Italian Roots. Local Ritual. Maria's has been Pasadena's neighborhood Italian kitchen since 1999, the Alfano family's only dining room east of the Valley among its 7 across Los Angeles, set in Hastings Ranch. The hand-rolled meatballs are the reason regulars keep the same order for years: rolled from freshly ground beef, simmered in a marinara cooked slow on the house recipe, and portioned so half rides home. Beyond the meatballs, the scratch kitchen runs pizzas, pastas, chicken and seafood, and a vegan menu for lunch and dinner. It is a regular choice for family dinners, casual date nights, and birthdays, with catering across the east side. Kid-friendly, with takeout and delivery every day from 11 to 9, an easy stop off the 210.