Kari A.
Yelp
Marston's has always had a solid reputation for excellent food. However, the last time I dined there was probably 20 years ago. Despite the delicious food it tends to offer, I have been reluctant to go back due to memories of long wait times and a tiny parking lot.
Now, if I am gonna go enjoy a high-quality breakfast or lunch, the last thing I want to deal with is a long wait time and difficult parking. As I've gotten older and crustier, I definitely do not possess the patience for these things.
Recently a friend suggested we meet at Marston's. I agreed because I know the food is good but mostly because this is a very good friend. And I will put my grievances about parking and waiting aside for her. For her only.
So we meet and to my surprise, several tables are available! I avoided the parking lot entirely and parked at the public parking garage on Raymond just south of Walnut. It was a short walk to the restaurant.
I sit down, decide on an order, then check in on Yelp to get the free piece of baklava they mention on their page. I let the waitress know, and she says, "Oh, we don't do that here". I said, "It's on your Yelp page" and she says, "Yea, but the owner doesn't do that anymore". I said, " Well, maybe the owner should update the page and remove the check in offer". The waitress just sort of shrugged and walked away.
Honestly, I didn't care about getting the baklava. I rarely go for freebies of any kind. But it was kind of embarrassing and an uncomfortable transaction.
Moving onto the food, the tuna melt and accompanying orzo salad were delicious.
The atmosphere was homey, warm, and just what you what expect from eating in a cozy Pasadena craftsman house. The gentleman who refilled our drinks was pleasant and polite.
I am usually quite generous with my Yelp reviews but I have to dock a star because of the Yelp check in thing. Also the parking situation does still suck. The food, however, is as excellent as I remember.
If the owner or manager reads this, please do remove the free offer on your Yelp page! Not only are you getting our hopes up for homemade baklava, but you are setting customers up for an uncomfortable and weird transaction. Thanks!:)