Bistro 45

"We had an excellent experience at Bistro 45. There are so many restaurants to choose from in Pasadena, but bistro 45 has an upscale atmosphere that feels intimate. The food presentation and taste is more than satisfying, it's pleasantly surprising. Even better is the attentive and kind service experience, not just to our table, but witnessed throughout the restaurant. To get all of these elements in one dining experience is no longer easy to find. What's more, is that we are vegetarian and had plenty of easy choices, recommendations, and modifications if needed."

"First, I want to acknowledge that the food quality and our waiter’s service were good. However, we had a strange encounter with a staff member that made us all uncomfortable and ruined our overall experience. Our waiter was busy, so an individual, who we think may have been the manager, took our order. First we ordered a shared appetizer for the table. One of our party chose to order one of the five 14” pizzas that they offer on the menu as their entree. The manager’s response was an abrupt and rude “Really???” My Wife asked why he responded in such a negative way. He said - Occasionally, some guest order the pizza as their entree, but we are a very nice restaurant. Finally, he said in a very condescending tone - Well, if that is what he wants, that is what we will bring him - talking about the party who ordered the pizza in the third person. We were all taken aback by his delivery. Obviously, the goal was to drive up the check, not to please the customer. Our guest was made to feel totally shamed, belittled, and embarrassed by this individual because of his choice. We had to plead with him not to get up and leave the restaurant. We were there to celebrate a milestone family birthday, but this killed the vibe of the evening for all of us. We have lived in Pasadena for over 40 years and fortunately this city offers many wonderful and kinder restaurant options"

"Yes! Friends, if you want a truly elevated fine dining experience, this is the spot! The food is flavorful, elevated, unforgettable! The service had us feeling actually relaxed and cared for. The atmosphere is perfect with a live keyboard player soflty enhancing our mood. Besides all that, the price is VERY reasonable and put other pricier spots to shame! We both got steak, mine was seerved in a red wine reduction (YUM) and my sister's was in a bone broth reduction. The pesto Ceasars salad was TO. DIE. FOR. And the deserts and coffee were some of the best ever. All house made items at this place. And the bill was on $200 for started, two complete entre's and two deserts plus bottled water and lemonade! Needless to say after the exemplary service we tipped 25%. I highly recommend treating yourself to this luxurious dining experience."

"We had a dinner with about 10 friends. The meal, as always is the case at this gem of a place, was spectacular. Each dish was special. I could list them all but we tried essentially everything on the menu. Scallops were delicious. The lamb was a particular standout. I also loved the risotto. The mushrooms are awesome too. The service was gracious — attentive and prompt. They make you feel welcome. Save room for the lemon trio and apple tart. And even if you haven’t saved room, order them anyway. You will be happy that you did."