This used to be our family go to place when cooking wasn't an option: good food, family friendly, nice staff. However, my son-in-law found a piece of glass in his meal, he actually bit down on it before spitting it out. Pretty shocking. The manager (?) apologized, explained there was no glass in the food prep area, so could not understand how this could happen. She comped a portion of the bill and took his name and contact information for "corporate". The following day, I sent the corporate office an email asking how they would insure this would not happen again. Ten days after the incident and no contact from them for either of us. It could have been so serious and we are grateful he did not ingest the glass, but really disappointed there was no follow up. read more

the watermelon salad is literally my favorite! Service was amazing and this salad will forever be my favorite! also the ranch here is great! Beautiful patio! Ask for Gerald! he's the sweetest! read more

True Food Kitchen - Summer watermelon salad Ah-mazing - Vegetarian Near Me - Pasadena, California

Came here years ago with a pleasant experience and tried again now that we are living in the area, with 2 kids. We made it in time for happy hour on a Friday (ends at 6pm), and were seated well before 6pm - however, our server didn't come to take our order until after 6pm. By that time, happy hour had ended, and she said that she couldn't acknowledge any happy hour prices because of "the computer won't let me". Uh, for real? We ended up getting drinks, including a *very* weak margarita, and an overpriced edamame dumpling dish ($12 for a very meager 4 or 5 thin little guys) with marginal flavor. Somehow despite the waitress's first comment, she was able to get my husband's single beer at happy hour price buuuut nothing else. Pretty, outdoorsy seating area, with area heaters and inside options as well, for a legit Southern California vibe. But that is where the positives ended. My husband got the bison pizza, I had a kale salad with added salmon (approximately $24), and my kids each got a kids meal. My salad came out oddly with my salmon on my son's kids plate. The salmon was fresh, but very dry - little to no dressing or seasoning on it, which I didn't really expect. My husband was moderately happy with his pizza. Our server did not check on us A SINGLE TIME during the meal. Small things, like asking for a straw when we got our food and never receiving one, absolutely zero follow up with our food, etc - sort of a ridiculous experience for a restaurant that is front and center on Colorado. We had to flag down another waiter for our check: it was like we were in a desert wasteland despite sitting in the middle of the outdoor space. Ultimately, for a meal that cost $120, and at a restaurant that is founded by someone who values wellness and wholeness, we would expect better customer service, at least a single check-in during the meal. Nope. Just the very brief, curt, interactions with our young server who truly had no customer service skills, and food that did not make up the deficit. Not returning. read more

We have had good experiences at this location in the past, however, there has been a handful of bad experiences when they are busier. We had to leave today without ordering after waiting for 10 minutes without getting acknowledged and hearing a server mumble behind us that she got "triple seated." I don't know that she was our server but it was clear that the staff was not happy - the hostess also appeared stressed. We are so disappointed by the speed of the service (more than just this time) since we walk to this location and really enjoy the food. We might try again but have given this location plenty of excuses for a just having a busy or bad day. read more

Great lunch place. So many options, I'll have to go again. I had lentil soup and a curry cauliflower sandwich. Both were really good, better than I expected from fast casual. You could tell the workers were proud of the food and wanted you to enjoy. Eating in that cute patio was very pleasant! read more

The food and location are nice and enjoyable but the staff could make one completely lose their appetite. The service needs an upgrade from the hostess I experienced (who has no issue offering up the stink eye to a complete stranger upon Hello). Hmm. That was a first. Two people in our party - I got stink eye while boyfriend got smiles. I highly suggest better hiring practices and quizzes on dealing with the general public before putting someone clearly and adversely affected by their own personal issues front and center. Not cool in any way shape or form. No... I did not present in any way that would cause this. Just the victim of a troubled soul in the wrong environment. The servers are hit and miss. They are rushed and seem like they would prefer to be elsewhere. Considering the focus on cuisine, it's surprising and off putting that the service is... less than. It doesn't align with the restaurant's offering. This review is based on three in person visits while working in the area over the course of several months. Disappointed read more

Had a fantastic dinner at True Food Kitchen because of the tasteful food, clean and spacious location, and very sweet staff. They accommodated all our requests even though we went in for late dinner. The place is very clean offering the perfect ambience. They offer a variety of healthy food choices. read more

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Service is great! Had to make reservations for a bigger party so I had to work with Laura and she was great to work with very accommodating and flexible. Our servers have been so sweet and kind. I've been here a few times and love coming here with large crowds. Food was delish!! Have to come back and check out their HH! Decorations and interior feels very clean and urban! Love their true sign read more

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Truly a True Food fan. First time at this location, and it did not disappoint. The spacious patio lends itself to a the perfect dining al fresco situation. It's dog friendly, baby friendly, and just friendly friendly. This place is a Saturday morning vibe. We started with the edamame dumplings ($14.95). That white truffle, that dashi, and that Thai basil - perfection. Does white truffle belong near dumplings? I think not, but here, it somehow works. Tbh, at nearly $15 for 4 dumplings (plus an empty wrapper), it's a tad $$$$, but I did me and let myself have a little treat. I always default to the turkey burger, but today, I ordered the ancient grains bowl ($18.95) because health. It's a bowl full of grains topped with miso sesame glazed sweet potato, charred onions, snap pea, portobello, avocado, all sorts of seeds and pesto. I also added some chicken ($6.00). The bowl is so hearty and filling. There's definitely a little bit of a kick from some form of chili sauce. It's an excellent vessel to get your veggies in. True Food is a lifestyle. It's a very nice place to eat very fancy, healthy food and I'm here for it. read more

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I've dined @ True Food Kitchen, about 10 times in the last two years. I think that qualifies me to leave a review. Food: The salads are consistently good and filling. I like the ancient grains bowl but I've had other good salads too. Seating: On most days, the restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining. Exceptions: rain Each time I visit True Food Kitchen I order the OG juice drink. The main flavors are ginger and lemon. Very refreshing and cool. Servers are attentive, and friendly on a consistent basis. Pizza: On my last visit, (2024-January) I ordered garden pesto pizza to try something new. The pizza was under baked and stodgy. Disappointing, considering I have enjoyed my other menu selections at True Food Kitchen. I will continue to visit and try new menu items, just not pizzas. Conclusion: recommended Bon appétit!! read more

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Great gluten free options. Love the service. We always order the Korean noodles. Parking is a bit difficult but park a bit further and walk you will be fine. read more

Always wanted to try this place because of how healthy it is! Unfortunately, the menu was limited for my liking. Though I had a wonderful time with good company, the food was not superb in my liking. I had the edamame guacamole, and tried some of the margarita pizza, and The OG for my drink. I did not like the texture of the chips that came with the guacamole, it was very hard to chew and the guacamole was bland. The pizza was decent, but crust very hard as well. My drink was very tasty and I loved the amount of ginger it contained. The service was just ok nothing to rave on. I felt that the waitress was not to memorable. The ambiance is actually impeccable! This is a very nice spacious restaurant. Very clean and nice color of decor to make it stand out! Overall, I'm not sure I'll come back again. I know it's mostly vegan/ healthy food, but Nothing really impressed my tastebuds! They also changed the menu, so I wanted to try the pan roasted chicken, but it's no longer on the menu. They have a new menu that started this week FYI. It's parking on the street and garage parking close by. Located in oldtown Pasadena so it can be busy. -Marshay D. read more

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It's been a few years since my last visit. Stopped by for lunch today with a group of 8. We had a reservation and were seated right away. Waitress is friendly and made us feel welcomed. However the restaurant was busy and it was difficult to find her when we needed utensils and such. I ordered Ancient grains bowl, add organic tofu and iced matcha horchata. The drink is not too sweet which I enjoyed. I finished the entire bowl and feel good about eating healthy. Love that the restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor options. A few parking options: street, parking lots and parking garage. read more

True Food Kitchen - Ancient grains bowl, add organic tofu - Vegetarian Near Me - Pasadena, California

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TDLR: A brunch spot that has something for everyone. Expect food that feels fresh, healthy, and would definitely not break the bank. Garden Pesto Pizza: It's one of those items that are what they say they are. The pesto, cherry tomatoes, basil, and arugula offer a clean combination with the cheese. Zucchini although thin still provides the crunch outside of the crust. The crust was firm yet chewy and the portion was a healthy amount for the price. I hope they bring this back for their summer menu this year. Service: 0 complaints. We were pretty much taken care of from start to finish. We were always asked if we needed anything even before we actually needed something. Ambiance: The restaurant is beautiful, clean, and gives a very welcoming vibe. read more

True Food Kitchen - Garden Pesto Pizza - Vegetarian Near Me - Pasadena, California

This restaurant is known for using whole/real food and sustainable ingredients without compromising taste. The dishes that i tried are all yummy with interesting combinations. - Lasagna bolognese - meat sauce on top of lasagna and spinach layers. -Seasonal harvest salad: roasted organic butternut squash, cauliflower, sweet potato, brussels sprouts, cannellini bean, pomegranate, mulberry - Roasted butternut squash pizza - organic butternut squash, kale and cranberry! I can't wait to try their spring menu which should come out in couple weeks according to our server. Any dish on the menu with an avocado denotes seasonal. Service is friendly and attentive. This restaurant has both outdoor and indoor seatings. Ambiance is colorful and can be lively. It is located in old town Pasadena and there are multiple parking structures close by. read more

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Wonderful experience we had in Pasadena Whatever we ordered was so delicious Didn't have any digestive issues after all the great food we had. Our waiter was such a nice person. Everything was clean and spotless. For sure would go back read more

We got the hummus, the vegan pizza (the mushroom one), and the turkey burger (juicy and yum). Everything was tasty and not overly salty. The service was decent, and the vibe was nice. Will be coming back! read more

True Food Kitchen - Vegan Spinach & Mushroom Pizza (Veg), Herb Hummus (Veg), turkey burger - Vegetarian Near Me - Pasadena, California

5 stars for the grain bowl and 5 stars for Camden!!! He was a very knowledgeable, attentive, and fun server. I'll be back soon!!!!!

I got the teriyaki quinoa bowl. At first, it was really good. But the more you ate it, the more it left a funky taste in your mouth. They were very busy. And there is really not very many parking options. I do not think I would recommend this place. I like that they are trying to do something and offer a better food options. But I wouldn't go back here. read more

The staff was very pleasant and accommodating. We were sat inside but we wanted to change to outside seating which was easily changed for us. Throughout the whole night our waiter was so sweet and personable. Loved the night vibe especially if you sit outside it's so beautiful. Now the food was on another level. My friend got a noodle bowl and I got a grain bowl. Once we tasted our meals we were saying wow out loud because it truly was very tasty. I cannot wait to go back and try more drinks and food. Definitely will be going back very soon! read more

True Food Kitchen - Peach mojito - Vegetarian Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Terrible experience. Had a reservation but still waited 25 minutes to get seated, but could see lots of tables available, seemed like a short staffing issue on a Saturday at noon. While waiting we watched the bartender mess up on a drink but serve it anyway. After getting a table, the shortage of waiters was even more apparent as well as how overwhelmed the hostesses were. Hostess didn't give us menus, said she'd give us high chairs for kids, but never did. Waitress came to our table out of breath and apologizing since she just got into work. Food arrived and it was the worst food ever. Chicken was super stringy and dry, breakfast taco portion was so tiny, matcha latte tasted like water. The drinks also took forever to arrive. It arrived when we were almost done with our food. Service was extremely slow with all tables. read more

Mediocre. The food was decent. Nothing spectacular but you can taste that is iwhole ingredients. Place was big and pretty. We ordered a hangover cure beverage with pineapple, sea moss, etc. For $14... all watered down. The service was good. I am bummed I did not capture any photos. read more

This place is outstanding in all aspects. Parking was relatively easy with valet in the back. The ambiance is beautiful, especially in the evenings, with plenty of seating all around. The service was the best - our waitress was really on top of things and answered any questions we had. And, of course, the food was just amazing, feel-good food. I can't wait to take my loved ones here! What we tried: - Charred Cauliflower - Hummus with ancient grain pita bread - Roasted brussel sprouts - Ancient grain bowl - Wild-caught tuna poke bowl - Chicken Parmesan w/spaghetti squash - Chai cake w/ice cream - Flourless chocolate cake - Peach mojito - Smoke show old fashioned - Moscow mule And everything was good. Try it all. And I was told they have seasonal menu changes so there's always a reason to come back ;). read more

Just fell in love with this place. It's light and spacious and the food was just out of this world. We were there during their happy hour and they had great specials. The service was great. We had the Butternut Squash pizza and the crusty cauliflower, and both were terrific. Will definitely go back any time I'm in the area. read more

Absolutely Amazing food, hostess and ambiance. The host was kind and asked if it was our first time; we of course said yes and he walked us through the menu. We ordered the margarita pizza and drinks and cute set up of bruschetta. The drinks were tasty and had their unique twist and the food mouth watering goodness! read more

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This was, hands down, one of the worst service experiences I've ever had. From the moment we sat down, the server -- a tall white man who never bothered to introduce himself -- gave off the impression that he'd rather be anywhere else. He barely spoke to us, didn't check in, and made the whole table uncomfortable with his attitude. Things went from bad to embarrassing when it came time to pay. One of my friends, who's struggling financially, chose not to tip because the service truly wasn't there. Instead of handling it professionally, the server openly shamed her and then tried to pressure the rest of us into tipping anyway. Watching a friend who's already going through a divorce and scraping by get publicly singled out over money was beyond unacceptable. This wasn't just "bad service" -- it was disrespectful, tone-deaf, and completely avoidable. Based on our experience, I wouldn't recommend this place to anyone. read more

Visited True Food Kitchen this past weekend and we loved our experience there. We parked in the parking structure behind Miniso. When we arrived at the restaurant, we noticed that their seating area is very large; they offer both indoor and patio seating. We liked the great variety of dishes they offer for everybody, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten free and meat dishes. We ordered the herb hummus and the mushroom spinach pizza. We loved that the herb hummus was very flavorful with olives, onions, cucumbers and cherry tomatoes; it's perfect appetizer for the summer time. The mushroom spinach pizza came with generous amounts of mushrooms, spinach, caramelized onions and dollops of their delicious ricotta cheese (plant based). Overall our experience at True food Kitchen was amazing, can't wait to come back and try their other dishes. read more

True Food Kitchen - Spinach & Mushroom Pizza (Veg) - Vegetarian Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Third time coming in and they remain consistent ! Right now it's my go to pizza place especially during happy hour! Bartenders are always happy to chat and answer any questions. read more

This place was so wonderful. The staff are so kind and knowledgeable. Easter was our server and she was THE best. It is so difficult to find clean food while dining out these days and you can tell this restaurant cares about where they source each item as well as prepare it. Most places that do for this description have a limited menu, but True Food's menu items are vast, unique, (also fun and seasonal!), and so tasty. We went here last night and are going back again tonight to try more things. read more

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Went here for Easter Brunch with my husband and son today. Everything was absolutely delicious. We had the Rancher's Hash, Blueberry pancakes, and 2 lettuce wrapped grass fed hamburgers. I also had an americano which was absolutely delicious. It was quite busy, but Gerald, our server didn't have us wait too long for our food. We sat inside on the west side of the restaurant and it is really nicely decorated. read more

True Food Kitchen - Today's Receipt - Vegetarian Near Me - Pasadena, California

No. I've been there a few times at the behest of my fellow diners. The food has always been so-so. But the last time i met friends there for dinner (11/19/25) the service warranted a negative five stars. Receipt identifies our server as Angela. She took our order and then left us to fend for ourselves. I will absolutely never return and suggest you walk on. So many more suitable eateries in Old Town. read more

The outdoor patio seating is a vibe. I've been to this location once before & had a good experience. Kevin, who was our sever this time, was exceptional. He was so patient with all our questions & special requests. He checked in on us a decent amount without overdoing it. He definitely made our dining experience! The food was great! I'd maybe go with a protein style burger vs choosing the GF bun next time. And the flourless chocolate cake with vegan vanilla ice cream was superb. read more

Love when I get the chance to come here. The food is always fresh, nourishing, and delicious. Big fan of their seasonal specials. The wait staff are always so sweet and accommodation too. My family and I were served by Elisa last time and she was so helpful and patient with us. Made the experience and food all the better for it! read more

I've been to True Foods quite a few times with friends and I've always enjoyed the food and service. I've even taken friends here as a recommendation when they visit the area. I thought it'd be just as nice to go and enjoy by myself but I was left disappointed. I sat and waited for a while for a server to come over but saw them serve parties of 2 that came in after me. I kept scanning to see if I could get a server to notice me and come over and no one did. When the serve finally came, she did not have a friendly demeanor and only asked me "are you ready". A different server brought me my food and he just quickly placed it in front of me and dashed away. No one really checked in on me until close to the end of my meal. I observed the server be attentive and nice to parties of two while two others sitting alone to eat were also neglected. Not sure if the service has gone downhill since the couple of times I've come with others, if it was the area I was seated in, or if they're neglecting people who come to eat alone due to reasons like tips. The difference in service when I came with others versus eating alone was quite apparent. I've eaten at other establishments alone before where service is very kind but this is by far the worst service I've gotten in a restaurant eating alone. The food here is always good but this experience has made me not want to come back. True Foods was on an itinerary for a friend who is visiting soon but it will now be taken off. read more

I do not recommend True Food Kitchen for takeout. While the ambiance on the patio looked lovely and workers were friendly, the takeout window was slow and took ages beyond my quoted pickup time. Further, I was shocked by the portion sizes and quality of the food for the steep prices - I would compare my salad most closely to a Panera salad as to quality and taste. There was a pinch of farro in my salad (you would have to work to put such a small amount onto a serving spoon, it was like 10 individual grains of farro) when it was depicted in images as a core component of the dish. I will not be back for takeout again, but may enjoy some hummus and wine on the patio if I have the opportunity for a happy hour in the area. read more

We usually come to True Food Kitchen for the edamame dumplings, which is always a favorite. This time we tried the new air fried items, ordering the French fries and the air crisp salad, which the staff kindly split for us. The Hangover RX juice was delicious, while the hibiscus iced tea did not really feel like an iced tea and was forgotten until we had to remind them halfway through the meal. The fries were disappointing, stale and without any dipping sauce, which seemed odd. We also waited about 15 minutes for a table even though the restaurant was empty. The service overall was not great. The edamame dumplings were still enjoyable, but the rest of the experience fell short. read more

I said it in Chicago and now I'll say it in Pasadena, I'll keep coming back for their seasonal vegan pizza options made with sourdough. Their chili paste, although not made in house, I a must to top any dish. If you don't want a pizza (serves 1 hungry person or two not so hungry), try their ancient grain bowl with tofu, delicious and fresh. The guacamole and cauliflower wouldn't be something I order again but they were good. Hadn't had dates with cauliflower so that was a nice touch. The vibe always feels fresh and nicer than normal restaurants for a cool gather, date night or simply a nice dinner. This particular location of my favorite of three I've gone to. It feels fresh and spacious. Offering indoor and outdoor seating in Old Town Pasadena. Service is great, sometimes slower than other times but it gives you time to enjoy more drinks. Drinks are great! I suggest the spicy margaritas. They do have a happy hour but only one vegan option on that menu. Happy Munchies, aVeganAndHer read more

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Server was nice, but the food was not good. The Ranchero Hash was not a hash. It was more like a beef stew with sweet potatoes and egg on top. The beef was way over cooked, the potatoes took over most of the flavor and there were large chunks of onion which was not pleasant. They also took a long time to get our drinks out and I never got my latte, which so be it. I wanted to like this place because I have heard good things, but no the food was very underwhelming. The server was attentive and friendly, so I do appreciate him. That all being said, won't go back. read more

Service was quick. Got food in timely manner. It was quiet and peaceful inside The food was great

True Food Kitchen is when healthy meets tasty. Every dish was delicious and it's evident that the ingredients are only from the freshest sources. The trio appetizer was our favorite, we actually ordered it twice in the same meal. It's a combo of savory with the salmon, spicy with the hummus/beets and sweet with the berries. Unexpected flavors that paired perfectly. Salmon dish was yummy. Brussel sprouts was the best part. Chopped salad was light and chicken was cooked perfectly. Pesto pasta was awesome. Particularly loved the artichoke. Peach lemonade was refreshing. Overall, dinner was a wonderful experience. On the pricey side considering the portion, but nice to splurge for a quality meal. read more

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