Uptown Whittier is less than three blocks away from campus. It’s small like Whittier College which results in a tighter community.
I remember walking to Uptown before class or between my gaps. It always feels so alive, even if there aren’t many people. The lined-up trees, people casually walking by; it has an all-around relaxing environment. It is definitely a popular spot for the weekends. You will meet skaters, hear musicians (e.g. an older man who plays the violin outside of Starbucks), and appreciate the historic architecture of some of the buildings.
It is now a promenade so you can enjoy your meal outside and stroll through for a safer environment during the pandemic.
Shops
Lovell’s Record and Tapes
My absolute favorite place to spend time in Uptown Whittier is Lovell’s. It’s embedded its memories in Uptown for more than 50 years! Their music section is unmatched even for a small-sized store. They have new and used cassettes, vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, posters, and more. Time flies by when you start digging for your favorite artist and genres.
Uptown 2000
Bands, bands, and more bands. Here you will find a wide selection of the greatest band shirts, hoodies, stickers, patches, lunch boxes, etc. From new-wave ’80s, classic rock, to horror films—it definitely has a grunge-y vibe but there’s something for everyone.
Melrose Vintage
You’ll know you’re near once you smell the soothing scent of incense. It’s worth the experience to meet their friendly staff and find some groovy, thrifted, old-school clothing/accessories.
Starlight Whittier Village
The emerald green painted walls and famous neon sign brings back nostalgic memories of experiencing Uptown in my childhood. This cinema is a gem for its affordable prices and the sense of community it brings together. Shows before 12 p.m. are $6, all shows on Tuesdays and Thursdays are $5, and other days the maximum amount is $10 for a ticket. When it is safe, I hope you’ll get to watch some films here and make fun memories.
Restaurants
Rocky Cola Cafe
A must-have 50’s retro dining experience. Rocky Cola is one of the original restaurants of Uptown. Their banana milkshakes are an essential match for the jukeboxes and records hanging from the ceiling. There is a dish for any type of meal with exceptional customer service.
Crepes and Grapes Cafe
The perfect breakfast, brunch, and lunch to fuel you up for the rest of your day. They’re open every day from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. While you wait, soft jazz plays in the background. The menu consists of sweet (pancakes, waffles, crepes) and savory (pastas, panini, burgers, crepes).
Kalaveras Cantina Urbana
This is where the party begins in Uptown Whittier! Kalavers is a newer restaurant on the block that serves authentic Mexican dishes. Their lively atmosphere and music are just as great as their food.
Kalaveras’s passion for Latinx art, cinema, music, and history is displayed throughout the restaurant.
Chillin Tea
The famous boba shop for Whittier College Students. You can come here for a study gathering or a break with a beverage (tea, ice slush, coffee, smoothies). Pre-Covid, they had a variety of board games which made it a usual spot to hang out at, as well.
There are more options like Costa (a classy restaurant) , La Monarca (authentic Mexican cafe), Azabu (excellent sushi) and plenty more!
