Russell's Pasadena

Small cozy breakfast spot. If you park in the parking lot they will validate for you. A bit of a long wait time but they have Great bacon and waffles! terrible coffee for both iced and hot. less

Generous portions in a very cute American diner-esque setting! I recommend the chicken fried steak, their gravy is great. The coffee could be worked on a bit, it tasted watered down but the food and service were top notch. less

A friend was visiting from Taiwan and wanted an American diner experience and this did not disappoint! I gave him a couple of choices and he was all about Russell's "comfy couches" (aka booths). The food selection was expansive; what we got was delicious; and the prices were all reasonable. I got the oatmeal breakfast - some may not think it's the most exciting, but I LOVE oatmeal and this restaurant is the best presentation and options I've ever had (and I've had a lot of oatmeal at a lot of restaurants)! I got raisins AND blueberries, granola, brown sugar, milk and a GIANT bowl of oatmeal (and of course the sourdough toast). My friend got The BIG One that had a selection of all the best breakfast standards! He picked French toast (which I had a hard time not stealing), scrambled eggs, and an English muffin (plus the bacon and sausage that come with it). The staff was very considerate, especially considering I showed up on crutches - they sat me at the first booth and helped me pick up my earring that I dropped on the way to the restroom. The waitress even brought me a glass of water without me asking when I was done with my orange juice - she must be a mind-reader!! And the other patrons were all nice as well. Everyone waited outside patiently and I saw some parents playing with their kids while they waited, and I got help getting the door to the restaurant and the restroom by other people. Small things, but it speaks to the atmosphere of the place. All the little things make the difference in the overall experience. The one warning is the wait; we got there just before 10am and had a 45 minute wait. less

It's nice to have a neighborhood diner though Russell's is quite popular and unless you're there early on weekends, there is likely a wait. Still, it's worth the wait. If your party is small you may snag a couple of the bar seats of which there are 4. This visit J got The Big One which includes 2 pancakes, French toast or Belgian waffle, 2 eggs, bacon & sausage, hash browns, and choice of toast, bagel or English muffin. I ordered Special Spud, light on the cheese - Russell's hash browns mixed with chopped bacon, onions, bell peppers, topped with melted cheddar cheese, sour cream & avocado. (Next time I'll hold off on the sour cream; it's great without) And that Habanero Kill sauce was quite tasty and most importantly - not too spicy. We both enjoyed our breakfast for lunch! less

Russell's in Pasadena is hands down one of the most solid choices for brunch in the LA area. If you're looking for a place that combines great food with a charming atmosphere, this is it. Ambiance: The vintage American diner vibe is strong here, complete with art-decorated walls that add character to the space. It's got that cozy yet lively feel, perfect for a relaxed brunch with friends or family. Service: The staff are pros--friendly, attentive, and efficient. They handle the busy atmosphere with ease, which is always appreciated. Food: The breakfast and brunch menu might look simple and minimalist at first glance, but don't be fooled. The taste is outstanding, with every dish executed to perfection. It's proof that you don't need a complicated menu to serve great food. Pro Tip: Russell's is popular for a reason, and the waiting line starts almost as soon as the restaurant opens. If you want to avoid a long wait, I highly recommend getting there as early as possible. less

Russel's is a charming spot in Pasadena that offers a delightful dining experience. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, perfect for a casual meal or a special occasion. The menu features a variety of classic American dishes, with breakfast being a standout. The pancakes are fluffy and delicious and is perfectly executed. The staff at Russel's is friendly and attentive, ensuring that each guest feels welcome and well taken care of. Despite the occasional crowd, the service remains efficient and the wait times are reasonable. The overall experience at Russel's is excellent, making it a must-visit for anyone in the Pasadena area looking for a satisfying meal in a warm and welcoming environment. less

Russell's was established in 1930. It is no ordinary diner in the sense that it give off an upscale vibe with the bright red booth, crystal chandeliers and artwork adjourning the walls. There's a sense of class here. It's a real cozy place to have breakfast or brunch. Expect to wait in line, but it's well worth the wait. The food will never disappoint. What we ordered: -Chicken Fried Steak + 2 Eggs, Hash Bowns & 1 Side $17.50 The Chicken Fried Steak came smothered in a white gravy sauce with eggs done up how you like 'em, hash browns and your choice of a side such as toast, an English muffin or a bagel. For an upcharge, you can get a pancake, blueberry pancake or a waffle. I opted to get a side of a Belgian Waffle for $3.50. This is a really good deal and enough food for my toddler son. I have great nostalgia of eating at diners and ordering a chicken fried steak. In my 20's, my friends and I would hit up a 24 hour diner after the bars and I would always order a chicken fried steak. The service was very attentive to our needs. Our only complaint was finding a table. We were told a modest 20 minute wait as we came approximately one hour before closing. While we were waiting several people walked-in and got tables right away. This was a bit infuriating for my wife. I had to calm here down a few times. She kept pestering me to go in and ask about our table as we had a hungry wife and toddler. I'm the patient one. There were open tables available bigger than what we needed, but would have gotten us out the door much faster. The host needs to be more on top of things. Overall, it was memorable meal. Great food and service! We'll be back again to try other dishes off the menu. less

Been coming here for years! But since moving the east coast, it's been a while and my review is long overdue! My parents still come here so much, everyone knows them and knows that my mom wants decaf coffee. Service is amazing! We always come extra early to beat the crowd. The line can get pretty long! This time was my first time bringing my kids and they LOVED the cinnamon roll. I had the breakfast burrito and it was fantastic. 10/10 recommend! less

First time here! Came here on memorial Monday around 8:10am and got seated at bar right way (alternative was 10-20 min wait for a table for two). Started lining up outside shortly after we ordered. Huge portions! I got corn beef hash w/eggs, hash brown and sub blueberry pancake. Was delicious! Husband got country fried steak said it was best he had in a while. Great service and amazing staffs as well. Also they validate one Colorado parking (right next door) for up to 90 minutes. This will be our new go to spot now just need to wake up early for :) less

This place never disappoints. Came here at 8am and there's already a queue. Party of 2 waited for 20 minutes, worth it. Service was quick and food is always scrumptious. Portion is generous and the place is well decorated. if you parked in the parking lot in the same building, don't forget to get your ticket validated. less