The Altadena Cock Block
Welcome to Altadena, a quaint suburb of Pasadena, California. Though a small, unassuming place, it’s making headlines for an extraordinary and peculiar accomplishment. With the impending opening of a new Chick-Fil-A at 790 N Lake Ave, Altadena might officially offer more chicken restaurants within a one-mile radius than any other city in the world, earning the somewhat unsavory moniker for this section of Lake Ave., as the "Cock Block."
A Real Chick Magnet
As epicurean enthusiasts strut down Lake Avenue, they find themselves surrounded by a bevy of chicken-centric eateries, each vying for the title of Best In Coop. From classic to spicy Nashville to rotisserie, fast-food quickies, and soul-food staples, there's something to pique every palate. Among the fantastically feathery lineup of culinary contenders, you'll find the iconic Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles flanked by fast-food favorites Kentucky Fried Chicken, Mcdonald's, and Del Taco, each hawking their fried fowl, with Popeyes bringing its Louisiana-style flair to the bright orange table.
For those who enjoy a side of culture with their cluckers, El Pollo Unico, Grand Chicken Restaurant, and Abu Kabab offer their own unique takes on the beloved bird, satisfying a wide range of tastes. If that’s still not enough, Cabrera's Mexican, Mely's Pupuseria, Sofia's, Puebla Tacos, and Sausalito all offer chicken choices – and are all mere steps away. (That’s at least 13 options within a few hundred yards of each other if you’re counting!)
How Altadena Became the Ruler of the Roost
It’s clucking ridiculous how many chicken eateries there are along this two-block stretch of Lake Ave.
So, how did this short stretch of road become the heart of hen houses? The answer lies in a combination of factors, from the area's diverse culinary landscape to the sheer convenience of being near both the 210 freeway and several schools and churches. The San Gabriel Valley has long been known as a hotbed of ethnic cuisine, with an endless array of Chinese, Mexican, Korean, and Armenian culinary styles represented throughout the area. The prevalence of chicken dishes in many of these cultures has only added fuel to the fire as gourmet groupies began searching for the most finger-licking plates in Pasadena.
As more chicken joints began to hatch on Lake Avenue, the street quickly became a go-to destination for hungry hunters searching for the champion chicken. The trend reached a tipping point with the arrival of Chick-Fil-A, solidifying Altadena’s position at the top of the poultry pecking order.
Expect a flock of peckish patrons to continue to descend on the Cock Block in the future, armed with empty stomachs and a healthy sense of humor. And with so many chicken restaurants vying for their attention, it's clear that the competition will be fierce. But, at the end of the day, it's the customers who will reap the rewards. Whether you're a local resident looking to explore the bounty of birds in your own backyard or a starving sightseer traveling from afar to gobble up all that the Cock Block has to offer, you're sure to find a dish that will have you crowing with delight.
