- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
38 Degrees Ale House & Grill
Categories: Nightlife Bars Pubs Restaurants American (New) Pubs, American (New) [Edit]
100 W Main StAlhambra, CA 91801
Neighborhood: Alhambra
(626) 282-2038
Announcement
Pliny The Younger coming soon. Like us on FB now to find out how to attend an epic craft beer tasting event @ 38° Degrees Ale House & Grill
Announced 2 weeks ago- Hours:
Mon 11:30 am - 12 am
Tue-Thu 11:30 am - 1:30 am
Fri-Sat 11:30 am - 2 am
Sun 10 am - 12 am
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Music:
- Background
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
538 reviews for 38 Degrees Ale House & Grill
Review Highlights
"Their sweet potato fries was also a great addition."
(in 125 reviews)
"Their beer selection is incredible and well picked."
(in 76 reviews)
"The garlic aioli is a perfect topping to finish it off."
(in 46 reviews)
Loading...
537 reviews in English
-
Review from Jason L.
La Crescenta-Montrose, CA
2/9/2012
Stopped in before the superbowl for some lunch and a brew.
Had the pork patty of love and a Blind Pig IPA ... both were wayabove average.
No complaints here! -
Review from Isaac L.
Alhambra, CA
Updated - 2/8/2012 7 Check-ins Here
The burgers here have improved since opening. I am particularly found of the 38 burger which has crumbled blue cheese and caramelized onions. I prefer the sweet potato fries upgrade for 2 bucks. I'm not a fan of the shoestring fries which are too salty. I've also tried the greek salad with chicken and it is very tasty. Not drenched with dressing like so many pub salads often are.
I have to complain about the beers. When you order a beer you can't expect to get a full pint. They have several different capacity glasses. So you may be persuaded by the bartender to try a certain brew for 8 bucks only to be shocked when it is much smaller than a pint. I'm thinking 8-10 ounces.
Please please please, with sugar on top. Put how many ounces of beer you get next to the price. I find myself asking the bartender if it comes as a pint. I don't want any surprises.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
6/22/2010
The previous place, California Brew Co, suffered from a bad layout, and bad service. Also, they… Read more »
-
-
Review from Jen H.
Hacienda Heights, CA
2/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
Came here on a Saturday night with a party of 13. They didn't take reservations but put us down on their priority seating list. The wait wasn't bad at all..I would say about 10 minutes.
From what I could tell, everybody was pretty satisfied with their meal. I ordered their 38 burger which came with a side of shoe string fries and garlic aioli. Omg that garlic sauce!!! The burger was nice and juicy and a bit difficult to eat but hey, what burger isn't?
Our waiter was great in recommending beers to everybody. I'm not a beer drinker but was pretty pleased with the light beer he recommended! Though, I felt he was in and out constantly. He wouldn't just stay and take everyone's drink orders at once.
The ambiance is good for big parties. It can get kind of loud in there and the lighting isn't great either..pretty dark. -
Review from Anthony C.
Los Angeles, CA
Wow, this place is amazing. Came here one time to get some lunch and a beer before job searching and was blow away by the whole experience.
Place is like a nicer version Yardhouse with all its beers on tap, tvs, and its great burgers and service. It might have been because it was the middle of the week for lunch as the place was not packed at all and the service was superb. Our waiter gave great recommendations on both the food and beer to go with our tastes. As for myself, I got the Menage O'Pork Burger and boy oh boy was that one amazing burger. I swear it must have been the best pork burger I have ever had as I just inhaled that thing.
I highly recommend coming to check this place out. I am sure it is probably packed on the weekends and parking might be a little troublesome there, but it is worth it. Wish they opened one closer to my place.Comment from Clay H. of 38 Degrees Ale House & Grill 2/2/2012
Thanks for the kind words friend! Will be opening in near… More » -
Review from Jackie W.
2/2/2012 1 Check-in Here
38 Degrees Ale House & Grill is a promising local hangout in Downtown Alhambra. It's not the most amazing place ever but it sure beats the rest of Main Street's dark and empty spots. I can definitely appreciate a place like 38 Degrees Ale House in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley, home of the most Asians outside of Asia - hahaha =)
I came here recently for a Niners and Giants game, and it was PACKED. It was clear who was a fan of either team, but every one was pretty civil (read no fights or taunts). However, there were a lot of people in jerseys so I imagine 38 Degrees Ale House is a place with a lot of spirit to be for a game. There were plenty of TVs which was nice, but the layout of the tables don't always fit to conveniently look at the TV.
To be honest, I was REALLY disappointed with the size of the braised short ribs ($19). It was one of the most expensive items on the menu and it was ONE short rib and meh-tasting risotto. The sliders were tiny as well (and expensive at $8-9), and I feel like I could've purchased a larger set for the same cost from Costco's. I did get 50% off the sliders because I checked in on Yelp. Yay Yelp!
Overall, it's an okay place and I'd like to come back to try their happy hour. -
Review from Lee C.
Pasadena, CA
2/3/2012
Good ol' first impressions. I stopped by this place after work, and must admit that I am impressed. I was greeted at the bar by friendly faces and a friendly happy hour. I was offered a plethora of beer options. I was offered a fair price for quality brew and chew.
New goal: Find means of public transport to taste more yum yum. -
Review from Kevin C.
Pasadena, CA
This is by far my FAVORITE PLACE IN ALL OF LOS ANGELES!!! When you go to a place and their food is good that is cool. When you go to a place and they have great beer and drinks, I'm a fan. When you go to a place and don't want to leave because you just feel so welcome by the entire staff, bartenders and owner, this will stick with you forever!!!
I've already written many times about the way I love their beers and since they always change I do like to list some of the highlights each time I re-review them.
I know that one of the Yelp Guidelines is they suggest you don't write a review if you know the owner or staff. Now there in lye a problem. You see when I first started coming here I didn't know ANYONE and I was treated with plenty of service and respect. But, alas after going a few times the servers know your name (yeah just like Cheers...Norm!!!...for you old folks who remember it and didn't see it on nick at night).
Everytime, Chris greats me with a warm smile and cold glass every time I arrive. If Clay the owner is around he will always stop by the table, see what you are drinking and eating and make sure you like it. He also makes sure to stop by and tell you whatever special brew was just tapped and not on the menu. He will even at times sit down and have a beer with you and the party.
They put on such fun events there like the Wed night slider special parings, the flight festivals, the pop up beer gardens with other brewers and other bars called ColLAbortion. I've seen myself through some amazing events in this bar/restaurant from getting married and drinking shots with Chris and Clay to that event, finding out my wife was pregnant...yep more shots, birthdays (you guessed it shots), bringing my mom in to visit my local spot, and even telling friends to go there for professional gatherings because lets face it, I'm not going to conduct business in a place with beers that are crap. I don't tend to drink very much when I go here but one or two good beers are well worth the trip rather than a 6 pack or coors, miller, corona, or bud.
If you want a rare beer that is hard to find or a pub that you feel like you are at home, now that is even more rare and hard to find. I've found my home and its at the cool temperature of 38 degrees.Listed in: My favorite beers, places for…, ROTD's
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
-
10/21/2011
Flight Fest II last night highlights:
Two Rivers Flight-
Kern River Golden Trout Pale 6.5%
Russian… Read more »
-
-
Review from Anita i.
1/27/2012
38 is an awesome place to come watch the game and grab a few belgium beers with friends ;) I always have a good time here and it doesn't hurt that my Salsa dance class is right next door... or maybe it does hurt.. my love handles. Oh well! The beer selection is great, the sweet potato fries are pretty good and the hummus with veggies makes for a healthy snack. I've had a few of their burgers before, I don't remember which ones... but you probably really can't go wrong. Service is always spot on. I'd def come back if I was in the area or before AND after salsa? yeah
w h a t i d i g
neighborhood friendly- casual- no frills-pour me a beer and I'll thank you kinda place. -
Review from Penny W.
South Pasadena, CA
2/8/2012
Great beer,Awesome happy hour! Recommend the fish tacos and the pork sliders pared with any beer, they are all good!
-
Review from Jay J.
Los Angeles, CA
1/29/2012 1 Check-in Here
I'm not going to repeat all of the 4 & 5 star reviews, because that would be monotonous and boring. How much more original can it be after 500+ reviews, right?
I'll just say that if you do a Yelp check-in here, you'll get a discount to use that day or for a future visit! -
Review from jason s.
Glendale, CA
1/24/2012
The food deserves 4 stars.
The service deserves 1 star.
The atmosphere, well, let's just say if you're over the age of 35 (or remotely value your hearing), is likely not for you and deserves 2 stars.
Food was solid for an ale house of this variety, perhaps even erring on the side of excellent. The menu was expansive, and with regards to what I ordered, well executed. The shoestring fries are hot, thin, and just salty enough. The onion rings are simply delightful. I'd go back here and pick up an order (to go, of course). The burgers and pulled pork were nicely done too.
SO, how can I possibly give this place 2 stars, you ask?
The complete lack of service we experienced. Greeted by a disinterested hostess, we informed her that our party was arriving in parts, and that we'd just like to wait by the front door for the remaining members to arrive. She couldn't have cared less and non-verbally indicated so by shrugging her shoulders and turning away. Really? Did this just happen?
Mind you, I drove here from Los Feliz to meet some friends. This place would last five minutes on our side of town with a hostess like that. Anyway, I digress.
Our party arrives, and we're seated promptly (oddly enough by the same disinterested hostess). I thought my lack of coolness had turned her off at this point, but she did have a job to do after all.
We're seated, and 4 of the 5 of us have our drink orders taken. What about the 5th person? I couldn't tell you. The waitress completely ignored her and headed back to the bar without her order. I tried to find the waitress at this point, but she disappeared. Some time later she returns with our drinks, and I ask her what happened with our friend's drink order. She replies "I didn't think she wanted a drink."
You clearly don't want a tip.
Had the food not been delicious, we'd have left for sure. Beers are downed, and guess what? We need more beers. Where's the waitress? Again, who knows. I order beer from the bar. The bartender sees me come over from our table. He sees my frustration. No apology.
I ask him to turn the music down, as they're blasting "Crystal Method" at 130db on a Sunday night at 8pm. If I was in Prague, and it was 2001, I wouldn't have minded so much. I was literally yelling at my friends across the table.
What's left? I pay the bill, but because I feel sorry for our waitress (maybe she's not all there), I still tip her well. I should've voted with my wallet, but I'm sure I'm already subsidizing her income as it is with my tax dollars.
Verdict: If you're 21, hate your parents and know everything, this is the spot for you. -
Review from Nadine F.
Mission Viejo, CA
2/6/2012
38 Degrees has a great beer selection and great happy hour! Definitely try the fish tacos....so yummy! Tuesday Trivia Nights are soooooo much fun! This is just a fun place to spend the night and hang out with friends with some good beer and good food.
-
Review from Angie W.
Came here the other night to hang out. We came pretty late and the place was packed! Everyone was crowded at the bar.
We got some curry salmon cake sliders which were pretty good, a lil on the spicy side & oh so cute!! I wanted to cuddle with them. :) They tasted pretty good, the salmon had good heat to it. Yum!
Also got the Backyard Burger (Angus, 1000 Island, tomato, grilled red onion, cheddar, lettuce & pickle). At first bite, it tasted like In-N-Out but better. Lots of meat! Loved the brioche bread it came on, reminded me of Umami's bread. We subbed it with sweet potato fries w/ garlic aioli. The sweet potato fries weren't as good as I remembered it. :( It did get a lil soggy.
Also had the Beets 2 Ways Carpaccio salad which was ok, but I was expecting more beets. It came with baby arugula, mint, walnuts, feta and crispy beets. I could have eaten a bag full of crispy beets. MMMMM The salad was ok. Too much baby arugula, not enough beets.
They have Happy Hour on Mondays through Fridays from 3pm-7pm. No sweet potato fries on the HH menu. :(
All in all, its pretty good. Would come back for a chilling session.
Check in offer: 50% off appetizer with entree ordered. :)Listed in: Stars & Stripes, Between Bread, Local | Alhambra, 50 First Dates, Veggies 'R' Us
-
Review from Jackie W.
1/20/2012 1 Check-in Here
This first thing I noticed when we sat down was, it's gnarly dark in here. The restaurant was really dimly lit with a tea-light candle on your table. It was kindda hard to read the menu, especially the drinks menu since the print was small.
We came here for happy hour which ends at 7pm. The happy hour menu consisted of maybe 10 items including tacos, flatbreads, pita and hummus, fries/tater tots, and tiny sliders. Drinks consisted of several dollars off what they usually cost and $3 well cocktails.
The sliders were tasty but they were really tiny. The fish tacos were good; they had a nice kick to them. Sticky fries were flavorful due to the gravy. Pita and hummus was pita and hummus. And the Jalepeno Chorizo flat bread was alright. I felt that it needed more toppings as it seemed desolate. They had a great variety of beer, and if you can't seem to choose one, the servers can pick one for you if you tell them typically what beers you like to drink.
The service was friendly; most the servers are in the younger crowd so it's easy to talk to them. However, our server did forget some things here and there, and when I asked for another glass of wine before happy hour ends and he says sure, I expected it at happy hour prices, but it wasn't. It was only a $2 discount, so I just let it go, but communication goes a long way. -
Review from Aaron S.
1/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
Stopped in here to watch the game on Sunday. 38 Degrees seems to copy the successful Yardhouse/BW3 business model.
Lots of good beers and a surprising good wine list. All the food that came out of the kitchen looked great.
The server had good personality and made solid recommendations to both my wife and I.
Park in the back and walk around. Lots of TVs and the crowd was very diverse between families and women. The bar was well lit with high ceilings.
Definitely will be back. -
Review from Jackie B.
1/13/2012 1 Check-in Here
I really, really loved the sweet potato fries with garlic aioli. So much so that I moved the bowl from the middle of the table where I initially placed it to maintain some semblance of wanting to share. By the end, though, I dropped all pretenses and moved my salad out of the way in order to fully engage with the sweet potato fries.
I'm really impressed with the number of beers on tap, and the fact that the beer and alcohol menu is thicker than the food menu. The next time, I think I'll sit at the bar with my fries and a recommended beer and be totally happy for an hour or two. Also, a stop at Perfectly Sweet across the street for dessert is recommended. I didn't notice any dessert offerings here, though, so maybe I'll try something from the place I'm reviewing.
Service was great and attentive. We took advantage of the Yelp deal, and got a deal on our appetizer and entree combination... from the owner himself. He even winked at us when the waitress took my phone over to him and showed him the deal. That was niiice. Can't wait to go back, I have a feeling it'll be a good place to drop by after work to get a burger, beer, and fries. I personally had a salad (gotta show restraint somewhere in my food choices) but my friend Kevin had the 38 burger, which looked and sounded delicious. It came on a brioche bun, with arugula, and a good-sized amount of Angus ground beef.
Sweet potato fries! Happy hour! Cool place to hang out! I'll be back. -
Review from Joyce V.
Monterey Park, CA
Updated - 1/21/2012 4 photos
Menage O' Pork Burger is the only thing I want when we come here now! Well...besides the beer of course.
Ground pork & chorizo patty, bacon marmalade, pepper jack cheese, chipotle aioli, & watercress w/ sweet potato fries w/ garlic aioli!
My poor husband only got one bite. Next time I'm sure he'll get the same...after all he's the one who ordered it when it was just a special on the menu.Listed in: Best Burgers
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
12/5/2011
Thank you Clay for putting the Menage O' Pork Burger on the regular menu! It was soooo tasty! So… Read more »
-
-
Review from suban h.
Arcadia, CA
2/4/2012
I highly recommend the tuna tartar and the thirty eight delicious highly recommend hooked what ever they are doing with these dishs their are doing it right...
-
Review from Kelvin C.
Updated - 1/5/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Cheers to their delicious Happy hour Fish Tacos and sticky fries (f'in MONEY!). Best place to grab a beer in Alhambra hands down.
Tip: If you order a burger, make sure you ask them to grill the bun. Makes it 39247592 times better. Happy hour is until 7 on the weekdays.Listed in: Grab a Brew Here!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
8/28/2009
I can see that some of the inspiration from this bar came from Father's Office, from their design,… Read more »
-
-
Review from Mesa T.
Baldwin Park, CA
1/28/2012
place is cool. a bit loud for me but i came for their vast selections of craft beers. I wasn't disappointed. drink local.
-
Review from Ellerton W.
Pasadena, CA
1/23/2012
Came here on Chinese New Year's because drove all the way to Alhambra and Savoy was closed (@#!&$*) . Yard House could almost sue this place for copyright infringement, from the plates to the menu to the large selection of beers and the ambiance. But, I think this place is a little better than Yardhouse. My burger (the 38 degree or something) was very good -- no Umami, but nothing to scoff at. Got a decent Oatmeal Stout. Entrees (non-burgers) appeared expensive for a place like this, in the $18-20 range. Torn between 3 and 4 stars.
-
Review from Janet L.
12/22/2011 4 photos
Nice little pub located on a corner of 1st and Main St. across the street from Starbucks. Haven't gone here just for drinks but I've been here twice for birthday surprise dinners. Once, I actually planned the surprise dinner for the BF and the other time was for my sister's friend's wifey. Both times were enjoyable. I don't think I'd come here for date night though. This place seems to be more for groups. There's TV's and a nice bar area. The parking is in the back and there's a structure across the street as well. Just be aware of the cops! There are mad pigs errywhere in the Alhambra area. There are also some sketchy/shady areas so just be currrful after you drank. Don't start shit with randumbs on the street. :)
This place seems to get prettty busy on weeknights and weekends. And after 10PM, they check ID in the front.
Their portions are pretty good and the price is reasonable. I remember I ordered their sweet potato fries and mussels appetizer with shoe string fries. Their garlic aioli for the fries is super bomb! My BF ordered the Hangar Steak which was just okay...came with fingerling potatoes and asparagus. And I had the chicken mac & cheese. I've had better.
The other time I went I had split the Backyard burger with my sister...I think. The burger wasn't that memorable, as you can tell...but it was good at the time though!
I don't know why I ordered a chocolate martini but I'm never gonna order that ish again. I'm not even a big fan of martinis! Yuck.
Again, both times I came, I had a good time. But it's not 4 star worthy, yet.
Will try to update my review the next time I come here for happy hour or for small eats and dranks.Listed in: 626
-
Review from Pippi L.
South Pasadena, CA
Updated - 1/2/2012 3 Check-ins Here
This place is always right on the verge of four stars for me. It's just the inconsistency that holds me back. I'll keep on going though, because I feel it's close :)
So, one gripe is that I hate it when you order a drink on one occasion and it's served in a pint glass and then on the next occasion it's served in an old fashioned glass. It was the same bartender, so I'm not sure why. He couldn't have been trying to cut me off because it was my first drink :) Anyhow, I think for $9 the Jalapeno Margarita should be served in the pint glass. This is not one of those fooffy LA bars that needs to charge 9 bucks for a tumbler of ice doused with a thimble full of elixir...is it?
And also the last time I was in, rather than a music mix, they were playing constant rap music really loud. I swear it seemed like it was making the men angry. They were all swearing and yelling at the football players. Seriously, more angry than anyone needs to be at a game. I requested they switch to a mix (nothing wrong with rap, just don't want to hear it all day) and they were kind enough to indulge me. All of a sudden everyone was so much more calm. I think there is something to this. You just can't get all pissy when listening to Come On Eileen.
In sum, great burgers, good salads, tasty fries, and most of the time good music and drinks. Great place to watch the games!1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
3/5/2011
I've enjoyed the food so far. Seems far above most bar food. And great selection of beer. When I've… Read more »
-
-
Review from Jason A.
12/24/2011 1 Check-in Here
This place is a pretty good local burger + bar. It's noisy, so it may not be the best place for your 50th wedding anniversary, but it'll do for a birthday or a place to watch the game. They've got some tasty burger options, but the one "burger" I really like isn't a burger at all... it's ratatouille! Their ratatouille burger is awesome. Meatless, yes... but nonetheless, it's a winner.
One more gem I found there: BREAD PUDDING.
The people at 38 degrees make a MEAN bread pudding, and they use chocolate chips instead of raisins! THAT'S RIGHT. Chocolate chips. It may be hard to save room for dessert at a place like this, but do it and get that BP. -
Review from Cindy L.
El Monte, CA
12/26/2011
It's a nice casual place to hang out with friends. Service is good.
Curry salmon sliders: Sounds delicious, but unfortunately it was a little dry.
Sweet potato fries: It was good, especially with the garlic aioli. I don't know many places that mess up sweet potato fries though.
Fish tacos: It was better than I expected. The fish was moist on the inside, crispy outside. Flavorful too.
Tater tots: It was like fried mash potatoes. My friend liked it, but I felt like it was overseasoned.
Beer sampler: I like beer, because it's carbonated. All of the beer in the holiday sampler was bitter, not bubbly. Also, the flavors didn't taste like the description. However, others might enjoy it.
Strawberry mojito: It was really sweet and not strong at all. It tasted more like juice.
Overall, great hangout with lots of food and drink choices. -
Review from Jessica S.
Irvine, CA
1/29/2012 1 Check-in Here
Great place to grab a beer, catch a game, and just hang out!! Comparable to a yardhouse feel. Your typical bar food menu, including some yummy salads and sandwiches! :)
-
Review from Christopher J.
Rowland Heights, CA
12/27/2011 1 photo
Finally got to check this place out! What the hell is wrong me me nowadays.. I came here primarily for Pliny the Elder which they did have on tap, thank god..
Ultimately, if you're a fellow craft and import beer fanatic and enjoy quality brew, you have to check this place out because they have tons of quality selections (even some rare brews) available on tap and bottle.. I knew I should've snapped a photo of all the taps!
If you come here for happy hour and assume every beer on the menu is discounted (like myself), think twice.. I would ask to make sure. At least the ones I ordered were regular price damn it...
As for the happy hour food menu, there were about a handful of items to choose from, at which point only the hummus and pita made the selection. On the regular menu I ordered the fried calamari, and sweet potato fries which both tasted good. Calamari was very good...
I expected it to be crazy busy on a Friday night but it wasn't, it was steady. -
Review from Jason H.
12/6/2011 1 Check-in Here
Been to so many gourmet burger joints....they all begin to taste the same. But this place offers a Pork/Chorizo burger thats off the wall. You have to come just to try that. I was a bit weary to try it, but glad I did.
Their beer selection is wonderful and they even have a flight of beer to taste.
If you're into sports, they have about 8 to 10 tv screens spread across the bar and dining area.
The Garlic Aioli was the best I've ever tasted as well...try your fries with it.
The cesaer salad was kinda of blah though...and the onion rings were the beer batter kind. (not my type...i like the flakey batter...kinda like at jack in the box).
But again...if you're not sure what to order...get the port burger...its called something like Menage de pork? i forget...exactly...but its good
I just tried to go on their website to get the correct spelling of the pork burger...and their menu page is annoying....argh -
Review from Kathy C.
12/18/2011
This review is primarily for their drinks and appetizers.
I must say that the bartender here really knows how to make good cocktails. I know that making a gin and tonic sounds really easy to do, but so many places do a terrible job at making a decent gin and tonic. The bartender is quite heavy handed with the alcohol too - which is a good thing!
The appetizers, on the other hand, were quite lackluster. We ordered the fried calamari and the sweet potato fries. The sweet potato fries were decent, but the fried calamari was quite forgetful. In fact, I wish I could actually forget what the calamari tasted like.
Service was friendly and efficient. -
Review from Abby C.
12/16/2011 3 photos
Food/Cost: (4/5) Came here for Happy Hour last Friday night and liked it! Discounted appetizers go for $4-$7 and include things like tacos, flatbreads, tater tots, and fries. The portions are substantial so you can split a couple and make a meal of them. I liked that they put a cool spin on the appetizers so you don't just get run-of-the-mill bar food. For example, I thought the Tempura Battered Tater Tots ($5) were awesome -- think well seasoned mashed potato balls fried with a lightly crisp shell. Haven't tried the burgers yet, but from the endless stream I saw exiting from the kitchen and my friends' rave reviews, I think it safe to say that they're good. For beer connoisseurs out there, 38 has a changing, extensive selection of unique brews to keep your tastebuds on their toes.
Ambiance: (4/5) Good mix of trendy and casual. Good for pairs, small groups, and large ones. We came around 5:30pm and the large space was already 75% full. By the time we left at 7:30pm, it was 95% full. It's got a youthful energy about it that is both casual and trendy.
Service: (5/5) Service is pretty top-notch. The knowledgable staff is always willing to help you choose the right drink. Our guy came back pretty often to ask if we needed anymore food or drinks.
Location: (4/5) Very conspicuously located on the corner of Main and 1st. Alhambra has successfully transformed this area into a happening area for both families and young folk. There are plenty of restaurants and bars; the movie theater is quite close by. The area is well lit and parking is plentiful. We parked at the large, multi-level lot on S. 1st Street by Lovebirds. Easy.
Overall: (4/5) Can't go wrong with 38 Degrees. Very well executed, from concept to menus to decor. Come, you'll like it. -
Review from Kelly H.
San Gabriel, CA
12/30/2011
This review is only about the burgers and mixed drinks.
Menage O Pork: Really good! Just a little bit spicy and pretty juicy. My only complaint is that the barbeque flavor kind of masks the flavors of everything else in the burger. Where was the spicy chorizo flavor? Nowhere!
Fries: Plain shoestring fries that were kind of cold but I love fries so I ate them all anyway. Garlic Aioli: Mm good, but I felt like I was dipping my fries into mayonnaise the whole time. And even with the garlic aioli, the fries were still quite plain. I wish it was more garlic-y.
White Sangria: Ehhh it tasted like diluted Arbor Mist. We sent it back because I didn't feel like paying $9 for a glass of cheap wine.
Strawberry Mojito: tasted like strawberry lemonade. My friend and I both liked it but I felt like there was no alcohol in it at all. It could be well made, but I have zero tolerance and will flush to the slightest trace of alcohol but that night nothing happened. (ahem:craziest Asian glow genes everrrr) Still really tasty and refreshing, I just thought it'd be a little bit stronger.
We wanted to try a beer and the waiter recommended some to us. When we finally decided on one, he told us they didn't have it. Whaaaat.... Why recommend something and not have it? He also couldn't point anything out for us in our menu because he "wasn't wearing his glasses." Our drink menu was also missing pages..
In short, the burgers are good but most of them taste like barbeque sauce. Service is very, very attentive aside from the visually impairment of our waiter. I wouldn't really come back here unless I somehow began to enjoy beer more since they had an awesome looking beer selection. -
Review from Broke M.
Encino, CA
1/24/2012
The bf and I have been coming to this particular area of Alhambra the last couple of years, mostly to eat at The Boiling Crab, and just recently discovered, Shakas. We usually come to this area during the daytime hours. On Saturday evening, we decided to go to dinner. Whenever we decide to go out to eat, the conversation always goes something like this: Him: "Where do you want to eat?" Me: "I don't know, how about (insert Boiling Crab/Palms Thai/Shakas/Castle House)?" We're creatures of habit and don't like to deviate from our favorite places. We remembered 38 degrees and decided to head to Alhambra, figuring we can always change our minds last minute and head to The Boiling Crab or Shakas.
We're glad we decided to keep walking past The Boiling Crab and Shakas and head to 38 Degrees. We arrived at 8:30 and the place was pretty busy, but we were seated immediately. The hostess was really friendly and seated us in front of a tv like we requested so that we could watch the Kings' game. Our server, Alex, was very friendly and patient with us, especially since we couldn't figure out what we wanted, especially when it came to the brews. I don't drink, but the bf was very overwhelmed with the mass selection of brews. The last time I saw that look on his face was when we were at Biergarten at Epcot Center. Our server took the time to explain all the brews and asked the bf what his preferences were when it came to light and dark beers. After some time, the bf selected the 4-cup sampler with 4 different brews, and they were all very good in his opinion. The cups are 4.5 oz each and each cup is seated in a little wooden paddle. If you do decide to get the sampler cups, it's probably best to get the 4-cup sampler. There was a guy at the table next to us who only ordered 2, and the bf remarked that his paddle looked a bit empty.
I ordered the Shrimp Po Boy with the sweet potato friends, and he ordered some Argentinian sandwich with shoestring fries. We tasted each other's food, and I'm not sure if it was because we had a "green session" in the car before walking to 38 Degrees, but the food was so good! I've never had a Shrimp Po Boy before, but the one from 38 Degrees had a bit of kick to it that I liked. The sweet potato fries with the sauce really complimented the sandwich well. The bf and I both eat a lot, and we're happy to say that the food portions were perfect--stuffed, but not the I-need-to-unbutton-the-top-button-of-my-pants stuffed. Service by Alex throughout this entire time was great, and he was very attentive. The prices for the drinks were pretty good, and the prices for the food were also good considering the quality. A typical meal is about $11 or more, and sampler beer cups (4.5 oz) start at about $2-3.
Everyone who worked there was really friendly. There was a guy who was very nicely dressed (maybe the manager, or even the owner?) who was helping to bus tables and clear tables. That says a lot to me that he's willing to help his crew, because some owners or managers think it's above them to do that kind of work. He was busy clearing another table, and was friendly and said goodbye when we left at 10:30. The place got even more packed by the time we left! -
Review from Alan K.
Monterey Park, CA
12/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
Um. Yum? I never knew this existed until I randomly dropped in one day and I left with a pretty happy tummy. This is one of those places that I go to when I'm feeling for a burger and don't want to travel too far for a quality burger.
FOOD QUALITY:
So their burger patties aren't the most juiciest or tender, but I really like the taste that comes out of each bite. The 38 burger I like the most due to the garlic aioli that complements the patty very well. I feel the flavors are balanced with the thin-cut fries that they serve along with it. Not all of their burgers are great though -- I'd most likely stay away from the triple chili burger... unless you like chilis and peppers. Otherwise it's not so much a balanced burger.
Meatloaf here is pretty good since it's accompanied by hearty mash potatoes. Not entirely jaw dropping but pleasantly satisfying.
SERVICE:
Is polite. They usually check up on you.
ENVIRONMENT:
Is large and spacious at the restaurant part. Pretty cramped at the bar side. Generally noisy environment but it's a bar and grill - what do you expect?
I try to come here during the dinner time since the prices for lunch and dinner remain the same. It's a little more on the expensive side but it's not bad for what the food is worth. -
Review from Nimai K.
Northridge, CA
12/28/2011
Great location for a craft beer bar, right on the corner of Main & 1st (1 block from Garfield) so it's pretty prominent. There are some high end restaurants and clubs in the area too, so it's a bit of an upscale business area from what I gather (not a local)
I like the brick of the building, the high ceilings, and art work. Didn't try the food, so when and if I go back, I'll have to try that.
Alhambra is not really that close to me, so not sure when I'll get another chance to check this place out again. However, while I was impressed with their selection, (at the time was able to get a Barrel Aged Cuir on draft) it was $15 though. Granted, a retail is $30, and doesn't get sold outside the Bruery/Provisions, so the fact they even had a keg was a pretty big deal, but still, a high price per 8-10 oz.
However, me and my group were a bit shocked and displeased with one aspect of our visit. We were a party of 8 people, so they seated us at a table. The place was pretty empty at the time though, so they could have sat us anywhere, but when the check came, they had added 18% gratuity on our check, (becasue we were 8 people) even though we didn't order ANY food, just ONE beer per person (and the bill was $100, so the beers are not the cheapest, though again, the selection was pretty killer) Just seemed a pretty crumby policy to all of us. Next time, I'll just sit at the bar. I am by no means cheap either, and I would have tipped well anyway, as I worked as a Lead Server in a restaurant for over 5 years while in college, so I know what it is to turn tables, but that is not something we would ever do when I was a server if 8 people ordered just drinks, in the bar.
Anyhow, glad this place has good profile though, every town needs a exclusive craft beer bar. -
Review from Cindy L.
12/9/2011
Happy Hour! Mon-Fri (3-7pm) - entire restaurant area!
Where to go after studying at the Alhambra library? Nearest happy hour for grub, of course (library closes at 5pm, perfect time/excuse to go to HH).
HH menu consists of tacos (2-3 varieties), sliders, tater tots, fries, and hummus. Prices range from $5-8. Drink specials include $2 off their beers, and $3 for well drinks (something like that). The order:
Fish tacos ($7): 3 fish tacos, HUGE chunk of fried fish on cabbage, LOTS of sauce (typical fish taco fixin') . VERY messy to eat because the fish is so big in comparison to everything else & too much sauce! I liked the 1st taco (would've preferred it without the spicy kick & messy factor), reminded me of $1 fish tacos I get at Rubio's back in college, and then when I ate the 2nd one, I started to feel like it was too much.
Curry Salmon cake sliders ($9 - NOT on HH menu): 3 bite-sized salmon cake sliders. Meh on this one. I should've known that salmon patties are always a mess taste wise to eat.
This HH is only meh in my book because there isn't really considerable savings dining there during HH (at most $2 off from regular price) & the food isn't tasty enough for the price point (we spent over $20 for this HH). Bonus stars for awesome service though (when they were around)!
Parking: Large public lot on First street (1 way street - enter from Commonwealth).Listed in: Get Happy!
-
Review from Dennis S.
Thousand Oaks, CA
12/18/2011
My first time here and I loved it. I am not from the area but my wife and I went with local friends that go here often. Everything that was served was great. We had a green been tempura appetizer that was crunchy and light, a perfect start.
I had the short ribs pulled onto a Kaiser roll sandwich with cole slaw. Wow, could not have been better. The sweet potato fries are excellent. I could not believe the huge se;action of tap beers. All are craft beers and choosing is difficult. However I decided to try the Blind Pig from the Russian River Valley, great choice if you like a real hoppy beer. Lots of flavor!
It is a long drive from our home but I cannot wait to go back.
By the way when we were leaving the manager suggested we check pout the new wine bar across the street, behind Charlie's Trio. It is just opening and it is called Vino Trio. It shares the parking lot entrance to Charlie's. The owners have created a very cool cobblestone patio with heaters and lounge furniture if you would like to enjoy your wine outside. Inside is just beautiful. A very welcoming white marble bar and a wonderful wine selection make this a very cool spot to meet friends to share wine and stories. Check this spot out! -
Review from Lily Y.
Cerritos, CA
11/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great place to eat, hangout, and get drinks. Very short wait time. You can sit at the bar or at the tables. Good place to have a large group outing.
Chipotle chicken wings were yummy! Very flavorful and spicy.
I tried the 38 burger, medium, and it was delicious! And their skinny french fries are really yummy and crispy! I definitely want to try the sweet potato fries next time.
If you like Yardhouse, you will like this place! The quality of food, the prices, and the parking is way better here than Pasadena. Highly recommend that you give it a try! -
Review from JENNIFER N.
Redondo Beach, CA
11/15/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Honestly, I dislike this area. Alhambra, Monterey Park, San Gabriel. Growing up with my parents, this is our spot every weekend with rude drivers, rude people and the people!
Since my cousin- in -laws (my far cousin's brother and sister in law) brought me to the 38 Degrees, I've becoming more adapted to this area.
Again I don't drink, but people make me try their drinks and that's what I do now a days. AI love a good ole pub with great finger foods! Their finger foods such as their fries, tacos, and their pork sliders are delicious plate of calories!
Happy Hours are great! If I'm in the area, we are up here as early as 6 or 7pm! There's a crowd already but great vibes! Come later, then you have to struggle with the crowds. -
Review from Mia L.
11/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
8.30.11 Well this place is pretty awesome. They have TVs everywhere and their food and drinks are up to par. I was really confused on what to order. But then I decided to get their Cheese and Macroni with their pull pork. Yes I said it Pull Pork and Mac & Cheese. It was a meal I have never had before or have imagined this type of concoction.
So how was it? Well the taste was super powerful. I wished I had bread or something that will lighten the taste, but it doesn't mean it wasn't good. The pork was juicy and tasty, the mac and cheese was perfect. The pasta was not too hard or too soft, the amount of cheese used was just enough.
Their sweet potato fries was also a great addition. Overall I would like to come here to try their other tasty stuff. Good to know a spot with great beer and great food. -
Review from Wasin L.
Los Angeles, CA
11/8/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Let me ask my fellow yelp reviewers a question. Is giving a $16 tip on a bill that was $84 adequate? Our server at 38 Degrees didn't think so. She was so displeased, she found it necessary to remind us by writing on our receipt a note stating the 18% gratuity was not included. Let's do simple math here. I believe sixteen divided by eighty-four is 19 percent. So I guess our server was right, she wasn't given an eighteen percent tip but rather a nineteen percent tip after all. Sorry for the rant, I have a pet peeve about servers that penny pinch for tips and give you attitude when they believe what they've been given is unjust. Especially when what they've been given is more than adequate.
My friends and I had been having a decent enough time at this place. We came to watch the MNF game between the Bears and the Eagles. It was awesome how even though the Eagles' bandwagoner fans outnumbered the Bears' fans, the Bears' fans in the house outcheered them throughout the game! Onto the food, my friends ordered the mini bbq short rib sloppy joe sliders, tempura ale battered fish, and I believe the spicy jambalaya pasta. All of them had the same reaction while eating. It was made a bit too spicy to be enjoyed.
We also ordered a few round of beers. I wanted a bottle of Lambrusco but when I requested this from my server, she gave me a weird look and told me they don't carry that. Ok, I asked her to recommend me a fruitier beer then. Yes, I'll openly admit, I'm much more of a wine person than a beer guy so I don't truly appreciate a brewhouse like 38 degrees. She suggested a bottle of Purple Haze. I told her I've tried that already is there anything else. She said that's the only fruity one. So out of the variety of beers this place boasts about, they only care one fruity one?!
My friends decided to randomly select a beer to try as well. So they ended up on a Port Panzer Pilsner. These guys love their beer. But even they found the Pilsner to be the most bitter one they've ever had. They almost, dare I say it, had to babysit their beer for the second half of the game.
Going back on the original issue with the server regarding our check. The manager came and talked with my friend about their being a misunderstanding since we paid with both cards and cash. So in other words, they weren't willing to apologize for miscalculating and had to make up an excuse that made no sense at all. What does paying with a card or cash have to do with the amount of tip that is necessary? In summary, I personally don't find this place that great. But my friends do like coming here because it's a pub close to our house that does carry a decent range of beers that one can enjoy if one wants to watch a big game with others and not at home.
Read more reviews for this business:
French (1)
