Aum

My husband and I went here for a special occasion. We felt like we got our money's worth, but just barely. The food was very good overall, although not very bold. They gave us a small amuse bouche of salmon tartate served on a cucumber slice. The bread was good, if unremarkable, but took a long time to get to us. We both had lovely asparagus soup and shared a smoked salmon appetizer. I had shrimp scampi and he had whitefish. The menu isn't huge, but everything on it seems prepared with care and attention to detail, as well as very high-quality food. Both our meals were served with a side of vegetable and potatoes au gratin. Another table got a catfish which was fried whole, which I'd definitely want to try if we go again.

The service was warm and reasonably attentive, but slow. There were also little details that seemed off, although it could just have been that night. There were only a max of three tables occupied, which isn't unexpected for a Wednesday night, but the service still seemed very slow. Our water glasses were mismatched, and we were seated back to back with another couple, which made seating kind of cramped, even though there were plenty of tables they could have seated us at without any neighbors. These aren't huge complaints, but for the amount of money you're spending, you deserve a really nice experience. Again, it could be that service was just a bit off. I would go back, but there are so many restaurants in this area, it might be awhile until I do.

The ambiance was very nice except for the horrible muzak that was playing. I mean, I'm not that picky about such things, but this was pretty bad. It's a very small restaurant and decorated nicely. If you were going to the Ice House for comedy next door, I'm sure this would be a great place to take a date or someone you wanted to have a really nice time.

Posted 11/10/05 | Report Abuse

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Wow! Scampi's a real gem. Small, family owned, gourmet restaurant. Innovative yet home-cooked tasting meals. A hidden gem in Pasadena--home of overpriced corporate restaurants. Divine soups, beautiful presentation. Every time we go, it's better than the last. They really care about food here. I learned that the chef shops for fresh vegetables at the famer's market every day.

Posted 05/29/05 | Report Abuse

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