Whenever I think of going to a restaurant, my immediate thought is not walking directly to the bar for a seat! But I have to say that in this case, it wasn’t so bad at Nick’s Pasadena. Given the proper heat wave we are currently experiencing in LA (for the first time in like a million years!), being in a well air-conditioned place was better than melting in hell outside.

The place seems to have a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The two-storied restaurant, covered in “marble,” offered an area with plenty of natural sunlight by the S. Lake entrance as well as cozy booths and spacious tables for large parties on the second floor. I don’t think one has to make a reservation, but if you want a seat around lunch time on a Saturday, you probably should. We did!

The staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating. On the first floor you can see what is happening in the kitchen through a large window. I always find it fascinating when restaurants do this. Nick’s may not really be considered a fancy place but for a moment, it was giving me “fine dining” vibes.

Nick’s seems to be located in an area surrounded by plenty of shops for one’s enjoyment after a full tummy, which I consider a plus, unless you had their delicious spinach and artichoke dip and you’re lactose intolerant. In that case, you can run up the stairs to their restroom on the right. But don’t worry, blow it up all you want. The soap they use in there will keep those restrooms smelling fresh as spring morning after a rainy day, (definitely not speaking from personal experience!) tee hee!