ARLETA

Turns out you don’t need a DeLorean to go back to the future. Just get to where the 5 Fwy meets the 170 and you’ll find Marty McFly’s house in the quiet community of Arleta. While you’re there, enjoy some of the most authentic Latin cuisine right on Van Nuys Boulevard lined with ma & pa restaurantes, like Latino Grill for dollar tacos, or Ay Papa Que Rico for guava cheesecake empanadas (What?! We’ll take a dozen.).

When you’re sufficiently satiated, head over to the nearby Hansen Dam Recreation Center for some boating, fishing, swimming, and a playground for the kids. One of the SFV’s most affordable areas, Arleta has an active Neighborhood Council with a budget of $45,000 a year to spend on goodies for their 33,000 stakeholders. The Council has a diverse group of board members who are savvy enough to run a Facebook page and look great in red shirts.

GRV LOCAL EATS

AY PAPA QUE RICO (14035 VAN NUYS BLVD)

From their website: "Ay Papa Qué Rico is the home of the “fire-grilled chicken,” the signature Cuban flavored and cooked to perfection chicken that was developed by owner Chris Rodriguez."

TIP TOP HAMBURGERS (8612 WOODMAN AVE)

This 50's style diner has burgers that transcend time. Alternatively, their Philly Cheese Steak gives locals one more reason to stay in Arleta.

EL PAPATURRO (9040 WOODMAN AVE)

Come for the pupusas, stay for the horchatas.

VERDICT

Arleta is a fantastic place to find affordable homes in an area that's gentrifying quickly. With plenty of entertainment spots and a walkability factor, Arleta welcomes those making the best of life.