It’s hard to think about the holidays without the food. Imagine Thanksgiving without the turkey (or turducken, if you’re feeling fancy) or Christmas without the gingerbread and eggnog.
But, with the holidays hustle and bustle, it can be hard to plate that perfect pie or curate a mouthwatering cheese board. There’s no shame in getting a helping hand from the kitchen elves at the Bea’s Knees.
Nestled in the Shoppes at Stats, this gourmet eatery is a return to artisan foods. Lisa Grabow opened The Bea’s Knees 2 years ago by pulling food artisans from Chef Center, Pasadena’s commercial community kitchen.
Grabow focuses on local, Southern California food artisans. She has nougat made in Altadena, honey from Pasadena and olives grown in state, not to mention the appetizing selection of freshly baked goods, including pumpkin pie and flourless chocolate cake.
Order an all-American Apple pie to complete your next gathering. Drop off your own pie plate in advance for a dessert that truly feels homemade. The stunningly beautiful crust and sweet-but-not-too-sweet filling will leave your guests in a post-pie coma.
On the more savory side, a handcrafted cheese board is the perfect start to any celebration. Grabow has an impressive selection of cheeses and makes a point to source sustainable products. Cheese boards make a thoughtful hostess gift to the chef that has everything. Grabow recommends ordering a week in advance for parties of 20 or more.
“Food is what culturally brings us together,” said Grabow. It just wouldn’t be the holidays without it.
The Bea’s Knees is located at 120 South Raymond Ave, Pasadena. Call 626) 795-9308 or visit www.thebeaskneespasadena.com for more information.
