New Basque-Inspired Restaurant, Saso, Opens in Pasadena, California

From the charcoal-fired Josper oven to the selection of pintxos, Saso aims to bring the flavors of northern Spain to Los Angeles locals.

There's a new restaurant in Pasadena, California bringing the delicious flavors of Spain’s Basque country local residents. Saso, as it's called, officially open its doors in the middle of February to offer its seafood and charcoal-fired Josper-oven prepared meals to discerning customers.

The menu includes pintxos such as homemade croquettes; grilled prawns with garlic and rosemary; grilled clams with sherry vinegar, peas and herb oil; an Ibérico ham sandwich on honey brioche with jicama and maple butter; and crab cakes with cheese from Navarre, hot peppers, and avocado cream.

Desert highlights include Basque cheesecake with matcha and eat syrup, and torrijas, prepared as brûléed french toast with house churned ice cream. Guests can wash it all down with a unique selection of cocktails and wines from Spain and beyond.

There is seating in the dining room, at the ample copper bar or, alternatively, customers can dine al fresco in the large courtyard, a space the restaurant shares with the Pasadena Playhouse.
Saso, which comes from the Basque word for sea, itsaso, is shaking up the Los Angeles dining scene and is expected to help raise the profile of the flavors of northern Spain.