Since its founding in 1933, Colonial Kitchen has been one of the most beloved family-owned restaurants in San Marino, California. Over nearly a century, it has become more than just a restaurant—it is a living piece of local history.

The restaurant has changed hands several times over the decades. The original owner was a German man, followed by a British woman named Dolce Dougar. The third owner was Chinese, and today, the restaurant is proudly run by Amanda Luan. Despite changes in ownership, the heart of Colonial Kitchen remains the same, dedicated to tradition and family values.

Now run by fourth-generation family members, the restaurant still uses the original family recipes and ingredients, preserving its timeless flavors. One of its most cherished figures is long-time chef Gigo, who began working at Colonial Kitchen as a teenager and has been there for over forty years. He proudly shared that the kitchen’s decor is still unchanged since the first day, and even the tables and chairs are nail-free, highlighting traditional craftsmanship. Additionally, the menu has been almost untouched for ninety years, with waffle pancakes as the star dish.

Gigo’s story is a vital part of Colonial Kitchen’s legacy. From his early days in the kitchen to today, he has seen the restaurant draw loyal patrons both locally and from afar. Over the years, the restaurant has welcomed several notable guests. For example, Mexican American singer Arturo Castillo Jr., who released his debut album Who I Am in 2009, once dined here. The former manager of Elvis Presley also lived nearby, bringing many Elvis fans to visit the restaurant.

For Gigo, Thanksgiving is one of the most memorable times of the year. “It’s the busiest and warmest day,” he recalls. “We start preparations early and serve a hot holiday meal to the community.” On this day, Gigo and his team bring the spirit of home to life through comforting, familiar flavors.

What sets Colonial Kitchen apart is not just the food—it is the feeling of consistency, care, and community. In an era dominated by fast-paced, chain-driven dining, Colonial Kitchen is a rare gem. And with people like Gigo standing behind the counter, it’s no wonder the restaurant has endured, offering not just meals, but heartfelt memories that span generations.

Thank you to the English as a Second Language (ESLN) students from Pasadena City College for partnering with us on this special project. As part of their U.S. Cultural Traditions and Social Change class in Spring 2025, the students gathered stories and information directly from local legacy businesses, capturing their unique contributions to our community. We are proud to showcase their authored profiles and celebrate their hard work. A special thank you to Mei Wen Sung (April), Wen Jing Fu (Emily), and Jingjun Guo (Suzy) for working closely with Colonial Kitchen. Your dedication has brought these stories to life beautifully!