Best Date Spots in Pasadena in Los Angeles

Set in a historic Craftsman-style building on Fair Oaks, The Raymond 1886 brings a little old Hollywood charm to date night. Once a hotel that hosted guests like Charlie Chaplin in the 1920s, it's now home to a restaurant and Bar 1886, where creative cocktails, an intimate patio and a speakeasy-inspired atmosphere make it easy to settle in for the evening.

Arroyo Chop House is a classic choice for a romantic dinner in Pasadena, with an elegant atmosphere that feels right for a special occasion. The menu features steaks, seafood and cocktails, making it a great spot to dress up a little and enjoy a proper date night.

Dos Besos is a Spanish restaurant in Pasadena that fits a date night or a special occasion. The menu includes sangria, seafood paella, pan con tomate and albondigas, which gives the two of you plenty to share.

Soft piano drifts through The Cellar, a wine bar tucked underground in Old Pasadena. It feels like a speakeasy crossed with a cozy library. Settle into the intimate room with a glass of wine, a charcuterie board and a long conversation.

It is open Thursday through Sunday evenings only, so plan your date for one of those nights.

In Old Pasadena, a small cottage houses Entre Nous French Bistro, a cozy spot for French food. The intimate room is lined with art, and the outdoor patio suits warm California evenings. The menu includes escargot, salmon tartar, filet mignon and French onion soup. The bistro is run by Mathias Wakrat and Jean-Christophe Febbrari, who are from the French Riviera.

Pez Coastal Kitchen brings California’s coastal flavors to Old Pasadena, with a seasonal menu featuring fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Share a seafood tower for two over a romantic dinner, or stop by for a more spontaneous date night when you haven't made a reservation.

Houston’s is a Pasadena favorite for a classic dinner date, with a cozy atmosphere and a menu that offers something for every craving, from sushi appetizers to its popular French dip. It's a good choice for an evening out together, but be sure to book ahead since reservations are recommended.

Arlington Garden is a peaceful spot for a laid-back daytime date in Pasadena, with lush greenery and winding paths perfect for a stroll and some good conversation. Bring a blanket, pick up your favorite takeout and find a shady spot for a picnic. The garden is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM, and leashed dogs are welcome if you want to make it a double date with your pup.

Norton Simon Museum is a museum of paintings and sculpture on the western edge of Old Pasadena. The collection includes Rodin, Van Gogh, Degas, Picasso, Renoir and Monet. Many of Pasadena's museums and other cultural institutions are close enough to walk between, so you can follow the art with a walk.

Once dinner is done, walk Old Pasadena along Colorado Boulevard, where dessert, coffee, live music and window shopping are all within reach. Pick dessert or a coffee, then keep wandering toward live music or the shop windows. The Norton Simon Museum is on the western edge of the neighborhood if you want to add some art to the night.