Eagle Rock City Guide

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 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 and 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 neighbourhoods 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 descendent populations.

Main Attractions in Eagle Rock

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 Neighbourhood Council. Residents wishing to attend should turn up at 7pm on the first Tuesday of each month.

EAGLE ROCK RESTAURANTS & CAFES:

The Oinkster – 1439 reviews on Yelp!

2005 Colorado Blvd
Eagle Rock, CA 90041

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)

Oinksters In Eagle Rock

Casa Bianca Pizza Pie – 570 reviews on Yelp!

1650 Colorado Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90041

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

Auntie Ems - Eagle Rock, CA

Auntie Em's Red Velvet Cupcake - Eagle Rock, CA
Auntie Em’s Kitchen – 722 reviews on Yelp!
4616 Eagle Rock Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90041

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

Senor Fish – 247 reviews on Yelp!

4803 Eagle Rock Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90041

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

EAGLE ROCK’S FUN & AMUSING PLACES:

1. Eagle Rock Underground – 12 solid reviews on Yelp!
4690 Eagle Rock Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90042

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.”

2. Eagle Rock Music Festival – 14 reviews on Yelp!
Colorado Blvd
Eagle Rock, CA 90041

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!

3. Cactus Gallery & Gifts – 28 reviews on Yelp!
4534 Eagle Rock Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90041

“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.”

EAGLE ROCK FARMER’S MARKETS:

Eagle Rock Farmers’ Market – 27 reviews on Yelp!

2100 Merton Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90041

Come enjoy eating fresh cooked meals while listening to an Elvis impersonator! Every FRIDAY from 5 P.M. to 8:30 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.

Eagle Rock n Roll Farmers’ Market - 11 reviews on Yelp!

2700 Colorado Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90041

Eagle Rock n Roll Farmers’s market is small, but mighty! Every SUNDAY from 9 A.M. to 2 P.M., people unite under food and music. Vendors sell fresh papusas, tamales, Korean BBQ, and even chocolate almond croissants. Bring your friends to grab a bite and dance to live rock bands and/or spinning Djs.

EAGLE ROCK SCHOOLS:

EAGLE ROCK REAL ESTATE AND HOMES FOR SALE

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EAGLE ROCK CONDOS AND TOWNHOMES FOR SALE:

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Sat, 18 May 2013 11:28:00 +0000: $599,500 :: 4918 ARGUS Drive, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search

3 beds, 3 full baths
Home size: 1,742 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,869 sq ft
Added: 05/15/13, Last Updated: 05/18/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: BB13090272
Community: Eagle Rock

* STANDARD SALE * Located in prime EAGLE ROCK right off of Colorado, this wonderfully maintained 3 bed 3 bath single family home is as good as it gets! As you step into the immaculately maintained home, you are greeted by a spacious living room with a modern fireplace. Directly adjacent is an open-concept dining area and kitchen, an entertainer's dream come true! The gourmet chef's kitchen boasts Corian counters, refinished cabinets, newer stainless steel appliances, and designer fixtures. At the rear of the home there is a wonderful sun room that is glowing with natural light and is an amazing retreat with beautiful views of the hills. Directly adjacent, the master bedroom and en suite are spacious and have tons of storage. The master bathroom has a skylight and is completely redone with the most elegant and modern touches. There are two other bedrooms that are both spacious and have great closets. Throughout the home you'll find newer carpet and tile flooring, newer paint, recessed lighting, huge windows, newer fixtures, view of the surrounding hills, and an amazing backyard patio. There is an oversized 2 car garage with a finished storage space and a full bathroom. This is an amazing home, an absolute MUST SEE!

Listed with Eric Tan, Redfin Corporation

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!
Fri, 17 May 2013 12:07:00 +0000: $699,000 :: 5451 Mount Helena, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search

3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 2,184 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,089 sq ft
Added: 05/06/13, Last Updated: 05/17/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 22175300
Community: Eagle Rock

Classic One Level Traditional located N. of Hill Drive... Features 3 Beds 2 Baths, LR w/FPLC, Dining/Family Room w/FPLC & HW FLR, Large Traditional Kitchen, Bonus Room, POOL, CENTAL AIR / HEAT, Inside Laundry, Copper Plumbing, 2 car attached garage w/access. The area offers Trader Joe's, Vons, Dining, Park etc... Minutes to Old Town Pasadena, Dodger Stadium and Staples Center. Excellent Location!!!

Listed with James Beckham, Dilbeck 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!
Thu, 16 May 2013 15:44:00 +0000: $549,000 :: 4307 Mont Eagle Place, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search

4 beds, 1 full, 2 part baths
Home size: 1,524 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,415 sq ft
Added: 04/29/13, Last Updated: 05/16/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: 22174975
Community: Eagle Rock
The price of this listing was last reduced on 5/16/2013 by 6%

OPPORTUNITY, OPPORTUNITY...Charming view home that needs a new owner's personal touch. Downstairs includes a living room with fireplace and a kitchen that leads to an eating area. Upstairs you will find four bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The backyard is complete with views and a 2nd lot (potential development opportunity). Don't miss out on this one!

Listed with Brent Ballard, Anderson Ballard Companies

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!
Wed, 08 May 2013 14:37:00 +0000: $650,000 :: 2477 Yosemite Drive, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search

3 beds, 2 full baths
Home size: 1,843 sq ft
Lot Size: 4,224 sq ft
Added: 04/20/13, Last Updated: 05/08/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: OC13071681
Community: Eagle Rock
The price of this listing was last reduced on 5/8/2013 by 6%

View of Mt. Wilson, View of Eagle Rock, Views from all levels inside and out. 360 degree view including downtown Glendale from top of hill. Outside spa with view. Remodeled kitchen and Master Bathroom. Approx. 20x20 bonus room. Double pane windows. Wood floors through out. Some furniture for sale.

Listed with John Roberts, Century 21 Beachside MV

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!
Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:11:00 +0000: $660,000 :: 4456 Mont Eagle Place, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search

2 beds, 2 full baths
Home size: 1,456 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,436 sq ft
Added: 04/23/13, Last Updated: 04/30/13
Property Type: Single Family, Residential
MLS Number: SR13074736
Community: Out Of Area

Standard Sale! Hiltop Eagle Rock Home Standard sale 2 bedroom 2 baths

Listed with Dan Alon, RE/MAX of Valencia

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!

Eagle Rock Real Estate Agent: Irina Netchaev
Phone: (626) 629-8439