Life would be pretty scary without the services provided by the winners in this year’s Best of Pasadena Services category. The Creature from the Black Lagoon may be giving the Wolfman a trim here, but area residents looking to have their own hair coiffed will get great cuts at
Ben’s Barber Shop (winner of our Best Barber Shop category) or styled luxuriantly at
Tangles Salon (winner of Best Hair Salon).
This year, readers have honored over 50 different types of service suppliers in the Crown City area, ranging from those who improve their smiles, like Best Dentist winner
Dr. Michael S. Yung & Associates, to those who help in toning their bodies, like Best Gym winner
Title Boxing Club. On every front, our winners help make life better and a lot less frightening.
Buying a house can be the biggest and potentially scariest decision of your life, but if you live in Pasadena, you can have your fears quelled by the fact that there are plenty of people with great advice to offer here. In fact, two different realtors share the title of Best Realtor this year:
Lucy Mao of Partners Trust and
Alex Lozano of John Aaroe Group. And when you make your final decision, Best Mortagage Broker winner Sierra
Capital Mortgage Company is there to make it affordable.
Sometimes you just want to get away and be pampered for a weekend, but you certainly don’t want to wind up at a place like the Bates Motel. Thankfully, Best Hotel winner
Langham Huntington Pasadena Hotel & Spa is here to treat you like royalty. And if you have a loved one in need of a retirement community, Best Senior/Assisted Living winner
Fair Oaks at Regency Park is just the way to treat them right.
You might be scared to be seen on a dance floor, unless you learn some hot moves at our Best Dance Studio winner
Dance Street. Afraid your car isn’t looking as good as it should? Then go to Best Car Wash winner
Pasadena Auto Wash and get it glistening.
Terrified that the party you’re throwing might turn out poorly? Never fear, for Best Party Rentals winner
Dolphin Rentals will help you look like you’re hosting a soiree worthy of the Hamptons.
So don’t be afraid — be reassured. Our winners in Best of Services are here to make every part of your life a lot easier to handle.
BEST ACCOUNTANT
Martin TruittTruitt & Company80 N. Euclid Ave., No. 503, Pasadena(626) 449-6264As one of Pasadena’s top political kingmakers, Martin Truitt is sought out for his consulting skills on successful campaigns including Mayor Terry Tornek’s City Council and mayoral runs. But he’s even more respected for his work as an accountant and financial adviser, as evidenced by his repeat win here. And just as he earned broad support in the Best of Pasadena voting, the conservative has supported a broad range of candidates in the city’s nonpartisan electoral contests and makes his clients come out winners.
Reader Recommended
John M. Hornick, CPA
709 E. Colorado Blvd., Suite 150, Pasadena
BEST ACUPUNCTURE
Dr. Ya-wen Cheng Acupuncture & Chiropractic
51 N. Fifth Ave., No. 305, Arcadia
After an incredible seven-year winning streak from 2006 to 2013, Dr. Cheng now has a new streak going in the Best of Pasadena awards after reclaiming the title last year. Whether you’re dealing with infertility and stress, sports injuries or chemotherapy side effects, Cheng will find the solution by using a multidisciplinary technique that brings the best of Western and Eastern medicine together.
Reader Recommended
Kang Eastern Medicine
50 Bellefontaine St., Suite 203, Pasadena
kangeasternmedicine.com
Tao of Wellness
171 S. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena
BEST ARCHITECT
Lisa Henderson
Harvest Architecture, LLC
1510 Oxley St., Ste. A, South Pasadena
A native of Canada, Henderson has made herself at home in the Los Angeles area since 1991. After building her career at several area architectural firms, she founded Harvest Architecture in Pasadena after working with a forensic architect in the historic landmark district Bungalow Heaven. Whether selecting the right slabs in a stone yard, crawling beneath a house, brainstorming in her Harvest studio or organizing an art event for kids, she’s a perfectionist who’s dedicated to helping people find the soul in their living spaces.
BEST ATTORNEY/LAW FIRM
Dansby-Darden Law Group
236 W. Mountain St., Suite 110 C, Pasadena
Pamela Dansby-Darden has over 20 years of trial experience, starting as a Los Angeles County public defender before going into private practice after a decade handling voluminous legal disputes. Running her own firm allows her to provide a more personal touch to her clients. She is also an advocate for community change, sitting as chairperson of the board of directors of Outward Bound Adventures, a nonprofit that employs overlooked youth through outdoor experiences and opportunities, and she is an active board member of Black Women Lawyers of Los Angeles, Inc. and California Women Lawyers.
Reader Recommended
Michael Bononi
Bononi Law Group
301 N. Lake Ave., Ste. 820, Pasadena
Richard A. McDonald, Esq.
Counsel, Carlson & Nicholas LLP
140 S. Lake Ave., Ste. 25, Pasadena
BEST AUTO REPAIR/BODY SHOP
Hrant Auto Service
1477 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena
There are many reasons why Hrant is still winning votes nearly 50 years after its start in 1970. But the popularity is primarily due to satisfied customers who love the work they do on brake checks, tune ups, lube jobs, oil changes, transmission replacements, transmission rebuilding, and general engine repair. In fact, one online review sums them up perfectly: “Not only are Hrant and his guys honest and thorough, but the garage is always spotless and working efficiently. The prices are fair, and Hrant treats women with the same respect as men. We live over 20 miles away now, but we still take our cars to Hrant for work.”
Reader Recommended
Nishikawa Auto Service
510 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
Pasadena Automotive Repair
2364 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
BEST BANK
Wells Fargo Bank
82 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
(And seven other locations)
Whether helping their customers buy a house or open a savings account, Wells Fargo helps people navigate life in modern times with the same spirit they employed in their original days in the Old West. Better yet, they are a vital player in Pasadena life, thanks to their support of the Rose Parade and other community events, and our readers gave them credit back once again with a repeat win in the Best of Pasadena voting.
Reader Recommended
Bank of America
880 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(And nine other locations)
Chase
860 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
(And 15 other locations)
BEST BARBER SHOP
Ben’s Barber Shop
444 Fair Oaks Ave., South Pasadena
Ben’s Barber Shop has been around since 1968, earning loyalty from longtime customers not only for the styling skills of Ben Miranda, but also his fellow barbers Andrew Hunter and Sheila Hunter, a brother-sister team who have been there since 1999, and 22-year veteran Robert Sofre. “We still have original clients since the 1960s,” says Andrew Hunter, of the cash-only business with popular prices. “People spend thousands of dollars recreating an old-time shop, but we’ve got it here with even some taxidermy on the walls. People get the sense we’ve been working together so long — we’re funny, witty and people feel our energy.”
Reader Recommended
Academy Barber Shop
27 N. Catalina Ave., Pasadena
Floyd’s 99
888 Cordova St, Pasadena
Luke Walker’s Barber
& Beauty Care
627 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
BEST CAR WASH
Pasadena Auto Wash
164 W. Del Mar Blvd., Pasadena
This practically perennial voter favorite offers not just car washes but oil changes, auto detailing and lubes, in addition to a fun waiting area where cookies and coffee are offered along with the daily paper and a TV for customers’ viewing pleasure. Their many fans make sure this is their definite destination for detailing every aspect of their cars.
Reader Recommended
Arroyo Car Wash
605 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
Sparkle Car Wash
2400 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
Walnut-Hill Hand Car Wash
1465 E. Walnut St., Pasadena
BEST CHIROPRACTOR
Innate Family Chiropractic
104 N. Madison Ave., No. 104,
Pasadena
The leading family chiropractic practice in Pasadena, Innate Family Chiropractic has made quite an impression since opening in 2010. The Webster Technique is the method of choice here, with both the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) and the National Wellness Foundation certifying the husband-wife team of Dr. Chris and Dr. Adana. The two met while studying at the Los Angeles branch of Cleveland Chiropractic College, but locals are happy they opted to make Pasadena the place they practice what their website calls “full family wellness care” for everyone from infants to grandparents.
Reader Recommended
Dr. Ya-Wen Cheng Acupuncture & Chiropractic
51 N. Fifth Ave., Ste. 305, Arcadia
Premier Wellness Chiropractic
2750 E. Washington Blvd., No. 140, Pasadena
BEST COSMETIC SURGERY
Dr. Gordon Sasaki
800 Fairmount Ave., No. 319, Pasadena
Dr. Gordon Sasaki has been operating his Sasaki Advanced Aesthetic Medical Center in the Huntington Medical Plaza Building since 1985. His 6,500-square-foot facility includes the newly expanded and renovated Sasaki Innovessence SkinCare Center, with three Centers of Excellence under two surgeons and within one physical structure. In addition to its elegant waiting area and the consultation rooms there is an up-to-date photography room, and an operating recovery room, ensuring one stop for all your needs.
Reader Recommended
Dr. Martin O’Toole
Pasadena Plastic Surgery
542 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
Dr. Michael Schwartz
Skin Deep Laser Med Spa
425 S. Fair Oaks Ave., No.110, Pasadena
BEST CREDIT UNION
Wescom Credit Union
123 S. Marengo Ave., Pasadena
In an age when major banks are making headlines with scandals, more and more people are turning to credit unions for their financial needs. With a history dating back to 1934, Wescom Credit Union is clearly the most trusted choice in Pasadena, with nearly 200,000 members, more than $2 billion in assets and 22 branches throughout five Southern California counties. Not bad for a business started by 13 Pacific Telephone workers who pooled their money to create a financial institution that would offer them loans.
Reader Recommended
Caltech Employees Federal Credit Union
515 S. Wilson Ave., Pasadena
Pasadena Federal Credit Union
1038 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
BEST DANCE STUDIO
Dance Street
1715 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
“Dancing with the Stars” and “So You Think You Can Dance” have gotten the nation’s TV viewers enraptured with the terpsichorean skills of random celebrities. But those who want to take the next step and actually learn how to tango, waltz, and cha cha their way onto dance floors should head over to Dance Street. Here Nikolai Voronovich and Maria Nikolishina have become our readers’ favorite dance instructors. Their Best of Pasadena award adds to their rankings among the top 10 dancers in the world, their USA medalist status and their Latin Blackpool championship, so you can’t go wrong.
Reader Recommended
Athletic Garage
121 Waverly Drive, Pasadena
Preston Li’s Academy of Dance
135 E. Las Tunas Drive, San Gabriel
BEST DAY CARE
Goodman Family Daycare & Preschool
1090 El Campo Drive, Pasadena
Jacqueline Goodman was a corporate lawyer seeking more meaningful work when she decided to open the Goodman Family Daycare & Preschool in 1986. She was inspired to do so after finding that there was no suitable community daycare program, and soon she became an ace childcare expert after supplementing her business law degree with child development studies and state certification classes. By taking her young charges on nature walks and engaging them with cooking classes, music appreciation and dance classes, and frequent story reading sessions, she gives them a well-rounded experience that helps set them on the right path for a lifetime of learning.
Reader Recommended
Kids Klub Pasadena
Child Development Center & Preschool
380 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena
Mentor Avenue Preschool
308 N Mentor Ave., Pasadena
BEST DAY SPA/MASSAGE
Burke Williams Day Spa
39 Mills Place, Pasadena
The Burke Williams Spa chain has grown to 10 prime California locations since starting in 1984, and they are perennial winners in our Best of Pasadena poll due to the variety of lush services they offer. From massage therapy, facials and skin care and Ayurvedic treatments, through wet room treatments, spa baths and even chiropractic assistance, they are a one-stop wonder for rejuvenating your body. Take it to another level with their “Transformative Journey” packages, with themes like “Escape,” “Defy,” “Revitalize” and “Balance.”
Reader Recommended
Pasadena Massage Company
232 N. Lake Ave. No. 213, Pasadena
Salt Studio
1380 E. Walnut St., Pasadena
BEST DENTISTRY
Dr. Michael Yung and Associates
696 E. Colorado Blvd., No. 224, Pasadena
Dr. Yung officially marks a decade of winning the Best of Pasadena poll with this year’s award, having first taken the prize in 2007. He and his staff take a proactive approach for the whole family’s teeth, starting with patients as young as 1. Yung’s desire to be a friendly neighborhood dentist stems from his own deep roots in the Pasadena area, as he grew up in San Marino en route to Northwestern University’s School of Dentistry before establishing his Pasadena practice in 2003. He specializes in fillings, porcelain veneers, implants and teeth whitening, and uses digital X-rays to minimize radiation. That attention to detail makes it no surprise that he keeps taking the prize.
Reader Recommended
Dr. James Angelos
1137 E. Green St., Pasadena
Dr. Mario Tse
1060 E. Green St., No.208, Pasadena
Mak & Kleiger, DDS
959 E. Walnut St., No. 216, Pasadena
BEST DERMATOLOGIST
Comprehensive Dermatology
625 S. Fair Oaks Ave., No. 200, Pasadena
Conveniently located in the Huntington Pavilion building next to Pasadena’s favorite medical facility, Huntington Hospital, the center offers three physicians —Dr. Sara Gaspard, along with Dr. Heather Butler and Dr. Han Lee and an in-house aesthetician. They work in treatment suites featuring the latest dermatological lasers and in an in-house acne treatment center for all ages and stages of acne. Offering medical and cosmetic dermatology treatments in addition to Mohs surgery, the center handles every skin care need imaginable.
Reader Recommended
David Denenholz, MD
960 E. Green St., No. 330, Pasadena
Dr. Janice Davolio
Huntington Dermatology Group
800 Fairmount Ave., Suite 425, Pasadena
BEST DOCTOR
Dr. Claire Tilem (TIE)
Huntington Health Physicians
65 N. Madison Ave., No. 800, Pasadena
Dr. Richard Wear (TIE)
Huntington Health Physicians
65 N. Madison Ave., No. 800, Pasadena
Dr. Tina Yang (TIE)
Tina Yang Medical Clinic
128 N. Oak Knoll Ave., No. 100, Pasadena
The Crown City is fortunate to have doctors so beloved that our readers can’t pick just one favorite. Dr. Yang clearly stands out from the crowd of 31 family medicine doctors at Huntington Hospital, with nearly two decades of experience treating locals of all ages for their basic needs. Dr. Wear has also built trust over the decades since becoming an internal medicine specialist in 1983, with Dr. Tilem matching his 33 years of experience as well as his specialty.
BEST DRY CLEANER/LAUNDRY
Tip Top Cleaners
565 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
Tip Top Cleaners offers full-service, environmentally safe and non-toxic dry cleaning in addition to tailoring, wedding gowns and preservation, leather and suede cleaning, and famous designer brand labels and contour cleaning. Add in their work on fluff and fold, rugs, shoe and handbag repairs, pillows and slip-covers, as well as draperies, with free pick-up and delivery service for all orders above $25 and a two for one dry cleaning discount for first-time customers, and it’s clear why they’re tip-top in our readers’ estimation.
Reader Recommended
Bryan’s Cleaners
544 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
Magic Cleaners & Laundry
89 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
BEST EYE CARE
Linden Optometry
477 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
With over 10,000 types of sunglasses and eyeglasses in addition to contact lenses, and more than 30 optometrists available to take care of customers, it’s no wonder Linden Optometry has earned top honors from Best of Pasadena voters. But they’re not just a great traditional eyewear shop; they’re also on the cutting edge by offering the ECO (Earth-Conscious Optics) line of Green eyewear, manufactured from 95 percent recycled metal and plastics. Caring about your eyes as well as the environment shows that the staff at Linden Optometry has their eyes wide open to the world.
Reader Recommended
Dr. Andrew Gore
301 E. Colorado Blvd., Ste, 528, Pasadena
Dr. Charles Korth
1 W. California Blvd., No. 513, Pasadena
BEST EYEBROWS/WAXING
European Wax Center
569 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
First-time guests get a free wax at this decade-old skin-care institution, and their ace staff can take care of unwanted hair and create smooth skin anywhere you desire. Through their Strut 365 product line, the EWC enables clients to keep the care going at home with their luxurious Bath and Body Collection. Three luxurious scents are featured with ultra-hydrating body lotions, dual-action body washes and high-performance body polishes, making the Strut Lavishly collection the perfect way to protect your skin between visits.
Reader Recommended
Vinita’s
253 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
Zoey Van Jones Brow Studio
45 E. Union St., Pasadena
BEST FUNERAL HOME
Cabot & Sons Funeral Home
27 Chestnut St., Pasadena
Dealing with the passing of a loved one is always hard, but Cabot & Sons has handled those troubling moments with a personal touch for nearly a century, opening in 1921. They take pride in being a family-owned funeral home, rather than part of a corporate chain, and will guide you and your loved ones through a full array of cremation and burial options.
Reader Recommended
Mountain View Mortuary,
Cemetery and Crematory
2400 Fair Oaks Ave., Altadena
Woods-Valentine Mortuary
1455 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
BEST GOLF COURSE
Brookside Golf Course
1133 Rosemont Ave., Pasadena
Playing a round of golf can be one of life’s greatest simple pleasures, but the Brookside Golf Course helps make any day on the greens truly memorable. Nestled amid the Arroyo Seco’s lush natural wonders, yet also inspiring for its proximity to the Rose Bowl, Brookside offers visitors the chance to make a full day of it, with great breakfasts served on the patio of the golf club to build energy and camaraderie for 18 holes of fun.
Reader Recommended
Altadena Golf Course
1456 E. Mendocino St., Altadena
Annandale Golf Club
1 N. San Rafael Ave., Pasadena
BEST GYM
Title Boxing Club
87 Fraser Alley, Pasadena
Channel your inner Rocky Balboa or Jean-Claude Van Damme safely by taking Title Boxing Club’s no-hit boxing and kickboxing classes, led by trainers skilled in mixed martial arts who will show you how to wrap your hands, work the bag, and master moves that will transform your body. Motivation comes easily, from the pulse-pounding music of a top Las Vegas DJ as you alternate between rounds of punching and kicking, and doing toning exercises to focus your mind and challenge your muscles.
Reader Recommended
MC 2 Fit
460 S. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena
Pure Barre Pasadena
107 S. Fair Oaks Ave., No. 109 Pasadena
BEST HAIR SALON
Tangles Salon
145 W. Green St., Pasadena
These popular Old Pasadena stylists have been making Pasadenans look great for more than 14 years, with a staff that has been hair designing for more than 20 years. Aside from experience, they offer cutting-edge products including Olaplex, a revolutionary rebonding tool that can be used as a conditioning treatment that helps restore broken bonds internally during any chemical treatment. Add in a range of product choices from L’Oreal, Redken, Nioxin and the Bamboo line by Alterna, and this is the one stop you need to make your hair look great in any situation.
Reader Recommended
Crowned Studio Salon
54 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena
Orpheum Hair Salon
610 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
Union Salon
174 S. De Lacey Ave., Pasadena
BEST HEARING SPECIALIST
HEAR Center
301 E. Del Mar Blvd., Pasadena
Founded in 1954 by Ciwa Griffiths, Ed.D., the Hear Center developed what became known as the Auditory Approach: helping hearing-impaired children gain the gift of speech through early identification of hearing loss, amplification with hearing aids and training in speech and listening. The nonprofit offers complete and affordable hearing and speech services and helps people at all stages of life.
Reader Recommended
Love Hearing Services
2633 E. Foothill Blvd., No. 101, Pasadena
Miracle-Ear
2848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
BEST HOME REMODELING
Navarro Construction, Inc.
3579 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
Celebrating their 25th year, Navarro Construction provides both remodeling services and new build construction, custom fabrication and project management services for all types of structures. With hundreds of projects successfully completed so far, they have happy customers throughout the region. In fact, they only work by referral. With the philosophy, “Cover all of the details, right from the start,” they help clients know what to anticipate from the beginning of a project, taking pressure off clients while fulfilling their dreams.
Reader Recommended
Joe Grueter
Grueter Construction
2672 Fair Oaks Ave., Altadena
BEST HOSPITAL
Huntington Hospital
100 W. California Blvd., Pasadena
With more than 70 top-notch services offered — from a neonatal intensive care unit and chemical dependency recovery to extensive cancer treatment options and psychiatric services, in addition to high-quality regular care for those having to spend a few days on the mend — Huntington Hospital has been Pasadena’s standard-bearer for medical care for decades. The 625-bed institution was named for Henry Edwards Huntington, a Southern California businessman and booster whose estate awarded $2 million to Pasadena Hospital in the 1930s, and it’s carried on his humanitarian legacy ever since.
Reader Recommended
Kaiser Permanente Pasadena Medical Offices
3280 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
Methodist Hospital
300 W. Huntington Drive, Arcadia
BEST HOTEL
The Langham Huntington Hotel and Spa
1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena
Set on 23 acres of lush gardens, and filled with historic ballrooms and spacious guest rooms that all have a spectacular view of the San Gabriel Mountains, the Langham Huntington offers a lavish way to get away for a night or a weekend. Visitors can enjoy a lavish meal at the Royce Wood-Fired Steakhouse, featuring USDA prime cuts, Australian Wagyu steaks and Japanese Kobe beef all grilled over an open wood fire. While the regular prices make it clear that this is the gold standard for lodging in the Pasadena area, numerous deals help make this a little more affordable for the average Joe or Jane wanting a far-above-average experience.
Reader Recommended
DusitD2 Hotel Constance
928 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
The Westin Pasadena
191 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena
BEST HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE
True Blue Maids
2104 E. Walnut St., Pasadena
You want to know that you can trust the maid service you hire to take good care of your property, and also not walk out the door with it. True Blue Maids is family-owned and puts the highly personalized touch as their staff deep cleans every room in the house, including wiping windowsills and baseboards in addition to vacuuming, polishing and dusting everything in sight. Whether doing a one–time cleaning or needing their services on varying regular schedules, True Blue has you covered.
Reader Recommended
Maid Brigade
Specialty Services of Arcadia
45 La Porte St., Arcadia
BEST INTERIOR DESIGN
Robyn Navarro
Upstage Design
964A Foothill Blvd.
La Cañada Flintridge
While studying architecture and environmental design at age 18, Robyn Navarro joined her uncle’s commercial production company, eventually working her way up to becoming a union art director at age 30. Shortly after she got married, Robyn left the long days and locations to launch Navarro Construction with her husband. At Navarro Construction, Robyn led the design of residential projects for over 12 years, earning multiple awards and accolades from their clients, community and social media.
Reader Recommended
Ederra Design Studio
1142 N. Allen Ave., No. 100, Pasadena
Elia Design Group
1560 E. Mountain St., Pasadena
BEST LAUNDRY
Pasadena Laundry (TIE)
2585 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
Bryan’s Cleaners (TIE)
544 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
Pasadena residents must have the cleanest clothes around, considering that two distinctly different laundry services shared this year’s title. Offering full service wash, dry and folding, as well as pickup and drop off delivery service and decades each of experience handling locals’ needs, one never has to worry about looking regal in the Crown City. And with four terrific services in Pasadena, there’s always a location for one of these ace establishments right around the corner.
Reader Recommended
French Hand Laundry and dry cleaner
606 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
Magic Cleaners & Laundry
89 N Lake Ave., Pasadena
BEST LOCAL PHARMACY
Webster’s Community Pharmacy
2450 N. Lake Ave., Altadena
Webster’s Community Pharmacy in Altadena is celebrating 90 years of service to Pasadena and Altadena residents who need a friendly smile and reliable handling of their meds when they’re on the mend. Currently owned by Meredith and Michael Miller, this full service prescription pharmacy helps customers go the extra mile by also supplying wheelchairs and walkers. And the Millers provide an extra personal touch by carrying plenty of boutique gifts and greeting cards to cheer up the recovering person in your life.
Reader Recommended
Fairmont Pharmacy
50 Bellafontaine St., Ste. 103, Pasadena
Phoenix Pharmacy
2523 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena
BEST MARTIAL ARTS
American Kenpo Karate
36 S. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena
American Kenpo Karate has been training locals in this Japanese form of marital arts for over 20 years, teaching both kids and adults how to defend themselves and become karate masters, climbing a six-step path that takes them from Little Dragons through Advanced Adult levels. Kenpo master Rick Jeffcoat started studying the art form in 1984, and all the effort paid off when he was inducted into the National Kenpo Hall of Fame, as one of the 300 most accomplished kenpoists in the nation. So you know you’re in the hands of an expert when you take classes here.
Reader Recommended
Pasadena Martial Arts Academy
752 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
Two Dragons Martial Arts
2490 N. Lake Ave., Altadena
BEST MED SPA
OU Beauty Medical Spa
130 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale
This Glendale favorite will prep you for any special occasion, as it features anti-aging treatments including Botox injections, laser hair removal, cool sculpting that helps get rid of fat without the hassles of surgery, and skin treatments such as chemical peels and micro-dermabrasions. The 13-person staff led by Dr. James Kojian offers eight nurses an aesthetician and four Class II technicians, ensuring happiness with any service they provide.
Reader Recommended
Sasaki Innovessence
800 Fairmount Ave.,
No. 319, Pasadena
Skin Deep Laser Med Spa
425 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
BEST MORTGAGE BROKER
Sierra Capital Mortgage Co.
1055 E Colorado Blvd., No.500,
Pasadena
The husband-wife team of Linda and Roland Wilcox have been helping locals find the best advice and competitive interest rates in their search to buy homes for the past 20 years. Their two decades of experience ensures that they have plenty of leverage in securing great terms for home financing from an array of lending partners. They also help with home refinancing, landing better deals that can save homeowners thousands of dollars that can be put to use achieving their other financial dreams, and have made them respected enough to earn this title two years in a row.
Reader Recommended
Franklin Loan Center
101 E. Green St.,No. 7, Pasadena
HomeStreet Bank
Pasadena Home Loan Center
251 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
Wendy Silva
Silva+Villa Home Loans
3200 La Crescenta Ave., Ste. 202, Glendale
BEST NAIL SALON
Top Nails
1920 N. Lake Ave # 103, Altadena
With more than 80 glowing Yelp reviews online, Top Nails is clearly a place where magic is made for manicures, pedicures, or the ever-popular combination of the two. Offering an array of acrylics and gels to ensure their work lasts, the staff also handles lash work that can last up to two weeks for as little as $25. The combination of quality service, great prices and attentive staff have inspired some customers’ families to come in for three generations and counting.
Reader Recommended
DeLacey Beauty Shoppe
48 S. DeLacey Ave., Pasadena
Olive & June
146 S Lake Ave., Pasadena
BEST PARTY RENTALS
Dolphin Event Services
1901 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
Dolphin Rentals is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, although it originally started as an ambulance service for Pasadena and unincorporated areas of Los Angeles. But they’ve been handling party and special event rentals since the 1970s, offering stylish seating, tents and countless other services to nonprofit socials, festivals, graduations weddings and more. Their extensive gallery of event photos they’ve worked on provides customers with an array of ideas for their own events, while giving them the confidence that their own special soiree will be handled right.
Reader Recommended
Arcadia Party Rentals
124 Wheeler Ave., Arcadia
Town & Country Event Rentals
523 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
BEST PET SERVICE
Paws in Motion
Dogs need to stretch their legs, run fast and breathe deep, and that’s what Paws in Motion facilitates for its customers. While safely leashed to an avid runner, dogs are taken out to exercise on the many trials of the Los Angeles area. Along with the San Gabriel Mountains and the Upper and Lower Arroyo, other favorite fun areas for running and hiking are Griffith Park and the Verdugos. The less busy the trail, the better for uninterrupted play time. Services go for $40 for a one-hour run and $32 for a 60-minute hike. If you’re in La Cañada Flintridge, South Pasadena, San Marino, Glendale, downtown LA or LA’s East Side, Paws in Motion is the pet service for you.
Reader Recommended
I Dig My Dog
2160 E. Foothill Blvd, Pasadena
My Dog Spot
walkmydogspot.info
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
Jason Ballard Photography/JKB Photography
Ballard fell in love with photography in 2009 while on a family vacation to Oregon, when he bought a fancy DSLR camera to replace his standard point-and-shoot. He’s never looked back, as his instant knack for the art form led him to not only open shop as a pro, but quickly soar to the top of local lensmen. He specializes in sports and portrait photography, with a particular passion for portraits of athletes, because of his own lifelong passion for sports. Whether you’re looking to get the perfect shot of a sporting event, family portraits and even real estate imagery, Ballard is one-stop shopping for vibrant visuals.
Reader Recommended
HalfCity Productions
333 Marathon Rd., Altadena
Lyd & Mo Photography Studio & Gallery
27 N. Mentor Ave., Pasadena
BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY
Landswick Physical Therapy, Inc.
959 E. Walnut St., Ste. 240, Pasadena
Erik Landswick started Landswick Physical Therapy in January 2004 with the goal of providing the best physical therapy care in the San Gabriel Valley. He’s reached his goal by winning this year’s contest, a win that comes in no small part by offering a health and wellness program in his 2,700 square foot facility that transitions patients from physical therapy exercise into functional training programs. Landswick also scores points with the community for his volunteer work with St. Francis High School in La Canada during the football season, and no doubt keeps the players as healthy as possible through his expertise.
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CATZ Physical Therapy and Sports Performance
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Pasadena Physical Therapy
95 W. California Blvd., Pasadena
BEST PILATES
Pilates of Pasadena
990 S. Arroyo Parkway, No. 2, Pasadena
Founder and head trainer Maria Jimenez-Tierney fell in love with pilates while studying art in New York in 1993 because it was the first challenging exercise routine that she also found artistic. She pursued the study of Pilates’ fluid moves and graceful style, earning her certification in 2000 and spending 13 years working at various Pasadena studios before opening PoP three years ago. Her ace team of five talented trainers offers both private and group classes, working with clients of all ages and abilities including handicapped, athletes young adults and seniors.
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Studio Metamorphosis
676 E. Green St., Pasadena
Wundabar
860 E. Green St., Pasadena
BEST REAL ESTATE OFFICE
Partners Trust
594 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
With more than 240 associates offering real estate brokerage services in nine offices across the Los Angeles area, Partners Trust are proud of their sales volume while maintaining a reputation of integrity, market intelligence and a genuine connection to their communities. In fact, their Charitable Giving Fund supports a wide array of nonprofits across LA, including current beneficiaries EduCare Foundation, Westside Children’s Center and Inner-City Arts. Add in its status as one of Los Angeles Business Journal’s “Best Places to Work in Los Angeles” list for the past seven years, and you’ve got a firm that can’t be beat.
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John Aaroe Group
42 Pasadena Ave., Pasadena
aaroe.com/offices/pasadena
Keller Williams
251 S. Lake Ave. Ste. 150, Pasadena
Podley Properties
897 Granite Drive, Pasadena
BEST REALTOR
Lucy Mao (TIE)
Partners Trust
594 E. Colorado Blvd, Pasadena
Alex Lozano (TIE)
John Aaroe Group
42 S. Pasadena Ave., Pasadena
Lucy Mao draws on her experiences as a successful business owner, real estate investor, world traveler and mother of three to provide great care and thoughtful strategy to every real estate transaction, and her own experiences living in Eagle Rock, Glendale, San Marino, Arcadia and Pasadena provide invaluable insights to her clients.
Alex Lozano is celebrating his 10th year as a local real estate agent, with a focus on the San Gabriel Valley and Northeast LA, the fastest growing area in Southern California. Born and raised in Pasadena, he has strong roots in the community that inspire his passion for real estate investments and popular and trendy design work.
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Barbara Richardson King
Coldwell Banker
388 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena
Dhari Thein
Podley Properties
1471 E. Altadena Drive, Altadena
Paula Walker
John Aaroe Group
42 Pasadena Ave., Pasadena
BEST SELF STORAGE
Arroyo Parkway Self Storage
411 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
There’s nothing scarier than a cluttered house, and the fine folks at Arroyo Parkway Self Storage have just the solution. For the past nine years, they’ve been serving the Pasadena area, and doing it well enough that they’ve not only won this award but have over 50 percent of their storage unit rentals come from repeat or referral business. That’s because they provide a free truck to move in, as well as a clean, secure and will-lit facility, as well as a variety of storage sizes and options to meet your needs and fit any budget.
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Space Bank Mini Storage
3202 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
Storbox Self Storage
2233 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
BEST SENIOR/ASSISTED LIVING
The Fair Oaks by
Regency Park
951 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
Regency Park Senior Living offers such great amenities that it has won this category six out of the last seven years. Focusing on independent and assisted living, residents enjoy a lifestyle of relaxed elegance — including fine dining, daily housekeeping, and local transportation — along with a broad array of services and care options. Want a home movie theater, a computer café, fitness and therapy center, or spa and massage room? It’s all here and more.
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Arcadia Gardens
Retirement Hotel
720 W. Camino Real Ave., Arcadia
Villa Gardens
842 E. Villa St., Pasadena
BEST SPEECH/HEARING SPECIALIST
Justine Sherman & Associates
55 Auburn Ave., Ste. A,Sierra Madre
A nonpublic agency serving the speech-language, educational orofacial and myofunctional needs of clients throughout the San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys, Justine Sherman & Associate designs and carries out customized treatment plans with specific goals. Their speech-language pathologists and educational specialists conduct individual or group therapy sessions, always aiming for a family-centered approach to their clients’ care. That’s important considering she and her staff help people of all ages, from toddlers to adults.
BEST SUMMER CAMP
Summerkids Camp
3697 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Altadena
For more than 35 years, Summerkids has been giving children magical summers on their 57-acre campus at the edge of the Angeles National Forest. In fact, the kids have such a good time that all of the counselors who work there are former attendees. That’s because the first rule of the camp is to “Have fun,” giving today’s tightly programmed kids a chance to cut loose and have a blast in nature. The safe and secure location is completely fenced and includes beautiful meadows, streams, lodge, cabins, pool, sports fields, a 1,200-square-foot garden, hiking trails, a zip line, an obstacle course, a chicken coop and much, much more.
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Theatre 360
75 N. Marengo Ave., Pasadena
Tom Sawyer Camp
707 W. Woodbury Road, No. F, Altadena
BEST TATTOO/PIERCING
Shogun Tattoo
2480 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
This shop has been making area tattoo fans’ skin colorful for the past 14 years, ever since Andrew Moore decided to set up shop in Pasadena with a studio that specializes solely in inking, not piercing. Clearly, area aficionados appreciate that focus, and their five-man team of Moore, Pete Castro, Joe Reno, Charles Belnavis and Tony Action are available to help you achieve a dramatic new look.
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In the Skin Studio
586 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
BEST TRAVEL AGENCY
Montrose Travel
2349 Honolulu Ave., La Crescenta-Montrose
If you’re scared of the presidential election’s results and are looking to flee the country, you can’t go wrong asking Montrose Travel’s ace staff to help you find the right flight to the right destination at the right price. Recognized as one of America’s Top 50 travel management companies, they have succeeded by keeping their focus personal and “helping people travel, one at a time.”
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AAA Automobile Club of Southern California
801 E. Union St., Pasadena
BEST VETERINARIAN
VCA Foothill Veterinary Hospital
2204 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
Since 1953, VCA Foothill Veterinary Hospital has been administering quality veterinary care, serving Pasadena, Altadena, Sierra Madre, San Marino, South Pasadena, Arcadia and the surrounding areas. Preventive health services and products for all dog and cat patients include vaccinations, spaying and neutering, parasite prevention and testing, microchip placements, wellness exams and prescription diet foods. Add in pet grooming and boarding, treatment for canine and feline diabetes, and home delivery of medications and food for prescription diets, and you have one-stop care for all your canine and cat needs.
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Dr. Daniel Vanderho of Vanderhoof Veterinary Hospital
2235 Lake Ave., Ste. 101, Altadena
Pasadena Pets Veterinary Hospital
2850 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena
BEST WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM
MC2 Fit
460 S. Arroyo Pkwy., Pasadena
This is not just a run of the mill gym with weights and machines. Based on the training methods of Master Trainer Maggie Chen, MC2 Fit’s mission is to educate and help promote effective weight loss plans that elevate health. The idea is not just to diet, but to change lifestyles to produce a more permanent change. MC2 Fit, inspires, transforms and works to unleash the best in you.
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Pasadena Weight Loss Center
774 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
Weight Watchers
305 N. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena
BEST WORKOUT
Title Boxing Club
87 Fraser Alley, Pasadena
Channel your inner Rocky and develop the eye of the tiger without getting hurt by engaging in no-hit boxing and kickboxing sessions for workout. Men and women can burn up to 1,000 calories per hour in group classes, helping ensure that participants will be prepared for their safety and won’t have any scary nights on the streets of our fair city.
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MC2 Fit
460 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena
Pure Barre Pasadena
107 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
BEST YOGA
Hot Yoga Pasadena
2089 E Colorado Blvd
Pasadena, CA 91107
Hot yoga — aka Bikram yoga — is specially designed to be the format of choice for true believers in yoga. Using intense heat to effect deeper impact and stretching of muscles, it also becomes a means of cleansing one’s system through sweat and is a great way for regular practitioners to lose weight. What makes Hot Yoga Pasadena stand out from the crowd of other yoga institutions is its creation of YogiVal, a yoga class for preteen girls that teaches inner strength and confidence.
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Yoga House
11 W. State St., Pasadena
Yoga Works
277 W. Green St., Pasadena
