What can I say about Russell's? It's a great place to have brunch and hang out with your friends if you have time. My friends and I love this place so much that we ordered food for our 6 feet apart outdoor picnic. What do I recommend? Definitely their SPUDS. If you like potatoes, avocado, sour cream, and cheese. That's the thing to get. Pro tip: get a over easy egg if you like eggs!! Alright happy brunching everyone read more

Their breakfast burritos are savory, filling, and flavorful. Packed with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and cheese. They need to include a spicy salsa then it would be perfect. Large portions with crispy hash browns. The Croque Monsieur is delicious and very cheesy! If you like cheesy bread, then go for it!! read more

Excellent breakfast and service!! Worth the wait. Bloody Mary was tops as well. Great location and they validate parking too. Definitely recommend when you're in the area. read more

Russell's - American Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Went here for breakfast and the food was delicious. They also have mimosas. I had a breakfast scramble. I would stay away from the biscuits and gravy. read more

I've always wanted to eat here and hadn't until today. Breakfast was great. Oatmeal came with raisins blueberries brown sugar and milk all in the side. Eggs with bagel and cream cheese hash browns juices were all good. Service was great. Hand sanitizer on the tables. Only one time, but we'll be back. It was a good experience all around. read more

oh sweet jesus, this place is worth every single penny, get here earlier or you'll be waiting an hour! the wait is more than worth it and the service is great, i forgot the servers name but he makes some of the best cold brew in all of the land, the restaurant is small but feels like you are right at home, don't even get me started with the chicken fried steak, it feels like it's make with so much love and care, it's worth the drive every time, recommend this place if you want some life changing breakfast read more

It's really difficult to fully enjoy this place when parking is only validated for 2 hrs at the structure next door and the wait times are usually 45-1hr. To be fair the time it took them to seat us and take our order was very speedy, but the food did take a long time to come out. Portions are very generous and quality is pretty good. Not the best brunch place in town, but it's cute and cozy, and definitely very fulfilling. Got the chicken fried steak and had no regrets, maybe one, should have worn looser pants. read more

Russell's - Chicken fried steak massive - American Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Food and host were amazing. Will definitely go back again, like this weekend. A must try!

Came to this restaurant about a couple weeks ago. Seems like this a favorite restaurant in the area. We were the last to be seated, after a while I went inside and find there are a few tables that are already been cleaned. They apologize for making us wait. Food was, our server keep forgetting to bring stuff that we want it. read more

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Came here on an Easter Sunday morning. Usually the wait is extremely long but we got here at just a few mins before the wait started. We were a party of six and we ordered a variety of food. I wish I took photos :( Some items that we ordered: 1. Chicken Fried Steak and 2 eggs. This was great! And you get to choose your side toast etc. they also give you the option of substitutes (READ THE MENU!) which is great because I didnt have to guess. The portion was good as well! 2. Meat Lovers omelette. The portion was good and this was also good. This comes with sides as well. 3. The big one. Basic egg, sausage, bacon and hash browns breakfast. 4. Bacon and 2 eggs. 5. Belgian waffles. 6. Cinnamon Roll 7. Blueberry muffins! Basically, all of the items came with sides and hash browns. They also have alcoholic beverages for breakfast (varieties of mimosas, bellini, etc)! Also, bottomless coffee. read more

Wow! Amazing breakfast. Came here on a Thursday before noon and waited about 25 minutes to be seated for 2. The last time my bf and I tried coming here on a weekend and the wait was over an hour. Pro tip: just come here on the weekday! I ordered the ABC omelette with Gouda cheese which came with hash browns and oh my god it was sooo delicious. Slices of bacon in every bite of this perfectly cooked omelette. The Gouda cheese with sliced avocados and sour cream topping really made this dish drown with flavor. The hash browns is a MUST! Crispy and soft, just amazing. My bf ordered the French toast breakfast plate that came with a sunny side up egg and sausages. I tried a bite of the fluffy French toast and it was so tasty. A generous amount of butter topped this dish off. The interior of this place is like diner meets classy. There are counter top seats and booth seating. They also serve alcohol here too! Our waiter was nice and made our first time experience enjoyable. Would definitely recommend coming here for breakfast! read more

Russell's - French Toast Breakfast Plate! - American Near Me - Pasadena, California

How was Russell's ?!??!Russells is thee best place in the western hemisphere to grab breakfast /lunch !out go to is the special spuds with egg ,the famous waffle and a great cup of Joe !!Most days you will see Denis and team serving up smiles with the famous waffle ,while folks wait outside to get a spot to enjoy their Saturday morning !Thx Frank too he's also the master behind this amazing production read more

If you cannot find something on the breakfast menu here, I don't know how to save you! LOL. Adorable in decor like an old-time diner right in the heart of Pasadena - couldn't be cuter, and the service is spot-on. The menu is perfectly swamped with sweet and savory breakfast items, including their overly delicious cinnamon roll. Get that as a side item if you want a little tidbit of sweetness before or after your savories. We loved the aforementioned cinnamon rolls, the spuds that were lovingly decorated with all kinds of meat and veggies, and the eggs benny were absolutely delish. Monday morning around 9am, we didn't have a wait, but the weekends are reputed to be up to a 2 hour wait. And in my humble opinion, well worth it. read more

I have never been here without waiting, which just shows how good this place is. (I recommend grabbing a number and doing some shopping on Colorado!) My favorite is the Special Spud. I also found out last time that if you ask nicely the kitchen may be able to substitute the bacon for corned beef, which would be the ultimate meal. Will report back when I try this combination! The croquette madame is fabulous, chicken fried steak and eggs is a winner, and the oatmeal is not bad if you're going the semi-lighter route. I now need to come back and try the menu at night! read more

Food is ok, but too bad the terrible service doesn't make it worth it. On our first visit, we were served by a friendly female waitress which made for a pleasant meal. The second time we had a waiter who messed up on our order but was kind enough to remove the item off the bill to makeup for it, so still ok. But today was different. There was no wait and plenty of open tables, but no one who was trying to get us seated, so we initiated and asked for a table to the nearest staff passing by. Seated with no menus, patiently we wait thinking someone may come to offer their services but no one does, so we flag someone down to ask for a menu. This treatment was noticeable so much so that the couple at the table sitting to the right of us kindly reminded the waiter that our table had requested some menus.. to which the waiter chuckling says it will get to us at some point (SRSLY?) we try to gain notice from ANY waitstaff but are told to wait again. After yet another lengthy wait, the waiter who is supposed to be waiting on us finally makes his way over and without even a greeting just stands in front of us with an annoyed air about him. We get our food, make as few additional requests for the remainder of the meal, hurriedly finish our meal as we can already feel that we are not welcome here. Having have been a waitress in past, I try to be mindful and respectful to those working hard and serving us our food - BUT today's service/server was so bad. The cherry on top was how friendly he seemed to be with neighbouring tables. FYI we were 2 adults with 2 children under the age of 3. Family friendly? I think not. Parents, pass on this place - the vibe for our littles was just terrible. read more

Russell's - Terrible service - American Near Me - Pasadena, California

This place has been part of Pasadena since 1930 so if you know me I'm a foodie and history guy. We were heading up north so we decided to give this place a try. Knocked it down 1 star because of parking and another star because they didn't have steak and eggs so be warned for those who feel like having a steak and eggs for breakfast like I do. Other than that food was good. I know my son loved it read more

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Russels in Pasadena is a welcoming Diner that has an old fashioned Diner ambiance with some great breakfast and lunch selections. I would say this diner can be a bit steep on prices but the food quality is definitely high. Our host/server were efficient (quick to refill waters and taking our order). Since my coworkers and I were on a lunch time crunch between our shift we informed our server who helped us get out on time. I ordered the breakfast burrito with hash browns and one of my other colleagues ordered the veggie burger, which were the highlighted ordered items of our meal. Honestly, the breakfast burrito was phenomenal! I would just say my hash browns were a bit greasier than the typical hash browns, but they had some crunch to them which I preferably liked. My coworker reported that the veggie burger was delicious, which appeared to be a rice based patty. The bread was soft and was served with crispy potatoes chips and potatoes wedge style French fries. The menu has unique items that are known to be Russel favorites in their lunch menu. You can also order breakfast during lunch time in case you love eggs as much as I do! They also serve their beer in cold mugs that make your beer a bit slushy on top which is actually very refreshing! The ambiance of the diner is very traditional, the staff were professional, and the food was good quality even for the Pasadena pricing. Another side note I would like to state is the bathrooms and the establishment were clean and their table flip time (getting people in and out) was highly efficient when we were there (we only waited 5-10 min during a lunch rush). I'd definitely give this diner a shot. read more

Russell's - Breakfast Burrito w/Hashbrowns - American Near Me - Pasadena, California

We had a great breakfast at Russell's! Despite the 45 minute wait, we were able too snag two seats at the counter for breakfast on a Sunday. We enjoyed the ham, bacon, and sausage omelette and the bacon and eggs. Yes it's divey, but that's part of the charm! read more

Great prices, portions and quality. Really great breakfast here. The best breakfast option in town for me.

Hands down the most delicious brunch spot in Pasadena!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It's worth the one hour wait! The French toast breakfast is the best thing ever! read more

The food was ok. The service was bad. I was going to say they don't have enough staff, but them I saw servers just chitchatting while there were clean open tables and people were waiting outside. This was after we waited for 15 min for a table on a random Thursday morning at 10:45am in the rain. There is no organization and no one seems to be in charge. They just do what they do and don't really worry about anything. This place just left a bad taste in my mouth, which is sad because I remember coming here often years ago when I lived walking distance. I won't be coming back and do not recommend it. It's just not worth it. read more

Everyone who knows Russell's knows that if everyone finds out - the place will be always swarmed! It's so epic that I can't really describe it. It's your best diner breakfast ever times 1.5 or maybe 3. Depending on where you're from. read more

Absolutely a great spot to grab a delicious hamburger, and definitely get their hashbrowns, they are famous for them! Definitely better than your average hamburger place, lots of fresh pies and other goodies on the menu. I'm a creature of habit, and I always go for hamburger and hashbrowns and have never been disappointed. Quick service, and good prices. read more

My husband and I have been a fan of Russell's for years. It was a place of class and sophistication, with it's warm red decor and classical art. In the past, recent past, no more than a few months ago, classical music graced the air at Russell's and the food was always good. Breakfast was especially good. Today, for breakfast, we found a long wait, of mostly tackily dressed clientele. Upon entering, loud retro music blasted. The waiters, dressed like gas station attendants, were very polite and nice. Thankfully, the classical art is still displayed. The food was mediocre and I wondered if my scrambled eggs were real. After eating, I had to immediately make a trip to the restroom. But the worst of it was the supposed owner, who says he's owned the place for 12 years. In a friendly and respectful manner I inquired about the music. His response was immediately bluntly rude and dismissive. He never said that he was happy for our business nor did he come over to see how our meal was, after such an interaction. Today, for us, represents the death and transformation of the beloved Russell's into an ordinary experience better found at iHop. read more

Really! You call that a Croque Monsieur? Me and my coworkers ordered the Croque Monsieur sandwich. Russell's watered down version of this French classic was just wicked bad all around. It was nothing more than pieces of ham and cheese between two pieces of barely toasted horrible sourdough bread with a slice of melted cheese on top. Only one person bothered to eat a full half of her sandwich. (She was very hungry.) Not at all like the Russell's food I've come to enjoy over the years. Russell's, please stick to what you really know how to prepare. Just because you saw it on a menu somewhere, or was served this bland version at some bland food cafe does not mean it needs to be on your menu. Be authentic. read more

My first time trying this restaurant! I brought my Mom here who was visiting from St. Louis! My mom says it's wad the best service she's ever had! And she's been all over the world! Our server was Dennis was so good we thought he was a psychic! He read our mind and anticipated our every need. And to top it off the food was amazing! You have to try the waffles! They are light and literally melt in your mouth. The only down side is that they close early! You must try this gem. My new favorite spot! read more

Russell's - American Near Me - Pasadena, California

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This place is my favorite for breakfast!! The Belgian waffles and scrambled eggs are literally the best I've ever gotten at a restaurant. There is always a wait, so that tells you they must be doing something right. The wait usually isn't very long. The coffee is very good, service is on point, cute little cozy atmosphere, and they validate parking. They serve breakfast when I go for lunch, which is also awesome. Do yourself a favor and seek this place out! It's in a cute neighborhood, great for walking and browsing. read more

The best breakfast place in Pasadena!!! Try it it yourself to find out. Tip: come early so you won't wait. read more

Russell's - American Near Me - Pasadena, California

My food had a piece of plastic and I told the waiter and nothing was done. For this reason I have to give it a one star. Gross me out

Tried their famous cheeseburgers with grilled onions and French fries. Medium rare patty and was so not disappointed

A diner that makes quality diner food?? Yes please! My husband had been talking about this place and wanting to take me there because he loved it. Went here on Sunday for brunch. It was somewhat busy and we were given a wait time of 45 min. It was actually much shorter and we were seated before I had the chance to become too hangry. The host who seated us was nice and pleasant. Our waiter was also very nice. We both ordered basically the same thing. Scrambled eggs with corn beef hash and hash browns. Hubs got a pancake on the side and I ordered the Belgian waffle. It was a bit extra to substitute those for the other bread options. We both also got orange juice and hubs got coffee. Our food came out in a timely manner except that they forgot my waffle. It took a bit of time for my waffle to come out so that was not great, but the waffle was worth the wait. It was nice and crispy, soft inside and flavor was great. Everything else was also perfect. The orange juice was pretty good, not the best I've had, but good. The table next to us actually ordered our dish because it looked so good. I really liked this place. It was a diner, but it felt a bit more upscale than typical diner and it wasn't too loud which I appreciate. I can't wait to go back and get my breakfast fix. read more

Nice spot for breakfast with good food and excellent service. Arrive early to beat the crowds and long waits. The restaurant is relatively small so it gets full early. I enjoyed the waffle - crispy outside and soft inside. House coffee is strong and refilled often. Bacon is crispy and tasty. read more

Showed up for brunch at noon and they said it was an hour and a half wait which is to be expected for a popular spot. However they told us to stand outside and wait because they don't text you when it's your turn! I can't accept a business expecting you to standing waiting for an hour and a half. read more

Where did I go? RUSSELL'S ... a well-known Pasadena spot that I've tried to get to several times, but it never worked out. But today I finally did and it did not disappoint. What did I eat? Although known for their breakfast, being lunch time, I ordered the Avocado Bacon Swiss Chicken Club, Fries, and an Iced Tea. The sandwich was a good size and delicious, but maybe a bit heavy on the sauces as it was dripping halfway through. Fries came out crispy, just how I like them. Who was I with and their thoughts? I went with a good friend (who also enjoys his food) who is a regular here. He ordered the Vegetarian Burger with Cole Slaw. That was his first time ordering the burger and he thought it was excellent. Overall impression? Great place to visit if you're in the area. It's small making the wait a bit long, but definitely a sound choice if you decide to stick it out. The place is clean, the staff very friendly, and the service was pretty fast. Even with a wait, I never felt rushed, as my friend and I enjoyed chatting for a good while. The decor was a bit surprising in a good way. I thought it would be more diner-like but it had a decor of a more upscale restaurant. I'll definitely be back especially to try their breakfast. My first Yelp review! More to come ... read more

Russell's - Avocado Bacon Swiss Chicken Club Sandwich, French Fries, and Brewed Iced Tea - American Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Food was great and service was friendly. it was a little loud in the building but it was about peak lunch time so that's expected.

Was basic . nothing grand about the food . Service was not that great either, based on reviews i was expecting great food and service.

I do enjoy the food here, however I'm incredibly disappointed. I showed up sunday around 1:00 to put my name in for a table for two, and they hostess guy said he can't take my table for two because they "close at 2:30." It was an incredible bummer because I drove 40 minutes just to have breakfast at this place. And on yelp and google it says the close at 3:00. Why are the close times inconsistent? Hostess says 2:30 and everywhere else says something else. It's disappointing to drive far and come in almost two hours before the listed closing time only to be told no, they're "closing soon." Well they lost a long time customer and regular forever. I guess my advice is if you want to eat here, make sure to show up way in advanced passed what is stated on the closing time. read more

We were in town for the Rose Bowl and we ate at Russell's. I think this is the best breakfast restaurant I've ever eaten at. ~Nice layout with lots of open space. ~Very warm and friendly staff. ~Delicious food, nice presentation, very good! An overall great experience even with the hour wait!!! read more

I've been coming to this breakfast spot since I was a baby. I'm 25 now and let me tell you the food and atmosphere is amazing. Dennis was our waiter and he was AMAZING. Seriously. This place would not be the same without his excellent service and the chefs fantastic waffles pancakes and omelets. The wait for the crispy delicious hash browns are so worth it. read more

Hubby and I ordered twice via Grubhub. The breakfast plates are so delicious! The best bacon! I definitely recommend!