Seemor
Union Restaurant
37 Union St, Pasadena, CA 91103
· Italian restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (853 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Handmade pastas and seasonal small plates in a cozy Old Pasadena setting; excellent when on form, but portions are small and prices high with some inconsistencies.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked into Old Pasadena, Union feels warm and intimate with bar seats for solo diners and small tables for dates. Servers often guide you through a shareable lineup and wine picks, and one diner noted the staff was spot on with recommendations. Expect a lively hum, though some tables near the door can feel drafty. However, there are some review authenticity concerns suggesting certain reviews may be solicited or influenced. The cooking leans contemporary Italian with handmade pastas and seasonal small plates, weaving in touches like leche de tigre and za'atar without losing Italian soul. At its best, squid ink lumache with lobster sings with bright citrus, while mushrooms over polenta deliver deep savor. Execution can vary—cacio e pepe divides opinion—so order with guidance and lean into the pasta strengths. Families will find a few approachable choices like simple spaghetti or meatballs, but portions are on the small side and pricing is premium. There is no clear kids menu, and adventurous flavors dominate, so it suits older children or flexible eaters more than picky palates.
At a Glance
- House-made pastas deliver standout textures and flavors when on form
- Cozy date-night vibe in walkable Old Pasadena
- Small portions and premium pricing reduce perceived value
- Inconsistent execution on some dishes and pacing
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- house_made_pasta_cellar
- seasonal_market_plates
- cozy_old_pasadena_setting
What People Love
- Devotion to the squid ink lumache
- Knowledgeable wine suggestions
- Thoughtful seasonal combinations
- Cozy, intimate ambiance
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive ($24-$36 pastas; $48-$60 mains) which may surprise casual diners
- Portions are modest; order more than one pasta per person if hungry
- Inconsistent execution on cacio e pepe and occasional lukewarm plates
- Hostess and seating frustrations reported on busy nights
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$72-$105 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a vegetable starter (mushrooms or arugula) with a signature pasta, then share one main like duck or pork chop to feel satisfied without overspending.
Perfect For
- Date night with pasta lovers
- Solo meal at the bar with a glass of Italian wine
- Small group sharing seasonal plates
- Out-of-town friends seeking a Pasadena highlight
Location Insights
Area: Historic walkable district with boutiques, bars, and date-night restaurants; draws locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, active foot traffic most evenings.
Nearby: Near Colorado Blvd shopping, bars, parking garages, and the Metro L Line Memorial Park stop.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–21:00
Tuesday17:00–21:00
Wednesday17:00–21:00
Thursday17:00–21:00
Friday16:00–21:00
Saturday16:00–21:00
Sunday16:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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