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ZipPicks Awards
Best Business Lunch Steakhouse in Pasadena
Best Date Night Steakhouse in Pasadena
Best Steakhouse in Pasadena
Master Critic Review
Alexander's Steakhouse
9.2
Celebrating 20 years of Wagyu mastery, this sophisticated steakhouse blends American traditions with Japanese precision, offering the nation's most extensive selection of authentic Wagyu beef. The Bull & Barrel Bar provides an intimate setting for business discussions over rare whiskeys and handcrafted cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
A5 Wagyu Ribeye, Hamachi Shot, Uni Toast
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 9
Consistency: 9.3
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 9.4
What makes it special: Largest selection of imported Wagyu in California
Who should go: Discerning executives with international clients
When to visit: Early dinner seating for quieter business conversations
What to order: Wagyu flight, hamachi shot, signature bread service
Insider tip: Underground parking free for first 90 minutes with validation
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Underground garage free for 90 minutes with validation, valet $15 during dinner, street parking scarce after 5pm weekdays
Dress code: Business formal strongly preferred - jackets recommended for men, no athletic wear or shorts
Noise level: Moderate to quiet - designed for business conversations with acoustic treatments
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, bar seating sometimes available
Weekday lunch: 15-20 min peak hours (12-1pm), walk-in friendly before noon
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 4-5 refined options including truffle mac and cheese, seasonal risotto
Vegan options: Very limited - advance notice recommended for chef accommodation
Gluten-free options: Yes - all steaks naturally GF, modified sides available, dedicated prep protocols
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for established relationships - the $200+ per person price point and formal atmosphere can create pressure. Consider their bar for cocktails first to gauge chemistry
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely for dinner, but Bull & Barrel Bar accepts walk-ins with full menu access. Weekday lunch before noon or after 1:30pm offers best walk-in chances
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for children under 12 - no kids menu, formal atmosphere expects quiet behavior. Better suited for special occasions with mature teens
Best For
Better for: Authentic Japanese Wagyu selection surpasses Mastro's and Ruth's Chris, hamachi preparations rival dedicated sushi bars, business privacy better than trendy spots
Skip if: Want casual atmosphere (try Gus's BBQ), on tight budget (consider Houston's), need extensive vegetarian menu (Gracias Madre better), or bringing young children
Hours
Monday5pm - 9pm
Tuesday5pm - 9pm
Wednesday5pm - 9pm
Thursday5pm - 9pm
Friday5pm - 10pm
Saturday5pm - 10pm
Sunday5pm - 9pm