Sometimes being plain and simple can go a long way and this place has that feel right when you walk in. They aren't pretending to be some high end or snobbish place it is down and a little bit on the grunge side feel. If you are looking for a place to spend some time and chat with a few friends instead of going out to a club why not hit a local bar up. T.Boyles also serves a variety of foods, mostly fried but simply good when you are grabbing a beer. Parking and finding the door might be a little bit of an adventure but I think it is more fun that way! Came here when it wasn't crowded and had a wonderful time chatting it up with some girlfriends and catching up. Great environment if you don't want to dress up and just wear a t-shirt with some jeans is good enough. Another little hidden spot in Pasadena for you to find. Don't go in the main road...the door is next to the parking lot! read more

(Dined 07/07/14 M @ 6:00pm): Oh boy, your usual sports bar fare, but with a definite local neighborhood feel! Thanks to a Groupon deal ($20.00 of drinks/food for $12.00) that was soon to expire, I treated a buddy to some grub at T. Boyles Tavern while we caught up and planned an upcoming vacation. I'd been here only once before as I killed time before a play at the nearby Pasadena Playhouse, and I enjoyed the vibe that one visit. Unfortunately, the offer wasn't valid during their happy hour, so no extra savings this evening. So, on to the grubbing: Appetizer Sampler & Maisel's Weisse Hefeweizen Beer ($9.75 + $6.00 [2]) - A basket filled with an assortment of buffalo wings, fries, jalapeno poppers, mozzarella sticks and onion rings, there honestly wasn't anything special that stood out about each of these sports bar staples. All was steaming hot and perfect for sharing. If I had to choose a favorite (or two), the jalapeno poppers and onion rings made the list. [ONION RINGS/STRAWS/STRINGS ALERT - 3.0 OF 5 STARS] The onion rings were good sized but no sweet Maui onions were harmed to make these. The jalapeno poppers were spicy hot and thick, and were best eaten as-is. The hefeweizen had a light smooth body with a clean crisp finish, and perfectly drawn from a tap. My first time to try, I wanted to search for it in stores so I can enjoy a 6-pack! http://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=tSeRcm1_FYOMESC2bLMNpg&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw Street Tacos - Carne Asada, Chicken ($1.50 ea.) - Each was packed with meat and very little else, along with two types of salsas. Be prepared to have some napkins as you're gauranteed to spill some fillings after each bite! http://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=rMJsMxCbHph48bkBaZLoZQ&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw Service - When we first arrived, it was unusually slow for a happy hour so we sat ourselves anywhere in the joint. There was only one frendly female employee who covered the place from hostess, bartender and server. She greeted us immediately, got us menus and was ready to take our orders. Once placed, she got our drinks quickly while out food took a bit longer...but no worries since we weren't going anywhere. As it got busier, she was still attentive and filled our water glases. The only blemish was that we had to ask for our check at the bar which really wasn't a big deal. Good job for doing it solo! Parking (free) - It appeared they had their own private parking but couldn't tell if it was free or not. Otherwise, I parked on a nearby side street which was free after 6pm daily. Of course, there was also metered parking along the main drag of nearby Colorado Blvd. as well as paid parking structures everywhere in walking distance. Atmosphere, décor, ambience - A cozy local sports bar that had two levels, a tiny stage, two pool tables, a jukebox and I believed a dartboard. There were mainly tall tables tightly placed together throughout and a decent-sized bar. Expect the usual alcohol and sports items hung on the walls and from the ceiling. Hardly any natural lighting as there were barely any exposed windows, but the electric lighting that was present was kept at a dimmed level. There were several TVs in every direction and as long as the coins kept dropping into the jukebox there was background music. Attire - Totally casual, so I would normally be in a t-shirt, boardshorts, and flip-flops. Overall, T. Boyles Tavern was a wonderful place to hang out, catch up with friends, and watch some games while being surrounded by neighborhood locals. I'd see myself here for happy hour ($1.00-off all tap beer and food specials Monday-Friday) and possibly trivia nights (Sunday and Tuesday), but that's about it, although they had a pretty good selection of beer both on tap an in bottles. It's not that close to me and not enough else to warrant becoming a regular. I found good value based on the prices, service, and experience noted above (total paid experience was around $27.00 before tip). Prices and food were both decent at best; again, all was rather standard to say the least. And they accepted my credit card of choice...AMEX! 3.0 STARS read more

T. Boyles Tavern - Appetizer Sampler (Buffalo Wings, Fries, Jalapeño Poppers, Mozzarella Sticks, Onion Rings) & Maisel's Weisse Hefeweizen Beer - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

After watching a game at the Rose Bowl, where else are you going to have dinner but a sports bar? So we searched Yelp and tried this place. Entrance is off an alley. Almost added to authenticity of dive-bar setting. What I didn't particularly like was having to pay for parking. I think it was $3. I never like that. Might have found street parking if we tried harder. Don't know. The bar, itself, was kind of cool. You go down some steps, really high ceilings, and dim lighting. We got the only table, which was front and center, and it was facing a large screen over a small stage. They must have entertainment on some nights. On this night, everyone had eyes glued to Dodgers vs Cubs to see which team would make it to the World Series. It was a packed house and, near as I could tell, there was only one waitress! Come on! One waitress on a Saturday night with a big game! We were be patient but she buzzed around and completely ignored us for a long time. I finally had to flag her down and ask for menus. I must say, once we got her attention she was fine. I went with the fish and chips. She brought vinegar, but only on request. The food was mediocre. The fish was crispy on outside, but the underside of batter was kind of mushy. Odd. My companion had some hot dogs, which were fine. Also, nice that by checking in, we got some free deep fried mozzarella sticks. Still, over all, can't see myself going back. read more

Not a bad place to watch a game. Kings lost which put a damper on the evening. One big screen projector. Lots of TVs. Good selection of beers on tap. If there is no game on tap, there is a shuffleboard table upstairs. We ordered food for the first time on our last visit. Started with some decent mozzarella sticks, which are free with check in and purchase of an entree. For the entree it was the peppercorn crusted burger medium rare. Came out a little overdone but it didn't matter because the meat was so full of flavor. Simple fixings on top but that's all that's needed. Fries are ok. I'm not sure if table service is offered on a frequent basis, or they don't really have a system worked out, or it's only for games? One lady started by taking our order and delivering our first beer. Then, another guy brought out our food. Beers went empty. Couldn't figure out where the lady was. Walked to the bar and filled them up. That's where the mystery was solved. She was drinking with some customers at the bar. No heads up. "My shift's over. Just head to the bar if you need anything." Interesting. The bartenders were cool on both our visits. Still a nice place for a pint or quick bite. Just sit at the bar and you'll be good. read more

T. Boyles Tavern - Mozzarella sticks (free with check in and entree) - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

Went here after a show at the Ice House. The interaction started out ok until the food came out. Our order was wrong so I pointed it out to the server. He apologized and said, " I wouldn't have f***ed up your order if I had taken it." He pointed it out to the person who took my order who interrupted me incessantly about how my order was not what I asked for. He refused to listen to me or acknowledge the error. The discussion became a bit heated when my friend jumped in with her comments on his demeanor and the incident devolved into nothing fruitful. We wound up leaving and were refunded our money. I was able to speak to the management who gave me the courtesy of listening to my complaint and encouraged me to return. If I return, it will be because of managements response to my concerns which were courteous and apologetic. Overall, not a great experience. read more

T. Boyles Tavern - View of the eating area in the tavern - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

Hidden in the outskirts of Old Town Pasadena sits an assuming bar in what looks like someone's basement. The big door man was a complete sweetheart. He doesn't scare me! T. Boyles Tavern is a super chill dive bar where you can relax and knock back a few. They have barrels scattered throughout the place with peanuts that you can pick on your own. There's a dart board, pool table, and other cool grown-up toys to play with. This is definitely a bar I'd opt for when I don't feel like going out with the hustle and bustle of Old Town a la Barney's Beanery. It doesn't get packed, you can have a nice conversation with your buddies and not have to yell over the blaring music, and the beers are cheap. I stuck to the pool table all night. Love this place! read more

This place is awesome!!! I'm not much of a "let's hang out at a bar" person, but I might have to start looking into it as a viable option for a night out with the girls because the crowd is fun here and i don't have to drive out to the West side! I had been sitting on my groupon for quite a long time (2 25 oz. beers, 2 tacos, 1 order of nachos for $10) and finally made it out here Friday night. It was already jam packed by 10pm and they had a live 80's cover band "Past Action Heroes" on stage, pumping out hits. When we first got there, we thought we would just down the beers, chow down the food quick and leave. But when we finally got seats at the bar (and probably when my buzz started to kick in a little more), we were having a great time, singing along and dancing in our chairs. There is a dance floor in front of the stage too. Their 25oz. mugs were no joke...Blue Moon was mighty tasty. Food is meh. SKIP! The bartenders there are really friendly, fast and efficient (i think one of them has a passing resemblance to JGL). 2 clean stalls in the bathroom for the ladies (very impt at a pub!). No cover. The set up of the place is really nifty, similar to a concert venue...large open space on the 1st floor, 2nd level has a balcony-like overlook to the stage. Location is a bit tricky to find: entrance is actually on Rhodes Alley, near Ice House. Parking: they have a lot ($3?), but I think it is worth it to look around for free street parking. We found a spot about 2 blocks away. read more

If you only remember one thing from this review, let it be this: THIS PLACE IS DOWN THE ALLEY. So if you see a car coming towards you, do not be afraid. Venture on, my friend. You are going the right away. I am embarrassed to say it took me over half an hour to find this place. Unfortunately, the person I was meeting failed to tell me where this 'hidden' tavern was located so I had a bit of trouble. By the time I was arrived, I was exhausted. Good HH deals, definitely one of the most laid back bars in Pasadena. It is an A-OK. read more

A great spot. A hidden ( a bit hard to find) gem in Pasadena. Very good food, nice people. Solid TV's.

Super chill spot to catch the game! Went here with a group of friends to watch the NFL divisional championships. The place was pretty packed, but we were able to get a table. They had a projector set up at the front showing the big game. There are also multiple TVs above the bar showing different sporting events. The wait staff was absolutely amazing. I don't think I have had this good of service at any restaurant I have been to, yet alone a bar! Michelle would check on us consistently to see if we needed another beer or more food. She was really sweet and kind, and it wasn't only cause her Broncos were winning. read more

T. Boyles Tavern - Fish and chips - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

Going to T. boyle's is like going on a blind date. You can pick the familiar setting (bar) and rely on the patrons for the illusion of safety (Thrice). Sometimes you even get free food out of it (peanuts). But there's always the chance that something can go horribly awry...... Ok, maybe using the adjective "horribly" is overextending a bit. What the hell am I on about? The bands!!!! I've been here on several Saturday nights. I always seem to forget that my visit won't just be a relaxing time out drinking in a pleasant atmosphere. (And this place is decorated in an aesthetically pleasing way, if you like wood and antlers and a balcony to do your people watching from---which I do.) No, Saturday nights will inevitably be accompanied by live music. Normally, live music is great. BEWARE, however, the caveat of FREE LIVE MUSIC. If the band can't charge, there's a reason. I'm sympathetic to the plight of the fame-seekers, and I appreciate the effort it takes to go up on stage and try your best. And I feel bad for these musicians, playing their music for us while we're all trying to tune it out, screaming at each other to continue our conversations. And then there's someone-in-the-band's girlfriend, the only one dancing, trying so hard to show her support; maybe if she shows enough enthusiasm, if she just dances vigorously enough, the rest of the bar will follow suit. The problem is, the bands here were just not good. If they were, they'd be playing for people who care. As far as the patrons were concerned on the nights I've attended, the bands were just noise pollution. Like someone turned up the stereo system to 11. I like this place; I just need to remember to come on not-Saturday. read more

T. Boyles Tavern - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

Food came so quick and was reasonably priced (3-4 bucks per dog) for the tasty chili hot dogs. Trivia night is great here. Not too loud so we can all communicate with my team. Can't wait to come back for the game of thrones trivia night read more

T. Boyles Tavern - Awesome tasting chili hot dogs for my brother! - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

Definitely a neighborhood beer and wine bar. Has a great history as one of the first bars in the area. Used to be called Handlebars. Good selection of craft beers. TVs above the bar area. Old school charm. Stopped in to listen to some live music. The band said they have their are usually pretty good. Parking is available on the street or adjacent to the alley location. Near the Ice House. read more

T. Boyles Tavern - Bar area. - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

I came to watch the Raider game and grab some food. I wasn't expecting much with the food but I was pleasantly surprised. I ordered the avocado, spinach, cheese and sausage omelette. It was delicious. They have a wide variety of beers on tap! read more

T. Boyles Tavern - Avocado, spinach, cheese and sausage omelette. It was delicious. - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

Pretty chill tavern... staff is always great! Drink menu always rotating, great selection. Nachos, pulled pork sandwich and mozzarella sticks always hot! Awesome place to catch the dodger game! read more

I had no idea that this was tucked away in Pasadena. I came here with a large group right when it opened last Saturday. There was a great beer selection and the menu had plenty of options. I appreciate that this spot is just what it is, a bar. There is nothing fancy, but that's what makes it work. I enjoyed my beers, had some good bar food, and appreciated how accommodating the owner was. I will be heading back to this hidden gem for sure. read more

How funny. I have been coming to the Academy theater for years..I wonder how long this place has been here? We went to the Academy today to catch a matinee of 'Hall Pass' and decided that rather than sneak beer into the movie, we would stop off at this nearby bar instead. It opens at 4. they have about 20 some odd beers on tap. The upstairs is lined with stools. There are 2 pool tables upstairs, 2 downstairs. A barrel full of peanuts. And a small stage where apparently the 'ENGLISH BEAT' has an upcoming gig on. We had several pre-movie beers. The selection is respectable. The food menu which was written on a dry erase board looks standard. Nachos and such and such.(did not try any food) Great beer prices, high ceiling with skylight...Trip out-still can't get over how long it took me to discover this spot. read more

See all

I was here for about 6 hours on a Saturday watching college football. Six hours is a bit too much, but it didn't seem too long with friends, food, and fun/comfortable atmosphere. I grew up in Arcadia and never knew of this place! I remember watching movies at Academy 6, getting mix berry cobbler from the place on the corner, and seeing standup at the Ice House. But geez, I wish I knew how cool T. Boyles was sooner! Dang. Next college football season, I'll be watching games here. Anyway, I got the fish tacos. It was a bit too salty, but it hit the spot. Beer and drink selection is nice, but it seems like the best seller is Bud because everyone was drinking that. I wasn't a fan of the television set up behind the bar and the underutilized projection. The projector wasn't very big for being a projected display. I wish the tvs were more spread out throughout the bar because what if I was sitting with my back turned against the bar, then I'd be out of luck or turning around to catch the plays. The size of the televisions seemed a bit small too or maybe because the televisions were all bunched together that made them seem smaller. I like playing pool so it was nice to have two kept tables and unbent cues. I think the pool costs a dollar in quarters. Get change from the bartenders. Next time, I want to check out the upstairs. Lastly, parking can be a pain. Street is the best, but it's 2 hrs before 6pm. Union St has unlimited street parking, but those spots are limited. The sketchy parking lot adjacent never checks parking, but I wouldn't take the risk parking there. read more

Stopped by for the first time a couple nights ago to grab a beer and unwind for a little bit after I got out of a late-night class at PCC. I didn't get a super friendly/open vibe from the other clientele; a group of old guys kind of gave me the once-over when I walked in, which wasn't the most comfortable feeling. It strikes me as the kind of place that has its "regulars" who prefer to stick together rather than mingle. Beer was fine, bartender was pleasant though not overly warm or chatty. What bothered me was whatever cleaning solution they use to wipe things down - there were wet rags laying on the bar the entire time I was there, and they *reeked* of that strong chemical-y cleaning solution smell. I wish they'd use less-toxic cleaning supplies on the parts of the counter where people are eating/drinking, at least until after closing. read more

We usually come here to hang out and have a few drinks while we wait for our show at the Ice House to begin (it is a super short 3 minute walk away from the Ice House). There are also a few pool tables here that you can play on. T.Boyles Tavern is your basic bar with pool tables, but again we almost always make a stop here before the Ice House since it is such a convenient location. read more

T. Boyles Tavern - Bras on a Moose - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

I love this place. It's always a to go place for me if I have nothing to do. I bring my playing cards, get a pint of my favorite and enjoy the local feeling of a dive bar. read more

T. Boyles Tavern - You can't go wrong with this pub! - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

Super fun - giant drinks - free peanuts - and free games! Never played shuffleboard or darts in a bar before, so T.Boyles taught me something new. I haven't done the trivia contest, but have been lucky enough to come on nights when it's not that crowded - which is my preference. I like the cider - one of those huge bottles does me in - apparently I'm a cheap date! Shhh! Had a blast playing games and really enjoyed myself. They also get some serious points with me for have the Young Dubliners play there this month. Don't know if I can make it, but I like that the place is cool enough to get them there. Great place to hang out with friends and kill a couple hours. read more

I come for Sunday night trivia. Always a fun crowd. Good beer selection (from ciders to lights to darks) and standard prices. The food is above average for pub fare as well, in my opinion. I've ordered sliders/fries, taquitos and a meat/cheese sampler and all delivered on taste. I have never been when it's SUPER crowded, but I always get prompt service. It's located in the more financial part of Pasadena. It's in an alleyway, one you would easily pass by and never knew existed. It would seem shady if it were in a scuzzier neighborhood. Check it out - if you can find it! read more

Cool dive bar. Chill place to hang with friends and drink some ice cold beers. They have lots of options and flights available. Lots of tv to watch games too. read more

We have been treating ourselves to takeout from T. Boyle's once a week during the pandemic (they have takeout on Tuesday & Friday). The food is really good and reasonably priced. My husband loves getting a growler of porter too. The pulled pork sandwich is fantastic--they smoke it in house, the angus burger is super tasty on a fresh brioche bun, and the sweet chili chicken wings are perfection. read more

T Boyles has become a staple for those of us who prefer a more laid-back environment than Old Town tends to offer. Lots of different beers on tap and bottled but no hard alcohol (yet). The beer selection rotates frequently but my current favorite is Anderson Valley Winter Solstice. Troy (owner), Mike, Randy, Cliff, Oscar, Merc, and Rudy are the usuals serving it up. The sandwiches are all good but the pulled pork is my personal favorite. Action Trivia is on Tuesdays and Sundays but watch out for the (Cal) Techies.. Tons of TVs, pool, and free shuffleboard, darts, and peanuts..what else do you need in your local tavern?? read more

T. Boyles Tavern - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

Just read below. Tips are earned not just given. Any person that waits on tables knows this!

First time visiting this hidden gem. At first it's hard to find it since the door is in an alleyway. There is a standing sign out on the sidewalk and a parking lot you can pay a few bucks for parking. Food was really good. We had fish and chips, buffalo chicken salad and street tacos, all very good and very reasonably priced. The carne asada street tacos were only 1.75 each and came loaded with meat. The fish and chips were up there with some of the best I've had. Theres a lot of TVs with the games, pool tables and darts. The server was very attentive and we got out food pretty quick. The atmosphere was nice and I'd definitely come back. Very pleased. read more

Tried out this bar last night for the first time and really enjoyed it. The music was great, the service was solid and the food wasn't bad at all for being dive bar food. The prices were very reasonable as well. For a Saturday night, It was pretty slow but I'm good with that. I definitely could see myself returning to this place in the near future. read more

I used to have an addiction to trivia nights and was kind of a regular here. But, you know how it goes...friends get married, some move away, lots of 'em have babies. So, I'm not gonna lie, it had been awhile since my last visit. But, my husband and I had a "hot" date for the matinee at the dollar theater nearby and we decided to pop in for lunch last Sunday. And I gotta say, this place is a low-key and un-fussy oasis. They were showing the football game on the big screen. Everyone was just kind of chilling out like they would if they were in their basement (well, if we HAD basements in Southern California...and those basements had oodles of beers on taps... and a kitchen with a commercial deep fryer). Anyway, the server was "new" but very down-to-earth and attentive. Also, the chicken tenders were stupidly delicious (but big enough to share). I don't know that I'll be there every Tuesday, but I am definitely trying to finagle some plans to get there again soon. read more

This is the quintessential brewpub. Lots of great beer on rotation. Friendly staff who enjoy being there. It changed ownership recently and the food has really stepped up. It is pub food done well. Try the Philly Cheesesteak Eggrolls. Burgers and sliders are good. You can get Beyond Meat if you need it. read more

It has a real good draft selection and good service. I was there for US vs Ghana. The place was packed, but servers had good attitude and still quick. I like the shuffleboard, too. read more

T. Boyles Tavern is a hidden gem. It's tucked away in an alley and easy to miss, even when you're looking for it. I went here with a couple of friends for Football Saturday. The food is ok, but the atmosphere really makes it. It's a neighborhood bar with about 14 tvs, including one big screen, pool tables, and darts. The tvs are all on one wall and are small-ish (prob 40 inches), but it's still a fun place to watch a game. They also have a variety of ciders. read more

If you are looking for a simple sports bar with a huge tasty beer list, a few not so good wines and ok food this is your place. It gets very crowded during trivia but that's always fun to join in. $1 baskets of peanuts are always good while drinking beer. read more

One of my top 5 #Pasadena bars. Good place if you want to hang with #Caltech students. Always live music on Saturday nights (so don't show up expecting to engage in conversation). Trivia nights Tuesday and Sunday nights is generally a good time, but starts too early for me to get there for sign up deadline. One benefit would be installing a kitchen; also, there's a reasonably good selection of draft beers, but they'd rather overpriced. read more

T. Boyles Tavern - April 23, 2011 - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

Great dive bar. During college time it can be filled with college kids so you might feel...ummm...old! However, they also have their regulars which will not make you feel old. Just go!! They have a lot of beer. Not much wine but they do have it. Not sure they have liquor, I don't think they do. Food is pretty decent and they have pool and darts and live music. Worth checking out, especially before you head over to a comedy show at The Ice House. They do have quite a few TV's so good to watch a game and a great little happy hour spot if you are looking for a good beer and dive bar/pub food! read more

T. Boyles Tavern - Can't walk by if this is outside! - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

I almost hesitate to post such a positive review, because I don't want this place to get overrun. But it's my favorite bar in the world: the beer is great and reasonably priced, the owners are super nice, and the space is big enough that you never feel overcrowded. Also, those pickled eggs are the best ones you'll taste in Los Angeles. read more

Great cold beers, great friendly service, awesome happy hour prices and menu....and lots of flat screens to watch the games... read more

T. Boyles Tavern - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

Love this little hole in the alley, I first learned about this spot through the #pastactionheros band. Now I come over to enjoy a football game without the crowded and super busy atmosphere / loud fans... =) read more

See all

Best spot to get a cold beer and relax, with a lot of tv to enjoy your favorite sport. read more

T. Boyles Tavern - Cold beer, nice weather & good ambient... - Pubs Near Me - Pasadena, California