Seemor
Cafe Santorini
64 W Union St, Pasadena, CA 91103
· Mediterranean restaurant, Brunch restaurant, Cafe
· 4.4/5 Google (1117 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Scenic Old Pasadena rooftop spot for Mediterranean plates and strong service; good food with some inconsistency and premium pricing on certain items.
Restaurant Summary
Perched above Union Street, the balcony glows under string lights and the room feels warm and bustling. Hosts guide guests to that sought-after patio while servers keep water flowing. One diner summed it up: "The balcony is a gem and our server kept everything smooth." Expect a scene that reads date-night friendly yet casual enough for groups. The menu leans Mediterranean with Greek and Middle Eastern threads plus Italian pastas—more elevated tradition than showy fusion. Highlights include grilled octopus with clean, charred edges, a creamy red curry seafood risotto, and peppery steak frites sauce. There are occasional misses—over-salted branzino or steak doneness off—so regulars tend to steer toward house standbys and mezze. Families do fine here, especially outdoors. Kids can share chicken kebabs, pasta shapes, fries, or hummus and pita. Portions are generally sufficient, though a few pastas feel lighter since menu changes. No explicit kids menu noted, so plan to share mains or pair mezze for younger eaters.
At a Glance
- Rooftop balcony with charming Old Pasadena views
- Standout grilled octopus and reliable mezze
- Attentive service on many visits with strong regular base
- Inconsistent execution on branzino and steak doneness
- Premium pricing on certain items (bread charge, $65 sangria pitcher)
- Access via stairs/elevator can be challenging; ADA concerns noted
What Sets It Apart
- rooftop_balcony_patio
- broad_Mediterranean_menu
- strong_repeat_local_following
What People Love
- Romantic string-lit balcony vibe
- Octopus that wins over skeptics
- Peppercorn steak sauce that pops
- Servers who keep things humming
- Consistent neighborhood standby feel
Points of Concern
- Occasional long waits and seating policy rigidity frustrate some guests
- Food inconsistency: reports of burnt or over-salted branzino and misfired steak temps
- Pricing can surprise (bread fee, large-format drinks, 3% surcharge)
- Accessibility: upstairs location with elevator logistics; one review flags ADA limitations
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$55-78 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Seafood-forward diners: pair Grilled Octopus with Branzino or Cioppino Santorini
- Sharing approach: Santorini Mezze Tasting plus one kebab and a salad
- Value-conscious: Chicken Kebab with a shared salad and flourless chocolate cake
- Gluten-avoiders: focus on GF-flagged octopus, salmon, salads, and risotto
Perfect For
- Sunset patio date night
- Group celebrations on the balcony
- Mediterranean cravings with seafood focus
- Pre- or post-stroll Old Pasadena outings
Location Insights
Area: Historic Old Pasadena block with shopping, bars, and date-night traffic; lively evenings and weekends.
Safety: Well-trafficked commercial district with lighting and patrols; generally safe with typical urban caution.
Nearby: Surrounded by boutiques, bars, and other restaurants; multiple public parking garages nearby.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–21:00
Tuesday16:00–21:00
Wednesday16:00–21:00
Thursday16:00–21:00
Friday16:00–22:00
Saturday11:30–22:00
Sunday11:30–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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