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.
- Wed, 23 Jun 2021 16:34:00 +0000: $768,000 :: 970 Neola Street, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
2 beds, 1 bath
Home size: 768 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,228 sq ft
Added: 06/11/21, Last Updated: 06/23/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: EV21136757
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
More Photos to come. Enviably set in a convenient location, this Eagle Rock residence has vast potential to become the ideal custom home you've long dreamed of! Across the open layout, 3 bedrooms and 1 bath are already available along with a living room, a dining area, and a kitchen overlooking the lush surroundings. Multiple windows bring in natural light throughout for a bright outlook inside, including the private retreats. If you decide to expand the main living areas for added function, there's still plenty of space on the fenced-in lot, both in the front and at the back. Aside from possible expansion, the backyard can also be converted into a beautiful garden or create an expansive patio for entertaining lucky guests. Completing this home’s excellent appeal for the creative design-minded is its close proximity to downtown and other conveniences such as dining and shopping. Plus, Rose Bowl Stadium is nearby for even more fun. Unleash the artist in you and transform this property into a unique dream home of your choice. Come for a tour before it's gone for good!
Listed with ALEXANDER ORTIZ CalDRE: 01413027, SUNSET HOMES 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/! - Sun, 20 Jun 2021 18:43:00 +0000: $1,150,000 :: 2327 Loy Lane, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,186 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,099 sq ft
Added: 06/20/21, Last Updated: 06/20/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: OC21133751
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
SERENITY IS CALLING - YOUR newly upgraded coastal style cottage awaits. Nestled in the hills of the desirable Eagle Rock, enjoy this bright and open floor plan home that allows you to experience the breezes and verdant views from all corners. Cat 6 ethernet and cable wiring in every bedroom, the living room, and garage, makes this house smart-home ready for you to customize to your liking. Nest thermostat allows you to control the air conditioning and heating from your phone, while the Nest Yale lock allows you to lock/unlock the front door remotely. The master bedroom also has a view and en suite bathroom. Spacious galley kitchen with custom painted soft-closing cabinetry, quartz countertops, mosaic glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, LED cabinet lighting and farmhouse sink with a faucet featuring a touchless on/off setting. Designer contemporary doors with Microban-treated door levers throughout the home. Exit the sliding doors of the kitchen to enjoy the shade of a gorgeous cork oak tree, and enter the reclaimed wood and steel fence to the large secluded backyard that has a separate retreat with washer dryer hook-ups and lots of flex space. The fireplace is decorative, with a live-edge wooden mantel and limestone facade. The finished single car garage has space for a workout gym or workshop. Energy efficient features include a new cool roof, new vinyl windows, new drywall, new LED lighting, new tankless water heater and upgraded electrical panel. Close to major shopping centers, grocery stores, freeways, and many diverse boutique eateries. Act quickly to make this home your happy place!
Listed with Lien Pham CalDRE: 02025081, Fortune Weavers 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/! - Fri, 18 Jun 2021 16:39:00 +0000: $1,345,000 :: 4844 Mount Royal Drive, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,508 sq ft
Lot Size: 16,118 sq ft
Added: 06/17/21, Last Updated: 06/18/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: SR21132996
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
Views! Views! Views! Multiple lots included in sale! Serenity and peace are yours at this turn key Hilltop Haven. Vistas to the east include the majestic San Gabriel mountains and “The Eagle Rock”. Panoramic views west from Century City to Griffith Observatory to downtown Glendale. Situated at the top of the mountain with multiple lots included in the sale that ensure that you will have no neighbor in front or behind you to ever block your view. Gourmet kitchen fit for a chef with Viking appliances, plenty of counter & storage space. Large living room with fireplace and views from every angle. Large bedrooms & dining room. Freshly painted throughout, mature fruit trees & a vegetable garden with plenty of room to expand. The extra lots are buildable if you so desire. Fully paid for 39 panel expansive photovoltaic system. If you’re looking for your perfect retreat that is close enough to the shops and restaurants of Eagle Rock & Highland Park, yet far enough away to be nestled in the heart of the hills, look no further. Tranquility at its best!
Listed with Robyn Snodgrass CalDRE: 01238751, iRealty, 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/! - Wed, 09 Jun 2021 11:54:00 +0000: $988,000 :: 5326 Hermosa Avenue, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,122 sq ft
Lot Size: 4,792 sq ft
Added: 06/09/21, Last Updated: 06/09/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-5131
Community: Eagle Rock
Tract: Not Applicable
Status: Active
Very charming 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home located in the highly desirable North neighborhood of Eagle Rock on a cul-de-sac street. Features include fresh paint, wood window shutters, Dining room with built- in china cabinet, updated Kitchen and bathrooms, outdoor covered patio perfect for entertaining, paid off solar panels, a 1 car detached garage and a beautiful view of the city. The basement currently has the laundry room but it can be used as a wine cellar or den.
Listed with Margarit Torgomyan CalDRE: 02066602, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Golden 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/! - Fri, 04 Jun 2021 18:54:00 +0000: $1,495,000 :: 4316 Wawona Street, Eagle Rock CA, 90065 - Eagle Rock Home Search
5 beds, 4 baths
Home size: 3,413 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,752 sq ft
Added: 06/03/21, Last Updated: 06/04/21
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 21745184
Community: Glassel Park
Status: Active
Luxurious open floor plan design. Grand Foyer entrance with plenty of light! SPECTACULAR VIEWS from almost every room. Built in 1980, and located in a great area of the Eagle Rock neighborhood. The entire house is completely remodeled with many modern upgrades. These include copper plumbing, new electrical, wood flooring, recessed lighting, and custom doors and windows, tankless water heater, There are two master bedroom suites both with balconies, plus three additional nicely sized bedrooms (one downstairs). Entertainers living room with a fireplace and family room. High gloss custom kitchen, light and bright with new modern appliances and a large dining area. Nice sized garden with numerous fruit trees, large patio. It's a great location near shopping, dining, and freeways. A fabulous must see home!
Listed with Karine Demirchyan CalDRE: 01323715, KD Star 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/!
Eagle Rock Real Estate Agent: Irina Netchaev
Phone: (626) 629-8439
