 - New American Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

Everything about Bistro 45 is amazing! From the ownership, to the wait staff, to the scrumptious cuisine, to the incredible guest service, Bistro 45 is top shelf! -Wes & Julie Kennedy read more

Took hubs here to celebrate his birthday and everything was fantastic! Parking was easy in the lot behind the restaurant, and the atmosphere of Bistro 45 is simply warm, bright and cozy. We got a quiet table in the corner and enjoyed the lovely dining experience thoroughly. Our waiter was charming and attentive. We ordered the Beet Salad, the Ravioli du Chef, the mussels and clams, and ribeye, which came with potatoes and carrots. We loved the beet salad! The presentation was so beautiful and the beets were perfectly balanced with the goat cheese. The mussels and clams came with a creamy garlic sauce with a bit of tangy brightness. Absolutely delicious! We enjoyed dipping the crusty bread in the sauce-if it came in a cup, I would drink it! The ribeye, although a tad salty, was tender and melted in our mouths. We ordered the Chocolate Soup which came with a scoop of ice cream for dessert and it was rich, decadent and the perfect way to end the meal. They decorated the plate so fancy and special too! read more

See all

Great service and delicious food within a unique, building on a small street in Pasadena. My husband had their vegan pizza primavera while I had their pan roasted salmon. Both were done very well, along with their chipotle brussels spouts and little gems salad. Hopefully they will be able to add a vegan pasta dish to their menu like a veggie aglio e olio (my husband is not a big fan of risotto) so we can come back more often. read more

See all

Great service and excellent food. We will definitely be back! Great quality ingredients.

Had a meal here on our last night in town. It is next door to our hotel. It is a cozy place with a small bar to the left as you enter and a few tables in the bar area. The dining area is just inside a small doorway we were seated at a nice table for two. There are 10 tables so it is an intimate space. Servers were simpatico, efficient and very friendly. A few walk in's were turned away good we had a reservation. It was 6pm on a Sunday. I got the cod which was caught today. The fish was wonderful and the couscous was extremely tasty and very buttery. My wife and I shared the home made ravioli as a starter. We each had a glass of Viognier. Value was excellent. Highly recommend visit. Mark & Nancy. read more

Just had dinner at Bistro 45. The service was amazing. I celebrated my birthday and they made it the most special evening. read more

Bistro 45 - Birthday celebration - New American Near Me - Pasadena, California

Robert and his team gave amazing service and food in a group event of over 40 people. The food was impeccable as was the service. The flavors were amazing. The space was comfortable and elegant at the same time. It's a must visit when you are in Pasadena!!!! read more

Bistro 45 - New American Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

Hats off to this landmark restaurant. The details that this family restaurant offers is amazing . They offer the best quality and it reflected in their price. I learned that they give so much back to the local community and the recent fire victims and cancer support group in the area. Carry-on Bistro 45 I'm impressed and will be a new regular read more

See all

Absolutely adored the his family owned institution. We enjoyed fresh pasta and amazing pizza love coming back every time. Primavera pizza is so fresh and unique definitely recommend! Fabulous martinis and wine list and amazing coffee rum cocktail (I'm not a rum drinker but I loved it more than espresso martini) and great dessert wine. Everyone there makes you feel like you're at home, so attentive and sweet, as well as the lovely the decor and setup. It's upscale yet comfortable. 10/10 definitely check it out! read more

A group of us came to Bistro 45 for dinner to celebrate my sister's birthday. We had a reservation and were seated right away once everyone arrived. Our table was under a skylight, so the lighting was perfect for the early evening. With our server's help, we picked a bottle of wine and a selection of cheeses to share. We then shared a few appetizers and sides: cast iron Monterey calamari, bluefin tuna tartare, sauteed foraged organic mushroom, and organic brussels sprouts. I had the seared Hudson Valley Magret duck breast for my entree. The duck was flavorful, and the corn, puree, and blackberry gastrique were the perfect accompaniments. I also took a bite of the seared dive boat sea scallops and the grilled Niman Ranch pork chop. The scallops tasted so fresh, and the pork was tender. For dessert, I had the organic berry trifle, which was a refreshing way to end the meal. The front of the restaurant has a little garden area where you can sit and wait for your party or table. There is an indoor dining room and a patio. The food is sustainably or locally sourced, and there is an extensive wine list. The staff is knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly. Parking is easy as there is a small lot in the back. The combination of a charming space, a delicious menu, and top-notch service makes for a lovely dining experience at Bistro 45. read more

Bistro 45 - Seared Hudson Valley Magret Duck Breast - New American Near Me - Pasadena, California

Excellent service all around. All the dishes were delicious. We enjoyed. ourselves. The wine list could use a little upgrading. The parking lot behind the restaurant could use a new surfacing and the walkway to the restaurant needs landscaping,. read more

They need to improve on service and being polite. I was discriminate. They took one look at me and they judged me. Food suck. Place looks dirty. read more

What a gem! This darling restaurant evokes the glamour of early Los Angeles. We sat inside on a weekday and there were less than a dozen other patrons, which made the experience quiet and intimate. Our food was really delicious! The desserts all sounded amazing-and so we got them all!! But they really disappointed and I don't recommend. Our server was attentive, knowledgeable and personable. I'll be back! read more

Food Service Ambiance all perfection! This place should have Michelin star. My second time here, Clams, Duck; Just divine. Service is great and Love the vibe inside. (Seems like locals go there a lot) Yall should try! read more

Last night we had exceptional meal at the bistro It started off with a lovely taste of Gazpacho with cucumber sorbet. We shared the sunrise farm butter lettuce salad with the wonderful goat cheese,for mains my husband had the spring pea risotto and I stepped out by having the pork chop WOW what a wonderful dish, the pork was juicy, flavorful, tender . It's topped with fuigi apple and mustard seed which is apple sauce in steroids On the side are the brussel sprouts and sweet potato puree. OMG amazing dish The service was wondering. This restaurant continues to shine, the white table cloth Thank you Robert and Deborah for a wonderful place to get amazing food and service read more

Great service, Waiter was very polite and attentive to our needs. Food was served hot and was very presentable. My husband and I enjoyed the starters and both our meals. The main dining room was a little loud, however we were able to still speak to one another. One of a very classic and respectable restaurants. read more

Robert that was one fine dining experience. The filet mignon steak was cooked perfectly and the appetizers were incredibly delicious. The wine you chose was exquisite. Your restaurant is a real find. I also tried the Grouper and Ribeye and both were excellent. Thank you once again for the great food, wine and fine dining. Sincerely, Ron LaVine read more

My husband and I have been coming to Bistro 45 for many years. The food is always outstanding, the ambiance is lovely & the service has always been perfect. Tonight, Robert, the owner took such special care of us that I felt compelled to leave this review. It is a beautiful restaurant with an owner who strives to give his customers the finest dining experience possible. I recommend it highly! read more

Food was excellent. Highly recommend the hanger steak. We loved our waiter. He was really fun. Really charming place. Look forward to coming back. We even saw a few celebrities dining near us. read more

See all