La Fiesta Grande: A Timeless Gem for Authentic Mexican Cuisine
La Fiesta Grande has been a staple in Pasadena for over 40 years, and its legacy continues to shine at its new location off Glenarm and Marengo. I have fond memories of taking my wife here when we were dating, and I’m thrilled to report that the food remains just as incredible as it was back then.
Their chicken fajitas are hands-down some of the best I’ve ever tasted, full of authentic flavor that feels like it was crafted in someone’s home kitchen. Unlike chain restaurants such as El Torito or Acapulco, La Fiesta Grande stands out with its authentic, non-Americanized dishes. Dining here is like being transported to the heart of Mexico.
The menu offers a wide variety of options, and everyone I dined with raved about their meals—from the hearty menudo to the grande burrito and a perfectly cooked steak dish. Every bite was delicious, showcasing the care and tradition behind their recipes.
The customer service was equally impressive. We were warmly greeted at the door, and though the restaurant wasn’t crowded during our visit, the experience was welcoming and relaxed. Their new location might be a little tricky to find—it’s nestled behind the gas station near Glenarm and Arroyo Parkway—but it’s well worth the effort to seek it out.
La Fiesta Grande continues to be one of the best Mexican restaurants in Pasadena. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to this hidden gem, you won’t be disappointed. I’m so glad they’ve reopened and will definitely be returning...
Read moreI use to go to the Pasadena location for over 15 years and also the South Pasadena location for many many years also. I was so glad when they opened this location. Always the best food. I see the waiters from the Pasadena location working. I have never had to call and complain about anything till tonight. It was really busy like usual and it was a Friday night so we got the order to go. I was ordering a Burrito I confirmed it was a wet burrito because my mom loves her burrito the be wet and lots of sauce. So they said it was a wet burrito and I said ok she likes it very saucey. When we got home there was a little line of the three different sauces on the burrito. The container wasn’t filled with the sauces. So I called to left them know the disappointment and they said if someone wants lots of sauce they need to tell them but there wasn’t much sauce at all and basically that was all she said I had to ask her what are we going to do? She said I could bring it back and they would remake it. I live in Orange County so that wasn’t possible. So she said to bring the burrito back tomorrow and they would replace it. Why does my mother have to suffer and not eat for them to replace her burrito? A weeks burrito has sauce all on top of the burrito and then there’s so much sauce it will pool at the bottom of container. I have pictures there was a dribble of sauce in it. I’m floored that they want me to bring the burrito back before they will replace it. Very disappointing that they asked...
Read moreOVERALL EXPERIENCE: My 3-star rating is based on customer service and cleanliness (see SERVICE for additional comments). Food is great though!!!
AMBIANCE: Casual. Noise level is average. There's a table near the walkway to the restroom, and OH BOY! every time someone opens the bathroom door, you can smell it (whatever deodorizer they use). Not very pleasant while you're eating.
DRESS CODE: Casual
ORDERED: I've come here plenty of times, even when they were at their old location in South Pas. Food has always been great! Margaritas are amazing! endless chips and salsa! guac is always a must order! I usually order the Enchilada de Mole (sOoOo good!) not listed on their menu, but I've ordered Flautas Combos are good as well!
SERVICE: Our waitress was great and friendly! I didn't catch her name though. To the manager... I noticed a solo diner. After he left, the busboy (the older gentleman), cleaned the table BUT LEFT THE EXTRA SETTING ON THE TABLE for the next patron(s), which I don't think is very sanitary.
PRICE: ~ $20pp
PARKING: small private lot, shared with other businesses
Food: 5/5 stars Service: 2/5 stars (due to cleanliness and smell from the restroom coming down the...
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