This place needs serious help in Kitchen. I have given 1 star for food , probably would give half a star if there was an option .service guy way trying hard but missed the mark every single time . Ambience gets 5 star. This place is neatly done and in a very nice area , but they probably need a new chef or completely purge the kitchen and the menu . Gol happy way too salty, kebabs had Zero salt, Biryani was like a left over rice done with left over chicken by a 6 yr old ; allu gobi was mushed up with too much salt , paneer was not even cooked with onion and was awful; even plan rice was very bad . Water was Saratoga , that is why they get 1 star. read more

Beautiful atmosphere and delicious food! The Chicken Tika Bowl and Tendoori Wings were the best. Also, staff are fast and friendly. Definitely a place to consider when in Pasadena. read more

Chak De California - Indian Near Me - Pasadena, California

So far I've only tried the Navratan Korma, which is a veggie stew on rice . It's one of the best I've had , a not the "run of the mill" version so common at other Indian restaurants. It had finely chopped veggies and tofu , was so tasty and unique! Grant , my server was great , knew the menu well and took me thru it . I'm looking forward to returning and trying other items! read more

Chak De California - Main dining room , there's also a separate bar - Indian Near Me - Pasadena, California

Friendly service, but definitely worth seeking out! Must-order: Daal makhani, any of the curries, keema pav. Can skip the Frankie. read more

First time I've been here. It's relatively new. Good happy hour and tasty food. I'll come back to try more. Friendly service.

Meh. Ambiance is nice, good decor, spacious seating, no rush. This is the main plus. Food was over salted but okay - but lots of other good Indian in the area, so no need to settle for just okay -but maybe a good option if in Old Town. Service was slow and not acceptable - I had to get up and ask a waiter most of the time when I needed something. Also, fyi, overheard another customer having an issue with the restaurant with InKind (sounds like the restaurant doesn't accept it). Fine in a pinch (and if you aren't in a rush or with young children), but better options are out there. read more

Ambiance was lovely - definitely the most beautiful Indian restaurant decor I've ever dined within (great for a date night). Service was top-notch - he was very professional & polite. Food - everything was delicious & flavorful (but then again, I absolutely LOVE all Indian food) Overall - we will definitely come back & recommend to our friends who also love Indian food. read more

Such a nice ambience and delicious food! For appetizers my boyfriend and I had the samosas and miked pakoras. To drink we had the mango lassi and a chai. Both so delicious. Atticus, our server, was super helpful and attentive, often checking on us. Gave the great recommendation of the chicken korma with jeera rice at a 3 spice level and it was delicious. Right amount of spice to make my nose runny just how I like it. Will be coming back! read more

I've been on the hunt for great Indian food for 7 years here in LA. This is by far the best Indian food in town! Staff is extremely friendly, saw them helping a disabled individual when they were in trouble. Grant recommends great choices for food as well-the indo Chinese chili paneer is chefs kiss. For the vibes and ambience, quality of food, AND service this is more than reasonably priced. Please give this places a shot-will be a repeat costumer. read more

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Food was beautiful and service was great. Restaurant was very nice as well. I'm not an expert on Indian food but what we ordered was very nice. Chicken tikka masala. read more

5 stars - Absolutely obsessed! This place is a gem in Pasadena Just had an incredible dinner at Chak De California on Colorado Blvd, and I'm still thinking about every bite! The restaurant has such a cool, modern vibe--beautiful decor, great energy, and perfect for a fun night out in Old Pasadena. We started with the Gol Gappa Shots--these were an absolute highlight! Crispy, flavorful, and bursting with that tangy-spicy goodness. The presentation was fun and creative; they really nail that fusion twist the place is known for. For mains, the Palak (spinach, mild) was rich, creamy, and perfectly seasoned--super fresh and not overly heavy. Paired it with the Chicken Tikka Masala (mild), which was hands-down one of the best I've had. Tender chicken, silky sauce with just the right balance of spices and tomato richness--flavorful without being overwhelming. We asked for mild on both, and it was spot-on. Couldn't skip the Garlic Naan--fluffy, buttery, garlicky perfection that we used to mop up every last bit of sauce. And the Mango Lassi was refreshing and sweet, the ideal cooler to everything. Server Shubh K was friendly, attentive, and made great recommendations--service felt personal and welcoming. Everything came out hot and timed perfectly. This spot reimagines Indian classics with a California flair, and it works so well. If you're craving elevated Indian food in a stylish setting, run (don't walk) to Chak De California. We'll definitely be back--maybe next time to try more of their fusion items! Highly recommend--5/5 stars all around. Chak de! read more

I must share this with you all, though I'm fully aware it might result in a shortage of samosas . But Chak-De is simply too delicious, too fresh, and too perfect--whether for groups or a night out with your love (as I did)--to keep to myself. Chak-De took over another restaurant on Colorado Boulevard, one that wasn't exactly bringing life or vibrancy to the already established Old Town Pasadena. As locals, my partner and I often survey the neighborhood for new and exciting places to eat. With Indian cuisine being a staple in our home, we're not exactly the easiest to impress. From San Diego to London, New York to Barcelona, we've enjoyed Indian food around the world and even cook it regularly at home. So, when we found ourselves eagerly awaiting Chak-De's arrival, all we could do was pray it would live up to our hopes. Prayers answered! The samosas were delightful--perfectly fried (neither greasy nor doughy) with impeccably balanced flavors. The tandoori wings were charred to perfection, tender, and served with an in-house chipotle sauce that was the ideal companion to the juicy, flavorful meat. Speaking of "in-house," the natural watermelon mocktail we tried could put any cocktail to shame. Two mocktails later, I was refreshed and ready for another bite of their heavenly spices. Lastly, we had the Korma, which was nothing short of a warm, comforting hug in meal form. The fresh ingredients, tender chicken, and sauce were so flavorful that my paratha couldn't help but wipe the bowl clean. While the food was phenomenal and satisfied our deep craving for amazing Indian cuisine, a restaurant is nothing without the people who bring it to life. From the moment we walked in, every member of the Chak-De team--from the hosts to the chefs, and even the husband-and-wife duo who brought this gem to Pasadena--made us feel welcome. They greeted us warmly, asked for feedback, and shared their passion and joy with us. It was truly heartwarming. And as if that wasn't enough, the evening was made even better by a live DJ and a drummer. The energy was infectious as guests got up to dance around the drummer, who joined in with equal enthusiasm. It felt like we were part of a vibrant family celebration. Chak-De isn't just in the business of serving the best Indian food in Pasadena--it's in the business of creating experiences. Thank you for a wonderful Saturday night and the perfect start to the holiday season! See you very soon! read more

What a great, fun and friendly place this is. We arrived at 6:30pm on a Saturday and were seated right away. It was filling up fast so I'm glad we arrived when we did. Our server Jessica was awesome. She recommended some great Indian beers and a vegetarian dish for my wife. The Tandoori chicken I ordered was so flavorful and the portion was huge with rice on the side. We had 2 appetizers that were delicious. We hardly had room for the Indian dessert which I believe is made from a family recipe by the owner Amar. The owners Jesse and Amor visited our table and were super friendly and attentive. But that's not all later the Indian music starts with a light show!! We had a great time left stuffed and we will surely be back. read more

Everything I tried was a 10 out of 10! The service was also really good. The inside is very clean and the aesthetic is really nice as well. I would definitely recommend read more

Food and service was amazing! The flavors were authentic and very flavorful. We ordered an assortment of dishes and each dish was tasty. I would say the best Indian food I've had in a long time. Our server was also very friendly and helpful in making recommendations. Definitely will be back again! read more

Chak De California - Indian Near Me - Pasadena, California

Wow We had walked by several times and meaning to try it out and today we went in the food is fabulous It's non-traditional, Indian Fusion, but flavors and textures are out of this world read more

My wife and I came here spontaneously on a grey, chilly Saturday evening looking to warm ourselves up with some hearty North Indian cuisine. The menu was pleasantly electic, drawing from classic Punjabi favorites, chaat, Mumbai street food and Indo-Chinese. They also offered a wine list and Indian soft drink classics Limca and Thums Up. The atmosphere was great with bustling tables full of families and couples, a not-too-loud pulsing Bollywood soundtrack, and warm and attentive service from our waiter Reuben. We ordered the dahi puri, lamb frankie, chicken tikka masala, dal makhani and garlic naan. The standout was the dal makhani and garlic naan, with the lamb frankie also making a strong showing. Unfortunately the chicken tikka masala was too runny for our tastes, though the chicken was well done the gravy lacked the depth of flavor or richness that a good chicken tikka masala has. The dahi puri was decent but $14 for six pieces wasn't worth it. The owners have clearly put in a lot of passion into the food, ambience and service - they even came around to the tables to check in on the guests. Definitely worth visiting again, and would possibly order the other Punjabi and tandoori items on the menu. read more

I've been to Chak De California a couple of times, and overall it's a really solid spot if you're looking for something flavorful but still casual and easygoing. What stood out to me the most was just how good everything tasted without feeling too heavy. I don't remember every single item I tried, but I do remember that the food had a nice balance--it wasn't overly spicy, oily, or overwhelming. Everything just felt well put together and enjoyable to eat. I also want to give credit to the chef because you can tell there's real effort put into keeping the flavors authentic. Even with a more modern style, the food still has that genuine taste to it, which isn't always easy to pull off. It doesn't feel watered down or overly adjusted--it still respects where the flavors come from. The vibe of the place also adds to the experience. It's pretty relaxed, not too formal, so it's easy to just go in, order, and enjoy your food without overthinking it. Good spot for hanging out or grabbing a quick meal. Overall, even without remembering every detail of what I ordered, I can say I left satisfied both times. It's the kind of place you'd go back to, which says a lot on its own. read more

Great atmosphere, great food, great service, lovely place!!! Recommend for a date or night with friends.

Best Indian food in the area, with excellent presentation and super friendly staff. The highlight was the Gobi Manchurian but everything is great. Wonderful ambiance too. Please try this spot. read more

Such a beautiful place with amazing service and absolutely delicious food! Could not recommend more. Friday and Saturday nights there is a dj and dancing. Such a fun concept!!! Roberto was such an amazing bartender with such an amazing attitude! Will definitely be coming back! read more

First off the ambience was simply perfect for a date night. Our waiter Grant was very friendly and helpful in explaining the menu and offered suggestions as to what he thought we might like. Absolutely everything was freshly made and delicious! We have to come back to try other dishes on the menu because EVERYTHING we ate melted in our mouths! We Highly Highly Recommended Chak-De!!!!! You will not be disappointed read more

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Party of two. Had the lamb vindaloo, the chicken tikka and garlic naan. Very happy with our meal. Excited to come back and try more on the menu. read more

Chak De California - Indoor - Indian Near Me - Pasadena, California

I to say that the original DJ - DJ EuropaOza - spun from December to February - did a stellar job, especially with bringing in a multitude of talents to really add to the ambiance of this place (tabla, Dhol, dancing). Really hope that he can come back and rock the house again soon this summer! The food is pretty solid and the bartenders / waiters are truly excellent people. read more

The staff is very kind and the food had such a great flavor. Portions were also excellent, will be enjoying the left overs tomorrow as well read more

Chak De California - Chicken tikka masala and mango lassi - Indian Near Me - Pasadena, California

Indian fusion food there samosa and tandori wings are out of this world service was amazing fast ontime and the ambiance was so nice didn't look like a indian restaurant will definitely be back read more

Amazing food, ambience and Service The waitress Maria and the other waiters are really really kind friendly and exercise very patient. We were a party of 17 and we kept changing our order and confusing them even then they were so patient so nice and they gave us such good advice. Excellent food - we have people in our party with gluten-free and vegan diets. They customize it to our liking and just overall an extremely wonderful restaurant. We had the paneer tacos with corn tortillas, which were excellent. Gobi Manchurian was really really good. read more

Delicious food and a sophisticated atmosphere. Friendly staff as well. Great date place or just a simple lunch.

The worst biryani I ever had. They definitely don't know how to cook and give a bad name to Indian cuisine. Over priced for the quality of food. Biriyani was microwaved with plain white rice (not basmati). Rice was watery. To suppress bad taste they threw a whole lot of raw onions on it. This establishment needs to close down immediately. read more

Excellent food we had the sampler, chicken tikka masala dal makhani several types of man roti and Grant our waiter was excellent. Will be back soon. read more

The place is spacious clean and staff very helpful and attentive. Most importantly the food is delicious. My husband and I got a chicken korma, garlic naan and lamb naan wrap. The meat was so tender and flavorful. Everything was great, and portions are generous. We loved it and will be back! read more

Chak De California - Chicken korma, Lamb naan wrap, and garlic naan in the distance - Indian Near Me - Pasadena, California

Walked in to a fragrance of thier food - absolutely delightful - greeted by a waiter who was pleasant and kind. Food was fantastic and priced right - smack in the middle of Pasadena and on Colorado blvd. A must have for all that love Indian food. read more

Chak De California - Kitchen - Indian Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Excellent authentic food and impeccable service Loved the decor and Indian art pieces read more

I was cautiously optimistic about Chak-De's opening. A brightly-colored logo and a lounge with a DJ? Pass. But a potentially great Indian food spot in an area of Pasadena dotted with athleisure stores and chain restaurants that isn't widely known for its food options? I'll play. I stopped in to Chat-De to satisfy a Tuesday afternoon craving for spicy chicken curry and the food and ambiance both were solid. I've eaten Indian food throughout the LA area and this was actually some of the very best I've had. The curry was spicy and flavorful and the naan was hot, airy, and a little crisp. The service was friendly and attentive and I didn't feel at all rushed. The restaurant's space is cool and surprisingly large--I'm hoping to park my family at one of the large booths by the windows one evening soon. Thrilled to have this one in the neighborhood and looking forward to my next visit! read more

This is a new Indian restaurant that opened in October. The restaurant is beautifully decorated. The dj (only on saturdays for now) was great. Great music and you can still hear people talk. The food was solid. I personally loved the gol gappa, dahi chat, and the rose kulfi. Great wine selection as well. read more

Great new restaurant in Pasadena. Our server was Harshill, he gave us great service, food quality is very good. Clean modern restaurant. The appetizer platter was superb, tandoori fish excellent. Desserts were great too. Must try, we will go again soon read more

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Rarely have I gone into a restaurant with so much excitement and left feeling so deeply disappointed. 1) ambiance is 10/10 - beautiful aesthetics 2) food: 2/10. unfortunately, this is where they drop their standards. I ordered a paneer dish and it hardly had any flavor at all (and hardly any paneer). We also ordered a chicken dish which had 0 seasonings (they even forgot to put the salt in). The kulfi came frozen to the point the plastic spoon snapped trying to break it. So disappointed. If you are looking for good Indian cuisine, this restaurant misses the mark. read more

Went in early in the afternoon and we were lucky the kitchen was open. It was our first time at the Chak. The food was delicious, a perfect blend of spices and hot spice. Yes, will go back and recommend it. read more

The interior and ambience is great. We went on a Saturday night and the place was empty. ordered a couple of starters and few dishes from the main course. The food is just OK. They forgot to bring in one of the dishes I ordered. No big deal. The service was ok as well. read more

delicious food and very welcoming staff! great for vegetarians. very beautiful place too.