Raymond Restaurant   

1250 S Fair Oaks Ave
Pasadena, CA 91105
626-441-3136
www.theraymond.com

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Housed in a '30s-era Craftsman bungalow (the caretaker's cottage from the long-gone Raymond Hotel) amid lush gardens and wisteria vines, this restaurant comes with atmosphere that is both romantic and historic. A cozy fireplace, three intimate dining areas and Tiffany lamps outfit the locale, which is known for menus that change weekly. Starters have included fleuron of filo (pastry), topped with stewed cremini and portabello mushrooms, as well as salads and various soups of the day. Entrees may include pumpkin seed-crusted salmon with lime cream sauce, sea bass in a tomato sauce or lamb chops in cherry sauce. Brunch is their specialty, with frittatas, coddled eggs, French toast with sliced bananas and scones with raspberry jam on the menu. Desserts at the Raymond are even more plentiful than the main courses -- choices range from a creamy creme brulee to a pecan pie with dark molasses flavoring. The two flower-lined patios make for a great dining experience. -- Victoria Namkung