It was Carla's birthday last week, so we went to lunch at Madre's in Pasedena. Madre's is the celebrity restaurant owned by J.Lo. We have wanted to go since it opened, because just idea of it is very funny to us. As soon as you pull up to park (valet only, $4.50) you are overwelmed by Shabby Chic. White painted furniture, beige striped awnings, and dusty pink and faded green abound. Cut crystal chandeliers, mismatched vintage china... Rachel Ashwell must have made a mint off of this joint. This ain't Jenny from the Block! This is Jennifer of Mailbu.

It was sort of surreal dining experience, as we were one of only three tables of patrons in the whole joint. The place is devoid of customers. They certainly look like they can accomodate for crowds, but it was VERY quiet for a Tuesday at 1:30. Our waiter fawned over us, our iced tea glasses were never empty, and the food was just fine. It wasn't amazing, but it fit the price point, if not the decor. I had a grilled chicken sandwich ($9) and Carla had some sort of pulled pork sandwich ($9). Or as Carla pointed out, (9). The cigar box inspired menus had that "classy joint" thing going on where the price is noted with only a round number, no dollar sign or cents.

I have no idea how Madre's stays in business. Maybe they do a big dinner rush or hosting private parties might be the specialty, but from the looks of things, if they are still open in September I would be very surprised. Unless this whole thing is a tax write-off and place for varied friends and relations to hold down nice jobs. Then Viva Madre's!



P.S. I just checked my link to Madre's. It WAS designed by Rachel Ashwell herself, and they even used the phrase "cigar box inspired menus." I'm in the wrong line of work. I really should be a copywriter.