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 $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, 28 Sep 2021 08:14:00 +0000: $1,100,000 :: 4514 Mont Eagle Place, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,136 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,455 sq ft
Added: 08/26/21, Last Updated: 09/28/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: CV21189746
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
Welcome to this 1926 Spanish revival is located in Eagle Rock! This home has so much charm and has been updated with amenities that will please all! The newly textured interior with a fresh, clean, white color gives the new buyer a canvas to decorate however they please. Keep cool with the new A/C unit and updated dual pane windows that allows natural light to come in to the open living room/eating area that are adjacent to each other. The gorgeous newer wood laminate flooring adds warmth to the home that leads to the updated kitchen that comes with brand new warm tones of wood cabinetry and has the best view in the home! The 2 FULL size baths are renovated and one of the baths is located on the bottom level for a completely separate living area for a guest, or flex space that gives access to the large lot! The custom original built-ins, original 5 panel doors and antique door knobs allows character to seep through this renovated charmer with its historic remnants! The single car garage has a long driveway to park multiple cars for the secondary family or for your guests. The secondary area has its own direct entrance on the first floor, its own FULL sized bathroom, bedroom and separate living area. Be the envy of the neighborhood with a lot measuring over 10,000 square feet with fruit trees (avocado, pomegranate, orange, fig)! The stance of the historical Pine tree that sits proudly in front of the home keeps 4514 Mont Eagle Place iconic and will stand the test of time with integrity and grandeur. Make this home yours before it's gone, it's the first time on the market in over half a century!
Listed with LUIS SEQUEIRA CalDRE: 01206477, RE/MAX MASTERS 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, 20 Sep 2021 13:40:00 +0000: $1,199,000 :: 4434 Mont Eagle Place, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,466 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,406 sq ft
Added: 07/09/21, Last Updated: 09/20/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: MB21147110
Community: Eagle Rock
The price of this listing was last increased on 9/20/2021 by 0%
Status: Active
LOOK NO FURTHER FOR A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO LIVE IN DESIRABLE EAGLE ROCK NEIGBORHOOD!!!!View! View! Fabulous Home in the Highly Desirable Area of Eagle Rock. Enjoy the outdoor from the back Patio is perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Lovely Home With a 2 Bedrooms and 2 Baths 1466 Sq Ft of living space. Home has central AC situated on a quiet street, One Car Detached Garage, Big Laundry Room in side, Big Driveway!! Nice converter basement, Great for extra Income or in-laws.
Listed with RICHARD MONTANO CalDRE: 00878810, REALTY WORLD CALIFORNIA PROPERTIES
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, 15 Sep 2021 07:21:00 +0000: $1,499,000 :: 4532 College View Avenue, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 1,659 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,890 sq ft
Added: 09/14/21, Last Updated: 09/15/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PF21203450
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
Perched up from the street on desirable College View Ave, this midcentury ranch home has been meticulously transformed over the last few years into a modern oasis. The home is certainly amazing, but the backyard is a showstopper! Sited on a rare, 11,000 sf lot with an enormous flat yard overlooking panoramic hillside and city light views, the backyard offers a ton of flexible space for living and entertaining. There are multiple decks and patios, a firepit and bbq area, a large grass area lined with mature fruit trees, and a private path that leads to a veggie and succulent garden along the back and side of the property! Inside, windows were thoughtfully placed to capture the amazing views and abundant natural light in every room. The floor plan has been reworked into the ideal modern setup, with an elevated, covered entry that leads to a single level living area with a large, formal living room that can double as a great room, and a separate family room in back with 10 ft ceilings, large picture windows, glass French doors, and a cozy electric fireplace. The gourmet kitchen is open to the dining and family room and features a Dacor gas range and separate wine fridge. Cosmetically everything has been reimagined, from floors to baths to windows, but inner workings have also been updated including central air and heat, copper plumbing, upgraded electrical, and more. This special home is a stone's throw away from prestigious Occidental College and moments from fine dining, shopping, and more on trendy Eagle Rock Blvd and Colorado Blvd. This is Eagle Rock life at its finest!
Listed with Michael Wu CalDRE: 01403896, 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/! - Sun, 12 Sep 2021 08:35:00 +0000: $1,175,000 :: 1336 Neola Street, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,000 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,534 sq ft
Added: 07/11/21, Last Updated: 09/12/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PW21151234
Community: Eagle Rock
The price of this listing was last reduced on 9/12/2021 by 2%
Status: Active
*** Reduced Price *** Nestled in highly desired sought out area of Eagle Rock hill with spectacular views, this 1991-built, fully insulated, has tons of features you cannot miss. With 2,000 square footage living space which includes a 320 sq.ft. Mancave, you also have multiple outdoor lounge areas and terrace gardens that creates an indoor-outdoor California lifestyle. A spacious and attractive living/dining great room greet you upon entry with contemporary engineered wood floors throughout, decorative modern lightings and awesome fireplace setting. The new kitchen has new stainless steel appliances, abundant white modern cabinetry, quartz countertops, sleek subway tile backsplash and a large island with waterfall edge quartz. All bathrooms are newly renovated with full-height stone walls in showers, designer's vanities, toilets and accessories. Entertain your family and friends on the balcony with a sitting area and barbecue to enjoy the outdoors and the views. This 4 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms home with an attached 2-car garage boasts a newly revitalized modern living space. Descend the spiral staircase to access the gorgeous yards where you will find plenty of fruit trees, water fountain, sitting areas, and a peaceful gazebo. A true gem with close proximity to the shops and restaurants of Eagle Rock, this home is also located near Rockdale Elementary, Eagle Rock High School and minutes away to Occidental College.
Listed with James Lee CalDRE: 01861200, HPT 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/! - Sat, 11 Sep 2021 17:39:00 +0000: $999,000 :: 5311 Sierra Villa Drive, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,171 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,534 sq ft
Added: 09/10/21, Last Updated: 09/11/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-6606
Community: Eagle Rock
Tract: Not Applicable
Status: Active
Spacious and upgraded Craftsman bungalow boasts quality and charm at every glance plus an expansive and private backyard that is all about entertaining and lifestyle. Nestled in a cul-de-sac in the highly sought-after Eagle Rock neighborhood North of Colorado Boulevard, curb appeal abounds with mature drought tolerant landscaping and a brick ribbon walkway leading to the wide generous porch and welcoming ruby red front door. Gleaming hardwood floors, plentiful casement windows and a Batchelder-style fireplace with rustic oak mantel showcase the living room. Dining room is adjacent to the large updated kitchen offering yards of counter space, gorgeous quality cabinetry, stainless steel appliances and a view of the back patio with porch swing. The owner's suite is generous with plenty of closet space and access to the large back porch as well as the spacious laundry. The en-suite bath offers a frameless shower, updated cabinetry with marble countertop and lovely basketweave tile flooring and accents. Two additional bedrooms share a second updated bath. In the peaceful backyard expanses of green grassy lawn, gardens and city light views provide a perfect backdrop for al fresco dining and entertaining. Cafe lights and the sounds of a flowing fountain create the perfect mood. Twilight is lovely here. When it's time to venture out, you're moments away from Eagle Rock's shopping and restaurants. Updated systems and tons of storage.
Listed with Teresa Fuller CalDRE: 01315387, 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/!
Eagle Rock Real Estate Agent: Irina Netchaev
Phone: (626) 629-8439
