Introducing Metro Stop Highlights, a short series to showcase the various Metro stops in Los Angeles, California along the A Line. Our first stop is Lake Avenue in Pasadena. As you exit the train and walk up the long staircase, Lake Avenue greets you with historic restaurants, clothing stores, bakeries, and more. While walking down the street, you may wonder what in particular to explore because of the sheer number of options. So if you’re contemplating visiting Erewhon or Philz Coffee, here are some of our favorite things to do near the Lake Avenue station. 

Corner Bakery:

While the Pasadena Corner Bakery is small, its menu holds plenty of delicious breakfast and lunch meal options. The 21-year-old bakery is decorated with vintage photos throughout the store, making it cozy, nostalgic, and almost like a home away from home. We recommend trying the buttermilk pancakes with bacon along with their chai latte. 

Pie ‘N Burger:

Pie ‘N Burger is a historic gem that serves the best burgers and pies in town. The current owner, Micheal Osborn, has been committed to preserving the traditional recipes of their pies and classic California cheeseburgers for sixty years. The restaurant, staying true to its roots, has a retro atmosphere with Formica counters and a soda fountain. When choosing between the classic apple or blueberry pie, fear not—you can’t go wrong with any of the options offered at Pie ‘N Burger!

Tpumps:

Since its founding in 2016, Tpumps has been a Lake Avenue institution serving over 35 types of boba tea. Whether you’re grabbing a drink on a hot summer morning or for your homework grind, there is always a new and exciting combination of boba tea to enjoy. If you’re conflicted, you can even try their daily sample batches for free to inspire your order. With fresh teas brewed daily, you never have to worry about the quality of your delicious drink. For the summer, we recommend getting a raspberry and kiwi slushie.

Lemonade:

Lemonade offers a variety of healthy meal choices and refreshing lemonades, perfect for a hot summer day. Lemonade’s menu showcases its unique way of serving classic Californian meals like its ahi tuna avocado poke bowl. Sipping on their ice-cold lemonade is the perfect way to enjoy the Metro ride back home. In addition, Lemonade is only a short 13-minute walk from the Lake Avenue Metro Station.

SusieCakes:

As you enter SusieCakes, the sugary aroma of sweet treats is overwhelming. SusieCakes’ friendly staff and small, homey store is a great place to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you seek a slice of comfort in the form of an old-fashioned chocolate cake or chocolate cookies, SusieCakes promises to deliver a delightful experience with each bite.