The Vertical Wine Bistro
This wine-centric restaurant is the brain child of film producer Gale Anne Hurd, known for films like the Terminator trilogy and Aliens. The guiding concept behind the Vertical Wine Bistro is that the wine is the centerpiece of the meal. Small plates created by Executive Chef Sara Levine are teamed with wines chosen by Sommelier Scott Teruya. It's a winning combination.
The first thing you notice when you arrive is the unique architecture and design of the space. It's dominated by rich brown earth tones offset by rippling soft-white light drifting down from a unique sculptured light fixture in the ceiling. The hustle and bustle of Old Pasadena vanishes the instant you walk through the door.
The Wall of Wine
One entire wall of the dining room is taken up with an enormous wine rack displaying some of the restaurant's impressive wine collection. It wraps the wine into the architectural structure of the space itself and enhances the atmosphere of the room.
The Food
The small plates brought to life by Chef Levine are simply wonderful. The training she earned in the kitchens of Aubergine, Zax and the Opus Bar & Grill has come to fruition in her current position. Plan your meal from the top. Pick out several different dishes and wines that will bring out the best of each selection. Quiz your server for suggestions. They are ready if you need a helping hand.
Vertical in Brief
Don't Miss Dishes
- Spicy Olives & Toasted Almonds
- Serrano Ham & Peaches
- Date Poppers
- Sauteed Jumbo Prawns
Grilled Polenta Tartine
The All Day Long Pulled Pork is a must. It comes with a grilled polenta tartine, triple cream and prunes. It's rich, light, creamy and gone way too fast if you can't avoid gulping it down in two bites.
The Wine
Sommelier Teruya has created groups of wine flights that offer great cross-sections of some of their best wines. If you're not sure what to order, ask your server to help match a wine flight to your meal. Check and see if the sommelier is on duty if you want to get some detailed information on your wine.
Be Your Own Wine Critic
You can take notes on the wines you've tasted and the restaurant will keep them on file until your next visit. It's a great way to zero in on your favorites.
Pre Theater Prix Fixe
Arrive before 6:45pm to take advantage of the two or three course Prix Fixe menu.
The Bar
The bar caters to a crowd that loves sports and wine in equal measure. It's open later and offers a late-night menu.
Pros
- Executive Chef Sara Levine
- Grilled polenta tartine
- 400+ bottle wine list
- Cool lighting and decor
Cons
- Watch your $$$$. Your bill can rack up very high, very fast.
- Street parking is next to impossible during dinner hours.
Vertical Wine Bistro Basics
- Address: 70 North Raymond Ave., Pasadena, CA 91103
- Map to Vertical
- Phone: (626) 795-3999
- Email Vertical
- Vertical Wine Bistro Website
Restaurant Hours
- Tues, Wed, Thurs: 5:30pm - 10pm
- Fri: 5:30pm - 11pm
- Sat: 5pm - 11pm
- Sun: 5pm - 10pm
- Closed Mondays
Bar Hours
- Tues, Wed, Thurs: 5pm - 11pm
- Fri: 5pm - 1am
- Sat: 4pm - 1am
- Sun: 4pm - 11pm
- Closed Mondays
