Seemor
The Blind Donkey
53 Union St, Pasadena, CA 91103
· Pub
· 4.5/5 Google (851 reviews)
Reservations
A dim, whiskey-forward Old Pasadena bar with strong cocktails, loud weekend energy, and solid, budget-friendly bar bites; great for drinks with friends, less ideal for quiet conversation.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked into Old Pasadena, The Blind Donkey feels dim and cozy with exposed brick and a whiskey-forward bar. Guests praise the bartenders as friendly and efficient, noting, "Cocktails were spot on and the room had that relaxing, lived-in feel." Weekend energy trends lively and sometimes loud. The cooking leans classic bar fare over flash: burgers, loaded fries, and Frito nachos fit the whiskey theme. It is comfort-first cooking rather than high-concept plates, which suits pre-dinner drinks, date nights, or a late nightcap. Expect fair prices for the area, with one-off premium pours or specialty old fashioneds landing higher. For families, the actual food is kid-accessible (fries, grilled cheese, burgers, corn dogs), though it is still a bar setting with dim lighting and louder nights. Early evenings or quieter weekdays are best if bringing kids.
At a Glance
- Strong whiskey and cocktail program with knowledgeable bartenders
- Solid value pub bites (burgers, loaded fries, nachos) at fair prices
- Lively atmosphere with trivia and karaoke nights
- Music and crowd noise can be loud on weekends
- Occasional door/ID check rudeness reported
What Sets It Apart
- deep_whiskey_selection
- lively_trivia_and_karaoke
- speakeasy_style_ambiance
What People Love
- Relaxed speakeasy-style vibe
- Expert whiskey guidance
- Crisp, balanced classic cocktails
- Comforting bar food that pairs with drinks
- Friendly, welcoming bartenders
Points of Concern
- Volume can creep up, making conversation tough on busy nights
- A few reports of brusque door or ID interactions
- No traditional table service; order at the bar
- Pricing on select premium cocktails may surprise
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$24-$36 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Vegetarians: Beyond Burger & Fries ($15) or Grilled Cheese ($9) with sides
- Share loaded fries ($13-$15) to pair with whiskey flights
- Salad option: Baby Kale Caesar ($10), add chicken or beef (+$4)
Perfect For
- Pre-dinner cocktails in Old Pasadena
- Casual date night at the bar
- Nightcap after a show
- Group hang with trivia or karaoke
Location Insights
Area: Bustling Old Pasadena hub with nightlife, bars, and restaurants; draws locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, lively streets and decent lighting; typical weekend crowds.
Nearby: Surrounded by bars, eateries, and retail; close to parking structures and walkable streets.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–01:00
Tuesday17:00–01:00
Wednesday17:00–01:00
Thursday17:00–01:00
Friday17:00–01:00
Saturday13:00–01:00
Sunday13:00–01:00
Available: Reservations
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