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ZipPicks Awards
Best Outdoor Dining Italian in Pasadena
Best Family Friendly Italian in Pasadena
Best Date Night Italian in Pasadena
Best Italian in Pasadena
Master Critic Review
Celestino Ristorante & Bar
8.6
Over 20 years of Drago Brothers excellence delivers seasonal Italian cuisine on a picturesque garden patio. The award-winning wine list and fresh seafood specialties make this a destination for special occasions and business dinners alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
Florentine T-Bone Steak, Black and White Ravioli, Branzino al Sale
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: Drago Brothers' authentic regional specialties
Who should go: Anniversary couples and business entertainers
When to visit: Weeknight for quieter patio experience
What to order: Branzino, burrata, duck ravioli with blueberries
Insider tip: Free parking lot behind restaurant off Hudson Street
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot behind restaurant off Hudson Street, valet $15 on weekends, street parking limited during peak hours
Dress code: Business casual to elegant, avoid athletic wear - think date night polished
Noise level: Moderate - garden patio allows conversation, inside can get lively during peak times
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, book 2 weeks ahead for prime times
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, 10-15 min during business lunch rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple pasta and appetizer options, chef accommodates requests
Vegan options: Limited - can modify pasta dishes, best to call ahead
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free pasta available, knowledgeable staff about preparations
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - romantic garden patio creates intimate atmosphere without being too formal, wine list helps conversation flow, and $$$$ pricing shows effort without breaking the bank
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknights possible with 30-45 min wait at the bar, weekends nearly impossible for patio seating - inside tables sometimes available after 8:30pm
Is it kid-friendly? Better for ages 10+ who appreciate real food - no kids menu but kitchen will do simple pasta, atmosphere leans adult especially at dinner
Best For
Better for: Authentic regional Italian with garden ambiance that beats indoor-only competitors, superior wine program and seafood expertise compared to typical red sauce joints
Skip if: Want trendy modern Italian or need quick casual meal - this is traditional fine dining pace, not ideal for dietary restrictions beyond vegetarian
Hours
Monday11:30am - 9pm
Tuesday11:30am - 9pm
Wednesday11:30am - 9pm
Thursday11:30am - 9pm
Friday11:30am - 10pm
Saturday4:30pm - 10pm
Sunday4:30pm - 9pm