CTRL Collective’s Pasadena location isn’t just a workspace—it’s your launchpad to some of the best food in Los Angeles County. Nestled in Old Town Pasadena, our coworking space is surrounded by a vibrant culinary scene that caters to all tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to power through a workday with a fresh lunch, impress a client, or simply take a scenic break, these walkable lunch spots are only minutes away and offer an ideal mix of quality, convenience, and creativity.
1. Union
Address: 37 S Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena, CA
This cozy, critically-acclaimed Italian eatery specializes in house-made pastas and locally sourced ingredients. Union is perfect for a quick yet upscale lunch that satisfies. It offers a seasonal menu that highlights fresh ingredients sourced from local California farms. The intimate setting also makes it great for quiet solo lunches or catching up with a coworker in style.
Try: Pork meatballs or the tagliatelle with pork ragu
2. True Food Kitchen
Address: 168 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA
Health-conscious and flavor-forward, True Food Kitchen delivers vibrant seasonal bowls, wraps, and salads. A great choice for a lunch that fuels without the post-meal slump. This spot is especially popular with wellness-focused professionals who want to stay energized for afternoon meetings or collaborative sessions. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are plentiful here, making it a favorite for teams with diverse dietary needs.
Try: Grilled chicken avocado wrap or the ancient grains bowl
3. Mi Piace
Address: 25 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA
Elegant yet welcoming, Mi Piace features artisan pizzas, inventive pastas, and a stylish atmosphere. Ideal for a client meeting or a relaxed upscale lunch. Their expansive menu includes healthy grain bowls, creative cocktails, and one of the best espresso bars in town—perfect for recharging before heading back to your desk. The modern interiors also provide a great backdrop for content creators or team selfies during lunch breaks.
Try: Smoked salmon pizza or the lobster ravioli
4. Café Santorini
Address: 64 W Union St, Pasadena, CA
Tucked into the historic DeLacey Courtyard, Café Santorini offers Mediterranean dishes with a view. Its rooftop patio is a go-to for outdoor lunch meetings and casual catch-ups. The menu includes generous portions, bold flavors, and plenty of shareable mezze plates—perfect for group lunches or team bonding sessions. It’s also a great spot to take a break from screen time and soak in the Southern California sun.
Try: Chicken souvlaki or lamb gyro plate
5. Pez Coastal Kitchen
Address: 119 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA
Bright, breezy, and modern—Pez Coastal Kitchen offers a fresh seafood-focused menu including poke bowls, oysters, and West Coast-style plates that are perfect for light, energizing meals. The modern coastal decor and open layout make it a favorite for creative professionals looking for both inspiration and nutrition. Their weekday lunch specials offer high quality at fair prices, especially for those on a flexible coworking budget.
Try: Tuna poke bowl or oysters on the half shell
Why CTRL Collective Is the Perfect Base for Foodies
CTRL Collective Pasadena isn’t just another coworking space—it’s a hub for creators, professionals, and entrepreneurs who value flexibility, design, and community. Just steps from some of Pasadena’s best eateries, CTRL is ideal for those who want to build their business and enjoy world-class cuisine. We’re located at 45 S Arroyo Parkway, within walking distance of every restaurant featured here.
- Host impressive lunch meetings without needing to drive
- Take scenic breaks to recharge midday
- Enjoy dog-friendly patios and outdoor seating
- Return to your desk refreshed and refocused
Ready to cowork where the lunch options are as inspiring as the workspace? Book your tour at CTRL Collective Pasadena today.