This family-owned bar has been voted “Best Dive Bar” by readers of the Pasadena Weekly for 13 years in a row. Don’t expect anything fancy, since this bar opened in 1962, and it hasn’t changed much since. Locals will tell you this is part of its charm.
Fire up the jukebox and munch on free popcorn, or just chill out and help the locals cheer on USC during college football season. Downstairs, you’ll find pool tables and a dance floor. This is also where the DJ spins tunes and the dance party starts on Friday and Saturday nights. There’s an outdoor patio for smokers, too. Open daily until 1:30 a.m.
The 35er Bar
12 E. Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91105
(626) 356-9315
the35er.com
This speakeasy-style jazz club offers live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. Part of the thrill here is the star quotient; you never know who is going to show up and jam with the musicians.
Thursday night is given over to jam sessions that play long into the night, while on Fridays and Saturdays there are organized shows at 7 and 9:30 p.m. Pasadena Weekly readers awarded redwhite+bluezz with no fewer than 10 awards in 2008 and 2009, including Best Bar, Best Cocktails and Best Live Music Club.
The bar and grill offer wine and cheese pairings, and what Boulevard Magazine calls “the best steaks in L.A.” Past performers include John Mayer, Chris Mello and Thelonious Dub. Open daily.
redwhite+bluezz
70 S. Raymond Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91105
(626) 792-4441
redwhitebluezz.com
If you’re looking for a luxe Vegas-style night spot in Pasadena, this is it. Sheer white curtains illuminated with blue backlights give LIV a cozy, exclusive feel. Grab a seat at the bar, or slide into a white leather booth and settle in for an hour of people watching.
The drink menu includes the “Bubble Yummy” (made with bubble gum vodka) and “Skittles!” (the menu refuses to divulge the ingredients, other than grape vodka). Snack on traditional appetizers, including parmesan fries and coconut shrimp.
DJs and hip lounge/chillout music make this the place to be on Friday nights. Closed Sundays, it's open until 12:30 a.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 1:30 a.m on Fridays and Saturdays.
LIV
115 E. Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91103
(626) 793-6544
livbar.com
