I recently found a fabulous property for one of my clients in Altadena. He is so happy living there and I asked him to tell me what he loved about the area. If you’re not familiar with Altadena – it is directly north of Pasadena in what’s known as the Verdugo Mountains. At one time, Altadena’s Mariposa Ave, housed many publishers and notable authors, earning it the nickname “Publishers Row”. It’s also known for its various architectural styles from classic Tudors to Spanish bungalows.
Here are his favorite spots and things he love about living in Altadena.
1. Clean air – Everyone knows LA has some of the most polluted air in the country. This area happens to have the lowest air pollution in all of Los Angeles.
2. Nature and Hiking – Sitting at the foothills of the Verdugo Mountains has all the benefits of living in and taking advantage of nature. There are around 45 hiking trails in the area – one of which takes you to a waterfall in Eaton Canyon.
3. It’s Eclectic – With all the varied architectural styles – if you’re looking for something unique, it’s probably in Altadena.
4. Diversity – Altadena boasts a diverse neighborhood with 54% white, 22% percent African American, 28% Latinx, and 7% Asian residents.
5. Just close enough, yet far away – That feeling of being removed from the less appealing aspects of city living yet still having close proximity to the more appealing aspects. Colorado Blvd is about 12 mins from the northern edge of town and has all the shopping you need (Nordstrom, Apple, Whole Foods, lots of other shops in Old Town). It is only 25 mins from the northern edge of Altadena to downtown LA with no traffic and about 30-35 mins to Hollywood.
6. Food – There aren’t a ton of food options within Altadena’s borders, but on the Pasadena/Altadena border, there is Millie’s Cafe (same popular spot as the one in Silver Lake). It’s definitely the go-to brunch spot.
One restaurant that just came to town is Amara Kitchen, which is also in Highland Park – good, healthy food.
Another Highland Park extension is Cafe De Leche, a favorite coffee shop, in addition to Lavender & Honey (which makes a delicious cold brew smoothie!).
Tacos Ponticlan is famous locally for having the best tacos, but the humble El Patròn towards the top of Lake Ave. is also a neighborhood favorite.
Side Pie is good pizza and HomeState (Tex-Mex) just opened to big fanfare.
7. Great vibe – Very neighborly, lots of long-termers mixing pleasantly with the newcomers. Tons of wildlife to share the space with (bears, coyotes, bobcats, peacocks, foxes). Not a lot of tension overall, a great sense of community. it is a very quiet and peaceful yet lively, artistic community.
If you are looking to move to the Altadena area and need help finding a great home there, contact me so I can find you something fab – in the meantime at the very least you now know some good places to eat on the East side!