It had been years since I last sat down at Russell’s in Pasadena.
Not because anything happened, but I simply let time get in the way. The kind of time that turns months into years and builds distance. Caused, often, because of new places opening, routines shifting, and life moving forward in small ways until one day you realize it’s been entirely too long. And then, at some point, you find your way back. Thankfully, I found my way back.
One recent weekend my boyfriend and I were in Pasadena, deciding what the morning would look like, and Russell’s came to mind. The thought of returning to the restaurant felt easy in a way I couldn’t fully explain, but didn’t truly need to do. So, we went.
Walking in felt like stepping into something that hadn’t rushed to change with the years that have gone by. It was nice to see people settling into their tables, coffee being poured, conversations already in motion as the environment of the space felt and looked however it wanted. It felt lived-in, in a good way.
When I picked up the menu, I didn’t overthink it. I ordered the French Toast Breakfast ($16.70). The French toast came with scrambled eggs and lightly fried bacon because sometimes what you want is something that feels like it already knows you. And this plate seriously did.
The French toast was soft with just enough structure to hold its shape, warm all the way through, lightly golden on the outside, and a calm yet crisp edges. It was simple, but really good and that’s what made me so happy. Paired with the eggs and bacon, it felt like a solid meal in such a dependable way.
Across from me, my boyfriend ordered The Light Start ($15.45) that came with hash browns, a sunny side up egg, sausage and a side of sourdough bread. The plate was classic and didn’t ask for attention. The hash browns had perfect edges that give way to softer textures within them, the eggs were perfectly runny, and the sausage were just right. It was hearty, simple, and satisfying in the way a good breakfast should be.
We didn’t rush. We sat, we ate, and we talked as we let the morning stretch out a little longer. And somewhere in between bites and conversation, I remembered why restaurants like Russell’s are places you return to even after extended periods of time.
It’s the steadiness and consistency of the restaurant that holds true time after time that makes it feel like you made the right choice any time you visit. And that’s a great place to have in your life. The kind you don’t think about every day, but one that always come back to mind when you need it.
Follow Them.
Address: 30 N Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103
Phone: (626) 578-1404
Hours: Monday through Friday – 7:00 am to 2:00 pm, and Saturday & Sunday – 6:30 am to 2:00 pm
Social: N/A
