The Great Eastside Debate: Where LA's Tacos Meet Trendy Yoga Studios (and Maybe Hipsters)
Ah, the Eastside. A term whispered with reverence by some, uttered with confusion by others. It's a place, a vibe, a whole lotta freeway exits you never seem to get the hang of. But what exactly is the Eastside? Buckle up, friends, because we're diving into a debate hotter than a plate of al pastor.
The OG Eastside: Where History and Heart Collide
First up, we got the Eastside grandpas, the ones who scoff at any mention of Silver Lake being "the Eastside." For them, the real Eastside lies east of the Los Angeles River. We're talkin' Boyle Heights, the heart of Latino Los Angeles, with its murals, mercados, and music that'll make you want to break out your dancing shoes (or at least tap your toes). Then there's Lincoln Heights and El Sereno, with their rich histories and tight-knit communities. This is the Eastside where families have lived for generations, where culture simmers on every corner.
The New New Eastside: When Millennials Discovered Breakfast Burritos
Now, let's shake things up a bit. In the early 2000s, a new wave of Angelenos started descending upon neighborhoods west of the River. Places like Echo Park, Silver Lake, and Eagle Rock, with their Craftsman bungalows and quirky shops, suddenly became the new "Eastside." These areas were (and still are!) full of charm, with vintage stores galore and enough brunch spots to make your head spin. But this new definition of the Eastside wasn't exactly met with cheers from the OG crowd. Let's just say some folks weren' t too happy about their breakfast burritos being served with side of kombucha.
So, Where's the Eastside Border? Does it Even Matter?
Truth is, there's no hard and fast rule. The Eastside, like many things in LA, is a bit of a moveable feast. It depends on who you ask and what kind of tacos they're craving. Maybe it's the area east of the River, maybe it's those trendy neighborhoods closer to downtown. Or maybe, the Eastside is a state of mind, a love for all things Angeleno, from Dodger Dogs to late-night adventures.
The important takeaway? The Eastside is a vibrant, ever-changing part of Los Angeles. It's a place where history meets hipsterdom, where families have deep roots and new faces are always welcome. So next time you're cruising around LA, keep an open mind and an empty stomach. The Eastside awaits, with its unique blend of cultures, delicious food, and that certain je ne sais quoi that makes LA, well, LA.
