About Agnes
The name Agnes may conjure up ideas of an old woman, as I remember thinking when I first met a tennis partner back in middle school when I heard her introduce herself. The namesake of this restaurant is indeed harkened from a grandmother, however – this granny liked her G&Ts.
A restaurant founded and run by a unique husband and wife duo brings a much-needed flare to Old Town Pasadena. There seems to be a resurgence of restaurants in the area on long-neglected Green Street, just one block south of the popular Colorado Blvd. main drag. Agnes is a breath of fresh air, bringing unique menu items and crafted cocktails to the post-COVID dining scene.
The Visit
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As a solo diner, I took a seat at the bar. Personally, I enjoy bar-top dining. Usually taking a perch at the bar provides a bird’s eye view of all the action, including a front row seat to cocktail making, which can be fun and educational. I always love seeing what types of bitters and tinctures they use to craft the perfect beverage. During this visit I opted for the Great Pear cocktail, which is made of Arette Tequila, pear, lemon, and allspice dram. This cocktail was refreshing, but also warming, which was perfect considering the cold and rainy weather outside. I had been craving charcuterie platter recently so I opted for the Half & Half Board, which included two cheeses and two cured meats. Of course, I had to add-on the truffle cheese and prosciutto di parma enhancement. The chef selected cheeses were exquisite and satisfied my tongue’s desire for fatty, salty goodness.
Ratings
Accessibility
Food & Beverage Quality
Service & Experience
Atmosphere & Ambiance
Pricing & Value
Accessibility
The location of Agnes is on a one-way street and there is not a designated parking lot for this restaurant. Street parking is limited and metered. If you aren’t able to locate street parking during your first pass down the street, you may have to loop around which can take some time. There are parking structures near-by that operate on a paid parking basis. Entrance to the restaurant is off a sidewalk, but there is not much coverage to shield you from the rain when entering the establishment. The restaurant interior itself appear to be accommodating to accessibility needs.
Food & Beverage Quality
The quality of the cocktails was top-notch. Using freshly pressed juices and fresh herbs/fruits for garnishments can make a huge difference. While sitting at the bar, I was able to observe the bartenders juicing fresh ginger, which is a common ingredient in several of its specialty cocktails. The cheese and charcuterie board was full and filled with delicious and fresh cheeses and fine meats. One unique feature about Anges is that they have a cheesery within the front of the restaurant, which also has other gourmet treats such as chocolates, spreads, tinctures, and more. Tis is a great spot to buy a few items to put together a wine basket as a gift or a picnic basket to impress your significant other.
Service & Experience
The service at Anges was good. I do think sitting at the bar help ensure you get more attention, simply because your servers are right there in front of you. The bartenders were continually checking on me to ask if I needed anything else or wanted an additional cocktail. I did notice the co-owner Vanessa walking around the restaurant greeting patrons. While she never made it over to me, it was still nice to see this personal touch and it reflects on her personal investment in the establishment. One downside to sitting at the bar was feeling the cold air rush in anytime someone would open the front door. Because there is limited space in the entrance, groups of people would attempt to enter, but lack of space meant they would hold the door open for extended periods of time, which became kind of annoying. Over-all I was happy with the experience and would visit again, especially to try some of the other menu items and the dinner service.
Atmosphere & Ambiance
The atmosphere at Anges is relaxed and casual. This is a great place for brunch or lunch. I would definitely go back to see what the dinner service is like. The ambiance is friendly and has chill vibes. It’s not pretentious or stuck up by any means. The location also has an enclosed patio in the back, complete with heaters. That particular space could accommodate a small private party. Definitely a great place to consider for a birthday, shower or other celebration.
Pricing & Value
The food and drinks are a little pricey, but not any more than you would expect from a restaurant in Old Town Pasadena. For my solo visit, I racked up a $100 tab with two cocktails and my charcuterie platter– but I did add on the truffle and prosciutto, which was an added cost. I’d say the pricing was fair and the value was to be expected for such an establishment.
Over-All Rating
3.2 Forks
The total over-all rating for Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery is 3.2 Forks.
Where to Find Agnes
Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery
Address:
40 S. Green Street
Pasadena, CA 91105
Website:
Phone:
626-389-3839
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