Seemor
Nick's PasadenaAMust Try
336 S Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101
· American restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (1551 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Polished American bistro with standout service, crowd-pleasing comfort dishes, and lively ambiance; reservations recommended due to frequent waits.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
Nick's Pasadena stands among the region's finest dining establishments through exceptional food quality anchored by signature dishes like butter cake and cioppino, paired with outstanding service attentiveness that elevates celebrations and everyday visits alike. The thoughtfully designed two-level space with open-kitchen views creates an inviting atmosphere, while reliable execution across repeat visits reinforces its reputation as a trusted destination for both locals and guests.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with a two-level dining space, glass-walled kitchen, and a front entry wrapped in greenery. Service is often described as attentive and gracious, from birthday desserts to seamless pacing. One diner summed it up: "We were moved to a quieter table and the whole night felt easy." Reservations help dodge long waits. Cooking leans elevated comfort: steaks cooked correctly, a rich butter cake many rave about, and seafood dishes like cioppino and Chilean sea bass. It is classic American bistro fare with polish rather than flash; a few modern touches (poke tacos, tartare) keep things lively. Portions satisfy without excess, and pricing lands just under high-end steakhouses for a strong quality-to-cost balance. For families, the menu is friendly: burgers, pizzas, fried chicken, and a kids ribs plate were mentioned. That said, the room can be lively and bar-adjacent seating gets noisy, so request a quieter upstairs spot if you have little ones. Allergy handling exists but has mixed reviews—communicate needs clearly and confirm with staff.
At a Glance
- Attentive, polished service that shines during celebrations
- Elevated American comfort dishes with consistent execution
- Attractive two-level space with open-kitchen views
- Long waits without reservations and stricter grace period enforcement
- Seating near kitchen/bar can be noisy; card split limited to three
What Sets It Apart
- open_kitchen_glass_view
- two_level_seating_with_quieter_upstairs
- celebration_friendly_service
What People Love
- Feeling looked after without being rushed
- Steaks cooked as ordered
- Shareable desserts that wow
- Lively, attractive room that feels special
Points of Concern
- Peak-hour waits of 45–90 minutes without bookings; strict reservation grace windows reported
- Seating near kitchen or bar can be loud; ask for upstairs if you want quieter
- Occasional misses: soggy fried chicken, overly sweet onions, or cold plates on off nights
- Allergy handling mixed with one adverse reaction noted; confirm ingredients carefully
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$45-$62 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Value combo: Asparagus Fries ($12) + Prime Rib Dip ($22) + shared Butter Cake
- Seafood night: Tuna Tartare ($13) + Cioppino ($33)
- Lighter pick: California Salad ($15) + Blackened Fish Sandwich ($22)
Perfect For
- Date night where service matters
- Birthday dinners and celebrations
- Business lunches on South Lake
- Families wanting elevated comfort food
Location Insights
Area: Upmarket shopping and dining corridor attracting professionals, families, and date-night crowds.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, with steady foot traffic; occasional parking frustrations reported.
Nearby: Near boutiques, offices, and cafes on South Lake; two-floor dining room noted by reviewers.
Downtown PasadenaDowntown Pasadena is a bustling urban center with a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. It features a diverse dining scene ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, attracting a varied crowd including families, professionals, and visitors. The area is known for its walkability, cultural venues, and lively atmosphere.
Lake Avenue CorridorThe Lake Avenue Corridor is a popular stretch within Downtown Pasadena known for its concentration of restaurants, cafes, and retail shops. It serves as a convenient and accessible dining destination with a mix of casual and upscale options, frequented by both locals and visitors.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–22:00
Tuesday11:00–22:00
Wednesday11:00–22:00
Thursday11:00–22:00
Friday11:00–22:00
Saturday11:00–22:00
Sunday11:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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