Pasadena Names Its Cheeseburger Week Winners

Good morning, Pasadena. This is News N’ Roses. The Cheeseburger Week results are in! My favorite burger was the French Onion Dip burger from Magnolia House. Did your burger get the votes?

In today’s News N’ Roses:

• Pasadena Names Its Cheeseburger Week Winners

• The Best Coffee Shops in Pasadena

• Events this Wednesday & Thursday

• Civic News

• Restaurant Spotlight: Canoe House by Peter Dills

• Live Music Lowdown

Let’s get to it.

—Matthew Ramirez

THE DIGEST

Pasadena Names Its Cheeseburger Week Winners

Cheeseburger Week has wrapped, and Pasadena didn’t hold back. Nearly 1,800 people voted during the January 25–31 run, weighing in on everything from classic cheeseburgers to one-week-only creations.

Dog Haus Biergarten took the top spot for Favorite Burger, continuing a streak they’ve been on for a while now. The Stand showed up all over the results, winning multiple categories including lunch counter, throwback, gourmet, and veggie/vegan burgers.

A new category this year highlighted burgers along Route 66 and Colorado Boulevard. Shake Shack led that group, with Twohey’s close behind—new and old Pasadena sharing the spotlight.

Among special Cheeseburger Week creations, Magnolia House’s French Onion Dip Burger came out on top, followed by Taproom at The Langham and De-Luxe 1717. Outside the burger lane, Burrito Express dominated the burrito vote, and Pie ’n Burger won favorite dessert after a burger.

Here are some of the top results:

Favorite Burger:

1. Dog Haus Biergarten: 26%

2. The Stand 25%

3. Islands/Pie ‘n Burger 7% (Tie)

Favorite Burger Along Route 66/Colorado Boulevard:

• Shake Shack 23%

• Twohey’s 15%

• Lucky Baldwin’s Pub/Trappiste Pub/Ruth’s Chris Steak House/Kings Row Gastropub 8.5%

Favorite Burger Created for Cheeseburger Week: 

1. Magnolia House French Onion Burger 21%

2. Taproom at the Langham Empanadas Animal Style 18%

3. De-Luxe 1717 Kebab Burger 12%

The Best Coffee Shops in Pasadena

I just wrote a new blog post on my favorite coffee shops in Pasadena. It’s a straightforward guide to places I actually go—what they serve (espresso, pour-overs, specialty drinks), whether they have good food, and what the vibe is like if you want to hang, meet a friend, or get some work done.

FEATURED LOCAL BUSINESS: CTRL COLLECTIVE

If you’ve been thinking about starting a podcast (or upgrading from the “recorded in my living room” era), CTRL Collective in Old Pasadena makes it easy to do it right. It’s a co-working space equipped with a podcasting studio: an acoustically treated room, quality microphones, multi-camera video, and an on-site team to handle the setup so you can focus on the conversation—not the gear. You show up, record, and leave with something you’re proud to publish.

News N’ Roses has been growing with the support of CTRL, and I’m grateful to have CTRL Collective in Pasadena, a local business that creates space for people to build, create, and share their work. If you’re interested in using CTRL Collective for your podcast, you can book your first session here. If you’re looking for a co-working space, or want to rent a private office, you can book a tour here.

CTRL Collective is also offering a free week so you can come in and try the coworking space. It’s a solid fit for freelancers, remote workers, or anyone who wants a modern, collaborative, social place to get work done.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

All Week Long

🍽️ Dine LA Restaurant Week: Enjoy special prix-fixe menus at participating Pasadena and Los Angeles restaurants—just dine out and ask for the Dine LA menu. Participating Restaurants | Runs until Friday, February 6

Wednesday (2/4)

🍽️ ACSA Region 15 Women’s Leadership Dinner: An evening focused on mentorship and care-centered leadership, featuring a keynote by Dr. Julie Olesniewicz on supporting and advancing women in educational leadership. Noor Pasadena | Wednesday, February 4 at 4:30PM

🎨 Student Art Build: A hands-on art-making session where students and community members create posters and visual messages that reflect their voices and experiences. 175 N. Euclid Ave. | Wednesday, February 4 from 4PM–5:30PM

🐶 Hidden Gems: A Pop-Up Dog Adoption Event: Meet adoptable dogs from Pasadena Humane who are getting some extra spotlight during this weekly adoption event. PetSmart Hastings Ranch | Wednesday, February 4 from 5PM–7PM

📚 Robert Kalman in Conversation with Rasheed Newson: Photographer Robert Kalman discusses and signs What’s It Like for You to Be an American?, sharing portraits and handwritten reflections from Americans across the country, plus a live portrait demonstration. Vroman’s Bookstore | Wednesday, February 4 at 7PM

😂 Pasadena Comedy Show: A midweek comedy night featuring rotating local comedians and improv-style sets hosted by Paddy. The Mixx Pasadena | Wednesday, February 4 at 8PM

Thursday (2/5)

🌿 Free Day at The Huntington: Visit The Huntington with free admission by advance reservation during its monthly Free Day. The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens | Thursday, February 5

🥕 South Pasadena Farmers’ Market: Shop certified California-grown produce and prepared foods at this weekly neighborhood market held every Thursday. South Pasadena Farmers’ Market | Thursday, February 5 from 4PM–7PM

🎤 Toastmasters Talk of the Town: Practice public speaking and build confidence through short speeches and supportive coaching in a welcoming group setting. Crowell’s Thornton Conference Room | Thursday, February 5 at 6PM

📚 David A. Romero in Conversation with Gustavo Arellano: David A. Romero discusses and signs his debut supernatural thriller The Enemy Sleeps, followed by a conversation and Q&A. Vroman’s Bookstore | Thursday, February 5 at 7PM

Save the Date

🖼️ Free First Fridays at Norton Simon Museum: Enjoy free admission to the museum’s galleries and garden during this monthly open-access afternoon. Norton Simon Museum | Friday, February 6 from 4PM–7PM

🧸 Free First Fridays at Kidspace Children’s Museum: Explore Kidspace for free during this monthly open window with advance reservation required. Kidspace Children’s Museum | Friday, February 6 from 2PM–5PM

🛍️ Ezze Flea Market: Browse 40+ vendors bringing vintage finds, collectibles, and designer pieces to Pasadena for a full day of shopping. CTRL Collective | Saturday, February 7 from 9AM–3PM

🌺 52nd Annual Camellia Show: Browse hundreds of camellia blooms on display, learn from experts, and explore the gardens during this annual horticultural showcase. The Huntington | Saturday–Sunday, February 7–8

🧘 Yoga Expo: A full-day gathering of yoga, meditation, workshops, and a wellness marketplace featuring educators and holistic practitioners from around the world. Yoga Expo | Saturday, February 7 from 10AM–6PM

🛍️ Rose Bowl Flea Market: Browse antiques, vintage clothing, local art, and specialty goods from thousands of vendors at this monthly market. Rose Bowl Stadium | Sunday, February 8 from 5AM–3PM

🎤 Distinguished Speaker Series – Pete Buttigieg: Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg discusses today’s political landscape, followed by a moderated audience Q&A. Distinguished Speakers of Southern California | Wednesday, February 11 from 7:30PM–9PM

☕ Community Coffee at the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center: Start the morning with coffee, casual conversation, and a chance to connect with members of the RBAC community. Rose Bowl Aquatics Center | Thursday, February 12 from 8:30AM–10:30AM

🧭 February’s Chapter Event: Camino, ft. Krystie Yen: A morning conversation exploring personal paths, creativity, and community as part of the ongoing Camino series. Free event with pastries and coffee included. CTRL Collective | Friday, February 13 from 8:30AM–10AM

🧧 Lunar New Year at One Colorado: Celebrate the Year of the Horse with live music, a traditional Lion Dance, festive treats, and lucky red envelopes throughout the afternoon. One Colorado | Sunday, February 15 from 1PM–4PM

🛍️ 1042 Flea Market: Browse a curated flea market where everything is priced at $25 or under, featuring a mix of vintage, resale, and unique finds. CTRL Collective, 112 E Colorado Blvd. (Parking Lot) | Saturday, February 21 from 11AM–4PM

✊🏾🎉 44th Annual Black History Festival: Celebrate Black history and culture with a full day of community programming, performances, and activities. Robinson Park | Saturday, February 21 from 10AM–3PM

📚 Rare Books Pasadena: Browse rare and antiquarian books from dozens of booksellers from around the world as this major book fair returns to Pasadena across two venues. Raymond Theatre | Saturday, February 21 from 10AM–6PM & Sunday, February 22 from 11AM–4PM

Nothing in this section is sponsored. These are just the things you need to know. I’ll always let you know if something is sponsored!

CIVIC NEWS

Commission on the Status of Women Meeting

A public meeting where the commission advises City Council on issues affecting women across Pasadena’s communities. Click here to see agenda. Robinson Park Recreation Center | Wednesday, February 4 at 6PM

Free Transit Rides in Pasadena Today

Pasadena is offering free rides today, Feb. 4, on Pasadena Transit and Dial-A-Ride as part of Transit Equity Day, a regionwide effort recognizing public transit as a civil right.

The annual observance falls on the birthday of Rosa Parks and is being marked across Southern California by agencies including LA Metro, Metrolink, LADOT, and Foothill Transit. In Pasadena, riders can board all local buses at no cost, and Dial-A-Ride service is also free for eligible users.

Pasadena Transit runs 11 routes throughout the city, with Routes 31 and 32 serving Northwest Pasadena and Altadena. Dial-A-Ride provides on-demand trips for seniors and disabled riders in Pasadena, Altadena, San Marino, and nearby unincorporated areas.

RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

Canoe House: A South Pasadena Gem Worth the Trip

by Peter Dills, Local Food Dude ([email protected])
Listen to the ‘Peter Dills AKA LA Foodie’ podcast here or SoundCloud here.

In the realm of culinary escapes, Canoe House in South Pasadena shines brightly, offering an irresistible blend of Hawaiian charm and sports bar excitement. Although my usual focus is on the Sierra Madre area, a visit to this tropical retreat proves that venturing a bit further can lead to delightful discoveries.

As you cross into South Pasadena, the Canoe House reveals itself as more than just a restaurant—it’s an immersive island experience. From the moment you step through the door, you’re greeted by a vibrant atmosphere adorned with bamboo, Polynesian artwork, and strategically placed TVs that ensure every game and event is within view.

At the heart of the bar scene is Steph, whose Mai Tai is nothing short of legendary—arguably one of the best in Southern California. If Polynesian drinks aren’t your preference, the impressive array of craft beers on tap is sure to have something to satisfy your taste.

The menu offers a stellar selection of Hawaiian-inspired dishes. Dinner, starting at 4 PM, features standout options such as the Rib Loco Moco with tender boneless short ribs, the flavorful Hawaiian Fried Rice, and the delectable Aloha Fish Sliders. For a particularly satisfying choice, don’t miss the Pressed Brick Chicken—each bite is a testament to the chef’s dedication to authentic and exquisite flavors.

Adding to its appeal, the Canoe House boasts an inviting outdoor patio with a fireplace, making it a perfect spot to unwind on cooler evenings. And if you’re sporting an old Hawaiian shirt or a necklace of puka shells, you’ll blend right in with the laid-back, tropical vibe.

So, while the Sierra Madre area remains my usual culinary haunt, Canoe House in South Pasadena is a noteworthy detour. It’s an escape to a slice of paradise that’s well worth the visit—Mahalo!

NEWS N’ ROSES WEATHER

Wednesday

84 🌡️56 |☀️| 💨 E 6 mph

🌆 Air Quality Index: 36 (Good)

Thursday

79 🌡️ 56 |☀️| 💨 SE 3 mph

Temperature readings taken from the Pasadena Doppler Radar.

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

🎸 Jazz at Edwin Mills: Veteran jazz guitarist Doug MacDonald brings warm tones, classic standards, and a refined swing style shaped by decades of performing with some of the genre’s greats. Edwin Mills | Thursday, February 5 from 6PM–10PM

🎷 World Jazz Night: Catch an international lineup of jazz musicians sharing the stage for a late-night session celebrating global jazz talent. Club 1881 | Wednesday, February 4 from 8PM–11PM

THANKS!

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