Mountain Views News, Combined Edition Saturday, July 29, 2023

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Mountain View News Saturday, July 29, 2023 


HAPPY BIRTHDAY PETER DILLS

Yes, the Mountain Views News Family is PhotoBombing (or 
Word Bombing) Peter's Column to wish him a very, very 
Happy Birthday. 


When I first stepped foot in Pasadena in the early 1970’s there were just a handful of 
restaurants, and fewer steakhouses. If memory serves, there was the Western, Steer and 
Stein, Monty’s, and of course Sizzler on Arroyo Parkway (yes, some considered that a 
steakhouse). Fast forward to 2021 and my, how times have changed! I sometimes think that Pasadena is 
the new Mecca for the beloved Cow!! There’s not enough space in this article to name all the steakhouses, 
but some are better than others. I often wonder, as I am sure you do, is the meat coming from the same 
source, what is the best 2%, and if it’s so special how come it’s everyone’s claim to fame? Grass Fed? Corn 
fed? Bone in? Boneless? For me, the way to go is dry aged. One of the best steaks I ever made at home was 
from a supermarket 50% off section.

So, what is the best steak house in Pasadena? Well, it might not be a “traditional” steakhouse that serves 
clam chowder or gives you a bread basket! Alexander’s Steakhouse makes its home at the old McCormick 
and Schmicks location on North Los Robles – it has the same floor plan (picture a 60’s James Bond Movie 
Geisha set with a Nuevo Art deco feel). Getting to the meat of the matter, a steak can run as much three 
digits, but before you think I’ve lost my touch with the everyday working class, I’ve said time and time 
again if you enjoy a meal it’s worth it. Alexander’s is a special occasion restaurant, but I am not just talking 
anniversaries or birthdays; I am talking about life. You deserve to give it a try.

The menu is divided into six sections starting with “For the table” (appetizers) and ending with Steaks 
- quite straightforward, I would say. I posted a few pictures on Facebook and a few comments there suggested 
Japanese Fusion. I’ve never been to Japan, but if that helps describe the menu let’s use that term. 
Daughter Lauren and I loved the restaurant from start to finish. We started off with Hamachi Shots and 
dry aged tataki (explaining the ingredients and the menu descriptions would just be confusing, so just 
enjoy the ride like we did). Like any great restaurant the menu is seasonal (my suggestion is to accept the 
bread service and put it on some bread, it’s quite good). I think the hit of the night was the little gem salad 
with romaine, let’s call it a close cousin of the Caesar with some kick to it. I am coming back just for this 
salad; it was that good. For you seafood lovers there are a few items again seasonal. However, we are land 
lovers and that what makes Alexander’s stand high above the crowd. I have seen Wagyu steaks on menus 
at LA restaurants that are US-raised, but at Alexander’s they have the real deal. All Wagyu is imported 
from Japan except for the Imperial Wagyu; Japanese Wagyu is graded A5 - ask your server for the definition. 
Whether it’s chicken, pork, or steak I think the bone gives you the most tenderness, and the 18 oz. 
T-bone steak is a winner. Grilled in their open kitchen, it was so good I see-sawed about whether to finish 
it or take it home. My decision came easily since we also tried a variety of pre-main-course suggestions. 
The sides are traditional in name only; we had the blue lake green beans. The restaurant has a full bar 
with extensive wine list, and is only open for dinner. If you are a foodie, steak lover, or just want a special 
night out, I gave it two thumbs up. 

What Else You need to Know

I actually started this review a few months ago just before our second shut down, so some items might 
have changed.

Alexander’s offers valet or underground parking. 

111 N. Los Robles Ave. Pasadena (626) 486-1111

Join me every AM 830 KLAA on Sunday at 5 PM, reach me at diningwithdills@gmail.com


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