Lilian W.
Yelp
Buca di Beppo in Old Town Pasadena is designed with large gatherings in mind, which became quite evident during my recent visit. After eight years since my last Buca di Beppo experience, I returned with gift cards in hand, only to find that the dining experience doesn't quite suit smaller parties.
Parking:
Navigating street parking can be challenging. I recommend using the De Lacey Parking Facility nearby, which is conveniently priced at $1 for 2 hours.
Family-Style Ambiance: The decor retains the classic Buca charm, with its whimsical, somewhat kitschy Italian-American theme. There were plenty of tables throughout the restaurants intended for larger parties.
Food:
Buca di Beppo is known for its large portions intended for sharing. However, despite ordering from the "small" menu, the prices were steep and the portions, while generous, were less than expected for the cost. Here's what I tried:
1. Prosciutto Stuffed Chicken ($39.99 Small): This dish was flavorful and indulgent, featuring three chicken breasts with a some prosciutto and cheese stuffing. It was topped with marinara and surrounded by a rich pesto sauce. While tasty, it leaned towards the heavier side.
2. Spaghetti with Meatballs ($39.99 Small): This came with two large meatballs and a generous amount of pasta. Unfortunately, the dish was underwhelming due to a lack of sauce and seasoning, resulting in bland flavors. Thankfully, there was salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese available at the table to adjust the taste.
3. Bread (Complimentary): The fresh bread was a highlight, arriving warm and fragrant, with steam rising as it was torn apart. It paired nicely with the accompanying olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
The total bill for two people was $88 before tip, for 2 dishes. Given the price, I expected more, and while the food was filling, it didn't quite match the price tag. The dishes felt more appropriate for a party of three, but even then, the flavors and portions might still fall short.
Service:
The service was commendable. Our server was attentive, explaining the menu thoroughly and checking in frequently to ensure we had everything we needed.
Overall, Buca di Beppo in Pasadena is better suited for larger groups where sharing multiple dishes makes the most sense. For smaller parties, the high prices and average flavors don't quite justify a return visit. While the service was solid and the atmosphere lively, the food didn't stand out enough to make it worth the cost.