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Nicole's Gourmet Foods
Categories: Food Specialty Food Cheese Shops Restaurants French Food Specialty Food Ethnic Food Cheese Shops, French, Ethnic Food [Edit]
921 Meridian AveSouth Pasadena, CA 91030
(626) 403-5751
- Hours:
Mon-Wed, Fri 9 am - 6 pm
Thu 9 am - 8 pm
Sat 9 am - 5:30 pm
Sun 10 am - 4 pm
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
122 reviews for Nicole's Gourmet Foods
Review Highlights
"I tried the smoked salmon sandwich and I was very impressed."
(in 7 reviews)
"...weekend breakfasts, wonderful omelettes & croque monsieur."
(in 8 reviews)
"...location right off the gold line stop in south pasadena."
(in 8 reviews)
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122 reviews in English
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Review from Drew L.
Alhambra, CA
2/5/2012
This is a nice place to eat on a Sunday (they have Sunday brunch). My favorite dish was the Smoked Salmon on Brioche. You could feel the soft texture of the salmon with a hint of cheese (not overwhelming...which I will get to in a sec). The same goes for the Smoked Salmon Omelete.
The Smoked Duck Magret Salad tasted good, but.... be warned, there isn't that much duck (they are razor thin slices). I know it's a salad, so I'm not dinging them or anything, just keeping you all informed. =)
The Cheese & Charcuterie Plate for Two... here's where I was overwhelmed by the taste of one of the cheeses. I don't know what kind of cheese it was, but it was strong. It's not my cup of tea, however, I know there are MANY of you who are cheese lovers. So if you like strong cheese, this is the plate for you!
The coffee I ordered was slightly disappointing.... a little too bitter.
All in all, it's a great Sunday brunch cafe! -
Review from Sean O.
South Pasadena, CA
2/3/2012
I've been here a few times over the years, mostly for deli meats and cheeses.
They once carried Hook's Aged Cheddar *highly suggested!*, but I haven't seen that here for awhile now. Bummer, but you can order that elsewhere, online.
I recently picked-up a random jar of Cajun Seasoning that appears to be some Farmer's Market type of container... home-made sticker, no branding or origin. This stuff is awesome, though. I also found some Ghost Pepper Chili's and a few other awesome seasonings for my home-made cajun blackbean & bacon ghost-pepper chili, which has become a favorite with a few (brave) friends and family members. =p -
Review from Shirley Z.
Los Angeles, CA
1/24/2012
I was seriously wavering between four and five stars for Nicole's... and decided to round that baby up =)
It's cute, it's quaint, a little sidewalk cafe with indoor and outdoor seating.
As far as retail they carry a billion different oils, pastas, vinegars, etc. etc. as well as luxury items such as whole lobes of foie gras and truffled butter. I think they even sell truffles by the gram.
Their lunch/brunch menu lists mostly soups, salads and sandwiches. Fine by me. MY FAVORITE ITEM IS THE CHARCUTERIE PLATE =) sooooooooooo much delicious variety!
The food is tasty, my only gripe is its not cheap, especially for sandwiches, two people eating here easily tops 30 dollars. However, at the end of the day, I believe it is still worth it, given the quality of ingredients, the overall cutesy atmosphere, and the right in the heart of south pasadena, hence the 5 stars =) -
Review from Gabriela G.
Los Angeles, CA
Great place for brunch in the neighborhood of south Pasadena. The soups are delectable as is the nicoise salad and most of the ready-made-salads in the deli display case. Simple ingredients but all high quality and full of flavor. Don't come here for pretentious French elegance; thus restaurant is homey, friendly and doubles into a store.
Service = 4 stars
Food = 4 stars
Ambiance inside = 2 1/2 stars
Ambiance front patio = 4 stars
Bathroom cleanliness = 2 stars
Store = 3 1/2 stars
Prices = 3 1/2 stars (some things are pricey but it's because they are imported).
Overall it gets a high 3 stars (if there were halves I'd give this place 3 1/2).
I do come here from time to time. Outdoor seating area is quaint and refreshing on an early afternoon. Can get crowded. I hear the Quiche is excellent tough I've never ordered it (I'm not generally a fan of quiche). Fun to browse the store shelves if you have the time to sort through interesting culinary must-haves for French cuisine such as escargot shells, fois gras, etc. -
Review from Amy P.
10/20/2011 12 photos
Nicole's is a bit of France snuggled in the sleepy city of South Pasadena. It's a restaurant + gourmet market. The food is pricey, their portions are small, but that is French food is it not?
Sip on your coffee, have yourself a charming little meal and enjoy the Cali weather while you sit outside in their little roped-off patio area. You might even catch sight of a flock of parrots that roam the neighborhood...actually, you're more likely to hear them than see them. They are an extremely vocal pack.
My favorites here are as follows...
- Ham and Cheese Omelette : with Gruyere and French Ham. This is soooo good. It's small but it's made traditionally with a runny center. The egg is often browned, but it's still very yummy.
-Pate Sandwich : Your choice of country pate or creamy mousse. It's simple and delicious. I like both styles but I think I lean more towards the creamy mousse.
-Croque Madame : "Everything is better with an egg." Toasted Gruyere, French ham, with a poached egg and Béchamel sauce...Nicole's does this classic dish well.
While you're here you should definitely think about picking up some goodies for the house.Listed in: Lunch Munch, Outdoor patios, Sandwiches
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Review from Matthew C.
Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, CA
10/24/2011
When I lived in Germany, I lived a charmed life in a small town in the mountains of the Bergstrasse. It had woodland beauty, pastoral pastures, babbling brooks and....France an hour and a half away. And when I got back to smogsville LA, I craved two things: verdant mountainscapes and pate. And lo' and behold in my hometown a little French market had popped up while I was gone and it catered just to my desires - well, at least the latter.
I come here mostly for the country pate, the finer variety lacks the oomph for my tastes, but the country version is spot on what I used to get on my afternoon adventures into the Vosges region (although I couldn't tell you where the Nicole's proprietors hail from). In general, the little sandwich shop excels in its sandwiches and French deli treats. And the market is well stocked in many Euro favorites - I am a sucker for the canned sardines and anchovies, myself, but they have a whole range of goodies including sweets, jams, cookies, spreads and some incredible cheeses - go for the tasters they have out and then lose yourself in their selection, you're gonna want it all.
The fresh baked bread is great, and the sandwiches exude simple and understated quality. This isn't the high end haute cuisine that foodie sycophants swoon over. Rather it is down to earth, simple French lunch fare done well. Bonus: come here to practice your French language skills with the art school hipsters they employ. -
Review from Andrea W.
1/7/2012
Cute little French bakery/shop with amazing sandwiches. Everything is good. They also have an assortment of cheeses, coffee, and wine. Cute outdoor patio area.
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Review from Cindy C.
This is a wonderful little bistro and a good brunch option for the neighborhood. I especially love the outdoor seating on this particularly quint street.
You place your order at the cash register and grab a seat anywhere you wish, and the server will bring out the food to you. Coffee is self-served at the coffee counter.
As we waited for our food, we browsed around the gourmet market section. Bread, different types of cheese, sauces, olives, European condiments, pastas, and they also a few already-made pasta salad refrigerated for takeout. Prices are high and the selections are minimum. It just wasn't half as fulfilling as a trip to Wholefoods. I see people buying the freshly baked pastries and bread, but the rest of the store seem untouched.
Now on to the food. We ordered the Salmon omelet and the Pate sandwich. They were fresh and simple. I chose the country style pate, it was more coursed/chunky, quite satisfying if you're a pate fan. Omelet was good too with just the right amount of salmon and cheese, very light and not greasy.
Prices of entrees were reasonable at around $10 per. Nothing mind-blowing but it was an enjoyable meal. -
Review from L L.
Pasadena, CA
12/18/2011
Serving Rotten brie with an attitude.... All seemed to be going well. I ordered the brie and tomato sandwich with a bed of greens on the side. The brie was old and the taste of ammonia consumed my nasal cavity. The smell was overwhelming. After having another bite and having my friend confirm the ammonia taste and smell I quietly took the plate to the counter. The young man laughed as he said "little to strong for you?" Even after explaining that it wasn't too strong but had clearly gone bad...... He took the plate to the back mentioned it to his co-worker and went about his business. I didn't want or expect a new sandwich but simply a concern for my complaint would've been appreciated. Classless business practice. Just be cautious in ordering because they don't care
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Review from Marissa B.
Marina del Rey, CA
9/23/2011
LOVE this place!!!! I was amazed when my friend took me here & surprised me for a gorgeous lunch ;-)
I ordered the special, which was a puff pastry with soup & salad. I loved the tomato & cheese on top of the puff pastry and for a drink, I had the rose. My friend had this salad, OMG I forgot what he ordered, but it looked super healthy delic!
He is such a perfect gentleman & friend.....we had SO much fun sitting outside the patio! We also shared this meat & cheese plate that was divine; it had pepperoni, chicken liver pate, prosciutto, wild boar meat, French cheeses, olives, it was FABULOUS! I felt like we were in France...
Finally, we shared this passionfruit cake for dessert. It had blueberries and raspberries and was perfect with our drinks....
I LOVED this place! It is ABSOLUTELY charming, private, romantic, cute, and so divine. The people are sexy, sophisticated, local professionals all are into ambiance & romance.
Inside after our dessert, I got these Rose French mints. I had a blast looking at the exotic ethnic food, different kinds of rice, cooking oils, pastas, bakery goods, etc. Literally, this place is like being in Europe!
The owner, Nicole, brought us our food and drinks. Excellent service!!!This place is personal and charming all the way. I am very impressed!!!!! -
Review from Stepha G.
Sierra Madre, CA
10/4/2011
In the early autumn, one of my shopping activities is to stock the pantry. Preparing to hunker down for winter is a behavior trait deeply ingrained in my personality, despite that it doesn't snow, or rain as heavily here, like other places where I've lived over the years.
When I think about the state of my pantry, I always consider a visit to Nicole's for supplies. Today it was very pleasant to be able to purchase tubes of concentrated tomato sauce, anchovy and harissa, and for the fridge a small portion of sliced Scottish salmon for a few breakfast home creations. While interacting with the clerk, I glanced at the chalkboard on the wall behind the checkout to see that lentil soup was listed. To be able to sit down inside at one of the little tables, then be served hot lentil soup in a white porcelain crock in the middle of the afternoon. Hmmm... -
Review from Joe C.
Los Angeles, CA
12/5/2011
I'm glad she's here. She has a lot of indispensable frenchy stuff like the creme de marrons, the little provencale linens, the essential pastries. If you need a quick jambon sandwich, this is the place.
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Review from Adam D.
South Pasadena, CA
7/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
had my first meal at Nicoles just the other day. I have to say , the staff were great and the store itself is really charming.
our meal however was over priced. was a so so meal. I loved my hearty vegetable soup. I did not really dig however the sandwiches we got ( 3 in all ) I was told the salmon sandwich was a killer. It was good. not amazing.It featured one slice of salmon.......my wife in turn ordered the caprese sandwich which featured 4 slices of tomato and slight hint of mozzarella. The little bits were good, they were just little little bits. Im not a pig , I don't have a pig appetite. I am however not living in a country which is dealing with war rations either so somewhere in the middle I demand some stuff packed into my sandwiches!
I was a bit alarmed to so easily find out that they are not fans of the french restaurant next door. There seems to be a fuedin ala Hatfield and McCoys going on between the two businesses. Sorry Nicoles......the French Dudes are serving up better food BUT THE GOOD NEWS IS........you do a fine job too.
So South Pas wins with two good french places in a little section. It's South Pas's "FRENCH QUARTER"
abientot! -
Review from Bertha C.
Los Angeles, CA
8/12/2011
I've wanted to check this place out ever since I saw their job posting on Craigslist a long while back.
It's a quaint little bistro with tables set up outside as well as inside. I was hoping this place would be more of a market. They do sell some products, maybe about 2 tall aisle are stocked with stuff (dry goods, etc.) not including the refrigerated sections along the walls.
I bought some dried fruits a baguette and some chocolate croissants. good stuff. Kind of pricey though. I'd like to give this place another go. Maybe try the food next time. OR get a coffee AND another one of those tasty chocolate croissants.
You know, come to think of it. When I walked in I was craving a coffee to go with my chocolate croissant. BUT I looked at the chalk board they had there behind the counter and saw no mention NOR did I see an espresso machine. I thought I remembered (from their menu online) that they sold coffee, but I was not sure. next time. -
Review from Tracy G.
South Pasadena, CA
5/25/2011
I love this place. It's a gem of a place, a little bit of France in South Pasadena. Great place for weekend breakfasts, wonderful omelettes & croque monsieur. Terrific cheese and gourmet food selection. The baguettes are excellent. I know that because it's small some people have trouble with the slow service at times so it's not a place to go in a rush. But also remember that what you're seeking at Nicole's is not just quick service but people who have expertise in French cheeses and food. So the little bit of extra time is worth it.
However, for days you have a little time, get wine, wonderful sandwiches or salads and sit outside like you're in Paris. Get frozen croissants to make at home. Lots of great take out for impromptu dinners. They have homemade Nutella too you can buy by the pound.
If you want amazing French cheese at good prices, this is place. they will make trays and even cater if you want. I went to a store opening where cheese and other trays were from Nicole's and it was perfect.
Dog friendly too outside.
P.S. Also make sure you know it is Suite B -- a different French bistro is in Suite A. I met someone who just used GPS to meet me at Nicole's with address and they were siting outside Bistro de la Gare while I was outside Nicole's. They are different owners, not related. Nicole's is a gourmet store/deli/restaurant & not open for dinner. Will do separate review on Bistro de la Gare where I had a nice breakfast the other weekend. -
Review from Jennifer M.
Hermosa Beach, CA
6/29/2011
I was craving a great sandwhich, so I decided to trek up to South Pasadena and meet my husband for lunch. I ordered the proscuitto and pecorino sandwhich while my hubby ordered the smoked chicken sandwhich. We also got the greek salad for our toddler.
First impressions, the sandwhiches are priced high, but I figured they are using great ingredients so it will be worth it. When our food came, they put only 1 slice of proscuitto on the sandwhich--REALLY? I think I paid over $9 for this and that's all I got? So definately a major let down.
They also don't include any garnish or baby greens next to your sandwhich. That would be a nice touch. You get a big white plate, with your sandwhich staring back at you--it's so measly you don't even see the toppings--just the bread. That's how thinly they apply the protein, salad, tomotoes, cheese etc. Mine tasted OK, but I wouldn't make the trek to come back again for a repeat.
My husband didn't rave about his sandwhich. He said, "I thought you said this was smoked chicken?". It was very thinly sliced deli chicken--nothing special or flavorful. We've eaten better from Whole Foods and Bristol Farms. So again, a bit disappointing that they can't put together a killer smoked chicken sandwhich. It's not that hard to do!
Finally, we nibbled on the greek salad. And it was nice. Very chunky pieces of feta, tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers drizzled with olive oil and mixed herbs. A bit of an overkill on the rosemary though. You could half the amount and it would taste much better. By the second half of that meal, we were left scraping the herb mixture off the salad pieces just so we could eat it. It was that overpowering.
Overall, I think they need to lower their prices a bit. Or increase the amount of fillings they put into their sandwhiches. If your paying nearly $10 for one, you expect it to taste like the menu promotes it to be!
PROS--quaint location, nice sidewalk/patio area to eat, service was prompt, quality of the food was good,.
CONS-prices, quantity of fillings, cheeses were majorly overpriced! -
Review from Karen C.
5/3/2011
This is a cute little place is great you can stop by and have a light lunch and even pick up some items for the kitchen. The have everything from French macaroons to fine cheeses. I went in here after a meandering through South Pasadena's Thursday Farmer's Market and found sun-dried tomatoes for $4, perfect for pasta and dip. =)
The items they have are well priced and special indeed. Many items stood out: a bright green tub of rice (enriched with bamboo juice), pre-made meringues cups and mini-chocolate shells (shortcuts on beautiful homemade dessert), and a small vial of Ghost Pepper (so hot it's been weaponized!). Was uber tempted to buy the Ghost Pepper to make some salsa or chili but didn't want to be stuck eating it all to myself because most people I know can't handle spice. T_T -
Review from Hans Z.
South Pasadena, CA
7/26/2011 6 Check-ins Here
This place is awesome and has great food if you want to eat there/get it to go or shop for groceries. The Croque Monsieur and one of their daily special lemonades is my usual order. Fairly light and delicious.
The staff are great and will help you out with cheese selection, ect.
Best thing about this place are the groceries. The spices are amazing and cheap. Dried fruits are the best around. Cheese and preserved meats are excellent. They also are about the only place around that has foie gras and they have a great selection of French goods. Prices are lower than Whole Foods/Bristol Farms for the most part. Good value.
Only bad thing about this place is the line which may or may not be there and the lack of people to take your order.
Pros:
-Everything.
Cons:
-Sometimes there's only one cashier and there's a line. -
Review from Marina S.
5/18/2011
"Nicole's Gourmet Foods is a cafe and specialty foods store located in South Pasadena... The Croque Monsieur Sandwich was voted one of "Nine Kick-Ass Dishes of 2002" by LA Weekly. " -Taken from the menu
Nicole's Gourmet Foods was also voted "Best French Market" in Best of LA 2007!
... Is this enough to get you excited, and make the trip to find this quietly nestled, incredible place? It's hidden away in South Pasadena for nobody but the true fans and connoisseurs to make their way there to peruse the unique and rare European delicacies, cheeses, meats, and desserts. They have plenty of exotic chocolates, oils, pickles, and imported goods.
During the summer they have cute outdoor seating under umbrella's where you can bask in the sun and eat your superior sandwiches.
My favorites are:
CROQUE MONSIEUR:
"Grilled Gruyere Cheese, Jambon Madrange (French Ham), Bechamel Sauce, and a pinch of nutmet"
The cheese is out of this world delicious and melty, the ham is salty-pungent and aromatic, and the bechamel is indulgent and decadent.
MELTED BRIE & TOMATO SANDWICH:
"Melted French Brie with freshly sliced tomatoes & a pinch of fleur-de-sel (sea salt)"
The Brie is soft and fresh, and the simple combination with Tomatoes, in a crispy baguette is perfection.
GRILLED EGGPLANT PANINI:
"Grilled, marinated eggplant, with Feta cheese, Kalamata Olive tapenade, fresh tomatoes, served on ciabatta, pressed Panini Style"
I love anything eggplant, and the mediterranean complements of feta, olives, and tomatoes perfectly tie together this sandwich. Delicately crispy, you will love it!
I am so glad my friend who lives around the corner brought me here - it's become our date spot!
The desserts are delicious too- but I just can't even begin to start making recommendations! Check it out for yourself! -
Review from jiffy s.
Los Angeles, CA
8/8/2011
A favorite for years! I love the salads, and this is my go-to place for cheeses, charcuterie and baking staples. Friendly staff, and Nicole herself is usually there working at the counter!
Prices are very reasonable considering the outstanding quality. I love Nicole's! -
Review from Lissa -.
Los Angeles, CA
9/26/2011
Charming little gourmet shop hidden from the main avenue of Mission St.
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Review from Julie N.
Los Angeles, CA
1/29/2011
Nicole's has the best brie sandwich I've had in LA. Melted with tomatoes in amazing french bread. Brings me to the south of france and makes me happy.
I just adore this place. It's a wonderful neighborhood spot and has outdoor seating.
Great rose wine perfect for warm LA days, smoked salmon sandwiches, tomato-artichoke-hearts of palm salad, lentil salads....yumm...i had the most amazing treat of hazelnut, wafer crunch, orange peel dipped in chocolate...omg it was tasty.
i drive about 20 miles to eat here once a month and crave it in between.
The staff is really nice and seem into what they are doing. -
Review from Tiffany Q.
Pasadena, CA
4/19/2011
This small hidden gem is part of what makes South Pasadena so amazing. I would never have even thought to try this place if someone hadn't brought me here and now I'm always raving about it to friends. I'm not a wine or cheese connoisseur nor have I ever even visited France so I can't speak on the authenticity of Nicole's. However, of all the French restaurants I've eaten at, Nicole's is truly a delight to visit and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The fact that Nicole's is located on a small street away from busy traffic is a definite bonus. Street parking is available on the surrounding blocks and a few tables outside are available for those who simply want to sit and relax. A few (literally, 2-4 very small) tables are inside so if you're not lucky enough to snag a spot outside, you can people watch as everyone looks through the wines, cheeses and other foods available for purchase on the market side.
It's been a few years since I've frequented Nicole's but I still remember the amazingly fresh baguettes they have for sale (go early or they sell out by the afternoon!) and the sandwiches of JUST the right amount so I don't feel fat from eating it. -
Review from Maureen W.
South Pasadena, CA
Updated - 11/1/2010
I like what they've done recently with remodeling. More room to eat. At lunch last week it was packed. After two outings, I can now say I'm completely addicted to the caprese sandwich. The cheese is to die for and the bread is the perfect little baguette.
Also, I had the special fava bean soup and it was very delicious. I will be frequenting Nicole's more often!Listed in: My Neighborhood
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/5/2007
The store gets four stars for sure. It's lovely with a great selection of wine and cheese and fun… Read more »
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Review from April K.
2/2/2011
Off the main strip set back on Meridian (Right near Mission). Nicoles is an unassuming little storefront. They sell specialty foods, cheeses, oils, salts, spices, and so forth.
You can order deli style french foods at the counter and they'll bring them to one of the little tables inside or right out in front on the sidewalk. The decor is no frills and so is the food... and that is exactly what makes it so delicious.
I got a Brie and tomato sandwich. Amazing tasty melty brie, and beautiful ripe tomato slices on a fresh baked baguette which was both crusty and soft at the same time. I dipped it into a cup of pepper soup with creme fresh and chives and topped my meal off with 4 delicious fresh macarons. My favorite flavors were pistachio and raspberry. Everything was absolutely delicious. I will definitely return soon. -
Review from Jaime Patricio M.
San Francisco, CA
1/26/2011
Nicole's Gourmet Foods has a well edited assortment of olive oils, vinegars, spices, jams, jellys, prepared food, and baked goods. I walked and didn't expect to find a great assortment and started noticing the price points on the vinegars and spices as being well priced.
I loved the spice packaging program-- great for a second use and beyond. I found each spice I needed. I did find that I picked up one spice that I didn't need and forgot to get the one I needed. Just means I need to go back for another visit.
I did enjoy the coffee and baked goods. A nice crew and unexpected find. -
Review from Jen C.
Pasadena, CA
8/27/2010
Ohhh Lala!
My fiance and I stopped in for a look see during the Thursday night South Pas farmers market and ended up staying for a light dinner.
Nicole, the proprietor, helped us to make our selections and take our order at the front.
We ordered both specials; a Bleu Cheese Quiche that came with a small salad and bowl of Piquillo Soup. Also got a plate of prosciutto, fois gras, salami and marinated olives, with bread of course.
Nicole had me taste the Rose wine I'd just ordered to make sure it was what I wanted. Thank You!
I ended up with a glass of Rose while my Fiance got a Chimay. Our dinner cost just about $32 plus some money in the tip jar.
The Bleu cheese quiche was so savory and full of flavor!! The piquillo soup was a beautiful robust red color and we enjoyed it. I did add a little bit of salt. The fois gras, meats and olives were tasty fun foods.
Nicole hires an accordion player to play on Thursdays, just to give the atmosphere a little more of an authentic flavor.
Business just kept rolling in the entire time we were there. We sat inside since the patio was constantly full, and that was Ok.
To put it simply, we can't wait to go back!
Merci. -
Review from katy m.
Studio City, CA
11/7/2010
Hadn't been to SouthPas for a while - the best parts remain and the Metro station at Meridian has only added to the charm.
Read about Nicole's at LA Times - really, really good. Perpetually searching for that sandwich I had from a small shop outside of Versailles - this comes very close.
Kind of like a 2 hour vacation, wandering around the area after having a great brunch/lunch. -
Review from trolley S.
Pasadena, CA
5/30/2010
While I don't enjoy writing a negative review, I also feel it's the public's duty to inform others of their experiences, good or bad. I live in South Pasadena and can say I'm a regular at Nicole's. My toddler just loves the croissants and we get takeout from here from time to time. well, My son will have to find another favorite because today is the last day I'll be going to Nicole's.
We walked in to get a croissant (serve yourself) and stood at the counter to pay while the guy behind the counter made some big salad for the day. (Did I mention at first, there were no bags for the croissants so he handed a pile over and had me arrange them?) He continued to ignore us until I was just about to say something and he turns around and helps the person that stood behind me ( we were on line parallel to the counter) I stated that I was on line first but they chose to ignore me and move to the other cash register. I was ready to raise a stink then I remembered my son and bit my tongue. i truly believe in living by example and try not to have outburst in front of him especially with strangers. It's ok to get mad but not to yell. so i stood passive aggressively and eventually got help from another person a few minutes later.
The food here is really expensive for what it is and not great. Their sandwiches are tiny for the price. I'm not a big fan of super sized foods but for the amount and the quality they serve, i think they should lower the price. The staff is rude b/c they can be (and don't tell me it's b/c they're french b/c I've been to france and it's nothing like Nicole's) and it's the only place in the vicinity that serves this type of food. She carries some nice cheese and some cool french wines but not sure if it's all worth it. She also carries some specialty food items but i'd rather take a trip to Surfas all the way across town. I feel like they should take a field trip to Heirloom Bakery right around the corner to observe what service is supposed to be like at a place that's twice as busy. -
Review from Maya d.
Pasadena, CA
7/21/2010
It is a pleasure to patronize small businesses like Nicole's because you see the love she puts in to the place. She is wonderful and will patiently assist you with cheese selection. Some of the staff are excellent and others are just okay. Nicole is by far the star of her shop and if you go she is the middle aged thin woman with short hair.
Looking for a special Balsamic this is the place to find it or other more difficult finds-a must as part of your culinary experience in the East side of Los Angeles County!! -
Review from Lucius W.
Pasadena, CA
9/23/2010
Ok so let's say 3.5 stars. Because the place is a little pricey, and we got yelled at for bringing food from the South Pasadena Farmer's Market to the sidewalk patio. I mean come on. Thursday nights are the only night of the week it happens and the food is GREAT and we are sitting on your sidewalk ordering $18 bottles of wine (that should probably be more like $8 bottles of wine) like it's going out of style and we can't sit there if we have a grilled corn on the cob or a tri tip sandwich?
Whatever.
At the end of the day I still frequent the place, the wine is decent and it is a great place to meet up before a night out.
Oh by the way, they close waaaaay too early. Like 5:30 or something ridiculous like that they are putting away the sidewalk seating. -
Review from jonathan m.
Los Angeles, CA
6/5/2011
The smoked chicken sandwich for $9 had two paper thin slices of lunch meat, 2 tomatoes, some lettuce, some butter on french bread, oh and they were nice enough to include a plate. That's my review.
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Review from Henan J.
10/14/2010 1 Check-in Here
Full array of French food and wines and Cheese.
Went over for a Breast Cancer fundraiser and was amazed at the variety they had to offer.
The seating outdoors, would lend itself to a romantic chat or just a calm happy hour over wine.
There was plenty of indoor seating and I had a really fun time. I will def be back for more -
Review from Sylvia C.
Los Angeles, CA
4/7/2011
Hate the parking? Take the Gold Line and exit the Mission Station. Nicole's stays open late (7:30pm) on Thursdays only. Expect no parking, however, because of the South Pasadena Farmer's Market. Very good food, plus a good wine and beer selection. Enjoy!
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Review from CJ J.
1/16/2009
I love cheese shops! We dropped by here after the farmer's market since it's pretty much attached. They ran out of samples by the time we got in but I was already stuffed by the fruit samples and corn at the farmers market that I was okay with that.
They have lots of cheeses, breads, cakes, and just a bunch of cute items. I hope to try a couple samples next time and buy some cheese! Very cute shop and very friendly.
I love brie........ mmmmmmmmmmmm.Listed in: It's time to fix the…
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Review from Jerry P.
Santa Monica, CA
7/2/2010
Five stars for the cheese selections. It's one of two places in the LA area that carries mont cabrer cheese. A semi soft cheese from Spain that is covered in ash. Not as large as the other 3 main cheese shops in the LA area, but they carry hard to find cheeses. They also carry Lescure butter.
The food is always good , serving french style sandwiches, plates, and dessert. Today I had the smoke salmon omelet. Great. $10.
Nicole, the owner, is a sweetheart, and the staff are usually ok.
They have a vast gourmet warehouse, so ask for items you want but don't find. Call first for an item you want. Always check your receipt. -
Review from Jason C.
Altadena, CA
8/29/2007 6 photos
Perhaps other reviewers noted that Nicoles has been a French establishment in the San Gabriel Valley for some time. This current South Pasadena location has been great for them, and they have been even better for the area. Nicole and her son Steve are top notch people with seasoned palets.
If you're looking for a run-of-the-mill, thick and gooey sandwich, forget about Nicoles. If you want some amazing ingredients between 2 fantastic slices bread, then this is it. Nicoles is the only place in the area that comes remotely close to matching the great sandwiches that I can grab anywhere in France. Since sandwiches are dominated by bread, then bread with too much body can hide the flavors and textures of the ingredients. Why bother? You only end up with a hunk of food with dressings and fillings and breads all vying for attention.
If you like salami, then their salami sandwich with a side of greens (small organic salad) is near perfect. The meat is lean and full of flavor. But forget the salami and sandwiches for a minute. Their cheese is what's amazing. Steve imports one of the widest selection of French cheeses anywhere. On any given day you are likely to see the great local chefs shopping Nicoles for ingredients. Stop by some Thursday and walk through the farmers market. As other Yelpers have noted, they are minutes from the Gold Line. -
Review from Linh H.
Sherman Oaks, CA
2/5/2010
I'm reading the reviews to this place and I had the same exact experience as Erin R's review: http://www.yelp.com/bi... .
This place is very close to my work. I have been here a couple of times, but have not experienced anything like this before. Actually, I never experienced bad service like this at any restaurant.
I went with a few coworkers to Nicole's and we all ordered the lunch special which consist of half a sandwich and a cup of soup. Once you order and pay, you get to sit anywhere there and they bring the food to you. Well, a half hour passed and no food has come out. My coworker tells the people who took our order that people after us have gotten their food and we haven't. Well, they said our ticket was misplaced and they are now working on it. We are ok with that UNTIL...they served another person that came after us. My coworker went up and started asking why we haven't gotten our food yet STILL. We have been their 40 minutes without food. The owner comes out and gets very defensive. Verbal CAT FIGHT for the next few minutes!!! Both parties calmed down. We finally get our food and I had to run on my own back to work.
I don't understand how the workers there did not see a table of 4 did not have food on the table for 30 minutes?! I think the food and products they sell are good, but they need to work on their customer service. On a good note, when I left, the owner gave my coworkers gift certificates to eat there and added one for me also. I am going to go back there and use up my free lunch and not come back. -
Review from Karen T.
Updated - 10/6/2008
I still don't get the hype. I went back this past Saturday with a friend, and while they actually had baguettes this time (gasp!), the sandwiches did not redeem themselves at all. I ordered the pate sandwich, again, as well as the prosciutto and pecorino cheese sandwich (two sandwiches because they're so effing skimpy!).
I think what bothers me so much is that I'd be able to justify the prices and the smaller portions if the quality was out of this world. However, it's really nothing special, at all. You can get the same ingredients from Whole Foods and hook yourself up with a better tasting sandwich, guaranteed. You'll probably spend less doing so too. Plus, let me explain the way the sandwiches are made. The pate was so thinly spread on the CHEWY bordering stale baguette, I could barely taste it. It was only spread on one side, so eventually I just ate it open faced and ditched the rest of the gratuitous carbs. As for the prosciutto and pecorino, same issue. Extremely thin slices of meat and cheese with some sad, over-oiled spring greens laid sparsely atop more chewy baguette, which just left me wanting MORE. Two sandwiches, and I was still totally dissatisfied.
I've been to France, and I know what a simple, yet hearty and delicious sandwich even from a cart can taste like. They are amazing and cheap, unlike what Nicole tries to pass off as 'gourmet'.
And in summation, using the literary device known as alliteration: Pretentious, pricey, poor. Puh-lease!Listed in: The Hood
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5/23/2008
I'd like to believe that I really enjoy supporting my local retailers and restaurants, but sometimes… Read more »
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Review from J. Francisco A.
South Pasadena, CA
6/24/2009
I always end up going to the same places for lunch. Today I decided to venture out of my comfort zone and try Nicole's gourmet foods.
I have to admit that the lunch menu seems very reasonably priced for a place to seems to cater to a higher end clientele. I tried the smoked salmon sandwich and I was very impressed. Combination of the smoked salmon with capers and red onion was great. The bread is crispy on the outside but soft in the middle.
Sandwich was less than $7 which is about the same as you would pay at some of the chain sandwich places. They have indoor and outdoor seating. Give this place a try if you are looking for a somewhere to new to check out.
I'll definitely be back to try some other menu items.
