Eagle Rock: Hot Rods, Gentrification and an Eagle-Shaped Shadow
Eagle Rock, a distinctive little city bordered by Glendale (N,W), Highland Park (SE), Glassell Park (SW), Pasadena and South Pasadena (E), is identified as “the core of counter-culture.” Known for its medley of ethnic and socioeconomic groups, Eagle Rock, is a cozy and creative outlet for everyday people. After all, Eagle Rock’s only private institution, Occidental College, was home to former President Barack Obama for his initial college education as well as the famous film star and writer, Ben Affleck.
Located west of Pasadena and north of central Los Angeles, the Californian neighbourhood of Eagle Rock occupies just over four square miles. Long since associated with the creative class and hot rod culture, the city is becoming increasingly attractive to young urban professionals. It seems the former home of Marlon Brando can add gentrification to its history.
History & Current Demographics
Before displacement by Spanish Settlers in the late 1700s, the area now occupied by Eagle Rock was the home of the indigenous Tongva tribe. A century later and the area was a thriving farming community. The subsequent growth of Los Angeles inspired development of the entire region. Although Eagle Rock was incorporated as a city in 1911, it was annexed into Los Angeles in 1923.
According to estimates provided by the Los Angeles Department of City Planning, the population of Eagle Rock is around 35,000 residents. It is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Los Angeles county. The racial makeup is 40.3% Hispanic, 29.8% White, 23.9% Asian and 1.9% African American. Small pockets of other races make up the remaining 4.1%. Eagle Rock is noted for its significant communities of Mexican and Filipino descendant populations.
Main Attractions
Eagle Rock takes its name from an enormous limestone boulder of the same name that looms over the valley. Created millions of years ago by hot springs in the area, an indentation in the rock causes an eagle-shaped shadow to appear on the rock at noon. Straddling Eagle Rock View Drive and Patrician Way, the rock is one of Southern California’s natural wonders.
The Eagle Rock Community Cultural Center on Colorado Blvd is a fascinating example of Mission Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival style architecture. Built in 1915 as one of over 2,500 Carnegie libraries, it was originally named Eagle Rock Carnegie Library. The library closed in 1981. The building, a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument and appearing on the National Register of Historic Places, is now home to the Eagle Rock Community Cultural Center.
Colorado Boulevard, one of the main thoroughfares through Eagle Rock, acts as an urban hub and is popular with residents and visitors alike for its numerous restaurants, bars and shopping destinations. The highway is currently the subject of a community initiative named “Take Back The Boulevard.” Aimed at enhancing the natural vibrancy of the street by reducing traffic and improving walking and cycling facilities, it is likely that a successful campaign will make Eagle Rock one of the most sought after zip codes in Los Angeles.
Additional Information
– Eagle Rock has seen its fair share of notable residents: Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Doobie Brothers’ musician, Guy Allison. Not to mention Barack Obama.
– A Farmers Market is held on Merton Avenue every Friday night. Visitors enjoy a delicious assortment of cuisines with the rather unusual backdrop of an Elvis impersonator.
– Established in 1887, the Occidental College, or the “Oxy,” is a liberal arts college. Noted for its rigorous programs, students have received 10 Rhodes Scholarships, 55 Watson Fellowships and more.
– Members of the Women’s Twentieth Century Club of Eagle Rock meet on Hermosa Avenue. The club was founded in 1903 and members still play an active role in the community. The ladies’ clubhouse was declared a Los Angeles Cultural Monument in 1991.
– Younger residents attend school in District 4 of The Los Angeles Unified School District. There are four elementary schools, two middle/high schools and a smattering of private schools.
– Eagle Rock is a star in its own right having featured in some major motion pictures: Top Gun, Reservoir Dogs, Teen Wolf, The Incredible Shrinking Woman and more.
– The Center for the Arts plays host to the weekly meeting of the Eagle Rock Neighborhood Council. Residents wishing to attend should turn up at 7pm on the first Tuesday of each month.
Restaurants & Cafés
The Oinkster – See reviews on Yelp!
Previously featured on the Food Network, Oinkster has established its name! Their famous pulled pork sandwich is juicy and plentiful on its own, but even better with their signature vinegar based sauce! The highlight of my experience were the Belgian fries. Every single fry was succulent and cooked to a crispy perfection. Additionally, there homemade sauces available at the condominiums section and the plantains as a side dish were just as satisfying to eat with my meal!
POPULAR ITEMS: Belgian Fries, Ube Shake, House Cured Pastrami, BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich (with the Vinegar Sauce)
2005 Colorado Blvd
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
(323) 255-6465
Casa Bianca Pizza Pie – See reviews on Yelp!
For fresh and generous toppings, thin crusts, and south-side Chicago style pizza, enjoy some Italian cuisine at Casa Bianca Pizza. It is imperative to try their pizzas along with a pasta dish named Pasta Al Forno. My only warning is that in the midst of popular eating times, you may have to wait patiently. But as many fellow Yelpers have said, “the food is worth the wait.”
POPULAR ITEMS: Pasta Al Forno, Eggplant and Garlic Pizza, Veggie Pizza
1650 Colorado Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90041
(323) 256-9617
Auntie Em’s Kitchen – See reviews on Yelp!
Auntie Em’s is the cupcake champion of Eagle Rock. Autie Em’s is a cute homey bakery/restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and delectable baked goods. They try to incorporate seasonal, local, and organic ingredients throughout their food.
I have tried their Red Velvet and Chocolate cupcakes. The cream cheese frosting on the Red Velvet cupcake has a sweet velvety consistency that is irresistible.
POPULAR ITEMS: Red Velvet Cupcake, French Toast, Coconut Cupcake, Carrot Cake
4616 Eagle Rock Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90041
(323) 255-0800
Senor Fish – See reviews on Yelp!
For anyone who loves fresh fish tacos and/or burritos, “Mr.” Fish is the place to be! Senor Fish has indoor and outdoor seating and beach themed ambience. The popular fresh fish selection consists of salmon, halibut, mahi, swordfish, roughy, talapia, and more. Along with their regular soda bar, there is horchata and orange bang available for the same price! Don’t forget to order potato tacos! This delicious item is NOT on the menu, but is one of the more popular meals. Overall, there traditional Mexican flare is prominently shown throughout their quality food and simple approach to cooking.
POPULAR ITEMS: Shrimp & Scallop Burrito, Potato Tacos, Salsa Bar
4803 Eagle Rock Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90041
(323) 257-7167
Fun & Amusing Places
Eagle Rock Underground – See reviews on Yelp!
Are you interested in Urban style and old school Hip-Hop? This small independent shop sells Urban clothes and hats – the real deal! Along with independent clothing labels to sell, Eagle Rock Underground occasionally has art shows that promote local artists. The artistic influence of funky paintings and stylized drawings gives this mom n’ pop shop a warm vibe. If your interested in DJiing or live music, every week, the owner allows new DJs to reveal their own personal style! As an excited Yelper said Eagle Rock “is truly a breeding ground for new creative talent.”
4690 Eagle Rock Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90042
Eagle Rock Music Festival – See reviews on Yelp!
Similar to the Make Music Pasadena event in Pasadena, the Eagle Rock Music Festival is available to attend every year.
For more information, check out this useful post that PasadenaViews wrote up previously about the annual event: Eagle Rock Music Festival Post!
2225 Colorado Blvd
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
Cactus Gallery & Gifts – See reviews on Yelp!
“Eclectic,” “affordable,” “handmade,” and “friendly” are some of the words Yelpers are using to describe this well maintained shop and its genuine products. This place is the jewel of art galleries: original artwork by local artists that people can purchase for affordable prices. Sandra, the proprietor, has a visual eye for unique crafts and always has the best intentions of promoting budding artists. Don’t forget to ask about the group art shows! As a neighborhood customer reviewer on Yelp said, “Cactus is more than a location. Cactus is an experience.”
3001 N Coolidge Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90039
Farmer’s Market
Eagle Rock Certified Farmers’ Market – See reviews on Yelp!
Come enjoy eating fresh cooked meals while listening to an Elvis impersonator! Every FRIDAY from 4 P.M. to 8 P.M., diverse vendors please crowds with affordable and tasty items. Merchants sell everything from organic honey juice, strawberry nutella crepes, blood oranges to Hawaiian BBQ skewers, Peruvian cuisine, and shrimp/shellfish. It never hurts to support our local farmers and receive healthy and affordable food in return.
2035 Colorado Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90041
Eagle Rock Schools
Eagle Rock Real Estate & Homes For Sale
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- Eagle Rock Homes for Sale $400,000 to $500,000
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- Eagle Rock Homes for Sale $2,000,000 to $2,500,000
- Eagle Rock Homes for Sale $2,500,000 to $3,000,000
- Eagle Rock Homes for Sale over $3,000,000
EAGLE ROCK CONDOS AND TOWNHOMES FOR SALE:
- Eagle Rock Condos and Townhomes for Sale under $300,000
- Eagle Rock Condos and Townhomes for Sale $300,000 to $400,000
- Eagle Rock Condos and Townhomes for Sale $400,000 to $500,000
- Eagle Rock Condos and Townhomes for Sale $500,000 to $600,000
- Eagle Rock Condos and Townhomes for Sale $600,000 to $700,000
- Eagle Rock Condos and Townhomes for Sale $700,000 to $800,000
- Eagle Rock Condos and Townhomes for Sale $800,000 to $900,000
- Eagle Rock Condos and Townhomes for Sale $900,000 to $1,000,000
- Eagle Rock Condos and Townhomes for Sale $1,000,000 to $1,500,000
- Eagle Rock Condos and Townhomes for Sale over $1,500,000
The list below will show you a sampling of residential properties available for sale including single family homes, condominiums, townhomes, and PUDS. You may click on any house for sale for additional information such as pricing, details, photographs and more.
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- Mon, 20 Mar 2023 03:16:00 +0000: $900,000 :: 1554 Waldran Avenue, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
2 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 1,071 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,992 sq ft
Added: 11/08/22, Last Updated: 03/20/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: CV22236974
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
CASH ONLY!!! City of Eagle Rock fixer. Great single-family residence in an excellent area with an additional ADU which can serve as a perfect rental unit, studio apartment or additional living space. SFR has 2 bedrooms 1 bathroom. Basement ADU has 1 bedroom, kitchenette, full bathroom and living room area. This property is centrally located within walking distance to many restaurants, shops, Trader Joe's, schools and ideal for commuting to downtown Los Angeles, San Fernando Valley or Pasadena. The 134, 2, 5 and 210 freeways are all in close proximity. Just South of the very famous Colorado Blvd.
Listed with ADRIANA MACEDO CalDRE: 01798392 | 909-980-3100, BERKSHIRE HATH HM SVCS CA PROP
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Tue, 14 Mar 2023 01:35:00 +0000: $1,298,000 :: 5117 Vincent Avenue, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,547 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,488 sq ft
Added: 03/13/23, Last Updated: 03/14/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: AR23028804
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
This beautifully maintained California Bungalow in Eagle Rock is a true gem, featuring a main house (2+1), an ADU (1+1), and a working studio. The home's prime location puts you within walking distance to all the trendy restaurants on the Colorado Corridor, including Cindy's, Malbec Market, Oinksters, Penny Oven, Four, and many more, while Trader Joe's is just a stone's throw away. Inside the main house, you'll find gorgeous hardwood floors throughout, two sizable bedrooms with large windows that offer stunning views of the backyard, and a full bathroom with a luxurious jet tub. The home also includes central heat and air, an updated kitchen with a hookup for either a gas or electric stove, and an updated bathroom. The large property offers spacious gardens, ideal for outdoor living and entertaining. Additionally, the home features an electronic gate for added security. The fully functional ADU, referred to as a "rec room on record," is perfect for an AirBnB, offering a full kitchen and in-unit washer and dryer, along with a separate entrance and parking. Finally, the artist's studio, which was originally the garage, provides a perfect working space for anyone needing a dedicated and functional creative area.The home also features an artists studio which was the original garage. It's perfect as a separate working space for anyone needing a dedicated creative and functional space.
Listed with Marjorie Diaz CalDRE: 02135825 | 323-333-4750, eXp Realty of California Inc
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Tue, 07 Mar 2023 17:11:00 +0000: $998,000 :: 2224 1/2 Strata Ln, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 1,530 sq ft
Lot Size: 1,590 sq ft
Added: 03/03/23, Last Updated: 03/07/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-12819
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
Welcome to this modern 3-story home in Eagle Rock which features 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and a beautiful open floor plan that is perfect for entertaining! The first-floor bedroom features a tray ceiling, recessed lighting, and laminate flooring which is consistent throughout the home. The ensuite bathroom features tile flooring, a single sink vanity, and a floor-to-ceiling tiled shower. The second floor features a bright open floor plan that showcases a modern kitchen that seamlessly opens to the living room. The kitchen features a beautiful Silestone quartz countertop, recessed lighting, drop pendant lighting, and stainless-steel appliances. The living room is ideal for gatherings as it boasts a ceiling fan and two different doors which lead to a wrap-around private balcony, with a gas hookup for a grill. This floor also conveniently features a half bathroom. The third story features two more ensuite bedrooms. The primary bedroom also has a private balcony with beautiful mountain views, and two closets and the ensuite bathroom includes a double floating vanity and walk-in shower. There is also a laundry closet in the hallway equipped with a stackable washer and dryer. This eco-friendly home has low E dual-glazed windows, low VOC paint, an E-stone counter, a tankless water heater, a Nest thermostat, and fully paid Tesla solar panels. The attached two-car garage has additional overhead storage. This home is in a great area with an array of shops and restaurants! Don't miss the opportunity to call this contemporary Eagle Rock home yours!
Listed with Jason Berns CalDRE: 01787757 | (626) 826-4544, Keller Williams Realty
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Mon, 27 Feb 2023 11:26:00 +0000: $825,000 :: 6152 Poppy Peak Drive, Eagle Rock CA, 90042 - Eagle Rock Home Search
2 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 744 sq ft
Lot Size: 2,004 sq ft
Added: 01/02/23, Last Updated: 02/27/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: SR22261138
Community: Eagle Rock
The price of this listing was last reduced on 2/27/2023 by 0%
Status: Active
Wow! Come and View this Beautifully Remodeled and Reimagined Home! This Cozy and Modern Home Has Been Touched By All the Fine Finishes! From the Santa Barbara Smooth Stucco to the Amazingly Redesigned Open Concept Kitchen! This Home is the True Essence of Modern Meets Functional! Positioned on the Quiet Street of Poppy Peak Dr. Conveniently Located Near Everything Highland Park and Eagle Rock Offers, this Picturesque, Turnkey Gem Simply Cannot be Missed!
Listed with Kelli Wagner CalDRE: 02187704 | 818-360-3430, Coldwell Banker Exclusive
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/! - Thu, 23 Feb 2023 21:57:00 +0000: $1,750,000 :: 5322 Mount Helena Avenue, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,571 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,526 sq ft
Added: 02/23/23, Last Updated: 02/23/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS23031687
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
Don’t miss this rare and beautiful, fully remodeled 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Spanish style home in the highly sought after “North of Colorado Blvd” neighborhood of Eagle Rock. Enter off the quiet, tree-lined street into your inviting living room that boasts tons of natural light, a large picture window, and cozy fireplace. Then enjoy the brand new kitchen with picturesque breakfast nook and the adjacent spacious dining room before pampering yourself in the master retreat and its elegant en suite bathroom for that much needed relaxation. Finally, enjoy the entertainer’s dream of a backyard complete with multiple seating and dining areas, outdoor fireplace, herb and vegetable garden boxes, oversized elevated redwood deck, and plenty of open space to host even the largest of gatherings of friends and family. The home has been completely remodeled with a brand new HVAC system, water heater, all new windows, new kitchen, bathroom, and light fixtures, stainless steel appliances, Sanderling Oak luxury vinyl flooring, completely new plumbing, and a new electrical panel with new wiring throughout. Conveniently located with easy access to the freeway and within walking distance of several restaurants, stores, and markets, this move-in ready property is truly one a kind and ready for you to call it home!
Listed with JONATHAN YEE CalDRE: 02082766 | 626-695-3228, FDS Realty Inc.
Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!
Eagle Rock Real Estate Agent: Irina Netchaev
Phone: (626) 629-8439
