Aro Latin

The bartender Tevin was amazing. Group of 6 and he remembered all our drinks, orders, and names when we asked for the bill. I got the mezcal margarita and birria tacos.

Their achiote snapper reminded me of Master Chef! Fish was cooked perfectly, juicy and tender, and the seasoning was spot on! The zucchini and bell pepper added nice crunch and juiciness as well. The fries were seasoned well (and not too salty). The empanadas were deep-fried, but not greasy at all!! It was super crispy and oomph of corn-flavor every bite! This place does justice to deep-fried empanadas! Prices seemed reasonable for the quality of foods and portion is pretty generous. We’re going back for more for sure!

Haven't had a bad experience here yet. Very kind waitstaff, inspired food, and great ambiance. They have a bottomless brunch drink deal for $15 on Saturdays and Sundays, and their brunch options can please anyone.

I love the extraordinary outstanding fish platters the most, here overseen in the kitchen by owner Karan Raina of the Punjabi Indian region. Branzino a la parilla, marinatate ($26), whole grilled fresh branzino is tops on my list of ten to try. Other mainstays the public will not let leave the menu are: Costillitas (baby back ribs) in a Latin setting of coconut milk, Cuban roast peppers, fresh rosemary, mango relish and cayenne pepper.Desserts created by his El Salvadoran wife, co-owner and pastry chef, Candy Garcia Raina, are not to be missed. These dishes helped earn the “destination” label to Aro Latin located on a historic, quaint street of shops in South Pasadena. Akar Studios in Santa Monica transformed the distinctive 1907 building space, a one-time bakery, into its stylish, contemporary, organic and inviting interior. I could go on about this for pages, and one is worth the trip. Especially true on a business street created by businessmen in the 1920's to house their mistresses on the second floors of the shops.

+6

So much flavor to the food. We had a crudo, the snapper, and the ribs. George was our excellent server and we loved the lively, intimate, atmosphere.

Chill place, great food and great drinks! Oh, and great happy hour tacos and margaritas.

The food is amazing and all the workers are friendly and helpful. I highly recommend you try their food.

The food is amazing , atmosphere great! And the service, terrific!!

Went here on a Saturday evening. Great place for dinner. We ordered the nachos, birria tacos, and paella, and each of the dishes were tasty, although, the nachos were probably the best part. It’s very quiet, there is ample outdoor and indoor seating, including bar seating. It was not too busy for a Saturday evening, so assume you can go here anytime and you won’t have to wait to be seated. I would come here again to try new items on the menu.

I thought eating outside would be horrible with other people walking around, but it wasn't that bad. My husband and I mostly had starters, but they were amazing it. Pricey, yet the food was great! Drinks were amazing too, and don't be scared to talk to the waiters or waitress. The staff here is friendly, and very cool to chat with. I really do hope they bring back happy hour on fridays or Saturdays. Those are the best times to go! Still I would come back here again with friends.

What a comfortable place to be. The food here is superb and the staff could act like - you know - we're "special". But they don't - they just take care of business in a warm and friendly way. And then....you get wowed by dishes skillfully prepared and presented with portions that are slightly more than you expect - it conveys generosity. Mole sauce is the world's most complex - no two versions are the same. This one sings and has a wonderful slightly sweet cinnamon note that gets your attention. We had it on 1/2 a roasted chicken accompanied by some seasoned white rice. (and they're not skimpy on the sauce) The ceviche was very satisfying and came with homemade potato chips - a little thicker - giving them a very satisfying softer yet still crispy texture. Then flan for dessert. Masterful. This is a keeper and a place you just want to spend time in.

Really like this place. The margaritas are fantastic and the tocas with homemade tortilla are delightful. Nice atmosphere

I love coming to Aro! Their ambiance is amazing. Their food delicious and their drinks are very tasty. I prefer to go have a drink when Solomon is there on Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday. As he makes the best margaritas and old fashioned.

Well, this is a hidden gem. I say hidden because it was just there as I was walking down the street. I got the empanadas and the Oro de Aro with Mezcal. Oh, and the guacamole was on point! Maybe it's time i move back to LA just to be closer to this place.

This place is absolutely amazing! We ordered a variety of dishes, and every single one was unique, super flavorful, and incredibly tasty. I highly recommend this spot to all the foodies out there. The bar was very nice too, and I loved the warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a family-owned business, and the owner, along with his wife, personally came over to greet us and chat for a bit, which made us feel truly special. They made sure we had everything we needed. The service was absolutely top-notch, and my husband and I had a beautiful time. We’ll definitely be back!

We had such a great time at Aro Latin! Our server was so friendly and took great care of us. We ordered a few small bites and they were all so tasty! My favorite was the sweet potato ceviche. The ceviche was really juicy and bright and paired great with the crispy sweet potato chips. Perfect for a summer day! The papas rellenas was a little salty but still very good. There is plenty of street parking in the neighborhood (just go up or down a block) and a few seats outdoors where you can sit with your dog. Will definitely come again!

Great Margaritas! A good place to hang out in South Pas. Lovely staff. Loved the atmosphere

Tonight was our first visit to Aro Mexican Restaurant in Pasadena, and I'm still thinking about the meal! This place is truly a culinary standout that elevates Mexican cuisine to an art form. We started with the crudito appetizer - a beautiful arrangement of fresh seafood with citrus accents and just the right amount of heat. The presentation was Instagram-worthy, and the flavors were bright and perfectly balanced. For our main courses, we explored their taco selection and were absolutely blown away. The fish tacos featured perfectly flaky white fish with a light crisp exterior, topped with a vibrant slaw that added wonderful texture. The shrimp tacos were equally impressive - plump, perfectly cooked shrimp with a delicate seasoning that let the natural sweetness shine through. But the true revelation was the lamb tacos - tender, flavorful meat with a complex marinade that had hints of traditional Mexican spices but with a unique twist I haven't encountered elsewhere. The star of the evening, however, was undoubtedly the salmon platter. The fish was cooked to absolute perfection - crispy skin with moist, medium-rare flesh that melted in my mouth. It was served with a complex mole sauce that complemented rather than overwhelmed the delicate flavor of the salmon. The accompanying sides were thoughtfully prepared and worked harmoniously with the main protein. Yes, Aro is a bit pricey compared to other Mexican restaurants in the area, but the quality of ingredients, skillful preparation, and attentive service absolutely justify the cost. This isn't your average taqueria - it's elevated Mexican cuisine that respects tradition while embracing innovation. The ambiance struck the perfect balance between elegant and comfortable, and the staff were knowledgeable about both the food and the impressive selection of mezcals and tequilas. Aro has immediately earned a spot on my list of favorite restaurants in Pasadena. Already planning our next visit to explore more of their menu!

Honestly, I haven’t always enjoyed Aro as much as I did during the delightful two hours I spent at the bar one recent Thursday. Good timing on my part, I was present for the last half of happy hour (M-F, 4-6) and the first half of the Latin-flavored entertainment (Th only, 6-8). (Another Thursday-only attraction, South Pasadena’s popular farmers market takes place just down the block.) I started with a well-balanced HH Margarita, tasting distinctly of tequila and just enough triple sec. Then I went for a couple of HH appetizers, a decent cheese quesadilla and the exceptional oregano shrimp (without the usual chili flakes—wimp that I am). The quesadilla came in handy for sopping up the precious seasoned butter from the plump, tender shrimp. I asked the friendly bartender—I think his name was Tevin—about a lavender-hued drink he had made—an Aviation Cocktail: gin, Luxardo cherry liqueur, Crème de Violette, and lemon juice. Mine (see photo) was exquisite, the perfect airborne accompaniment to the Brazilian vocalist and combo I was listening to. This bar and adjacent dining room had never seemed so lively. Even the tables outside in the shade were filled.

Great place with modern Latin inspired food. Inside is spacious, modern, and stylish. Small front patio seating area as well. A good place for groups or a date. They also have a good happy hour. Service is good. Friendly staff. Street parking up and down the block.

Great Latin restaurant with solid dishes. I liked the esquites corn and the mole, although the taste of the mole was much earthier and slightly nutty. The empanadas was solid and the cauliflower had a pesto base that was pretty good.

Staff, service and food were all 10/10. The red and green salsa that come with the chips was spicy. At least for me. The guacamole definitely put the fire out in my mouth. If you are a true lover of all things spicy.. the salsa may not ignite the flames you enjoy. The paella was delicious and the closest in flavor to the paella I enjoyed in Spain. Tacos and steak were cooked perfectly and so good. Even the fries were perfectly cooked, crunchy outside and soft inside.

South Pasedena next to train rail station very good vibes & friendly staff the food my opinion is average & bar alcohol cocktails is simple .

Super impressive with Aro Latin! Found myself in South Pasadena on a sunny Sunday afternoon and had a lovely lunch. The outdoor sitting is perfect, and the interior looks lovely. Loved the Cauliflower and steak.

Amazing service. Before we eveb had a table O was greeting by the servers who were happy to have us. Such friendly staff. Limited menu today, no problem still a good variety. Ordered Chicken Tacos, Ceviche and the street corn. Absolutely amazing. Preshrunk handmade flour tortillas, tender fish and the corn had a beautiful fire cooked flavour. Well done. Find this place and enjoy!

I don't find many restaurants over 90/100. But Aro is definitely closer to 💯 than to 90, if you catch my drift. We stopped in on Christmas Eve and it was a good experience. Amazing food. The achiote snapper is one of the best plates I have had in *years* and I don't hand out attaboys like that. Even the asparagus that came with my friends steak was delicious. We shall return. Also it's right next to the South Pasadena gold line stop so that's cool too.

Jyoti Sharma-Varma

This place is absolutely amazing! We ordered a variety of dishes, and every single one was unique, super flavorful, and incredibly tasty. I highly recommend this spot to all the foodies out there. The bar was very nice too, and I loved the warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a family-owned business, and the owner, along with his wife, personally came over to greet us and chat for a bit, which made us feel truly special. They made sure we had everything we needed. The service was absolutely top-notch, and my husband and I had a beautiful time. We’ll definitely be back!

Sam Lee

We had such a great time at Aro Latin! Our server was so friendly and took great care of us. We ordered a few small bites and they were all so tasty! My favorite was the sweet potato ceviche. The ceviche was really juicy and bright and paired great with the crispy sweet potato chips. Perfect for a summer day! The papas rellenas was a little salty but still very good. There is plenty of street parking in the neighborhood (just go up or down a block) and a few seats outdoors where you can sit with your dog. Will definitely come again!

NICK MENNELL

Tonight was our first visit to Aro Mexican Restaurant in Pasadena, and I'm still thinking about the meal! This place is truly a culinary standout that elevates Mexican cuisine to an art form. We started with the crudito appetizer - a beautiful arrangement of fresh seafood with citrus accents and just the right amount of heat. The presentation was Instagram-worthy, and the flavors were bright and perfectly balanced. For our main courses, we explored their taco selection and were absolutely blown away. The fish tacos featured perfectly flaky white fish with a light crisp exterior, topped with a vibrant slaw that added wonderful texture. The shrimp tacos were equally impressive - plump, perfectly cooked shrimp with a delicate seasoning that let the natural sweetness shine through. But the true revelation was the lamb tacos - tender, flavorful meat with a complex marinade that had hints of traditional Mexican spices but with a unique twist I haven't encountered elsewhere. The star of the evening, however, was undoubtedly the salmon platter. The fish was cooked to absolute perfection - crispy skin with moist, medium-rare flesh that melted in my mouth. It was served with a complex mole sauce that complemented rather than overwhelmed the delicate flavor of the salmon. The accompanying sides were thoughtfully prepared and worked harmoniously with the main protein. Yes, Aro is a bit pricey compared to other Mexican restaurants in the area, but the quality of ingredients, skillful preparation, and attentive service absolutely justify the cost. This isn't your average taqueria - it's elevated Mexican cuisine that respects tradition while embracing innovation. The ambiance struck the perfect balance between elegant and comfortable, and the staff were knowledgeable about both the food and the impressive selection of mezcals and tequilas. Aro has immediately earned a spot on my list of favorite restaurants in Pasadena. Already planning our next visit to explore more of their menu!

Brian Mitchell

Honestly, I haven’t always enjoyed Aro as much as I did during the delightful two hours I spent at the bar one recent Thursday. Good timing on my part, I was present for the last half of happy hour (M-F, 4-6) and the first half of the Latin-flavored entertainment (Th only, 6-8). (Another Thursday-only attraction, South Pasadena’s popular farmers market takes place just down the block.) I started with a well-balanced HH Margarita, tasting distinctly of tequila and just enough triple sec. Then I went for a couple of HH appetizers, a decent cheese quesadilla and the exceptional oregano shrimp (without the usual chili flakes—wimp that I am). The quesadilla came in handy for sopping up the precious seasoned butter from the plump, tender shrimp. I asked the friendly bartender—I think his name was Tevin—about a lavender-hued drink he had made—an Aviation Cocktail: gin, Luxardo cherry liqueur, Crème de Violette, and lemon juice. Mine (see photo) was exquisite, the perfect airborne accompaniment to the Brazilian vocalist and combo I was listening to. This bar and adjacent dining room had never seemed so lively. Even the tables outside in the shade were filled.

Andy Tzeng

Great Latin restaurant with solid dishes. I liked the esquites corn and the mole, although the taste of the mole was much earthier and slightly nutty. The empanadas was solid and the cauliflower had a pesto base that was pretty good.

Jeff Cruz

Great place with modern Latin inspired food. Inside is spacious, modern, and stylish. Small front patio seating area as well. A good place for groups or a date. They also have a good happy hour. Service is good. Friendly staff. Street parking up and down the block.

C Kadkoy

Staff, service and food were all 10/10. The red and green salsa that come with the chips was spicy. At least for me. The guacamole definitely put the fire out in my mouth. If you are a true lover of all things spicy.. the salsa may not ignite the flames you enjoy. The paella was delicious and the closest in flavor to the paella I enjoyed in Spain. Tacos and steak were cooked perfectly and so good. Even the fries were perfectly cooked, crunchy outside and soft inside.

Jeny Allan

Amazing service. Before we eveb had a table O was greeting by the servers who were happy to have us. Such friendly staff. Limited menu today, no problem still a good variety. Ordered Chicken Tacos, Ceviche and the street corn. Absolutely amazing. Preshrunk handmade flour tortillas, tender fish and the corn had a beautiful fire cooked flavour. Well done. Find this place and enjoy!

Androj Nazarian

South Pasedena next to train rail station very good vibes & friendly staff the food my opinion is average & bar alcohol cocktails is simple .

Karina Montilla

Super impressive with Aro Latin! Found myself in South Pasadena on a sunny Sunday afternoon and had a lovely lunch. The outdoor sitting is perfect, and the interior looks lovely. Loved the Cauliflower and steak.

Richard “Rich” Clarke

I don't find many restaurants over 90/100. But Aro is definitely closer to 💯 than to 90, if you catch my drift. We stopped in on Christmas Eve and it was a good experience. Amazing food. The achiote snapper is one of the best plates I have had in *years* and I don't hand out attaboys like that. Even the asparagus that came with my friends steak was delicious. We shall return. Also it's right next to the South Pasadena gold line stop so that's cool too.

Kiley Eberhardt

So much flavor to the food. We had a crudo, the snapper, and the ribs. George was our excellent server and we loved the lively, intimate, atmosphere.

Incredible experience! The food was flavourful, cooked to perfection. Customer service was immaculate. Family-owned restaurant and the owners were very welcoming, friendly, and accommodating. This is my new favourite spot! Must try: the corn, Ahi tuna, Ribs, chicken tostadas!!

Came here first time for a date with my love. Food was delicious & service was great. 2nd time wasn’t so great on a Fri night where it was extremely crowded & staff were overwhelmed that we were never greeted so we left.

T. H

Came here first time for a date with my love. Food was delicious & service was great. 2nd time wasn’t so great on a Fri night where it was extremely crowded & staff were overwhelmed that we were never greeted so we left.

Osas Igbinosun

Incredible experience! The food was flavourful, cooked to perfection. Customer service was immaculate. Family-owned restaurant and the owners were very welcoming, friendly, and accommodating. This is my new favourite spot! Must try: the corn, Ahi tuna, Ribs, chicken tostadas!!

Food was pretty heavy on the salty side for the mole. Their shrimp tacos were pretty good although could be smarter on ease of eating over appearance (ie. One bite and your left with at least half a tortilla and cabbage). Staff was excellent, and very kind. Very pricey.

My first time to this South Pasadena neighborhood restaurant. We found easy neighborhood parking around the corner from the restaurant. The food was excellent. Had the red snapper with veggies and my dining partner had tacos. We both thought the flavors were excellent. The service was attentive but not intrusive. This has more of a bar set up. There are only a few low tables and mostly high top tables. Fortunately, we were able to sit at one of the lower tables as my guest has mobility issues that would have made a high top difficult. The cement floors and high ceilings would make it loud if it were full. We had an early dinner so we were able to chat without straining. Not sure I would go again when it was busy as I like quieter dining not the bar like din but definitely would go again early or order take out.

Food is very decent. Excellent service, lovely atmosphere

Grade A- (91): The service was very good, Stephanie was very helpful and responsive and made us feel welcome. The Papas Rellenas was awesome, so was the special Grilled Jalapenos & onions side dish she surprised us with since we like spicy. The NY steak was prepared very well for Medium temp, the Conchita Pibil tacos were also good well have them again. The hard honest part: The Mole sauce on the tortillas was not for me, it was almost like drizzled Nutella, also the Tres Leches cake was dry and the icing was like the icing on grocery store cake, took one little bite and left it uneaten. I will not be having the Margarita here either, tasted funky. I will definitely go back, great service and great food, just a couple of things to avoid.

Finally, I tried this nearby restaurant. The food is very good. While the portions on the appetizers could be larger, the empanadas and papa rellano were tasty. Mole was great though in one they describe it as Oaxacan and on another dish as Poblano. Give credit where it's due please. My friend loved the Costillas so much she didn't share. I ate the Paella.Pretty Good but not great. Rice slightly mushy. Atmosphere on a Thursday night was pleasant. Not loud at all. You could hear everyone's conversations. I'll be back to try those dam rins.

Decent food in Pasadena, a bit overpriced for what you get. The Baja tacos were pretty good. We sat outside, which was nice. Staff was friendly but service was slow when we went and they never came back to fill our waters.

I was looking for Jones Coffee which I totally found after. Obviously not familiar with the area. But maps said I arrived at Jones Coffee and I was standing in front of Aro Latin looking around confused, so I just sat down and ate since I was hungry anyway. It was great, a nice atmosphere in a really artistic and colorful area. I am vegan so I was able to put a meal together without eggs, cheese or meat. Had the gauc and the sauces with chips. Very, very good and reasonable on pricing. I was able to use the restroom to wash my hands and my waiter was great and accommodating. Once I sat down I looked across the street and saw Jones Coffee way over there. Maps have been off for while now.

A must visit!!! Nice ambiance. Delicious food. We ordered the carne asada with vegetables and mash potatoes. Courteous staff and customer service. It is located in a safe location, adjacent to main streets and freeways . My hubby got the Mescal and he loved it!! I will come back to try the rest of the dishes soon!

Diran Afarian

Grade A- (91): The service was very good, Stephanie was very helpful and responsive and made us feel welcome. The Papas Rellenas was awesome, so was the special Grilled Jalapenos & onions side dish she surprised us with since we like spicy. The NY steak was prepared very well for Medium temp, the Conchita Pibil tacos were also good well have them again. The hard honest part: The Mole sauce on the tortillas was not for me, it was almost like drizzled Nutella, also the Tres Leches cake was dry and the icing was like the icing on grocery store cake, took one little bite and left it uneaten. I will not be having the Margarita here either, tasted funky. I will definitely go back, great service and great food, just a couple of things to avoid.

Anytime Promotions

Finally, I tried this nearby restaurant. The food is very good. While the portions on the appetizers could be larger, the empanadas and papa rellano were tasty. Mole was great though in one they describe it as Oaxacan and on another dish as Poblano. Give credit where it's due please. My friend loved the Costillas so much she didn't share. I ate the Paella.Pretty Good but not great. Rice slightly mushy. Atmosphere on a Thursday night was pleasant. Not loud at all. You could hear everyone's conversations. I'll be back to try those dam rins.

Ying Liang

Decent food in Pasadena, a bit overpriced for what you get. The Baja tacos were pretty good. We sat outside, which was nice. Staff was friendly but service was slow when we went and they never came back to fill our waters.

Renaissance Marie Austin

I was looking for Jones Coffee which I totally found after. Obviously not familiar with the area. But maps said I arrived at Jones Coffee and I was standing in front of Aro Latin looking around confused, so I just sat down and ate since I was hungry anyway. It was great, a nice atmosphere in a really artistic and colorful area. I am vegan so I was able to put a meal together without eggs, cheese or meat. Had the gauc and the sauces with chips. Very, very good and reasonable on pricing. I was able to use the restroom to wash my hands and my waiter was great and accommodating. Once I sat down I looked across the street and saw Jones Coffee way over there. Maps have been off for while now.

Audy Vasquez-Ramirez

A must visit!!! Nice ambiance. Delicious food. We ordered the carne asada with vegetables and mash potatoes. Courteous staff and customer service. It is located in a safe location, adjacent to main streets and freeways . My hubby got the Mescal and he loved it!! I will come back to try the rest of the dishes soon!

I was so looking forward to trying this South Pas locale... We were charged 7$ for chips n salsa. Odd. The Estrella Damm beer helped me bite my tongue... Half of our order never went through & when it did, it was a cold and dry expensive mess of a chicken mole. My cochinita pubil taco trio was deeeeevine, but I still can't justify these prices any more... One out of four servers was Superlative and attentive.

Polly Geller

I was so looking forward to trying this South Pas locale... We were charged 7$ for chips n salsa. Odd. The Estrella Damm beer helped me bite my tongue... Half of our order never went through & when it did, it was a cold and dry expensive mess of a chicken mole. My cochinita pubil taco trio was deeeeevine, but I still can't justify these prices any more... One out of four servers was Superlative and attentive.

On your website the happy hours say 4-6 no specific days Came in today Sunday and the server said no Only Mon- fri It's on Instagram Please Then don't have a website or sync/update your info We left

I will travel the world for a good paella (literally). I found this well rated restaurant on goggle. So here I am... Service is efficient & nice Drinks: Corona & a Margarita, cold & good Paella: It has to be a frozen paella, it was delivered in less than 6 minutes. (Tastes like Rice a Roni or some microwave rice) Now while I love my food being served prompt I do know no good paella is done that fast. I appreciate the effort but this isn't it. I feel cheated 😩

We paid $30 for squash, mashed potatoes and a defrosted piece of steak. My husband ordered the enchiladas. The rice tasted old, the beans tasted old and the enchiladas tasted like they were prepared days earlier. I wouldn’t mind if I had paid $10 for a plate but you’re charging $30. I know it’s not fine dining but the minimum you can do is cook fresh. I wouldn’t recommend this place, as I’m sure you can cook a better dish at home.