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FOOD - DRINK - FUN

Mountain Views News Saturday, November 1, 2025


COMFORT FOOD, CALIFORNIA STYLE

By Peter Dills, L.A.’s King of Cuisine

As the San Gabriels wait for the snow (we hope) and the streets of Sierra Madre, Pasadena, 
and the surrounding cities finally cool down, November rolls in with its own rhythm. 
Halloween is a memory, Oktoberfest is behind us, and the holiday season is slowly 
knocking. But before you brace yourself for the sticker shock that often comes with hotel 
Thanksgiving dinners, let’s talk about something I like to call California Comfort Food 
Season.

In the Elmer household, we rarely celebrated holidays right on schedule. My dad was 
often on assignment, traveling, or just busy. So Thanksgiving or Christmas might have 
happened a day early—or a day late. To us, it never mattered. We learned that a holiday 
isn’t about the date; it’s about the meal, the company, and a sense of calm that only comes 
when you aren’t fighting crowds or paying $100 for a plate of turkey. I’ve said it before and 
I’ll say it again: if you can celebrate early (or late), do it. Less traffic, less stress, more joy.

Now that we’ve settled into comfort-food season, here are a few local favorites offering 
that familiar warmth of turkey and trimmings—without the mega-resort markup.

PLATE 38 – EAST PASADENA

While they won’t be open on Thanksgiving Day, Plate 38 has rolled out a delicious Turkey 
Pot Pie through the holiday season. It’s flaky, hearty, and filled with all the flavors we 
associate with the big day. Perfect for those who’d rather get their Thanksgiving fix early—
or twice.

TWOHEY’S – SOUTH PASADENA

The pride of South Pasadena, Twohey’s is once again stepping up for the holiday season 
with Thanksgiving Family Meals to go. Whether you don’t want to cook all day or just need 
a little help rounding out your table, Twohey’s has you covered. Expect all the classics—
turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and of course, their famous gravy. Order early; this 
local favorite always sells out fast.

SMITTY’S GRILL – SOUTH LAKE, PASADENA

Smitty’s knows how to make traditional American food shine. Their roast-turkey-style 
plates, when offered, come with all the comforting sides you crave. The atmosphere is 
warm, the service reliable, and it’s the kind of spot where you can linger a little longer with 
family before the holiday rush hits.

TAYLOR’S STEAKHOUSE – LA CAÑADA

Known for their classic cuts, Taylor’s often features a Hot Turkey Sandwich or seasonal 
roast-turkey plate around this time of year. Pair it with a martini, and suddenly the holiday 
stress fades into the background.

COLOMBO’S ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE – EAGLE ROCK

If you want a little music with your meal, Colombo’s is always a good bet. Their kitchen 
occasionally serves up a turkey special during the holidays, and even when it doesn’t, the 
hearty comfort dishes and lively atmosphere make you feel right at home.

Whatever your choice, comfort food is as much about feeling as flavor. It’s about slowing 
down, filling up, and finding joy in the familiar.

And as you start scouting for that perfect turkey dinner, one word of advice—and it 
comes straight from experience. Don’t be surprised if a restaurant asks for a credit card 
to hold your reservation. Sadly, too many people book three spots and show up to just 
one, leaving the others with empty tables and lost income. Remember, these places are 
working hard to make your holiday special. If you’re lucky enough to get a seat, treat it 
like gold—and tip your server accordingly.

In Summary: November is for comfort, gratitude, and good manners. Whether you 
celebrate early, late, or somewhere in between, the best meals are about heart—not hype. 
Call ahead to me selections, things can change !!

Email me thechefknows@yahoo.com and my podcast is perfect for you hungry hunters


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