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ZipPicks Awards
Best Sandwiches in Pasadena
Best American in Pasadena
Master Critic Review
Urban Plates
8.0
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
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Sustainable scratch-made plates with grass-fed and cage-free proteins
Who should go: Health-conscious diners, families, corporate lunch groups
When to visit: Lunch and dinner daily, less crowded mid-afternoon
What to order: Chimichurri Steak, Turkey Club, Braised Beef & Mushrooms
Insider tip: Portions are generous enough to share sides among the table
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shopping center lot with ample free parking, rarely an issue even during peak hours
Dress code: Casual comfortable - athleisure, jeans, and workout clothes all common
Noise level: Moderate cafeteria buzz - fine for conversation but not intimate
Weekend wait: 15-20 min line during peak 6-7pm, moves quickly
Weekday lunch: 10-15 min wait noon-1pm, minimal wait outside that window
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple meatless plates plus build-your-own salad options
Vegan options: Moderate - several grain bowls and salads without dairy, staff can modify
Gluten-free options: Yes - most proteins and vegetables naturally GF, ask about preparation
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal - cafeteria-style ordering and casual atmosphere lack romance, but works for low-pressure daytime coffee dates
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed - it's counter-order, find-your-own-table service, though peak lunch hours fill up fast
Is it kid-friendly? Very - kids menu available, relaxed atmosphere where noise isn't an issue, healthy options parents appreciate
How long does a meal take? 30-40 minutes total - order in 10-15 min, food delivered to table in 10-15 min, efficient for time-crunched lunches
Can I work here on my laptop? Acceptable during slow hours but not encouraged during peak - limited outlets, designed for dining not lingering
Best For
Better for: Quality fast-casual when you want real ingredients and generous portions without table service premium - beats Panera/Sweetgreen on protein quality and value
Skip if: You want atmosphere for special occasions, romantic ambiance, or craft cocktails - this is functional dining not an experience
Hours
Monday11am - 9:15pm
Tuesday11am - 9:15pm
Wednesday11am - 9:15pm
Thursday11am - 9:15pm
Friday11am - 9:45pm
Saturday11am - 9:45pm
Sunday11am - 9:15pm