Gordon Biersch Brewery Rstrnt   

The Pasadena branch of this popular national chain offers what customers have come to expect from Gordon Biersch: specialty beers in a friendly atmosphere. With selections like Golden Export, Pilsner, Marzen and Blonde Bock and seasonal brews like Maibock, Festbier and Winter Bock, Gordon Biersch welcomes sampling, and servers are great at recommending individual drinks. While the bar carries its own beers (with three to four house brews available at a time, plus a different specialty beer available every few months), it also has a full line of premium well drinks and specialties like the chocolate martini. The main attraction for many is the brewery itself, which allows patrons to view the brewing process while they imbibe. The decor itself is quite modern and the food more varied than old-school pubs. The crowd tends to be a mix of shoppers from the bustling Old Pasadena area with a younger slant on weekends. The food specialties include pizza, pasta, stir fries, steak and the chain's famous garlic fries -- plus dessert treats like banana-split cheesecake and warm apple-brioche pudding. Many like to sit in the outdoor patio, which seats 65 and features stellar people-watching. There also are five 32-inch TVs for watching sports, with all five usually focused on the local games, but the staff tries to accommodate requests for those looking to check out other games. -- Daniel Bernstein