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.
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- Tue, 17 May 2022 15:34:00 +0000: $699,000 :: 1838 Linda Rosa Avenue, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
2 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 718 sq ft
Lot Size: 3,890 sq ft
Added: 05/17/22, Last Updated: 05/17/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: SR22102881
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
Situated in a quiet Eagle Rock neighborhood, built in 1924 this charming vintage Spanish bungalow is located on a sweeping corner lot, it features two bedrooms, one bathroom, 718 sq ft of living space, a raised foundation with hardwood floors, a single car garage and a private backyard. The relaxing front porch welcomes you to the front door entry way that invites you into the living room with hardwood floors and windows overlooking the front yard. The kitchen includes tile flooring, vintage cabinets with a stainless steel top, a breakfast nook and an indoor laundry area with gas dryer hook up. The two bedrooms are generous in size, they share the full hallway bathroom with shower over tub and vanity. Conveniently located nearby Eagle Rock HS, Occidental College, Rose Bowl, Pasadena City College, Old Town Pasadena, Downtown LA, Yosemite Recreation center, shopping and restaurants.
Listed with Michael Galieote CalDRE: 01205719 | 818-488-8052, Pinnacle Estate Properties, 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/! - Sun, 15 May 2022 17:31:00 +0000: $2,200,000 :: 5326 Argus Drive, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,053 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,768 sq ft
Added: 05/15/22, Last Updated: 05/15/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: SW22100253
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
Just in time for summer fun! The perfect pool home is ready for you! Located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, lies an LA gem. Just minutes away from Eagle Rock’s main street, this well-lit, open floor plan home features cathedral ceilings and twin sets of French glass doors in the living room and dining room that open right to the beautiful backyard oasis, complete with a serene pool and spa backing up to a lush hillside. For every chef’s dream, this sleek and modern kitchen was recently updated with a restaurant quality Wolf range oven. The master suite includes French doors opening to the backyard, a rustic sliding barn door to the walk-in closet, peaked windows, and a distanced master bathroom. Two additional bedrooms and one full bathroom complete this home. Separate laundry room and a bonus office or future cabana are off the attached two car garage. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own a home that makes any day feel like a vacation!
Listed with Ryan Garing CalDRE: 02154884 | 951-699-9080, First Team Real Estate, Tem
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, 11 May 2022 07:19:00 +0000: $729,000 :: 2384 Norwalk Avenue, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 930 sq ft
Lot Size: 3,629 sq ft
Added: 05/10/22, Last Updated: 05/11/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: WS22097701
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
Fixer upper / handyman special / Investor alert / fix and flip opportunity in one of Los Angeles' hottest neighborhoods. 3 bed 1 bath California bungalow on a corner lot with a detached 1 car garage. Due to the condition of the home it may not qualify for traditional financing options. New electrical panel has been installed.
Listed with PAUL ARGUETA CalDRE: 01223040 | 626-399-0223, REH 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/! - Mon, 09 May 2022 10:35:00 +0000: $1,499,999 :: 2801 El Roble Drive, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,238 sq ft
Lot Size: 18,535 sq ft
Added: 05/09/22, Last Updated: 05/09/22
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: OC22094827
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
You really CAN have it ALL – luxury finishes throughout, spectacular 360 degree views, indoor/outdoor living and entertaining, and get this… even more land to get creative with. Welcome to your hill top sanctuary, tucked away in the heart of Eagle Rock. Your newly paved and private driveway leads you right up to your “ALL NEW EVERYTHING” dream home. Your 3 Bedroom + Office and 2 Bathroom dream home has been completely renovated, from the inside out featuring new drywall, plumbing, high capacity gas line, 5 ton heater and AC, recessed lighting, floors, complete bathroom and kitchen, energy efficient appliances, and 200A electrical system upgrade (to avoid the dreaded blackouts). Exterior landscaping, framing, brand new roof, stucco, and water drip irrigation system complete your new home!Get ready, because once you walk up the steps and through the front door you’ll be blown away by the open concept luxury kitchen with granite countertops, brand new appliances (new wine fridge and wet bar included), and storage galore. Grab a glass as you make your way past the large eat-in kitchen island because this is where you’ll want to spend all of your time… Your floor to ceiling folding panel windows opens completely to the patio deck, making your indoor outdoor living dreams come true. Take a minute to take it all in – views from every window and the perfect space to spend your afternoon. When the sun sets and breeze starts to chill, make your way back in and freshen up in your fully remodeled bathroom, and wind down in your warm spacious bedroom. Can you believe it? This is all yours. You’re living in the home you once only dreamed of.
Listed with Sean Najera CalDRE: 01909565 | 9099386303, The Network Agency
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
