Seemor
Mercado PasadenaB+Worth Trying
140 S Lake Ave #101, Pasadena, CA 91101
· Mexican restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (735 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Modern Mexican with standout cocktails and a strong happy hour; tasty mains and tacos, but pricing and occasional service inconsistencies divide opinions.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Mercado Pasadena delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by reliable tacos, ceviches, and guacamole, paired with warm, attentive service. However, inconsistent execution—uneven seasoning, occasional odor issues, and variable service during peak hours—prevents grade A territory. The attractive South Lake patio and cocktail program make it worth a visit, but it falls short of the area's premier dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
Mercado Pasadena brings a polished South Lake energy with a cocktail-first vibe and a heated patio that regulars love. Servers often feel warm and attentive, and guests call out guacamole, ceviches, and filet tacos as easy wins. One diner summed it up: "The room looks great, but we sat outside when the inside smelled like cleaner." Expect a lively scene and busy peak hours with the occasional wait. The cooking leans modern Mexican with creative touches rather than strict traditionalism. Think jicama shrimp tacos, tuna ceviche with morita-soy, octopus al pastor, and a rich chicken mole. Happy hour is a standout for value, while the regular menu reads premium for the category. Most plates deliver bright, layered flavors, though a few guests found seasoning too spicy or salty at times. Families can make this work thanks to familiar options like tacos, burritos, and a burger, but watch spice levels. There is no explicit kids menu noted, and portions are not oversized. Patio seating helps with stroller space, and happy hour snacks can be a safer bet for younger palates.
At a Glance
- Lively modern Mexican with standout cocktails and happy hour
- Strong tacos, ceviches, and reliable guacamole with warm chips
- Pricing feels high with a 3% surcharge and paid extras
- Chemical odor reported inside at times; sit on patio when possible
- Service can swing from exemplary to rushed depending on staff and crowd
What Sets It Apart
- strong_happy_hour
- creative_taco_program
- cocktail_focus
What People Love
- Craveable filet and fish tacos
- Vibrant ceviche negro as a table starter
- Warm, anticipatory service from standout servers
- Heated patio that softens the lively vibe
- Watermelon-basil and mezcal margaritas
Points of Concern
- Pricing and surcharge add up; extras like sauces and pico are charged
- Occasional chemical smell inside; several guests choose patio to avoid it
- Service inconsistency: some stellar, some rushed or error-prone
- Parking fees nearby with limited validation; plan ahead
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$45-66 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a shareable start: Guacamole ($16) plus Ceviche Negro ($25)
- Pair Tacos de Filete ($22) with a mezcal margarita; add ajillo shrimp to steak for surf-and-turf feel
- For veg diners: Coliflor al Pastor tacos ($22) or Calabacitas ($10)
Perfect For
- Cocktail-forward date night on South Lake
- Happy hour grazing with friends
- Pre- or post-Huntington Museum bites
- Small group dinners with reservations
Location Insights
Area: Upscale shopping and dining corridor attracting professionals, shoppers, and date-night crowds.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked, and well-lit with steady evening foot traffic.
Nearby: Near boutiques, offices, and parking structures; multiple competing restaurants and bars on South Lake.
Old PasadenaOld Pasadena is a lively and historic district featuring a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment venues. It attracts a diverse crowd looking for trendy restaurants, bars, and boutique shopping in a walkable urban environment.
Lake Avenue CorridorThe Lake Avenue Corridor is known for its concentration of restaurants, cafes, and nightlife spots, offering a modern and vibrant dining scene with a focus on quality and innovation.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–21:00
Tuesday11:30–21:30
Wednesday11:30–21:30
Thursday11:30–21:30
Friday11:30–22:00
Saturday11:30–22:00
Sunday11:30–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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