Best Pre-Theater Restaurants in Alhambra

Always a great place pre-theater but the menu has changed a little and needs a bit more options.

We enjoy going to the theater and are always looking for a good place to get a meal before or after. We tried San Laurel for the first time and were delighted. The service (thank you, Johnnie) couldn’t have been better. He asked before we ordered and what time the show was so he could be mindful of the timing of the courses. My husband and I aren’t meat eaters so we kept to the appetizer section and ordered several of the vegetarian options to share. The olive oil cracker with membrillo and cheese was heavenly, the eggplant, and wild mushrooms both had sauces that made us want to lick the bowls clean. The only downside was the restaurant seemed a bit noisy due to all the hard surfaces with nothing to help absorb sound. We ate relatively early and the dining room was half empty so I wonder how loud it would be at full capacity. I’m looking forward to going back again and hopefully for a matinee show so we can try brunch.

Been here several times before going to the Ahmanson or Mark Taper and have always had a good experience but I think this last time was the best. I called ahead to let them know I was running a few minutes late and they said no problem but couldn’t guarantee I would make the theatre on time. I appreciated the heads up but knew we would be fine. We were seated right away and even though it was outside in the tented area, it was very comfortable temp wise. The server, Junny was friendly and very helpful when it came to ordering. We got the tuna salad and tomatillo salad, recommended by Junny, and salmon entree. When another person brought the salads, she raved about getting the two together. It was not too filling and a lovely mix of textures and flavors. And the salmon was good too. Also the chocolate mezcal cake, another recommendation, was a winner. Not to sweet or rich but another interesting mix of textures and flavors. All this and made curtain at Ahmanson with time to spare. I’m hoping to get back here for one more dinner or maybe brunch before the next chef comes in.

Our fare consisted of the Cod, Short Ribs, Shrimp and Steak Skewers, Chicken Meatballs, and the Sorbet Trio for dessert. Every morsel was taste and delightful to the palate. The prices were reasonable. The waiters were very pleasant and attentive. The ambiance, multiple seating levels, and ceiling aquarium visually pleasing. Valet parking convenient and only $14 bucks. The restroom clean and the circular black 45 spindle adapter walls were unique. Only disappointment was you only get 3 Skewers so if you are dinning with someone you have to resort to rock-paper-scissor to see who will get the 3rd delicious Skewer-maybe should offer at least 4. Also be careful ascending the stairs to the restaurant they are very steep. Overall a wonderful dinning experience and I highly recommend it (Thanks TikTok).

They serve a great vegan skirt steak. Good service and attention. I would go back again!