Best Brunch Bliss Spots Mexican Restaurants in Pasadena
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Mercado - Pasadena
Chef Jose Acevedo's signature carnitas recipe passed down through generations, with hand-made tortillas and hand-squeezed cocktail juices
Notable Picks
8
Chef Jose Acevedo brings Wolfgang Puck training to elevated Mexican fare, with a mole that skews sweet and tableside guacamole that regulars swear by. The happy hour crowd packs the patio for carnitas nachos and margaritas at reasonable prices—skip it at dinner if you're watching the bill. Works well for groups who want a polished Lake Avenue spot with strong drink service and manageable noise.
Must-Try Dishes:
Guacamole, Chef Jose's Flan, Enchiladas de Pollo en Mole Oaxaqueño
What Makes it Special: Chef Jose Acevedo's signature carnitas recipe passed down through generations, with hand-made tortillas and hand-squeezed cocktail juices
#2
HomeState
8
Austin-transplant Tex-Mex built on house-made flour tortillas that won KCRW's Best Tortilla in Southern California tournament and 12-hour slow-smoked brisket—the breakfast tacos and loaded queso are the core draw. The counter-service format and colorful patio with string lights keep it family-friendly and low-key, though weekend brunch gets loud and the small parking lot fills fast. Taco prices run higher than street-level spots for portions that don't always match, but the tortilla quality and brisket technique justify the trade-off for most regulars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Breakfast Tacos, Brisket Tacos, Frito Pie
What Makes it Special: Austin-style Texas comfort food built around flour tortillas made from scratch and slow-smoked brisket, transplanted to Pasadena
Worthy Picks
7.5
Opened in 2000 as an offshoot of El Portal, this Playhouse District cafe blends Mexican breakfast traditions with Nuevo Latino lunch fare. Owner Armando Ramirez named it after his daughter, creating a colorful space known for creative morning dishes and live weekend guitar music.
Must-Try Dishes:
Huevos Yucatan, Lomito Scramble, Pasilla Rellenos
What Makes it Special: Creative Mexican breakfast fusion dishes