decent drinks, good fried pickles. They do need to upgrade their shuffle board. The people behind the bar are just great and super nice, and the drink selections they have are on point. read more

Hi. Hello. This place is pretty nice. It has music which seems pretty loud, but not loud in a bad way. The drinks are cool and so are the bartenders, they are quick and attentive. I would definitely come back.. With a MIX crowd and different vibe we are definitely coming back! read more

The Blind Donkey - Drinks... IPAS... - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

I'll make this short and sweet. # If you like whiskey, you'll love this place because it has a large selection # it has a good crowd, ranging from people with t-shirts and jeans to suits # Penny the manager is warm, friendly and engaging # evan williams (whiskey) is only $4 during happy hour # the fried pickles and fries are delicious the end... read more

The phone # doesn't work and my request for reservations email has gone unanswered. Crazy system

My happy place. Amazing drinks. Make sure you request the sphere ice! Amazing music (well, mostly.... They should stick more to the era, frank Sinatra, jazzy, bluesy etc etc. If I wanted trap and ghetto rap I would go to barneys lol). Amazing staff. Amazing atmosphere. The dim lighting is my faaaav. Amazing decor. :) I will continue to recommend this place! read more

The Blind Donkey - :) - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

Food + Drink + Mind Stimulating Conversation = A Happy Soul Because happy hour is from 4-7pm on a weekday and you know company is great... Parking: Since Union is a one way street, parking will be on the LEFT side. There's two entrances so if you miss the first one, just drive slower and you can get to the 2nd one. Make sure you bring a credit/debit card since there's no teller. You pay via machine. I did not pay attention to the hourly rate but I payed $6 for 3 hours. The drinks: The drink menu was "thicker" than the food menu. Drink to your heart's delight. They have whiskey, beer, cocktails and many more choices. The Food: It's all burgers and fries... its basically bar food. read more

The Blind Donkey - This was all HIS idea... - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

I can't say enough about this this place, I enjoy everything about this place dearly. The food is great I always get the carne asada fries and they don't miss ever, but if you are here enjoy this place, I had a great time and misha was the best part of the night!!!! Great conversation and service. I will be back because of misha! Thank you for a great night!!!!! read more

Recently the company changed the payment system to include cents, coins. It used to be easy. Everything was on the dollar. Now the tally is using coins, but they only have quarters. So if you bill is 10.17, they give you change based on the quarter, and give you 75 cents back. But if the bill is 10.48, they give you 50 cents back, and round off the numbers. If you complain, they'll give you the extra back with a quarter. I call bullshit. read more

Like the Vibe here but services kinda slow. If it wasn't bcuz of locals recommendations , it wouldn't be here either

Best bar in Pasadena. During the weekdays easy to sit down with a friend or date and chat away while sipping on a nice rye. On the weekends...well its a weekend. So expect it to be busy and crowded. Bartenders are friendly , the fries are amazing. Overall this just a great place to drink. Take a chance and try it. You won't regret it . read more

The Blind Donkey - A relaxed Tuesday night - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

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I've been wanting to check this place out, not really knowing what to expect. It's a nice spot: dark, clean, chill vibe. We cozied up to the bar a few minutes before the kitchen closed and they took our order, grateful for that. Overall, food was BOMB and the drinks were good too- I recommend the Mango IPA. However, the service wasn't great. The bartender acted really hurried and curt...yet the place really wasn't crowded. He just kind of rushed all interactions, slapped menus down, would put drinks down and then hurry off. We both finished our drinks and he never came back to refill, we eventually had to pause eating (no waters, empty bar glasses) and wait to flag him down. Good spot, not great service, awesome food, solid drinks. read more

I really loved this place. Extensive whiskey menu, of course, but it has a very laid-back and inviting atmosphere, as well. So inviting, in fact, that it felt totally normal to sit in here on a Saturday afternoon, sipping a whiskey-spiked iced coffee. read more

Been wanting to try this spot for a while, and this was the first spot we came to to show my friend from Japan around. 1. EXTRA LOUD. 2. It's like a sports bar inside. I had the impression that it was a nice, chill bar. 3. Dress code is whatever you want to wear..flip flops and all. 4. Security guard doesn't talk to you..he's too busy on his phone and barely checking IDs. We walked in and out. read more

Fairly new bar/eatery in Old Town Pasadena with lots of decor, design and an interesting drink menu. This place is under the same management as Little Bear, Verdugo Bar, Phoenix, etc, so I know I will be good quality service and food/drinks. My only gripe for this place is that the design is so oddly created. The bar is like an elongated "V" (think birds in flight") in the corner, when there is a lot of empty space where there could be tables and barstools, etc. They have shuffleboard stands, which is really fun and quirky, especially in OTP. I'd come here to try their specialty cock\tails again and again! read more

The Blind Donkey is simply, awesome. Come by and get a 1 or 2 oz pour of one of their fine whiskeys. The bartenders are extremely knowledgeable of what they serve so prepare to come out a fine, old and wise chap. They make the best Old Fashion and their 'Bird of Courage' is my new favorite cocktail. Hang out on the side for a game of chess (ask the bartenders for the pieces) or by the window for a friendly match of shuffleboard. GREAT new addition to Old Pasadena. read more

This bar wasn't super packed which is awesome! The drink was served whiskey in a glass with a big ball of ice. It was pretty cool looking. They also served some kind of ice cream but I never got a chance to get any. I did play a game of shuffle board and it was fun! The layout is standard and the bathrooms weren't grotesque. I liked this place and it's next to slaters so it's a win win !! read more

If you like whiskey, bourbon, rye, scotch this is a great place for you. The selection is huge and it's an educational stop. If you like craft beer this is a good place for you, and a knowledgable bartender. They carry some low alcohol content beers similar to coors light and some 3.8 angel city and 4.5 blue paddle. For the person who is not looking for the stronger beers. Tap system is a perfect pour system and every glass is rinsed which is one of my favorite little adds. Ok sports bar since it only has 2 televisions but you can pretty much view the game from almost any seat in the house. The place is small. Food is weak at best. Burgers and fries only. They seem to specialize is fries and make them a dozen different ways. I asked for everything on the size and it came out to my asking. My only issue was they were to greasy for my liking. However they worked perfectly for the game. Will return to this place again since the bartenders were awesome! read more

o6.27.14 This date of 2014 was my Lunar Birthday. (Chinese should know what that means.) Haha Anyway, so I decided to join my BFF for a few drinks. Hey, free drinks from the bestie! ;P We came here and sat at the bar. When my friend turned to her right, she saw a super cute guy! Then look again, another guy wrapped his arms around this cute guy's neck. Ok, enough said, you should know what I meant. We are not against it. It was just a little disappointment for us ladies. :( haha She got me the Old Fashioned and she had the Southern Tartans. Both were ok because I am not a whiskey person, can't tell you much. But she liked the Southern Tartans more. I believe it was more strong too. This place was pretty crowded on a Friday night! All the bartenders are beauties (that included the guys haha). Then there are the customers. Including us two, I think there were only about 5-6 Asians. Awesome! read more

Cool bar located just off the main drag of Colorado. Came here for the first time and was way impressed with the whiskey collection. Tons of single malts and various blends available. Food however was ok...that being said only had Fried donkey pickles, garlic Parmesan fried. Overall would be willing to go back however based on the whiskey and ambiance alone... read more

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I've been to this bar several times! The vibe is always amazing. I highly recommend "pearnessities" it's my all time favorite drink now. Seriously love this place!! read more

I've got to give this bar 5 stars because of the excellent service we have received the times we have been here ! Nice bar off of busy Colorado Avenue ! Penny the bartender is simply great ! She always makes you feel so welcomed and always holds an engaging conversation with you ! She definitely makes you laugh and can make your drink more enjoyable !! We have gone in the afternoon hours so it is not as busy and it makes it for a relaxing time to enjoy your drink !! They have a nice selection of whiskeys, scotches, beers, and yes even wine !! Nice happy hour specials as well !! They sell food, but have not tried any yet but stayed tuned for that !! All in all it is a nice trendy bar where you can relax with your drink and watch the games because they have televisions as well and the music is also good ! Give it a try you will keep going back for sure !! read more

The Blind Donkey - Cool place to relax with a drink !! - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Nice bar! they even played Solarbabies on their video feeds ...Google it. It is an 80s flick that rips off Mad Max and Xanadu but hey I learned about it that Saturday night. Anyways, we had a party of 16-17 and i'm glad they had enough tables for us. Well a long table plus a smaller one to fit our group. Nice ambiance, at first this place was chill and the noise level was moderate around 9pm but an hour later it picked up, the crowds started coming in but overall we got a nice lounge. I wanted something to not too bitter, so I've ordered their Anthem Pear Draft Beer, its not too much on the sweet tart side, it has a smooth flavor do it, with a bit of a champagne pear after taste (I hope that makes sense). The restrooms our on the back wall to the ride side, you will see an arcade machine there while you wait when someone is handling. read more

The Blind Donkey - Anthem Pear Draft BeeR - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

This is a pretty average bar. The music was not so great. Some of the tables were made to play chess or checkers, which I thought was cool. I came here on a Sunday night and had a beer...I think it was called The Jolly Roger or something. But anyways it was very good, it was similar to a Guiness. I also ordered a whiskey, which I can't remember the name. But overall the drinks were good. And They had a large selection of whiskey. The bartenders were nice and helpful and I was pleased with their drink recommendations. I also thought that it was cool that you can play chess or checker/ for Free!;) I'm definitely coming back whether it's to play chess or order a good whiskey! read more

The Blind Donkey - The Blind Donkey! - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

It was my first time here and I'll never come back after what my friends and I experienced tonight. We ordered our drinks and closed the tab after we received them. I wrote $0.00 in the tip section because I was actually going to give a cash tip when I was going to leave. However, the bald bartender had the audacity to ask me if I was really going to tip zero with an attitude, which was very disrespectful. We left the bar section to go to a table and the bartender continued to stare at us. We felt unwelcome and uncomfortable. read more

One of my cousins recently invited my sister and I to join him and his wife on Wednesdays at The Blind Donkey in Pasadena for trivia night. As it turns out, this place has trivia night every Wednesday at 7:30PM hosted by Geekswhodrink.com. It is a fun night when you mix booze, intelligence, and great family & friends! The place is just like your average dive bar, fully stocked, full bar. What really shines (at least to me) is the food. The fries are ridiculous! Large portions, generous toppings, and LOADS of flavor! So far I've had the garlic parmesan, carne asada, BBQ chicken, buffalo chicken, and bacon cheese fries. SO GOOD! You will NOT be disappointed if you lve fries with a bunch of junk on it! The burger was just as tasty as well! It comes with a side of their already amazing fries (just plain) and the burger is juicy, flavorful and satisfying. The Blind Donkey is definitely a place to go to in Pasadena. At least stay for the trivia night if you're not interested in eating, or if you just pigged out at Slater's 50/50 (which is next door, see my review). Who knows, I just might see you there during trivia night on Wednesdays! read more

The Blind Donkey - Garlic parmesan fries and carne asada fries - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

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I decided to meet up with my girl friend. She was there 10mins early and waited for me but no one person approached her about a seating. When I got there, it seemed to be pretty busy and everyone who work there ignored us. Okay, I get that you guys were busy, but it doesn't mean that you guys can just ignore us! We just left and never go back.. read more

I'm not a whisky expert, i'm more of a beer fanatic so hopefully i can reach out to those who are in a similar position as i am. The blind donkey is definitely a cool little joint a street over from the hectic colorado blvd. Everytime i've gone now its usually got a decent sized crowd, and there is plenty of different types of whiskeys. The last two times i've come here i've shared a flight of whiskey (comes out to about $18). They usually give you 3 types of whiskey and in total its about a double shots worth i would say. I'm new at whiskey so everything i tried was super strong haha trying to figure out how to enjoy it properly is still in process. but overall the little place is very chill and mellow. Blind donkey is a place I would probably come back to to try other types of whiskeys (if i'm in the mood that is) But other than that I'll stick with my craft beers. haha read more

The Blind Donkey - Whiskey flight - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

Such a great whiskey bar !!! I've tried getting in here on a Thursday and it's impossible after 9. Nice interior I love the big mirror and the wall scripture. read more

The Blind Donkey - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

Came here for some drinks after stopping by a couple of places in Old Town. The place was packed with nowhere to sit but luckily their mini shuffle board was open so we just played and held our drinks. I got an Old Fashioned which was delicious and very aromatic. Good stuff. read more

this is a cool little dive bar in Pasadena. They have a great selection of whiskeys and very delicious cocktails. I had a surprise party here for my boyfriends 31st birthday party earlier this year and everyone loved it. read more

This is a whiskey bar that serves burgers, fries, and a chicken sandwich. This is not a restaurant. This is a cool, laid back, casual place to get some good mixed drinks, some good whiskey and a decent selection of draft beers, while enjoying the company of friends. I would not come here to just to eat, but I would eat here if I were hungry. I hope that makes sense, because I've seen many reviews stating otherwise. Like anyplace nowadays, the service depends on how competent the server, and how busy the bar. My experience has been positive but I can see how things could get slow, very quickly on busy nights. read more

I'd say this is your "standard bar" Nothing bad to say Nothing special to say There's always seats available--even on weekends--and staff seem friendly Wouldn't go out of my way to come here but definitely will grab a drink if in the area. read more

Poor quality in service. My friend and I, waited at the bar for 20 minutes. Bartenders/waitress never greeted or offered assistance. I made eye contact several times with two Bartenders. However, both bartenders only catered to a loud group (maybe regulars) that were aggressive in getting they're drinks first. Bartenders saw us and never acknowledged or served us. After waiting for a long period of time, we left. I guess you need to shout at someone to get a drink ?! LOL -- no thank you. Will not return or recommend. read more

Stopped by for a quick drink on a Saturday afternoon just because we were in the area. We were able to find a table w/no problem and once settled noticed the placed smelled terribly, not sure what it was... HH was going on (great for a weekend), which is a few dollars off well drinks. We tried classic Moscow mule, not the worst I've had, but certainly not second round worthy. Will not come back during the day, perhaps drinks and air ventilation are better in the evenings. read more

Great spot!! Went on a Friday and had a blast! The bar tenders are super friendly and the drink are good.. highly recommend this place! I will be returning soon. read more

My boyfriend has always wanted to check this place out, so it was fortunate we were able to do this with my boyfriend, his coworker and her significant other while waiting to get seated at Slater's 50/50 next door. We ended up walking here so I could not say much about parking except that there are a couple of parking structures nearby and one of them offers free parking for 90 minutes. The Blind Donkey is just what the title of the place suggests. It has several donkey statues that are covered with a blindfold. It also has a mellow ambiance, a large selection of whiskey, a shuffleboard to play with, and several tables that can be used as a chessboard or checkers board. What a great idea to pass the time and enjoy your drinks even further by playing these games! The cocktail that I had was the Nick of Thyme, which was refreshing and delicious. There is a menu for delicious British food, but I did not try the food and will come back to check that out next time. For a night of drinking in Pasadena, definitely check out the Blind Donkey as one of your places to go to. read more

Me and my bf decided to come to this place on a Friday night, and the atmosphere is good to just relax chat with people, plus their drinks are good which I did enjoyed. However there was this one worker with long brunette hair, and I kept seeing her hair touching the drinks and where all of the alcohol is. Plus on the job she kept drinking, which I thought was kind of unprofessional read more

Good for whiskey (they got ALL types). Don't expect soft and charming, but do expect competent staff and a wide selection of whiskeys! Sunday funday is also good - and you can play various table games including chess at this joint. A little gem in old town Pasadena. Gets sad on the weekend with too many drunk crying people. But it's not the bar's fault ! read more

This is one of our fav drinking spots. Happy hour has great drink deals and the food is nice and greasy (if you like that kind of thing). What I like best about Blind Donkey is that the cocktails are strong and well mixed. Nicely done, folks, nicely done! read more

Terrible attitude on the Bartenders, I am new and enjoying Whiskey in Southern California, decided to give this bar a try. Bartenders are rude, if they can even be called Bartenders, they seem to have attitudes all the time, Alexis and Michael. Been to that bar over 8 times before I gave this review, and even hesitated to write it, I even definitely agree with the other reviewer that there is nothing special to this bar, its small and there is nothing to boast about. Small TV's if you care about that, and its got that Old Pasadena charm. Definitely some good Bourbons and liquors. But the main issue here is not the price, food, bar, or selection is literally the staff itself. Bartenders with attitude every single night I was there, I am not even sure they enjoy their work, or they just don't like customers/the bar. Bartenders at the YardHouse have more personality and customer disposition than the guys here. Shoutout to Mischa and Andy (Sunday Bartenders) - which are the only reason to go to this bar. read more