Preface-Been here several times and never had a bad experience (hence 5 stars) OK, I'm a West LA type of gal but this visit was because I had other business to tend to in the Pasadena area. That, coupled with the fact that I am a Hawaii resident who craves decent mexican food when in SoCal. This time, it was Mijares. It was Sunday, Weekends are their brunch days. I take a look at the brunch layout and got totally stuffed just looking at it. OK, I could eat all that so I chose the menu..... GARAGE BURRITO please with carne asada. (I saw another guest have this burrito on my previous visit so decided to give it a try. And a great decision that was. It was huge enough to share so my dining partner and I had bites and I had a third more to carry off for my later dinner. CUCUMBER MEZCAL MARGARITA was my beverage of choice. Now I am not a mezcal type of gal but decided to try it with the encouragement of our waiter. Smoked flavor cut the bite of the mezcal I think. Cucumber continued to enhance the clean flavor of the beverage (a must try if you are there) Fun Facts: Mijares is a 4 generation establishment which was originally opened by Jesucita (Grandma- 1st generation) Then came Alice (daughter of Jesucita, 2nd generation). Then came and continues to run the show is Tom (son to Alice, 3rd generation) and last but not least, is Mary Alice (niece to Tom, the generation Social Media Director for Mijares) Fun Fact 2- I found Mijares a few visits ago and had the absolute pleasure of meeting Tom and Mary Alice. Their hospitality and compassion for the Establishment kept Mijares on my mind hence, continued visits. Go there or Be Sqaure read more

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I was in the area and since I was super hungry and hadn't been to Mijares in over 10 years, I figured there was no time like the present. We went on a Friday late afternoon and sat outside in the patio area I had always loved. I can't put my finger on it, but there were many reasons this wasn't a 5-star experience. Maybe it was the time of day, but the ambience was just off. Yes, four stars is still good, but I really expected better. The blood orange margarita was just okay. Compared to other Mexican restaurants (and boy, have I been to plenty), the margarita was considerably smaller and weaker in terms of alcohol content, but the price didn't reflect this. When I spend $16-20 for a margarita, it's usually money well spent. The 3 tacos plate was great: chicken, carne asada, and al pastor. The carne asada burrito was also very flavorful. The House salsa was fantastic and fresh. I could have done without my very basic veggie tostada, though. Other places have grilled veggies and just a lot more flavor to their veggie tostadas. This one didn't taste like anything authentic at all. I was the slowest diner of the group, and the server asked me twice if I was finished when I still had half of my plate left. He kinda reached in to grab the plate, too, which was awkward. The third time he asked, I had like a quarter left, but I Just let him take it. It was kinda annoying. In the past when servers were going on break or leaving for the day, they've told me and I've closed out the tab. I'm not sure if this was the case, but I felt rushed although it wasn't busy outside at all (we were one of two occupied tables.) Overall, the experience fell short, and even though I'd return in the future, I'm not rushing back anytime soon. read more

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Came here to have a nice lunch with the family. I was excited because I had seen the pictures of the food and everything looked good. This was not the case when we had our dining experience. We got the plate of chile relleno with a beef enchilada, the mole plate and a kids quesadilla with rice and beans. 1. The chile in the chile relleno was soooo tiny, the battered egg was big and fluffy which is why it looks big. The rice was crunchy and had pieces of overcooked rice. The beef on the enchilada was on top of the enchilada NOT inside and it tasted like boiled beef with no flavor! I put it to the side. The inside just had a bit of shredded marble cheese. So disappointed. The beans were ok, restaurant quality, canned flavored. 2. The mole was very sweet and although that's not a bad thing, it still didn't have any kind of authenticity in the flavor it was as though it was just packaged sauce dumped on the chicken. 3. The kids quesadilla has bellpeppers and onions inside! Which was not disclosed on the menu. My kid likes bellpeppers but not the green ones and not in her quesadillas... come on. I had to pick them off. Over all I'm glad I live far away from here because it was really bad quality food. The service was nice and attentive. The ambiance was empty and almost abandoned... and I even went on a weekend. read more

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Always driving past this street and never been inside this restaurant. Finally got to try it and loving it a lot. The outdoor seating is really nice, especially when it's not that hot outside. We ordered the chicken taquitos with guacamole and Chicken & Machaca Enchiladas. The food was so delicious and service was great. We didn't get to try their desserts cuz we were stuffed. Definitely coming back to try their Happy Hour menu. Only down side is their parking lot is very small so it's hard to find a parking spot. read more

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4.5 I was so happy to be invited to a private event! I heard the place wasn't that great, but the buffet totally changed my mind. I tried Achiote Chicken, Pork Chili Verde, Steak Picado, rice, beans, and salad, all super flavorful and delicious. Even the chips, salsa, and guacamole were really good. The vibe was great, and the servers were fast, friendly, and attentive. It was a fun evening with friends! Parking was a bit odd cause it seemed hella small but luckily there was some available in the lot. read more

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106yr old restaurant? I definitely needed to check it out. Good buddy of mine suggested that we could add an option go for lunch, I thought it would be a good idea. Indoor and outdoor seating both accommodating. The food was pretty good, not my favorite, but solid. Beef enchiladas with ground beef was interesting as I've never had them this way it's usually shredded beef, but hey I'm game for trying new things. Pretty good, and good presentation. Great and accommodating service, not overbearing. We sat outdoors and it was shaded. We overheard the grandson of the original owners talking about when the restaurant was actually his grandmother's house, describing the different areas, like living room was here, kitchen was there etc., very cool history here. Come check this place out it's a piece of history and very welcoming. read more

Happy Hour margs, need I say more?! Hard to believe that this restaurant is over 100 years old, not many establishments can say that. It is a real cornerstone of Pasadena dining, there is a love or hate feeling when you bring up this restaurant among locals. Chips and salsa is provided with orders so it is the perfect after work stop. They do have better the ability to make quality margaritas for full price which is almost 2-3 times happy hour but if you like mezcal it might be worth it for a more refined taste. Conveniently located by the 210/134 freeway entrances, it has it's own lot that says a lot for Pasadena establishments. read more

Mijares Mexican Restaurant - Happy hour margaritas - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

We love Mijares! Friendly staff who always remember us & are genuinely kind. Chill, family style vibe. Beautiful light music. Open patio & air conditioned interior. Food is INCREIBLE. We come OFTEN. read more

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Mijares has been around over 100 years, although it started as a just a tortilla store. Jesucita Mijares, the first owner fled the revolution in Mexico. Somehow she decided to settle in Pasadena where she opened a tiny Tortilla Factory & established the restaurant. I think the original place had a bad fire and it was rebuilt. It is so very comfortable and clean and just pretty. This is traditional Mexican food. She used all her her original recipes and they still do. They are well known for their Happy Hour and their Margaritas. They have indoor and outdoor dinning. The prices are fair for Pasadena. The food is stellar. Make a reservation. They also have a banquet room and private dinning. The enchiladas are excellent and their rice and beans are so good. Make sure to get tortillas. Their hard tacos and chili relleno are so great. Everything is great. You will love it. read more

Mijares Mexican Restaurant - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Such a nice place for Mother's Day dinner! We came here with my husband's mom and grandma and it was the perfect spot! My mother-in-law and grandma shared that they had the perfect time! I left my sunglasses here and we called and spoke with the manager (we think?) and they were so so kind! The food was so so yummy too! They even had mariachis and they got tears out of us! The ambiance is so so classic and nice too! We loved all of it! Thank you for a perfect night, Mijares!! read more

Mijares Mexican Restaurant - Shrimp and Lobster Enchiladas - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

Mijares is the oldest restaurant in Pasadena and provides a good, classic meal. They have a lot of seating in a few different areas and were able to easily host our party of 8 on their patio. I went with the two enchilada combo, one chicken and one beef. Both were equally tasty and the menu is extensive so there should be something for everyone. read more

Went here for our annual office Christmas party. First time here, and as a longtime resident of the City of Roses, I feel a bit ashamed for not visiting sooner. This really is a Pasadena institution. Needless to say, Mijares is extremely popular. Every time I pass by, the parking lot is always full. Speaking of the parking lot, it's very small. Good luck trying to find a spot. You might get lucky in one of the adjacent residential streets. Maybe. I ended up parking off of Fair Oaks, which is like a 10-minute walk from Mijares. Inside is much more spacious than it looks from the outside. Plenty of seating, including a large outdoor patio. This is a great place for large group gatherings. There's a nice little full bar inside, too, that seats about 10 or so. Staff is efficient and friendly. Menu is LARGE. You'll take a while trying to find something. Prices are a little steep. Ordered the following: - Crab enchiladas - 6.5/10: A little disappointed in this one. It was just cheese enchiladas with some crab bits on top. The crab was a bit tasteless and was similar to the canned stuff you get at the grocery store. Accompanying frijoles and rice were good, though. - Strawberry margarita - 7.5/10: Not bad. A little on the light side, though. The avocado dip I'd say was the best dish for me. Super fresh and tasty. Not sure if I'd come back just because of the hassle trying to get in, but I wouldn't mind. This is a fun, relaxing place that's steeped in history. read more

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The food was great and o love the historical value of this place, since 1920! So they must be doing something right. My problem with this place is the margarita's. Every margarita is made with crappy tequila and sweet and sour! A traditional margarita is made with a really good blanco tequila , Cointreau, and FRESH LIME JUICE! No Sweet and sour!!! I had to ask for my margarita to be made the right way. Do better! read more

Great place to bring family and friends especially after work gatherings- they accommodate large groups and they're so accommodating not only was the food delicious their service was amazing and they have such a great patio area to accommodate large parties. read more

Mijares Mexican Restaurant - Best margaritas - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

We went there to enjoy a baseball banquet with the school of the Lasalle. We had such a great time and enjoying the atmosphere and here the food was outstanding. Can't wait for next year banquet. Hopefully they have it in the same spot, the service was amazing. Parking was ample. I hope to see friends and family there soon. read more

Mijares is one of Pasadena's prettier Mexican restaurants and also its oldest, around since 1920. It's apparently situated on the site of founder Jesucita Mijares' original tortilla factory, restaurant and residence. It's still run by her family. It's a large space, with good-sized indoor dining rooms plus several patios and a large banquet room with its own patio. Even its parking lot is pretty spacious. The menu is quite extensive and includes an all-day breakfast section. The prices are perhaps on the slightly pricey side, but their Birthday offer for Birthday Club members is quite nice, includes a combo and flan! My combo #12 was fine, although the chile relleno was a bit generic. The machaca con huevos I ordered to go was very good, as was the flan. Service was friendly if a bit sparse. Overall a decent choice for Mexican in Pasadena, with a lot of history. I would say my go to is still Cabrera's for the food, but Mijares has a nicer atmosphere. read more

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Mijares has been in business for 100+ years, they are a favorite among locals. Whether you are here by yourself, dinner for two, or a private party in the banquet room, they've got you covered. It's a lively place with a full sports bar with high-top tables when you enter, or request a table in one of their dining rooms. I do like the Guacamole that is prepared tableside, it's worth every penny and calorie!!! My usual meal for lunch or dinner is Chicken Mole Enchiladas, the sauce is rich and thicker than the green or red Chile version. If you want to try a variety, they have an appetizer sampler, sizzling fajitas, fully-loaded nachos, cheese or shrimp quesadillas (non-meat). Be adventurous and try the "Garbage" burrito filled with everything (lol) and your choice of chicken, beef, pork or veggie style. Make reservations by calling 1-626-792-2763 and don't forget to tell'em that Rosemary sent ya!! read more

Mijares Mexican Restaurant - Dulce Vida Tequila - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Went for lunch on a Sunday. We didn't get the buffet - although it looked like a nice spread. We had street tacos, a beef burrito, and a quesadilla. Service was great. Waiters kept bringing chips and salsa. We had to ask them to stop as we were getting full just from them. The street tacos were ok. I thought they'd have traditional street taco toppings like cilantro and onions, but they had cheddar looking cheese on them. Honestly, the tacos were somewhat average - meat was on the dry side. I didn't try the other dishes but the burrito had diced tomatoes in them, which I thought was weird. Price was a bit on the expensive side. $22 for three tacos with rice and beans. $22 for a burrito and another $5 to put some cheese and green sauce on it to make it "wet". Overall, it pains me to give them only 3 stars because the waiters were so great, but the food was pretty mediocre. read more

Mijares Mexican Restaurant - #15. Alicia's Street Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

The food was AMAZING! We had an issue with a huge bus blocking the parking lot against oncoming traffic and the manager or owner who came out was so rude we didn't really want to stay but we stayed to celebrate a family member's birthday. The drinks were just ok but we all loved our food. The guac was pretty bland and lacked salt though. The other staff waiting our table was nice and the outdoor seating was pleasant. read more

Mijares Mexican Restaurant - Shrimp Enchilada - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Three words: Cinco de Mayo. Says it all, yes? I figured it would be a zoo at happy hour and dinner today, so I snuck in for lunch instead. Busy, but my plan was executed to perfection. They sat me quickly, immediately brought out chips and salsa and water, and dare I say...a margarita? How did that get ordered? Anyway, a carne asada burrito and margarita was just what the doctor ordered. Or I ordered. Ok. It was me. The chips were fresh and warm, very good salsa. The burrito was big, hot, fresh, delicious, and I couldn't finish it all. Margarita? OK, I finished that. Did I mention it was Cinco de Mayo? Congrats on a century of serving great food, Mijares, and cheering you on for a century more. read more

Mijares Mexican Restaurant - Margarita? Extra Chips & Salsa? Yes sir! - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Grew up coming here and gotta love that it's been here for 100 years. I came back today for the first time in maybe 10 years. Service was nice all around. Sadly, none of the food was good. Everything was very plain and lacking flavor or seasoning. I've never had poor Chicken Tortilla Soup until now. The crunchy beef taco, chicken enchilada also mediocre. The fajitas were fine as was the salsa. The tortillas were the only true hit. Can't say we'll come back. You can get much better Mexican food at cheaper prices in Pasadena and surrounding areas. read more

This family owned restaurant originated from their Grandmother Jesucita Mijares, who came from Guadalajara, Mexico. They have been serving Authentic Mexican Cuisine for 104 years, making it one of the oldest ever in the Los Angeles area. This is the restaurant that Mario Lopez recommended so we wanted to try it. They have indoor seating and a lovely patio area. There's seating at the bar as well. Friendly and attentive service from Marco S. and Rudy. We tried: GUACAMOLE ESTILO MIJARES CHILE VERDE FAJITAS DE LA CASA DELUXE BURRITO TACO SALAD MARGARITAS We got there they opened at 11am on a Saturday. It wasn't busy yet so we were able to park in their parking lot and get seated right away. Love the decor throughout the restaurant!! read more

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Haven't eaten here since 2021, came back again as I craved it. After eating I felt like passing out. That's how you know you ate well, when the food coma kicks in. Wife and I shared chicken flautas appetizer. Honestly it was big enough for it to be a meal. I got the shrimp and lobster enchiladas and she got the shrimp fajitas. Mijares has that homey cooking (and environment) that hits that sweet spot with very generous portions. Service here is attentive and friendly. Also I recommend their made in the spot guacamole. It's pricey but it's worth it if you love guacamole and if you like to use it for your plate. read more

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Classic Mexican restaurant Food is so fresh and tastes home made. Nice that they do have happy hour. Menu is huge and place can accommodate large parties too. They do have plenty of parking read more

Best mexican food in Pasadena by far! So good. I had the Chile Verde Entree. Salsa is tasty. Churros were a hone run. All delicious.

Excellent food! Service is good! Great place to have dinner for two or for a family birthday.

I'm happy to say that my wife and I had an excellent experience here on Cinco De Mayo (05/05/26). It was very busy of course but I was able to park my car in front and we got seated within minutes. The atmosphere was very festive but not too loud or crazy at about 2:30 P.M. The food and service were very good and that's what matters most to me. The "Modelo Girls" and the free samples and goodies were a nice touch. Keep up the good work! read more

Mijares Mexican Restaurant - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

I ordered a burrito with grilled chicken. Simple. The chicken was inedible. It tasted old and salty. The beans were just ok, no flavor. I was with a family member who was treating me. I tore off a small part of the flour tortilla, put beans ion it but the beans had no flavor at all. The service person took my plate which was obviously untouched. I did not say anything to avoid ruining our late lunch. read more

We were a party of 10 who dined here yesterday, in the early evening (5/7/26) Some of our party had never dined here and everyone was impressed with the ambiance,, (such a beautiful patio) and our waiter. The food was great, margaritas were strong and delicious. We had a wee bit of misunderstanding when we made our reservation, but the manager, Hermann, stepped in and cleared things up for us. Overall, a lovely experience for our group. read more

Came here for a big family gathering and Mijares definitely has the space, ambiance, and parking for that. The wait staff were fabulous and attentive during the 4-5 hr party. Space was big enough for even a small dance floor and our own DJ set up. It was a traditional Mexican buffet style which Mijares has various kinds of party packages listed on their website to choose from. Food was delicious-the highlight for me was the fish which was really flavorful in this tomato based marinade. the beauty of handling big groups would be to have a buffet so no one needs to wait and you can eat to your hearts desire. Drinks for the evening included tea, coffee, beer and margaritas (over the rocks or blended). Overall, if you are looking for a mid size venue for a big gathering, consider this place! read more

Mijares Mexican Restaurant - Margarita - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

My wife & I just read the review by Richard recently commenting about homophobia at this restaurant. Nothing could be further from the truth. The man points out that he's been a patron for over 50 years & yet despite the so called "fact" that the bartender (who has only been here less than half of that), is suddenly homophobic. Then why keep coming here if that's your version of "fact"???? Also, R-lene is no way how you portray her in your ridiculous comments. Shame on you, have you nothing better to do than whine???? I shared your post with several longtime customers who took offense to your unfounded & slanderous remarks & will gladly go on record to challenge what you posted. For God's sake, we've brought people here both straight & gay; some were family & others are friends. Everyone had a great experience. You are delusional. read more

The ambience and the food quality was amazing the waiters were very attentive and helpful and explained any questions that we had about the menu. I would highly recommend this place. It was a good time. Food was excellent. read more

Given the incredible Mexican food scene across greater LA, this spot unfortunately didn't live up to the competition. The food was decent but unremarkable -- the Spanish rice in particular could use some attention. Service was fine, though nothing memorable. The biggest sticking point was the bill: $298 for five entrees and two margaritas felt hard to justify given the experience. There are far better options in the area for the price. read more

Decent place. Food was good. But JFC!! Charging for salsa? Are you kidding me? I won't get into the price for a caddie Margie which is just too much anyway.... but charging 1.50 for salsa? Really? I spent 150 bucks for me and a buddy to have dinner, a couple drinks...and you're going to charge me 1.50 for salsa??? Just because I want something other than the boring salsa for my chips? And don't bother getting a double caddie/. Not a true double caddie. Just a regular caddie with an extra shot on the side. Disappointing. Not going back. There are better places read more

Classic Mexican is a Pasadena institution. Everything you want (and more!) all at a reasonable price. This means fresh & flavorful salsa, cold & strong margaritas, hearty & generous portions, and fast & friendly service. Beautiful indoor/outdoor seating equals a top tier vintage restaurant! read more

Been coming here to Mijares for quite some time now, love this place. Food is good drinks are great and the staff is amazing. Place is great not too noisy only on Cinco de Mayo "IYKYK". Roberto at the bar holding it down Martin taking care of the buffet and Miguel Miguelito Manuel Rudy Ruben Marcos Moi making sure everyone is taken care of. read more

Mijares! You did not disappoint. I've heard a lot about you. I thought if it's good enough for Mario Lopez, it's good enough for me. He recommended you on instagram. (Yes, Saved by the Bell Mario Lopez-lol) Wow! I had the chile verde and it was just like my aunt's home cooked one. The best! Ruben, our server was so nice. A Mexican restaurant with decor from top to bottom that made me feel right at home. The margaritas were on point! You had music playing in the background; Aleks Syntek was singing "Tu Necesitas" and I was sold! #iykyk I will be back asap! Happy February! read more

We went for the brunch buffet and it was great! Both types of chilaquiles, omelette station, tacos, ribs, chicky nuggets for the kids etc...oh and mimosas! Will definitely be going back. I can't wait to try their regular menu! read more

Food was very blend, I got a taco and a tamale which I don't recommend. The tamale was not that great. Service was good and ambiance was nice. But overall probably won't return. read more

Mijares Mexican Restaurant - Pork Tamale and beef taco - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

Had a mini family reunion here for brunch!! Great atmosphere! There was a wonderful selection of food, desserts, and drinks! Worth the price and staff were very attentive and kind. We mentioned it was a family member's birthday and the staff was so kind to bring a complementary dessert for her! Thank you Mijares! read more

Mijares Mexican Restaurant - Birthday wishes! - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California