
Happy almost Friday babes!! I’m still in awe from my engagement and all your sweet comments on my Instagram and blog post, I seriously felt the love from every single one of you! Can’t thank you enough and so happy I was able to share the special day ♥ Just in time for the holiday weekend, I wanted to share my next city tour..and this time we explored Pasadena! I spent most of my teenage years living in Glendale, and with Pasadena just 10 minutes away, we would always spend our weekends here…from family dinners, shopping, and strolling around Old Town, I always had such good memories here! Pasadena is one of the only areas of LA that has so much character and charm with it’s historic side, Old Town along Colorado Street, and the Paseo which is a newer outdoor mall stretching through 3 city blocks. Whenever I’m in the mood for more of a one-stop location, I visit the Paseo for all the shopping, dining and entertainment and head to Old Town for a nice evening stroll. And as you guys may know, I love to eat (lol no surprise) so I’m always looking to try new restaurants and Pasadena happens to have some of the best dining in the city! Everything from upscale restaurants on Colorado Boulevard to neighborhood go-to’s and Old Pasadena’s charming historic restaurants. Keep scrolling to see our adventure from photo-worthy sites, ice cream floats and the best Italian food I’ve EVER tried..yes..it’s really that good!!
Float
First stop of the day..the cutest retro cafe famous for their FLOATS!! I love the retro decor here..it reminded me of a vintage ice cream soda shop and is located in a pretty mini-plaza called The Burlington Arcade! Float also offers tasty sandwiches on French rolls, baked goods and coffee..but before you try anything else off the menu, you have to promise me you will try their floats!! They have both classic and seasonal floats with flavors like Creamsicle, Caramel Apple, Pumpkin Sice Latte, and Cold Brew…so delicious!!
We ordered the push-pop float and the hula hula. So yummy! I ordered the push-pop which was made with sparkling lemonade, fresh peach ice cream, topped with whipped cream. But my favorite was Gabriel’s Float..the Hula Hula which had the tastiest Macadamia Nut Ice Cream, so I ended up stealing his lol!!
How cute is the arcade inspired hallway?! Love the candy-colors on the ceiling!
Love the lace-up back detailing on this eyelet crop top by J.O.A (now on sale for under $50!!) I’ll definitely be wearing this top on repeat for summer! It’s conservative and feminine in the front, but sexy in the back! Perfect for pair with high waisted pants, shorts or skirts for the summer :)
Pasadena City Hall
Next up, we visited Pasadena’s City Hall which is one of the towns most historic and beautiful landmarks! I love exploring the grounds here and seeing all the Italian Renaissance and Spanish influences in these buildings..red tile roofs, the big ornate fountain and garden courtyard, all so beautiful!!
I paired the top with these high-waisted satin pants by Blessed Are The Meek (similar here and here). Love how sleek and breezy these are for summer too! I finished off the look with my new baby..the mini Antigona by Givenchy! I’m obsessed!! I’ve always wanted a mini Antigona..I love the classic shape of this bag and when I saw it in this color I knew I had to have it! The light camel leather is so neutral and versatile for all year round making it the perfect wardrobe staple!
Union Restaurant
Our last stop was dinner at Union Restaurant, a small Italian restaurant in the heart of Old Pasadena. And you guys..this place is without a doubt some of the best Italian food I’ve ever tried!! I’ve never been to an Italian restaurant where all the dishes were so innovative and delicious..at first I wasn’t sure about some of the flavors and sauces on the menu, but there wasn’t one dish that I didn’t love!! The chef turned a simple and basic pasta dish like Spagetti and Gnocchi into something unique..bursting with flavorful and quality ingredients that gave each dish it’s own flare.
We started with a few appetizers recommended by the chef. Our favorite was the Housemade Stracciatella Cheese served with just the right amount of roasted garlic, olive oil and balsamic topped over a crisp crostini. The cheese was SO incredibly fresh and creamy..I couldn’t get enough!!
Next we had the Pork Meatballs paired with San Marzano tomato, caper berries, lardo, and chile. The spices were just right and didn’t overpower the dish.
Another must is their Porchetta! The meat was cooked perfectly tender and served with Weiser Farms potatoes and a homemade salsa verde sauce for some extra flavor ;) You can taste the fennel and garlic in every bite. And the salsa verda added the perfect kick of flavor to the dish!
Braised Octopus was another great choice! Paired with chickpeas, lemon yogurt and and dukkah. At this point we were getting pretty full..but every dish was too good to leave anything behind!
For the main course, we were so excited to try the restaurant’s homemade pastas! We ordered the Ricotta Gnocchi and Spaghetti which was pushed and cut through a guitar string board. (how cool?!) My favorite was the Ricotta Gnocchi..cooked with morel mushrooms, roasted onion, all in a brown butter sauce..insanely good!!
A big thank you to Union for hosting us for one of the best dining experiences we’ve ever had! If you are looking for an amazing Italian restaurant then I highly recommend trying Union.
As always, thanks for stopping by! Which area do you guys want to see next on my city guide?! Comment below!
Xxo, Jessi
La Bijoux Bella | by mia
Yasss to another wonderful city guide … such a fun little exploring around such a beautiful town. The food looks deliciously good, beautiful day, looking fabulous … anything for the Gorgeous Bride to be! :)
🌸LA BIJOUX BELLA 🌸| By Mia | A Creative Lifestyle Blog
Jessi Malay
Thanks so much girl! I know Pasadena like the back of my hand, so just thought I’d share some of my favorite finds :)
LAGOS CITY CHIC
You have the best time exploring the best cities! The Pasadena City Hall is very vintage and beautiful!! I really enjoyed reading this, it almost felt like I was on that trip too! Congrats once again on your engagement babe xx
http://lagoscitychic.blogspot.com.ng/2017/06/styling-katie-wang-rose-embroidered-top.html
Jessi Malay
I’m do glad you enjoyed it babe! I always have fun in Pasadena, be sure to come and visit sometime <3
Hadasah Love | Style To Love
This is so nice! I love it
xoxo, Hadasah
http://www.styletolove.com
Jessi Malay
Thanks for dropping by Hadasah<3 Have a lovely weekend!
Ellie
Such a wonderful Post!<3
http://www.blogellive.com
Jessi Malay
Glad you liked it Ellie! Have a wonderful weekend :)
Ewa Macherowska
Such a beautiful look!
http://www.evdaily.blogspot.com
Jessi Malay
Thanks so much for dropping by girl :) Happy Friday!!
Cindy Elena @iamcindyelena
Omg the food looks so yummy, and that float gave me the biggest sugar craving! Also can we talk about how stunning you look? Gorgeous!
xo | Cindy Elena
http://www.boringclothes.com
Jessi Malay
The floats were AMAZING, I definitely recommend you try them next time! &thanks so much babe<3 <3
Angie Diaz-Cervo
My daughter Gabrielle Diaz-Cervo at http://www.fiercelybeautifulblog.com loves your blog. She talked about you and how you are her mentor. Congratulations on your engagement, I know Gabriel since he was very young. His family is nice and you are joining a good family.
Jessi Malay
Aww that’s so sweet <3 Gabrielle's doing a great job with her blog, and I definitely see potential for growth. Ahhh I'm so excited for the engagement haha, thanks for the kind words Angie :)
Miki
Love your outfit. I love high waisted pants! These fit like a dream. Those spots look so beautiful. I went to Pasadena quite a bit and don’t think I tried those floats in the Burlinton arcade. Always something to return to when I come back to LA again. :)
xo,
Miki
http://mikialamode.com
Jessi Malay
One of my favorite things about LA is that it’s always changing! Just when you think you’ve seen everything, you discover something new. Thanks so much for reading babe & happy weekend!
Christine Kong
I love old town Pasadena and that Float looks so cute and yummy. We used to live by there and would go to all the little shops and now you make me want to go again! Union looks incredible too and I love all these little city tours you are doing. It would be amazing to have you visit the OC sometime! xoxo, Christine
http://dailykongfidence.com/
Jessi Malay
Thanks so much girl! I know the OC is beautiful and has great restaurants as well, I’ll definitely come and visit sometime. :)
Docdivatraveller
The pictures are breathtaking!
http://www.docdivatraveller.com
Jessi Malay
Thanks so much for dropping by babe <3
Kristen
I love this look so much! I love the high waisted pants and cropped top. The back detail is perfect! So lovely!
xo Kristen
lovelyasamother.com
Jessi Malay
Thanks so much Kristen! I love how the pants are super comfy AND chic, you should try a pair :)
Prakash
wow looking so glamourous in this outfits kissessssss
http://www.bissq.com/blog/7-types-of-footwear-you-would-find-in-a-womans-wardrobe/
Jessi Malay
Thanks babe <3 <3 Hope you have an awesome 4th of July!
rae
you’re stunning! and very beautiful photos :)
xoxo, rae
http://www.raellarina.net/
Jessi Malay
Thanks so much for reading Rae!! Have a great July 4th :)
Holly
Fabulous post and pictures! I need one of those floats!! Great post….as always! x
http://www.hollydays.co.uk
Jessi Malay
Yes girlll the floats were amazing and so pretty <3 come by Pasadena sometime!
Meri Wild
wow! Awesome place and photos <3 You look gorgeous!
http://www.meriwild.com
Jessi Malay
Aww so sweet girl! Thanks for reading :)
Carrie Beale
I fell in love with your top but I was terribly disappointed that when I went to buy it they wanted $35 for shipping and that was the 5+ day shipping! I know it’s not that much. It does look beautiful on you! ❤
Jessi Malay
Aw I’m so sorry to hear that Carrie, darn those shipping costs! I’m sure it’ll look amazing on you though babe <3
Iris
I really enjoy reading your city tour guide ;-)
the cropped top looks beautiful babe. Have a great weekend!
Kisses
http://www.passion-vogue.com
Jessi Malay
I’m glad you enjoy them girl! Keep an eye out for more city guide on my IG stories :)
Kangkan Rabha
Stunning photos like always. love it. :)
http://www.thequirkyminimal.com
Jessi Malay
Thanks of dropping by Kangkan! Wishing you a happy 4th of July :)
Britt Correia x Gypsy Sunday
You are too pretty, girl! These travel photos are to die for. Thank so much for sharing, love.
I’d love for you to check out the latest on my blog
http://gypsysundayblog.com/
Jessi Malay
Aww thanks so much girl! Love your blog <3 <3
Jessica
You always look so incredibly chic! I love the cropped eyelet top and it has a gorgeous back too!
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
Jessi Malay
Thanks so much Jessica! Hope you have a great 4th of July holiday :)
Cynthia
That is the perfect little top, I love it! I definitely want to check out Pasadena when I’m in the area, it looks like such a cute little place! Congrats on your engagement too! That’s so exciting!
xx,
Cynthia
http://www.thesirenconfidential.com
Jessi Malay
You’re so sweet Cynthia! Thanks <3 For sure check out Pasadena, it's one of my favorite cities!
DGGYST
Best.Outfit.Ever
Jessi Malay
<3 <3 <3 Thanks girl! Happy 4th of July :)
Corina
You look gorgeous! I will definitely visit Pasadena next time I am in LA.
xo Corina
http://www.unbouquetdamour.com/asos-marketplace
Jessi Malay
Yasss girlll I love Pasadena! Definitely check it out <3
Maria | Short Girl Long Jacket
Pasadena looks like it has so many beautiful spots! And I love your outfit x
Jessi Malay
You’re so kind girl<3 Pasadena is such a beautiful city, you should definitely visit sometime! :)
Camila
This outfit is so stunning, you look super gorgeous and the places you visited are amazing mostly that food!
Camila,
My Vogue Style | http://www.myvoguestyle.com
Jessi Malay
Thanks girl! The food was DELISH, 10/10 would go again <3<3
Erin
First of all, I’m hungry now hahah. Everything looks amazing. Second, you are SO beautiful and the details on your top are amazing! Loveee xx, Erin – http://www.stylebythepeople.com
Jessi Malay
Hahaha me too! Thanks Erin, you’re so sweet. Have a great 4th of July tomorrow!
Monica . Mes Voyages à Paris
Amazing outfit and pictures!! So cool!!
xx
Mónica Sors
NEW POST: MES VOYAGES A PARIS
Jessi Malay
Thanks so much for stopping by Monica<3
Rachel
Love the whole look and the details are perfect!
http://chicglamstyle.com
Jessi Malay
So glad you liked the city guide Rachel! Have a great 4th of July tomorrow :)
sam collin
you are looking so pretty in this outfit
Regards
Walkindiscount.com
Jessi Malay
Thanks so much for dropping by Sam! xoxo <3
Adelina
I love Pasadena! I used to live there for a little and it’s SO MUCH FUN! You look absolutely beautiful babe and that octopus dish looks too yummy! Also, I’m beyonnnnddd excited about your engagement!! Have a fabulous week darling!
http://www.thecharmingolive.com/best-skincare-for-travel-pour-moi-beauty/
xx Adelina
Jessi Malay
Right?? I always have fun in Pasadena, there’s just always the best shops and restaurants! Hope you have a great 4th of July tomorrow :)
Amy Arnold
Such gorgeous photos! I love the lace up back and the flow of your wide leg pants.
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
Jessi Malay
You’re the sweetest Amy, thanks so much <3
Ashley
What a fun day, lady- and your photos are gorgeous, as usual!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Jessi Malay
Thanks so much girl! Have an awesome 4th of July :)
marta
Beautiful photos! Great post! kisses
http://thefashionjump.blogspot.com.es/
Jessi Malay
Glad you liked the post! Thanks so much Marta <3 <3
MARTA
Love the pictures and the cute top!
http://martasfashiondiary.com/a-walk-in-skopelos/
Lisa Linh
Ah I have yet to go to the plaza and you just reminded me about it. Gorgeous shots babe and you were just 15 mins from me :)
Millie | Queenmillie
Oh wow, Union restaurant looks and sounds amazing!! I hope you had an amazing weekend girl!! Your outfits are stunning and loving the sound of the float drinks!! Amazing post and thanks for sharing Jessi x
Millie x
http://queenmillie.blogspot.co.uk/2017/07/interior-no6.html
BISSQ
Don’t forget to accessorize! Glam it up with the latest watches for Men from BISSQ.
Taylor
You seriously always find the best photo spots!
Love this look, so cute and chic!
xo.
Taylor
http://www.itswhatsin.com
Emily
Those floats look absolutely delicious! Love all of your pictures you posted on this blog. Your outfit was so chic, I loved it!
Isn’t That Charming.
Shabanam
Lovely pictures!
Summertime brings joy and sun, get a good sleep to enjoy your day