Neatly tucked away in a quiet corner of Old Pasadena is Bistro 45, offering the ideal combination of traditional, contemporary and warm service with a smile. A refined crowd buzzes over starters of foie gras and tuna tartare as they peruse the highly touted wine list, which makes regular appearances on Wine Spectator’s best-of lists. From poached Petrale sole to pan-roasted pork chop, main courses garner inspiration from across the globe, paying particular homage to France, the Pacific Rim and California’s own wealth of fresh ingredients. Little touches of class – helpful servers, a pleasant but vibrant atmosphere, and the value of free valet parking – are what keep diners coming back to this special spot time and again. Full bar. Serving lunch Tue–Fri, dinner Tue–Sun. Closed Mon.
Where The Locals Eat rating
Top 100 Restaurant, Los Angeles
"A boisterous crowd of appreciative fine diners lingers inside this art deco hideaway where wine and conversation often float freely from table to table. The food keeps everyone happy ... and the staff is warm and efficient."
—Los Angeles magazine
"Ever-present owner Robert Simon does a fine job of warmly welcoming guests, keeping service standards high and maintaining one of Southern California's best wine lists (the restaurant is well known for its elaborate winemaker dinners)."
—Gayot
"Bistro 45 offers a dining experience that combines classic tradition and contemporary flair. ... Hands-on owner Robert Simon, a protégé of Alice Waters, consistently conceives inventive seasonal menus combining traditional bistro dishes, California-French specialties and Pacific Rim-inspired items."
—Los Angeles Times
"Need a foie gras fix? Bistro 45 will fit the bill with stellar goose liver, escargots, and bouillabaisse in an intimate Art Deco setting."
—Travel + Leisure
How others rate Bistro 45
Zagat 2008
26 Food Rating (Extraordinary to Perfection)
Frommer’s
** (Very Highly Recommended)
Mobil Travel Guide
*** (Excellent Food, Attentive and Skillful Service, Enjoyable Décor)
Wine Spectator
Best of Award of Excellence, 2007
Award of Excellence, 1992-2006