Behind Bars

What a hidden gem!! Behind Bars is a super fun little speakeasy tucked away in an excellent location in Mills Alley (Old Pasadena). Met the girls for happy hour and had a lovely time!! Our bartender, Lou, was such a delight - so attentive and helpful and even made me a delicious mocktail not found on the menu! My mocktail didn’t have a name but it had grenadine, pineapple juicy, cherries, and I’m not sure what else but it was light, refreshing, and not too sweet - it’s like Lou read my mind! Flawless! Our group also tried the Purple People Eater, Moon Rocks, and Don’t Be A Prick. Every drink is beautifully presented - and everyone loved them all except the Purple People Eater. It’s a vibrant ube-forward drink - but the "ube beer" made it kinda strange (according to my friend) - didn’t seem like a good choice for a carbonated drink (should be more creamy with the ube maybe?). But they have a dizzying selection of liquor choices and plenty of beers on tap. No doubt something for everyone. They also have a small food menu and share the quaint courtyard with the restaurant next door - so you can chill inside at the bar or tables or enjoy Al fresco seating out there. They’re right in the thick of Mills Alley too so if you hit it right, the live music from the alley drifts in and adds to the chill vibes. Prices seem to be on par for the area (moderate). The entrance is very nondescript and almost easy to miss (there’s no sign on the building) but google maps takes you right to it. There are several parking garages in the area - I parked at the DeLacey garage one block over for two hours for only $1. The area is very walkable with lots of restaurants and shops. Excellent place to meet up with the crew…So great to see my gals - tysm to Lou for helping us have a blast!!

Behind the Bars is one of my favorite spots in Pasadena! Tucked away just enough to feel like a secret, but always full of life. The coffee is solid, the cocktails are creative, and the atmosphere feels like a chill blend of industrial charm and local soul. What really sets this place apart? Live music on the weekends. Whether it’s a jazz trio or an indie acoustic set, the energy is amazing without being overwhelming — perfect for a date night or just unwinding with friends. Bonus points for the outdoor seating and super friendly staff. Definitely a spot to keep in your weekend rotatio

Bartender threw a fit and tried to get my Vespa towed without asking? I luckily caught it and talked with the "Pasadena guide"calling it in, who was very surprised I was so cooperative?? I simply moved it across the alleyway.. I apparently parked Infront of the building but It was off to the side, (I’m very considerate where I park) And he was pretty pissed about it saying it was blocking access or could ruin his door or something random… even the guide was a little surprised it was getting called in. Sorry but I’m not going to patronize a spot that over-reacts for something so minuscule and out to get costumers patronizing their businesses. Also, it’s a scooter bro. I was out on the patio thinking they were admiring the atmosphere it brought, but ok Karen. even the guy taking a smoke talked to him and said he liked how it looked and it didn’t seem to be bothering anyone, but he insisted it was parked illegally and didn’t care how cool it looked. ‍♂️ i think I actually caught him during a random video I had taken. (Attached), I didn’t like that attitude so will probably not even try the spot out or recommend. Honestly go next door, theyre much nicer and also have live music.

Waited around town for this to open and had a grand time getting to know lou. Most down to earth bartender out there plus it seems like a blow off steam place for other surrounding bartenders. Don't be discouraged lou takes care of everyone as professional as a top notch bartender. Highly recommend the liquid metal strong pours and clean tap lines. Bogo beers on happy hour is a neat treat as well

This bar is a hidden gem. We stumbled across this bar while heading to another bar and we are glad we did. The drinks are so good, and the food is SO TASTY. We havent had anything we havent liked. The Karaage Don is our favorite. ALSO, Lou is AH-MAZING. From the very first time we came here, he has been top-notch ever since. A great personality, great conversation, and overall awesome individual. He takes pride in taking care of his customers and his bar. Thanks Lou for always making our experience great.

Great little cocktail place. Bartender was very knowledgeable and explained the drinks to us. Drinks are reasonably priced and very very well mixed. The espresso martini was incredible.

wow that other guy is really obsessed with his scooter