A Pasadena story,
For more than 35+ years, Bistro 45 has brought ingredient-led New American cooking, thoughtful wine, and deeply personal hospitality to the heart of Pasadena.
Built around food, family, and belonging
Bistro 45 is the expression of proprietor Robert Simon and chef/partner James Lambrinos’ shared belief that a restaurant should feel both exceptional and personal. It is a place where celebrations unfold, relationships grow, and returning guests are welcomed like family.
James Lambrinos’s ingredient-first perspective was shaped in Northern California and strengthened by experiences at Chez Panisse. At Bistro 45, that influence becomes a distinctly Pasadena passion—polished without being distant, creative without losing clarity.
Three ideas. One enduring point of view.
The restaurant continues to evolve, but the principles behind every plate and every guest experience remain constant.
Integrity
Choose ingredients with care, prepare them honestly and love, and let their natural character lead the plate.
Innovation
Bring curiosity and imagination to New American cooking while respecting the discipline of French technique.
Mission
Create memorable food, gracious service, and a genuine sense of connection for every guest who walks through the door.
The story continues at Bistro 45
A respect for pure flavor
James Lambrinos’s culinary outlook took shape around sustainable, organic ingredients and the belief that excellent products need clarity—not disguise—to make a lasting impression.
A new dining room in Pasadena
Bistro 45 opened in its distinctive 1935 Art Deco building, bringing together New American creativity, French technique, and a wine list that quickly became part of its identity.
Still personal. Still evolving.
More than three decades later, Bistro 45 remains a gathering place for romantic dinners, family milestones, private celebrations, wine discovery, and memorable Pasadena evenings.
Let the ingredients speak
The Bistro 45 kitchen begins with the best possible ingredients—seasonal produce, responsibly raised proteins, and flavors chosen for their freshness and integrity. Technique supports the ingredient; it never overwhelms it.
Seasonal
A menu that changes with ingredients at their best.
Sustainable
Organically inspired choices made with purpose.
New American
California ingredients shaped by French discipline.
Personal
Food made to create connection and memory.
Every bottle has a place at the table.
Wine has always been central to the Bistro 45 experience. Simons and Chef James’s years of judging wine and exploring producers inform a program designed for both discovery and perfect pairing—from expressive wines by the glass to reserve bottles for milestone evenings.
A thoughtful list is not simply collected. It is experienced, shared, and remembered.
A place for the moments that matter.
Quiet dinners, first dates, anniversaries, family celebrations, private parties, and evenings built around wine—Bistro 45 is designed to make each gathering feel considered.
Come share an evening with us.
Discover the food, wine, room, and hospitality that have made Bistro 45 part of Pasadena for more than 35 years.
Visit Bistro 45
45 S Mentor Ave
Pasadena, CA 91106
Handicap parking is available in front of the restaurant.
Dinner
Tuesday–Sunday
For current seating times,
please call (626) 795-2478.
Celebrate
Private dining, special occasions,
and full-service catering are available.