Central Park

Set back from the frenzy of Old Town, Central Park pleases as a neighborhood grill with a rare view of, yes, Pasadena’s oft overlooked Central Park. Housed in a 100-year-old former flower warehouse, the restaurant has preserved the exposed brick walls, tinted concrete floors, and greenhouse-like enclosed patio. A mural of New York City’s skyline, tipping its hat to the Big Apple’s Central Park, and black and white photos of random celebrities (John Belushi is hung next to Lady Di) adorn the walls. This classy yet populist approach translates to the American menu as well. Signature entrees include the braised boneless short ribs, shrimp scampi, flat iron steak, and penne a la vodka. Weekend brunch draws scores of regulars with dishes like the breakfast burrito and Eggs Sardu—a remix of Eggs Benedict with fresh spinach and artichoke hearts served on a croissant. If the latter sounds familiar, it’s because the same dish is available at Wild Thyme, the South Pasadena café from the same owners, who also count Shakers, Beckham Grill, and Diner on Main among their mini-empire.

TIPS: The restaurant has its own small, free parking lot, and if you dine on the late side, you can leave your car there and walk into Old Town.