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 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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- Wed, 23 Oct 2024 09:08:00 +0000: $1,099,999 :: 4568 Ellenwood Drive, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,116 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,188 sq ft
Added: 09/16/24, Last Updated: 10/23/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: BB24192528
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
Nestled in the heart of Eagle Rock, this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is a true gem waiting to be discovered! Located on a quiet residential street, 4568 Ellenwood Dr boasts an inviting white picket fence and a beautifully updated interior that exudes warmth and sophistication. The open concept living area features a sleek, newer kitchen, rich hardwood floors, and an abundance of natural light, creating the perfect space for relaxing and entertaining. The generously sized bedrooms offer the perfect retreat, while the two bathrooms cater to different tastes - one with a walk-in shower and the other with a tub and shower combination. Step outside to the fantastic backyard, ideal for hosting gatherings and parties under the stars. A bonus one-car garage offers endless possibilities, whether you envision a cozy home office or a potential ADU. Eagle Rock's small-town charm is at your doorstep, with popular hotspots like The Oinkster, Casa Bianca, and the Eagle Rock Brewery just a short drive away. Enjoy easy access to Yosemite Park, local farmers' markets, and the scenic hiking trails of Eagle Rock. Appraised above asking price!! Don't miss this incredible opportunity to own a piece of this vibrant community with build-in equity!
Listed with Naira Ambar CalDRE: 01986768 | 310-432-6400, Keller Williams Beverly Hills
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, 21 Oct 2024 07:19:00 +0000: $1,250,000 :: 5241 Sumner Avenue, Eagle Rock CA, 90041 - Eagle Rock Home Search
4 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,836 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,565 sq ft
Added: 10/11/24, Last Updated: 10/21/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: SW24211396
Community: Eagle Rock
The price of this listing was last reduced on 10/21/2024 by 6%
Status: Active
Charming 4 bed 2 bath bungalow in the popular Eagle Rock area. A spacious, well maintained 1836 sq ft with a 2 car detached garage for a possible ADU. Attractive street presentation with crisp clean simplicity. Covered front patio with an eastward orientation for the morning sunlight. Carport is gated and covered. Rain guttering all around. Block wall rear fencing for privacy. The heating/ac/tankless hot water heater/vinyl dual pane windows by Anderson and roof installed in 2019. The solar is owned; no lease agreement. The home has been earthquake retrofitted. The double door entry leads into a formal living/dining room area. French doors off the living room open to an office/den or extra bedroom. Lots of ongoing upgrades to keep this classic home in tiptop condition including: remodeled kitchen with freestanding island and matching sub zero refrigerator. Countertop gas cooking with electric double ovens. The cabinets auto close as well as the pull-out pan drawers and a convenient Lazy Susan corner. Corian countertops indirect lighting, plantation shutters and all copper plumbing. Upgrades for the master bedroom and bath include; kohler fixtures, jetted tub, newer vanities and flooring. The home has its original oak wood flooring also. Plantation shutters and indirect lighting. All the practical has been taken care of leaving you the opportunity to release the designer in you!
Listed with Vivian Arias CalDRE: 00755357 | 951-658-7211, Brubaker Culton R.E. & Dev.
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 Oct 2024 11:39:00 +0000: $1,449,000 :: 4661 Marwood Drive, Eagle Rock CA, 90065 - Eagle Rock Home Search
3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,359 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,831 sq ft
Added: 10/18/24, Last Updated: 10/18/24
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: SR24216405
Community: Eagle Rock
Status: Active
Nestled in the heart of Eagle Rock, this fabulous mid-century ranch-style home offers an ideal blend of modern upgrades and serene indoor/outdoor living. With breathtaking sunset views visible from the living room, this home invites al fresco dining and cozy evenings with friends under the backyard trellis, making every gathering feel special.Located just minutes from Silver Lake, Echo Park, Highland Park, Downtown LA, and Pasadena, it offers quick access to LA’s best restaurants while maintaining a suburban, peaceful vibe. The home is conveniently close to the 2, 5, and 134 freeways for easy commuting, but far enough away to avoid traffic noise. A wide street provides ample parking, and it’s within walking distance to Delevan Drive Elementary, one of LAUSD’s top-rated schools, adding to the comfort and convenience.Key Features & Upgrades:New roof and guttersTesla/EV charging station installedNew engineered wood flooring throughout with matching baseboardsRaised ceilings in the entry and hallway (7 feet to 8 feet)Recessed lighting added in the living room and hallwaysRemodeled storage closets for expanded functionalityUpdated master bathroom with new shower tile and glass shower door in the secondary bathCustom built-in window treatments and new bedroom closet systemsTurf installation in the back and side yards for low-maintenance greeneryCCTV Hik-Connect security system for added peace of mindNew HVAC system installed with Google Nest smart thermostat for modern climate controlNew appliances, including washer, dryer, dishwasher, stove/oven, and refrigerator (with garage fridge included)Epoxy-coated garage floor and new garage door – ideal for an at-home gymSuspended TV mount above the fireplace for a sleek setup (chimney/fireplace has never been used)Trellis in the backyard creates the perfect space for shaded lounging or al fresco diningThe backyard, shaded by a mature tree and a thriving orange tree that yields fruit annually, offers a tranquil space to relax and connect with neighbors—where oranges are often traded for lemons. Backyard furniture is included in the sale, making it move-in ready for entertaining.This thoughtfully updated home embodies the essence of Southern California living with its indoor/outdoor flow, modern amenities, and unbeatable location. Schedule your tour today to make this exceptional property your own!
Listed with Abraham Engelman CalDRE: 02164844 | 818-989-2000, Equity Union
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