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Best Trendy American in Pasadena Best BBQ Ribs in Pasadena

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Smitty's Grill 8.0
Pasadena
Since 2002, this beloved neighborhood spot serves elevated American comfort fare with Wine Spectator-awarded selections. Iron skillet cornbread and homemade chicken pot pie embody the cozy booth atmosphere locals cherish.
Must-Try Dishes: Chicken Pot Pie, BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Iron Skillet Cornbread
Scores:
Value: 8.3 Service: 8.1 Consistency: 8.4 Food Quality: 8.2 Atmosphere: 7.9 Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Wine Spectator Award winner with 20+ year legacy
Who should go: Families and comfort food enthusiasts
When to visit: Early dinner to avoid wait times
What to order: Pot pie, cornbread, grilled artichoke
Insider tip: Valet parking available for $8
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $8, self-parking in adjacent structure, street parking fills up after 5:30pm
Dress code: Casual comfortable, anything from nice jeans to business casual works
Noise level: Moderate buzz - lively but conversation-friendly
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, call-ahead seating available
Weekday lunch: No wait before 12:30pm, 10-15 min during rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several pasta, salad, and veggie-forward options
Vegan options: Limited - can modify salads and sides, ask server
Gluten-free options: Yes - marked menu items, GF buns available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - cozy booths offer privacy, wine list impresses without intimidating, and comfort food creates relaxed atmosphere. Not too loud, not too quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch usually fine, dinner gets busy after 6pm. Bar seating often available for walk-ins. Weekend reservations strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Very - kids menu, crayons provided, high chairs available. Family-heavy before 7pm. Staff accommodating with special requests.
Best For
Better for: Wine selection beats most casual spots, cornbread is destination-worthy, more polished service than typical American comfort restaurants
Skip if: You want cutting-edge cuisine, need late-night dining (closes 9pm), or prefer modern minimalist ambiance over traditional comfort

Hours

Monday5pm - 9pm
Tuesday5pm - 9pm
Wednesday5pm - 9pm
Thursday5pm - 9pm
Friday5pm - 10pm
Saturday5pm - 10pm
Sunday5pm - 9pm