Welcome to Silver Lake
Funky focal point on LA’s east side
Silver Lake is a residential district that encircles a glistening reservoir. Hills in this slice of town are dappled with hipster eateries, ultra-chic bars, and vintage shopping galore. Here, you’ll find art around every corner, whether it’s a mural adorning the side of a storefront or handpainted on municipal staircases. This easy-to-navigate neighborhood makes running errands by foot a breeze and lends to its close-knit community feel.
Previously known as Ivanhoe, this district was initially named by its Scottish settlers in the 1900s, but the area was renamed after Water Board Commissioner Herman Silver, who was instrumental in the process of creating and maintaining the Silver Lake Reservoir. Hillside homes in Silver Lake boast treetop views overlooking city lights with mountain peaks in the distance. These bohemian abodes range in style and color, granting texture to the architectural landscape. Your Silverlake real estate agent, Mary Dix, knows all the local spots in town and is looking forward to showing you around Silverlake.
What to Love
- Eclectic homesteads
- Global cuisine at your fingertips
- Robust arts community
- Vibrant late-night entertainment
People & Lifestyle
Silver Lake is a bustling enclave that’s a perfect fit for anyone who loves to think outside the box. This eastside hub is known for its street art, hipster sensibilities, and alternative lifestyles. In recent years, Silver Lake has become the heart of the indie music scene in Los Angeles—don’t be surprised to find out your neighbors are top-selling musicians, noteworthy comedians, and political activists. Whatever your history, Silver Lake will welcome you with open arms.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
This neighborhood is renowned for its eccentric culinary atmosphere and buzzworthy nightlife. The Black Cat is a swanky American tavern with historic significance in the LGBTQ community, while open and airy Botanica brings fresh, alluring Californian cuisine to Silver Lake Boulevard. For a heaping plate of pasta paired with your favorite Chardonnay, head over to Italian bistro Alimento. If you’re craving East Coast fares, look no further than L&E Oyster Bar. This dimly-lit neighborhood oyster bar is brimming with New England charm—and their menu is just as cozy. Northern Thai street food lives at Night + Market Song, a small, family-owned establishment. When you’re in the mood for Mediterranean cuisine, swing by Barbrix for an intimate dining experience with immaculate flavors. Since 1962, Casita Del Campo has been a cornerstone in Silver Lake for its vibrant menu of Mexican favorites. Trendy Intelligentsia is Silver Lake’s go-to coffee shop. When you’re ready for a night out, stop by Edendale. This bar resides in a 1924 firehouse and has a rich history of patronage from the original Edendale, a historic region of Los Angeles that encompassed Los Feliz and Silver Lake. If you prefer to mix your drinks at home, head to Bar Keeper, a stronghold in the gourmet mixology movement that is Silver Lake’s prime location for high-quality spirits, vintage glassware, and wet bar must-haves.
Things to Do
Silver Lake’s entertainment is one of its biggest draws, so you’ll never run out of things to do here. Catch a live performance at Satellite, one of Silver Lake’s staple music venues for independent artists. Don’t miss traditional flamenco at El Cid, the area’s premier flamenco club, and get your fill of tapas and tinto de verano. If you’re hunting for the perfect statement piece, swing by Silverlake Flea, a monthly flea market with vintage apparel and accessories. Don’t miss your chance to take your photo on the painted steps of Silver Lake’s stunning Micheltorena Stairs, which is one of the area’s most Instagrammed landmarks.
Schools
Silver Lake offers students a variety of academic opportunities from preschool through baccalaureate learning.
- Ivanhoe Elementary School, K-5
- Mayberry Street Elementary School, K-5
- Silverlake Conservatory of Music, Nonprofit Educational Organization
