Yesterday, we visited McCormick & Schmick’s in Pasadena.  The last time I was there was about a year ago for a quick lunch, but never really tried it for dinner.

Always loved their location (except for the parking which is subterranean and overpriced – McCormick validates for an hour only) since it is located right across our gorgeous Pasadena City Hall and in one of the prettiest structures in Pasadena – lends itself perfectly for picture taking or just a nice stroll before or after dinner.

McCormick & Schmick’s offers both inside and outdoor seating.  My preference is the lovely outdoor patio that allows nice views of the courtyard.

We made reservations for 5:30 through their on-line reservations system and were promptly seated upon arrival.  Ben, our waiter, was outstanding.  He was upbeat, informative and continually monitored our table, constantly offering refills and extra bread.

A friend suggested that I try their Mojito and I have to say that it was by far one of the best Mojitos I had.  Turns out that McCormick & Schmick’s prides themselves on their “scratch” bar.  Everything is made from scratch!  Daniel, the bartender, explained that all drinks are made using fresh-squeezed juices and are hand-crafted.  My Mojito was made with fresh muddled mint, Guava nectar, fresh queezed lime juice, Baccardi Rum and topped off with beautiful Kraken Rum.  It had the perfect combination of sweet and sour (more on the sour side just like I like it) with a bit of that extra kick!

For a starter, we ordered their Dungeness Crab Bisque with Tawny Port Reduction which was truly remarkable and beautifully presented (see video below), “ The Wedge” Iceberg with cucumbers, tomatoes and blue cheese dressing and Coconut Fried Shrimp with Sweet Thai Dipping Sauce – very tasty!

Followed by “ The Wedge” Iceberg, Tomato, Cucumber and Blue Cheese Dressing, Ahi Tuna Tartar and Spicy Cashew Shrimp Stir Fry. Loved the Wedge and Tuna Tartar which was actually cubes of tuna vs ground tuna that sometimes is served in a tartar. My family enjoyed the Stir Fry.

Here’s a video that we put together with Ben from McCormick & Schmick’s. Enjoy:

Overall, it was a great relaxing outing with amazing service and incredible food.  So Day 94 of 365 Things To Do In Pasadena is dedicated to McCormick & Schmick’s!

Location:
McCormick & Schmick’s
111 N Los Robles Ave
Pasadena, CA 91101
(626) 405-0064

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