Perle - Pasadena

A French-inspired restaurant newly opened in Old Town Pasadena. Reasonable pricing couple with great execution. Chef/owner worked at many 2 and 3 Michelin Star restaurants in the past. Would have given 5 stars but Happy Cow app will not allow since it is not a fully vegetarian or vegan restaurant.

The restaurant we went to was overly pretentious, considering the quality of the food we received was not impressive. We were seated at a cramped and uncomfortable bar in the back, which was not ideal for a date night. The prices were high, but the dishes did not live up to their cost. The duck liver mousse was mostly whipped cream with a small amount of duck liver, while the mussels were decent but came with a strange side of pomme frite instead of bread. We had to order bread separately for a steep price of $8. The branzino was a small portion served with a minimal amount of ratatouille. What frustrated me the most was being forced to order all of our food at once and having it brought out whenever the staff felt like it. Despite agreeing to this odd system, my request to order courses separately was not followed, leading to a rushed and unsatisfying dining experience. The overall quality of the food, combined with the poor service format, left me feeling disappointed. I would not recommend this restaurant at all. Spending $160 at Perle in Pasadena was a complete waste of time and money. I will not be returning.

The mixologist Jose was exceptional. He was extremely knowledgeable about the history of the drinks and was very attentive. We opted for the tasting menu and each course surpassed the one before. I brought my friend here for her 65th birthday and we had an incredible time. It was a new and exciting experience for her. As a chef from Portland, I thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience. Kudos to the chef and kitchen staff. Cheers!

Unfortunately, the coffee was a let down. It seemed like the bean quality and brewing style could use some improvement. At $4 for a cup of decaf that tasted like diner coffee, it was a disappointing end to the meal. Two standout aspects of this restaurant are its affordable pricing and interior design. The prices are very reasonable for the portion size and quality of the food, and the interior design is charming and cozy. From fresh tulips to high quality bathroom tissues, the attention to detail at Perle creates a humble, elegant, and welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a French home.

Our brunch experience at Perle was a delightful culinary adventure in the heart of Pasadena. The restaurant's cozy French atmosphere and variety of delicious dishes made a lasting impression. The Escargots were a perfect way to start, with their fragrant garlic butter sauce and tender snails. The baguette reminded me of a bakery in Paris, and the Onion soup was a comforting classic. The Eggs Benedict was a highlight, showcasing the chef's expertise and innovation. The staff's professionalism only added to the charm of Perle. For those looking for an authentic French dining experience, a trip to Perle in Pasadena is highly recommended.