Best Business Lunch Power Players American Restaurants in Pasadena
4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Nick's South Lake Avenue
Exhibition kitchen and impeccable hospitality standards
Notable Picks
8.4
Upscale-casual American bistro delivering refined comfort classics with exhibition kitchen flair. The warm butter cake achieves legendary status while Chilean sea bass and prime steaks showcase culinary expertise.
Must-Try Dishes:
Warm Butter Cake, Chilean Sea Bass, Prime Rib Dip
What Makes it Special: Exhibition kitchen and impeccable hospitality standards
#2
Urbane Cafe
8.1
Founded in 2003, owner Tom Holt built this cafe around a hearth oven that bakes focaccia dough fresh constantly throughout the day. The scratch kitchen creates gourmet sandwiches and farm-fresh salads with refined local ingredients in a warm yet vibrant counter-service atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
UC Chicken Banh Mi, Chimichurri Steak Sandwich, Cilantro Chicken Salad
What Makes it Special: Scratch-made focaccia baked fresh all day in open-hearth ovens
8
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
What Makes it Special: Wine Spectator Award winner with 20+ year legacy
#4
Urban Plates
8
Chef-driven fast-casual restaurant serving scratch-made plates, sandwiches, and salads with sustainably sourced ingredients including grass-fed steak and cage-free chicken. The cafeteria-style service model features real plates and server delivery to tables despite counter ordering.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grilled Steak Sandwich, Turkey Avocado Club, Chimichurri Steak Plate
What Makes it Special: Sustainable scratch-made plates with grass-fed and cage-free proteins