Neighborhood Guide: Pasadena

With perfect weather much of the year, stunning mountain vistas, and easy access to the ocean, Los Angeles has always been a popular place to settle down. This makes inventory hard to come by. “It is definitely a seller’s market. Inventory is low and the buyer pool is large. Things that are priced well, are selling quickly,” says Douglas Elliman broker Tim Durkovic . Pasadena, celebrated for its stunning building preservation and sense of community, has steep competition for good reason. The neighborhood has become popular as a result of its seamless meeting of past and present, where old architecture meets up-and-coming shops and dining. Best known for the Rose Bowl and its sister parade, the city is brimming with charm and architectural landmarks. Notable homes in this enclave mirror its rich history, and celebrated dining and shopping options have stimulated its growing popularity. As a Pasadena resident, Durkovic touts the neighborhood’s appeal, “Because Pasadena is so much larger than its neighbors, it has several different attractions including the Rose Bowl, museums like the Norton Simon, good restaurants, and cool places to hike.” Those who call Pasadena home live a charmed life with easy access to these hot restaurants and essential shopping destinations. Here’s a guide of the best places to visit in this buzzworthy town. The Luggage Room Once an actual luggage room in an old train station, this popular pizzeria offers a variety of pizza toppings and gluten-free options. Ceilings decked out with an array of chandeliers provide a quirky setting that complements the unconventional, yet delicious menu. Café 86 This family-owned café provides a great selection of Instagram-worthy treats. The unique menu extracts from the owners’ Filipino heritage, with a common ingredient of ube (purple yam) infused in everything from shakes to cheesecake. Lost At Sea Chef Tim Carey’s Old Town seafood spot is a local favorite with rustic décor yet refined dishes. The menu changes regularly to highlight the seasonal ingredients in each innovative dish. The menu has a vast wine selection including organic options, and a homemade buttermilk panna cotta suggests you leave room for dessert. Eaton Canyon Park & Nature Center This beautiful preserve is located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, just one block north of New York Drive in Pasadena. Visitors can hike, picnic, and even ride on equestrian trails with the option of organized tours such as the Moonlight Walk . Canterbury Records Canterbury Records is a popular music store amassed with selection and knowledgeable staff who know music. Whether you are looking for bluegrass or Sinatra, those with the patience to flip through the vast selection will likely find what they’re looking for. Vintage Shopping Vintage finds abound in this delightful enclave, and the first stop for finding treasure is the Pasadena Antique Center . More than 130 vendors sell everything from old theme park mascot costumes to antique porcelain vases. The Rose Bowl Flea Market is an essential visit, and is held just once a month featuring over 2,500 vendors. Widely considered the most popular flea market in Los Angeles, bargain seekers can find everything from floor tiles and racks of denim, to African masks. Spotlight Home for Sale 549 Camino Verde South Pasadena, California Price: $1,498,000 3 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms South Pasadena split-level Spanish home with phenomenal views. Located in the best section of the Altos de Monterey neighborhood. This 3-bedroom (plus den), 4-bathroom home has a flowing open floor plan. Sitting on a 22,000-square-foot lot, the tranquil and private backyard is an entertainment oasis with a beautiful terrace and pool. The house has been tenant occupied for over 15 years and is in need of some TLC. The right buyer can turn this home into a show-stopper. View more photos or contact Robin Banks for a viewing. Search for more stunning home listings in Pasadena.