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 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
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- 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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- Wed, 30 Sep 2020 10:05:00 +0000: $1,299,999 :: 1659 Silver Oak, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 1,623 sq ft
Lot Size: 4,113 sq ft
Added: 09/14/20, Last Updated: 09/30/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: MB20191372
Community: 618 - Eagle Rock
The price of this listing was last reduced on 9/30/2020 by 4%
Status: Active
This Beautiful 3 Bedroom 3 Bath Home Located in the Eagle Rock hillsides is perfect for that Special Buyer that demands Quality Finished Work. At its best! You will walk into a Peaceful Natural Bright Light home with Beautiful Views in every room. On to an Open First Floor Plan that starts off from a Formal Entry into the Living Room on one side and then flows into the Dining Area with an adjoining Open Kitchen then across to the balcony for a great morning cup of coffee or a late evening glass of wine. The Bottom Floor is Spectacular with Two Master Bedrooms spacious Bathrooms, talk about closet space "wow" plenty of it. Both rooms connect to the Balcony includes a Two Car Covered Parking Space. Also including a Security System, Smart Lock, and the Ring. New Plumbing, New ABS, New Electrical, New Drywall New HVAC Ducts, New Floors, New Kitchen, New Bathrooms, New Roof, New Lighting New Landscape throughout with Automatic Sprinklers, and much more!!! This is truly a Turn-Key property and a Must-See to Appreciate. " This Baby won't Last" So come see Today!!!
Listed with MARIA MARIN CalDRE: 02006354, GBCASAS-REAL ESTATE EXPERTS
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, 28 Sep 2020 14:46:00 +0000: $990,000 :: 1020 Glen Arbor Avenue, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 1,962 sq ft
Lot Size: 4,422 sq ft
Added: 09/10/20, Last Updated: 09/28/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS20187737
Community: 618 - Eagle Rock
The price of this listing was last increased on 9/28/2020 by 0%
Status: Active
This amazing craftsman is the home of a photographer and writer who took excellent care to retain all its original charm. Hand crafted glass and designer tiles in the kitchen and bathrooms make an elegant place to come home to. Upstairs has two beds, two baths with clean lines and tasteful colors; downstairs has a large bed and full bath. Tons of storage: broom, linen, two extra closets in dining area, bedroom closets and storage in kitchen. The master upstairs has a walk-in cedar closet, hand crafted art glass and a designer bathroom.The window opens to a lovely green yard below. Another bedroom views the climbing roses and has its own balcony where you can enjoy the 4th of July shows from two cities. Below is the private and quaint courtyard. Upstairs has two bright and sunny skylights. Bedrooms are apart for privacy. Vaulted wood ceilings never quit their beauty and are joyful to look at. Newer appliances throughout with central A/C & heat. A separate unit downstairs can be rented for $1700 per month. There is a dog runway on the side with gates that close. There are parking spaces for 3 cars and a 1 car garage. A full hedge and gate in front adds security. This property is maintained by a gardener who you can keep if you wish. In a forward looking possibility in 2021 the owner is eligible to apply for a Historical Landmark distinction, thereby reducing property tax to approximately half the current standards.
Listed with ROBERT HERNANDEZ CalDRE: 01451802, UNITED R.E.- LOS ANGELES
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/! - Wed, 23 Sep 2020 13:59:00 +0000: $730,000 :: 4812 Algoma Avenue, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
2 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 776 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,136 sq ft
Added: 08/27/20, Last Updated: 09/23/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 320003074
Community: 618 - Eagle Rock
Tract: Not Applicable-618 (NA618)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 9/23/2020 by 2%
Status: Active
This two bedroom, one bathroom home is located in the center of Eagle Rock, close to the Eagle Rock Jr/Sr. High School, near the Yosemite Recreational Center Park and the Eagle Rock Elementary School. Nearby all the amenities, restaurants on Colorado Blvd., for a perfect evening. Minutes away from Occidental College, the Rose Bowl, Pasadena City College, Downtown LA, Dodger Stadium and the Staple Center. Huge Price Reduction Will not last...
Listed with Lorelei Young CalDRE: 00337281, Century 21 First
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, 15 Sep 2020 23:10:00 +0000: $1,029,000 :: 1591 Silverwood Drive, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
2 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 1,797 sq ft
Lot Size: 4,496 sq ft
Added: 09/15/20, Last Updated: 09/15/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: BB20190540
Community: 618 - Eagle Rock
Status: Active
ENTERTAINER’S DREAM HOME! INCREDIBLE PANORAMIC MTN VIEWS - VERDUGOS TO SAN GABRIEL MTNS - One-of-A-Kind Eagle Rock Private Custom Home! 3 balconies - different views fm each room! Enjoy tranquil city views, dazzling sunsets, Rose Bowl fireworks. Beautifully landscaped xeriscape. LR on main level w/ gas fireplace, sparkling chandelier. Oversized glass doors to balcony w/ spectacular views! Spacious 2-car garage, xtra storage, view window. Family Rm on lower level. Built-in bookcases, huge picture window, 1/2 BA + pvt front patio, built-in BBQ/side burner. Entertainer’s kitchen - prep while savoring views from 8-ft picture window! Fully equipped LG suite stainless appls, expansive granite cntrs, lg pantry, Italian porcelain tile floors, glass backsplash, color-changing under-cabinet lighting, lg granite island w/ cabinets! Spacious dining room. Upper level Mstr BR w/ glass balcony door, walk-in closet, terrazzo tile mstr BA, granite cntr, bidet. Full-size LG Stackable W/D in hall closet. Guest BR w/glass door to balcony, full-size closet, ensuite terrazzo tile BA, lg shwr, granite cntr. Newly refinished hardwood flrs, recessed lighting, ceiling fans, double pane windows, fire sprinklers, Central HVAC w/ Nest, 50-gal water heater (3/17), recirculating hot water pump, security system/cameras. Eagle Rock has sm college-town feel. Lots of shops, hip restaurants, Occidental College–close drive to DTLA, Pasadena, the Rose Bowl, San Gabriel+San Fernando Valleys. Floor Plans Attached.
Listed with Dan Osti CalDRE: 02031849, Keller Williams WMC
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, 15 Sep 2020 11:58:00 +0000: $879,900 :: 5106 Monte Bonito Drive, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,252 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,669 sq ft
Added: 07/20/20, Last Updated: 09/15/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: BB20143362
Community: 618 - Eagle Rock
The price of this listing was last reduced on 9/15/2020 by 1%
Status: Active
Stunning cottage 3+2 showplace! North of Colorado Blvd. Super quaint section of very hot Eagle Rock near the Rose Bowl and a bike ride from Old Town Pasadena. Heartwarming interior vibe and multiple amazing outdoor living spaces. Lowest price in this part in a long time! You will need to see this because if you miss it, you will weep. Modern contemporary kitchen, yet coved-ceiling charm! Wisteria-canopied patios. Full green house and the ULTIMATE tree house and family hangout! Indoor and outdoor entertaining at its finest! Excellent Potential for ADU in garage: check it out! Separate entrance, very private. (Note: adjacent to 134 freeway off ramp.)
Listed with Barry Burnett CalDRE: 00989278, Barry Burnett 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
