Romantic Dates in Pasadena

Pasadena California just bursts with romantic possibilities. Whether it’s a fancy date at a romantic restaurant or a picnic beside a secluded stream, Pasadena has it. Whether this is a first date or a 50th anniversary, Pasadena can provide the perfect romantic venue.

THE RAYMOND RESTAURANT
1250 South Fair Oaks (Columbia St.) Pasadena, Ca
626 441 3136

The Raymond Restaurant, usually just referred to as “The Raymond,” is Pasadena’s traditional, fail safe spot for a romantic date. It is housed in a secluded craftsman style house that is the only remnant of the long defunct Raymond Hotel. In the summer time diners may eat in the balmy evening among the three terraced outdoor area. In winter, eating by a crackling fire is cozy and romantic. Indoor diners will enjoy the Victorian décor and the quiet of eating in the many small rooms of the house. Candles and soft lighting add to the romantic ambience. The food is a mixture of American and European and, while not adventuresome, it is superb. Only fresh, locally grown ingredients are used and there is an extensive wine list. This is not for the poor in pocket. Entrees start at $20 and when you add in an appetizer, salad, wine and dessert, it gets quite pricey. But the Raymond is meant to be for special occasions.

HUNTINGTON GARDENS TEA ROOM
1151 Oxford Road
San Marino, Ca
626 683 8131

Technically the Huntington Library and Gardens are in San Marino, not Pasadena. But Pasadena residents claim this wonder as their own. This romantic date will involve some walking. The gardens feature a wonderful desert garden, but somehow it is not romantic. However, the Rose Gardens and the Japanese gardens are very romantic and a couple can sit on a rustic bench in quiet and seclusion. When they get hungry, they can go to the Huntington Gardens Tearoom, which overlooks 3 acres of rose gardens.