Marston’s

We were excited to try Marston’s, having driven past several times as locals. Today we finally had the chance to go. We chose to sit outside and dine.
Long story short, we ordered coffee and omelettes with sourdough. The coffee was good but not worth $ 3.25. The potatoes were not fresh yet smothered in oil. Speaking of oil, the toast was soaked with margarine. Omelettes– they were overcooked with large pieces of added ingredients. So get your knife out!
Just gross, not fresh, and overpriced. Very disappointing.

This place is hit or miss and today was a miss. My husband and I split eggs Benedict. The eggs were over cooked and the English muffin was chewy which they charged $ 3 to split. The service was efficient but the waitstaff looked unhappy. Not a smile in the place.

This place has amazing French toast, oatmeal, eggs Benedict and so much more. I come here often and there is always a line. They get through the waiting list pretty quickly though. The service is really good even though they get super busy. The atmosphere is kinda like a b&b. Laid back, but you won’t feel silly if you go dressed up. There is indoor seating and outdoor seating, both are good options.

Here’s my first Unilocal review ever– it goes to Marstons!
I had to write a review to compliment the service at this restaurant. I called the day before with a reservation for a party of 20. Hard to do at a place this busy! I spoke with Natalie and she was very accommodating. Upon arriving half of our party was running 10 minutes late so Natalie and I agreed to give the table to waiting guests– not a problem at all. The rest of my party happened to walk in 5 minutes later and were still seated at original table and orders were taken and delivered immediately.
Everyone was extremely happy with the service and food quality (good portion sizes and mimosas here). Major kudos to our server Marti! She handled all of us with ease and grace– cannot say enough good things about her. Natalie checked on us as we were headed out and that (on top of the rest of the morning’s happenings) confirmed that we made a great brunch decision!
Ps a lot of us ordered different style omelettes (Californian, serendipity, Denver) and we were all enjoying our meals– so we recommend them!
We WILL be back soon, maybe I can recruit enough people to fill the place next time haha.

food is just ok, it used to be really good, and I liked it, but lately, it’s just seem to be not what it used to be. Lots of servers, but wasn’t quite what I was used to in the past. HOpe to give it another try in the future though.

Food wasn’t that great… or maybe my expectations where high because of all the great reviews. Ordered the eggs and bacon. the bacon strips were small and thin and scrambled eggs were watery. Wait is long on a weekend morning, we waited for about an hour. Definitely not worth the wait… maybe their other dishes are better. Parking in lot next to shop.

Well, it started out ok and then crash landing. The food came out quick and piping hot, just the way I like it. Then FML, if hiding under the potatoes I didn’t find a couple of hairs just marinating. I don’t recall asking for a side of hair. Meal killed, now I’m left hungry and apparently, I just had breakfast.

Ummm I guess I’m confused on why this place has raving reviews. If this is one of the top breakfast spots in Pasadena, it looks like I’ll have to skip brunching in my new city.
Was really excited to try the food. We got the French Toast and California omelette. The French Toast had no flavor and the syrup reminded me of that cheap Sysco stuff they’d give us in the cafeteria in elementary school. The omelette was super bland and left much to be desired.
Would’ve been 2 stars, but our server was nice and pleasant.

I came in around 1030 am on a Friday.
First impression:
It looks like someone’s home from the outside, complete with front porch. It feels really out of place, considering the neighboring places. Right at the bottom of the porch steps, there’s a sign-​up list and chairs to wait. I only waited about 5 minutes before I was called in. The serving area is small and cramped with both indoor and outdoor porch seating. The art hung on the walls near my table were quoted as $ 400-​$ 700. Fancy~.
Service:
We were directed to our seats by a man, then a lady came to take our drink orders. Shortly after, the man came back to take our drink orders. I guess they don’t have an organized section for each server, which I guess is good since we temporarily got twice the attention. For the most part, they left us alone once we got our food. I’d see them walking around with eyes alert and water pitchers in hand, but we never needed anything. I have no complaints with the service.
Food:
I ordered the 4 pc macadamia nut pancakes with a side of special potatoes and a small orange juice. My buddy got the salmon benedict and a small cranberry juice.
I really wanted to like my food, but I wasn’t feeling it. The macadamia nuts weren’t working with the pancakes. I forced myself to eat half and threw in the towel. The special potatoes had onions and bell peppers mixed in. They looked good overall, and the potatoes were cooked perfectly through. Unfortunately, it wasn’t seasoned at all. I threw on my own salt and pepper, and it was still bland. I was very disappointed with my food.
My buddy, on the other hand, loved her salmon benedict. It came with special potatoes, and she agreed that they were very plain.
We took our leftovers home and gave it to my brother. He agreed with both of us. The salmon benedict was good, but the pancakes «makes you sad every time you take a bite» and «you need to kill the potatoes in ketchup to eat it».
Prices:
I can’t believe that my end total, with tax and tip, came out to just under $ 50. Yes, I got macadamia nuts and my buddy got salmon, but $ 50?!? It just wasn’t worth it.
Overall:
Based on my food alone, I wouldn’t come back. My buddy liked her food, but won’t come back because of the prices.

If drinking and driving was not such a dangerous and illegal affair, Pasadena would surely be home to the «Craftsman» drinking game (i.e. spot a bungalow, take one shot… spot a bungalow converted into an office, take two shots.) The Greene and Greene style is ubiquitous here, and classically Southern Californian, unfortunately disappearing from much of Los Angeles. Luckily, there’s the bubble world of Pasadena, where the art of the craft continues to thrive and influence the community’s sense of itself and its future. There’s something comforting about a place that doesn’t change.
Marston’s rests just north of Old Town Pasadena, and is one of those places that will probably never die. Known for breakfast, and possessing a nice long line every Sunday, it is a local mainstay — known for its carby goodness, it’s kind and friendly service, and its old California atmosphere.
I find myself here on occasion — usually when class is canceled for the morning and I have nothing else to do. It is then that I will work my way over to the front stoop of this little cottage set amidst an office district and seek out my one and only desire: the cornflake encrusted french toast. Yes, I’m jumping onto the bandwagon, and for good reason. It is one of the yummiest things I have ever tasted on its own, and the crunchy layer that ensconces the fluffy egg drenched artery clogger is so wonderfully worth it that there really is no other choice for me. That said, the omelets that pass by on occasion (as mentioned by Angie and others) are beautiful sights to behold.
The interior, decorated with artwork and photographs that call to mind the artistic heritage of Old Pasadena, is a small and cozy thing — unable to handle the weekend crowds but more than capable to handle the small groups that descend upon it during the weekday breakfast sessions. The clientele is professional and busy — mainly single diners answering emails and reading newspapers before heading into work. The waitresses are similarly committed to their jobs — being friendly and welcoming without being overbearing or overly conversational, though if you get them going you’ll find yourself wrapped up in one.
Lunch is on my list sometime. But given my time in Pasadena is limited to a few more weeks, I’m not sure that will happen. However, even when the time comes to leave, Marston’s will still remain my go-​to breakfast place whenever I find myself in the San Gabriel Valley area again.

Ehhhhhh that’s basically my feeling of my whole experience at this place
It’s very cute and intimate I’ll give you that. That whole place had a very homely feel to it. Which was nice. But other than that nothing was too great.
Parking sucked. The tiniest little parking lot ever. That hold a max of maybe 8 – 10 cars.
If you’re a big party. Prepare to wait a while for seating. Since it’s such a small establishment.
Food wise. Coffee sucked. I got the macadamia nut pancake. It’s definitely loaded with macadamia nut. But the pancake itself had no flavor. And no fluffiness to it.
Would I return? Never. But hey I’m just a picky coffee person. But I feel like if you’re a legit breakfast place. Your coffee should be good.

I’ve been to Marston’s for brunch on the weekends before (two thumbs up for the corn flake french toast) and it is not fun. It’s really crowded and they turn table over slowly. But on the weekdays, I find it pleasant for lunch, even if it is a tad expensive. They have a great Cordiera Salad with greens, crunchy breaded and fried chicken, olives, tomatoes, and a secret San Pasqual dressing that’s a slightly sweet and tart vinaigrette. I’ve also enjoyed a flank steak sandwich with chimichurri sauce, but not the tri tip, which was too greasy. Also, if you’re not afraid of cheesy breads, their cheesy popovers are pretty tasty.

Came here for breakfast before a meeting. Lots of good options for breakfast and overall nice atmosphere. Ordered the huevos rancheros which were a bit heavy on the black beans. Friends ordered the pancakes and eggs Benedict which they seemed to enjoy. Solid option if you are in the Pasadena area.

Unremarkable, but just fine if you want a classic, stodgy, American breakfast.
Eggs benedict, omelettes and other such are all here. It’s very popular, so chances are it’s not for me.
If you like the American classics of breakfast, and in a diner-​like environment, this is for you.
I had an eggs benedict which was ok, but easy to forget. Seemed a little heavy on the sauces /​oils.
I probably won’t come again, but only because the food is ok at best for me.

Came with Unilocal friend Miss Laine C. for a brunch catch up. Marston’s is just a little off of Old Town Pasadena. The fun thing about Unilocal friends is that your guys’ bookmark list becomes one gigantic one with even more places to visit when you hang!
FOOD: Brunch time!
Fantastic French Toast– Crunchy from the cornflakes, sweet from the syrup, & fresh from the mixed berries! Beautiful plate and filling dish! Kind of wish I ordered a glass of milk with this. Even with the crunch, Marston’s still delivered a fluffy French toast and it indeed was fantastic.
Florentine Benedict– Had to have the savory with the sweet! Tastes exactly as you think if you know what a Benedict tastes like. But personally, I feel it lacked flavor. The spinach & avocado were great but the hollandaise was a bit plain for me. Perhaps the other benedicts like the pulled pork or salmon may pack in more flavor. Also, it is just as filling, if not a little more.
Side Potatoes– Mm. Good potatoes. However, not my favorite. But not bad. Much chunkier than others. So if you & a friend are sharing, just know side potatoes already come with most dishes, no need to order extra!
Heads up:
— You might just want to stick to street parking for this one, guys. Marston’s lot is a shared lot & is such an unnecessary hassle to get out of! If you go in with no luck, you will get out with even crappier luck. Longest 3-​point turn around ever. Such a crammed parking lot!
OVERALL, Marston’s wasn’t the most memorable brunch spot. Nothing stood out enough to have me wanting to come back right away BUT it’s a good first time taster.

Marston’s is a quaint local breakfast and lunch spot. Their pancakes and French Toast are some of the best I have tasted. I had the Works which is French Toast covered in Corn Flakes & served with fresh berries and cream. It had a crunchy crust and soft center. Their pancakes are light and flavorful. Their potions are generous so share and enjoy. Btw, they have a kids menu for the little ones.
Service was attentive and very good even though they were busy this morning. Come before 9am to avoid the long line.

Marstons is a Pasadena family favorite. I’ve been coming here since I was a teenager. This restaurant is so cute and looks just like a little house! Being that it’s so popular, it can get really busy. The busiest time to go is breakfast time. The breakfast is especially good. However, dinner is equally good too. They even have special holiday menus. I went for Valentine’s day one year. They’re prefixe menu was great ! Service is good too in-​spite of the tiny quarters. Never had a problem.
My recommendations for breakfast are the Cornflake French toast and the macadamia nut pancakes … OMG ! So good ! You can’t go wrong with those two.

I am always a big brunch fan and thought I’d stop by Marston’s after seeing their french toast pictures on Unilocal.I came here on a Saturday morning (your very typical and popular day for brunching) amd to my surprise, only a 7 minute wait! My boyfriend and I opted to sit outside because of the wonderful weather.
Enviroment — the restaurant is located in what looks like an old house and was converted to be used as a restaurant. The building is blue and totally looks like something from Gilmore Girls or something like that. You have options of sitting inside which has a good amount of dining, and then outside where you’ll be on the porch. Either way, you’ll feel right at home.
Service — everyone here is so dang nice! The hostest who was seating people always had a smile on her face. And what I noticed about every one who works here is that they’re always willing to open the door for anything and everyone! Such nice people. They also come around an APPROPRIATE ammount of times to ask if you were «enjoying the meal» and whatnots.
Food —
1) Fantastic French Toast — I had to get this after having seen pictures of it and it completely reminded me of the french toast from Blue Jam… so Of course I had to get it! I had some fresh fruits added on top of the toasts. I wish that this dish was a little bit sweeter though. the flakes were not sweet and the toast itself was a little bit dry. However, I believe it did taste better after dipping it in the maple syrup provided.
2) Calfornia Omeltte — I think Marston’s has one of the better omelettes in the Pasadena area. The eggs themselves were really soft and fluffy and it was also packed with ingredients. There was a generous amount of avocado on top and the sour cream was a ncie (somewhat uncessary) touch. If you were to eat lunch here,
If you were to get brunch here, I would suggest you get a sweet dish as well as a savory dish. There are plenty of sweet ones to choose from such as pancakes and french toasts. Then, of course, tons of savory to choose from.
Come here! It’s a cute place to go and the wait is not that long. I promise.

Came here a while back for breakfast with my cousin and I really enjoyed the french toast! I decided to come back and give this place a try again, but I came a little too late for breakfast.
We were given the lunch menu, and I ordered the smoked salmon sandwich. The sandwich itself is very tasty but I forgot to order no mustard. The mustard was a little overkill and overpowered the flavors going on. It was my fault for not ordering it without, as it was stated on the menu that it was a key ingredient. The club sandwich was also very good but again, the Dijon mustard was too much for me.
Oh yeah! and beware, there can be a LONG wait. Especially for Sunday Brunch– I think we waited about an hour but it was worth it!

The boyfriend and I did not intend to eat here, but our first pick was about a two hour wait for breakfast.
PARKING
I think they have their own parking lot on the back, but it is very small. We parked afar in one of the parking structures and took a ten minute walk over.
INTERIOR/​EXTERIOR
Look for the adorable, small looking house converted into a restaurant. Exterior of the place is adorable. It has a welcoming flair — maybe because it looks like someone’s actual house. It seems to be a regular occurrence that a crowd is waiting outside for breakfast or lunch. We waited a little less than an hour.
There are outdoor patio tables which is a great alternative if you adore the California sunshine. We were seated inside which I was very happy about because of the air conditioning! Unfortunately, this happiness did not last very long. We sat by the wall, near the back corner. Whatever it was — I am guessing electric box outside — there was a soft vibration and buzzing that was very distracting and uncomfortable during the meal.
MENU
This place is a nice place for breakfast, but I can’t say I will be back. Don’t let the beautiful pictures fool you — while the food will make your mouth drool, it looks prettier than it taste.
The boyfriend and I had omelettes in mind for breakfast. I ordered The Californian omelette which came with chicken, small bits of sausage, spinach, tomato, cheddar cheese, and topped with avocado, and sour cream. I can tell you that there was way too much cheddar cheese layered below the sour cream — and I am not a big fan of cheese. The boyfriend ordered The Denver, which came with ham, onions, pepper and cheddar cheese as well. Both plates came with a side of potatoes, which may be a little under cooked and very greasy brown. We also had a side of toast with our order, which unfortunately, I did not care very much for.
SERVICE
Nice people, nothing much to comment on. It looks tough carrying the heavy plates, but maybe I just have weak arms.

Amazing Breakfast spot so close to home in Pasadena! We live only down the street and found this place in a building that looks like a house– I wonder if that qualifies as «homey»?
Came here for their Fantastic French Toast (heard great things about it) which was good. It didn’t really have any special flavors but did have a nice texture with a crispy outside. We also got their omelette which was nice, but nothing especially great.
The real winner was actually one of the things we took a chance on– their pulled pork egg Bennedict. The pulled pork was flavorful but not too oily or salty like most pulled pork entrees. The egg was also cooked perfectly with delicious potatoes on the side!

Is it customary to tack on a 20% gratuity for a table of 2?
It’s a good thing my boyfriend was paying because I may not have caught the extra $ 8 the server took for herself. We compared the amount owed to what was swiped and there wasn’t any explanation for the additional charge. I wanted to point that out to the server, but the boyfriend didn’t think it was a big deal. Still, that was a pretty generous tip she gave herself.
As for the food: I tried the Works, which is the signature cornflake-​crusted French toast with the addition of strawberries, blueberries, pecans, (they weren’t caramelized like advertised on the menu) and whip cream. The French toast was decent. The cornflake crust was a bit stale, so I had to drown it in syrup. I called ahead of time to see about the popovers, but they were out by the time we got there. The boyfriend loved his smoked salmon benedict.
Prior to getting the bill, we were pretty happy with the food and service. And discussed what we would try the next time, but that $ 8 surcharge really killed it for me.