Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Pasadena | Upscale Italian Food

10 restaurants in Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Pasadena | Upscale Italian Food

• La Grande Orange — American · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this bustling neighborhood hub, where the scent of freshly roasted coffee mingles with the smoky, charred aroma of wood-fired pizzas. Guests gather around communal tables or on the leafy patio to enjoy vibrant, farm-fresh salads and artisanal pastries that celebrate the effortless charm of a modern gourmet market. It is a spirited social heart where the energy of a lively cafe meets the soul of a classic pizzeria, creating an inviting space that feels like home from morning until night.
• Mi Piace — Italian · rated 4/5: Mi Piace pulses with a sophisticated energy, where the rustic charm of artisanal charcuterie meets the refined elegance of a modern Italian kitchen. Guests lose themselves in the golden, herb-scented crunch of Vitello alla Milanese and the rich, bubbling layers of house-made lasagna, while the buttery silkiness of Chilean sea bass offers a lighter, coastal grace. It is a space designed for lingering, where every plate tells a story of tradition reimagined through a contemporary, sun-drenched lens.
• Brooklyn Square — Italian · rated 4/5: Brooklyn Square captures the bustling energy of a classic neighborhood haunt, where the comforting aroma of oven-fresh garlic knots and savory marinara sets the stage for a convivial feast. Tables overflow with golden-brown delights, from crispy fried ravioli to molten mozzarella sticks, creating a vibrant atmosphere where every shared platter feels like a celebration of soulful, home-style cooking.
• Prince Street Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: This iconic corner destination hums with the vibrant energy of a classic New York slice shop, drawing crowds with the intoxicating aroma of toasted garlic and bubbling, golden-brown cheese. Thick, airy Sicilian crusts provide a sturdy foundation for the legendary Spicy Spring pie, where crisp, oil-filled pepperoni cups nestle into a rich, zesty tomato sauce. Every bite offers a masterclass in texture and tradition, from the sweet-and-savory harmony of the Mercer Sweet Pop to the buttery, pull-apart indulgence of their signature garlic bread.
• Rocco's Tavern — Italian · rated 4/5: Rocco’s Tavern pulses with the high-energy charm of a classic neighborhood hangout, where the golden glow of the bar and the irresistible scent of bubbling mozzarella create an instantly welcoming retreat. Crispy, sauce-tossed wings and artisanal pizzas with perfectly charred crusts anchor a menu of elevated comfort, while juicy, stacked burgers and saucy meatball heroes offer a satisfying bite for every craving. It is a lively destination where the clinking of glasses and the warmth of shared plates turn a casual meal into a vibrant celebration of timeless tavern flavors.
• Maestro — Italian: Bathed in a vibrant energy, Maestro invites guests to indulge in a spirited celebration of Mexican flavors where the sizzle of bubbling queso fundido and the crunch of golden tacos de papa set the stage for a festive evening. Handcrafted agave cocktails, from the zesty sting of a Picosita Margarita to the refined depth of an Agave Old Fashioned, flow freely in a chic space that balances modern sophistication with the soulful warmth of a neighborhood gathering spot.
• Il Fornaio — Italian: Stepping into this sun-drenched Italian sanctuary feels like entering a bustling village bakery where the comforting scent of freshly baked ciabatta and roasting garlic fills the air. Artisanal pastas and wood-fired specialties are served amidst a backdrop of rustic elegance, inviting guests to linger over glasses of robust wine and lively conversation. The experience culminates in a decadent tiramisu, where layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and velvety mascarpone create a cloud-like finish to an authentic Mediterranean feast.
• Sorriso Ristorante & Bar — Italian: Bathed in a warm, golden glow, this lively destination captures the joyful spirit of its name through a seamless blend of sophisticated dining and spirited bar culture. Guests linger over plates of velvet-smooth pasta and charred, herb-infused proteins, while the hum of conversation flows as freely as the expertly poured Italian vintages.
• Bar Celona — Spanish: Bathed in a warm, social glow, this vibrant destination invites guests to linger over a mosaic of shareable plates that bridge the gap between a classic Spanish tapas bar and a contemporary neighborhood hangout. The air carries the irresistible scent of sizzling garlic and charred peppers, while the kitchen turns out golden, flaky empanadas and bubbling pizzas perfect for pairing with spirited conversation. Every bite, from the spicy kick of patatas bravas to the savory depth of tender albondigas, captures a sense of communal celebration and bold, sun-drenched flavor.
• Tokyo Riso — Japanese: Tokyo Riso invites diners into a sleek, dimly lit sanctuary where the precision of Japanese craft meets the soulful warmth of Italian comfort. Here, velvety bowls of risotto are transformed by the deep umami of dashi and miso, topped with artfully arranged ribbons of fresh sashimi or tender, seared proteins that melt on the tongue. Each bite offers a sophisticated harmony of textures and cultures, creating a vibrant dining experience that feels both avant-garde and intimately familiar.