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
Search over 100,000 homes – including the entire Pasadena California Multiple Listing Service
- Eagle Rock Homes for Sale $300,000 to $400,000
- Eagle Rock Homes for Sale $400,000 to $500,000
- Eagle Rock Homes for Sale $500,000 to $600,000
- Eagle Rock Homes for Sale $600,000 to $700,000
- Eagle Rock Homes for Sale $700,000 to $800,000
- Eagle Rock Homes for Sale $800,000 to $900,000
- Eagle Rock Homes for Sale $900,000 to $1,000,000
- Eagle Rock Homes for Sale $1,000,000 to $1,500,000
- Eagle Rock Homes for Sale $1,500,000 to $2,000,000
- 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.
Feel free to sign up for a VIP home buyer membership which will save your search results and program our computers to email you updated home listings from the Multiple Listing Service.
- Sat, 08 Aug 2020 05:25:00 +0000: $815,000 :: 6033 Annan Way, Eagle Rock CA, 90042 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,126 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,123 sq ft
Added: 08/04/20, Last Updated: 08/08/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: CV20157981
Community: 618 - Eagle Rock
Status: Active
MOTIVATED SELLERS. New AC / Heating Unit (two years old) Convenient floor plan. Home is a 3-bedroom 2-bath. House has a one-car garage accompanied with a long driveway for extra parking. Buyer to verify all to their satisfaction and conduct their investigation(s). MLS information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Home is centrally located minutes away from Pasadena, near many local parks and recreation centers, restaurants, and shopping centers on York and Figueroa with Easy access to the 110, 2, and 5 freeways.
Listed with JOSE LARGAESPADA CalDRE: 01104926, HOMEQUEST REAL ESTATE
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/! - Fri, 07 Aug 2020 10:54:00 +0000: $749,000 :: 4963 Mount Royal Drive, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
2 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 852 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,006 sq ft
Added: 08/07/20, Last Updated: 08/07/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 20615040
Community: 618 - Eagle Rock
Status: Active
Behind the secure metal door you'll find the stairway to heaven, and oh what sights you'll see when you ascend to the top. Views to die for - see the San Bernardino mountains and the snow on Mt Baldy much of the year. What a spot to sip your coffee and watch the sun rise! The cottage was built in 1922 and is the perfect Pied-a-Terre for you and maybe your honey. Freshly redone bath and kitchen make it modern and fresh, the decks expand the living space to the outdoors, and a fresh monochrome paint scheme gives you the chance to add your own splashes of color. A sleeping porch is used as screened-in sitting area, and the laundry is sheltered outside. You can hike up another level to make full use of the backyard. At the street level you'll love the one-car garage for storage or to park your sports car. You really don't need a car usually because its less than two blocks to Colorado Blvd, close by a few restaurants and shops. What more do you need?
Listed with Tracy King CalDRE: 01048877, Compass
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/! - Fri, 07 Aug 2020 09:29:00 +0000: $1,079,000 :: 4301 Mont Eagle Place, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,305 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,591 sq ft
Added: 07/16/20, Last Updated: 08/07/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: SR20140111
Community: 618 - Eagle Rock
Status: Active
Perched on a knoll with mountain and canyon views, this charming 1305 sqft 3 bed 2 bath tastefully remodeled open floor-plan home offers much desired indoor/outdoor NELA living with an abundance of charm, privacy, outdoor space and designer touches. Remodeled and expanded in 2019, this hilltop jewel offers an open living/dining/kitchen area that is ideal for causal living and entertaining. The fully remodeled kitchen has a butcher-block topped island, Wolf stove and stainless appliances. A light and airy hallway features a laundry station, additional floor to ceiling storage, high ceiling and skylight that leads to the newly added master suite with high ceiling, skylights and a spa like master bath with oversized shower. Two additional bedrooms and a large fully remodeled hall bath complete this home. Many upgrades include new electrical, plumbing and sewer line, roof, AC, tankless water heater, double pane windows, skylights, dimmable LED lights, Bluetooth speakers, and so much more. A newly built 420 sqft garage includes a bonus room, ideal for a home office, gym or guest room. The large lot provides several outdoor areas to enjoy. You can roll on the grass or have a picnic under the beautiful Jacaranda tree or entertain friends under the newly built redwood pergola. Come and check out this family home that has been upgraded with love, thoughtful choices and attention to every detail. You’ll be proud to call it your new home and enjoy it for years to come.
Listed with Ryan H. Sarkissian CalDRE: 01878141, 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/! - Fri, 31 Jul 2020 21:40:00 +0000: $1,295,000 :: 1257 Eagle Vista Dr. Drive, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,794 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,999 sq ft
Added: 07/31/20, Last Updated: 07/31/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 320002654
Community: 618 - Eagle Rock
Tract: Not Applicable-618 (NA618)
Status: Active
Turn of the Century Spanish Beauty. Magnificently maintained in its original period condition in and out. All with it being totally updated. The historical quality of the home is evident as soon as you walk into the large sunken living room with wood burning fireplace and hand painted beam ceilings. Double french doors lead out to the large courtyard. Step up from the living room to the Large Formal Dining room that leads to the kitchen and then the quaint breakfast area. Alcove ceilings throughout the home. All original wood doors, wood molding and hardware is in excellent shape. Absolutely beautiful original hardwood floors throughout the home. The main bath has all original tile and fixtures with separate tub and shower. The second bath has been tastefully updated to match the historic decor of the period. One of the large bedrooms is being used as a family room. Its solid oak sliding doors lead out to the backyard entertaining areas. Seller has created fabulous outside entertaining areas with hard and soft landscaping and lighting. The covered courtyard leads to the quiet and secluded backyard with a beautiful Pergola over the built in BBQ area. Ideal all family functions. Lovingly maintained by the same owner since 1985. A must See.
Listed with Bill Davis CalDRE: 00646622, Huntington Group
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, 30 Jul 2020 16:31:00 +0000: $1,100,000 :: 1020 Glen Arbor Avenue, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,962 sq ft
Lot Size: 4,422 sq ft
Added: 07/11/20, Last Updated: 07/30/20
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS20151151
Community: 618 - Eagle Rock
Status: Active
This beautiful craftsman home located in the highly desirable neighborhood of Eagle Rock, offers 2 bedrooms and 1 and 3/4 baths, central A/C and heating. In addition, it has a 1,000 sq ft additional living quarter with a large bedroom and bath, with its own entrances, kitchen and appliances. The main house has a master bedroom with original hardwood floor, a walk-in cedar closet with original decorated glass and updated designer bathroom. This gem of a house offers a lot of closet space, including a broom closet, a linen closet, two additional closets in the dining/or office space area, in addition to the bedroom closets. The hardwood floors throughout the house are polished, and two skylights illuminate the dining area and kitchen with natural sunlight. The gorgeous designer glass tile kitchen has loads of storage space, saltillo tile floor, newer stove and microwave. The living room includes a window bed area that sections off for privacy and may be used as an impromptu bedroom for guests. Also, don't miss the incredible view from the second bedroom balcony upstairs. Outside has a full grown avocado tree in front and lemon tree on the side, both of which are yielding lots of fruit. A cute courtyard in back with a working fountain offers plenty of space for relaxing and entertaining. There are automatic sprinklers all around the house. This home has plenty of parking space with a two car garage and a 3 car length driveway. You won't want to miss this incredible property!
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/!
Eagle Rock Real Estate Agent: Irina Netchaev
Phone: (626) 629-8439
