It’s scary just how many boutique businesses there are in this block section of Bird Rock, which stretches along La Jolla Boulevard from Forward Street to Camino de la Costa. There are art galleries, plumbers (Erling Rohde has both), restaurants, salons, fitness studios, skateboard shops, hair dressers — the list goes on and on.
A new neighbor on this block is Alma Music and Audio, at 5759 La Jolla Blvd.
“Alma Music and Audio opened its doors earlier this year specializing in quality stereo equipment, hoping to improve people’s music listening experience,” said company spokesperson Alexandre Siufy. “We also have a wide selection of music on vinyl records, from jazz to hip-hop, classic rock to Bossa Nova. The store aims to help people get more enjoyment out of the whole ‘listen to music’ experience, via analog (vinyl) or digital (music streaming) technologies.” For more information, call (619) 378- 0082 / 243-4924 or email [email protected].
A cornerstone business on this block is Erling Rohde Plumbing Company/art gallery, at 5763 La Jolla Blvd. Owner Michael Glancy noted the establishment, which started in 1910, may be the longest-run family-owned business in La Jolla. The company has been operated for the last 30 years by the grandson of the founder, Michael Glancy. Mike returned from Vietnam in the ’70s and decided to seize the opportunity to work in a “good trade.”
A surfer who wanted to stay close to the ocean. Glancy said his company offers two valuable traits: honesty and knowledge. Rohde Plumbing specialties include toilet, faucet and pipe repair and replacement, backflow protection, underground water, sewer and gas leaks, Ray-Pac boiler repair and water heaters. The firm has earned its stellar reputation for providing caring customer service. Call (858) 454-4248 or erlingrohdeplumbing.com
All About Animals, at 5622 La Jolla Blvd., offers everything you need to care for your pet plus grooming and pet sitting, making it a one-stop shop for all things pet related.
“Drop in to find Fido the latest, greatest chew-toy or to get Garfield the catnip he craves,” said the pet store, noting it also offers pet-care services. “Whether your dog needs a quick wash and trim or a full-blown makeover, the professional groomers will make it happen.” For more information, call (858) 459-4583 or visit allaboutanimals-lajolla.com.
Diamonds on the Rock, at 5630 La Jolla Blvd., is the place to shop for that special “stone” for all occasions.
“I developed a passion for gemology watching my father and uncles’ enthusiasm for gems,” said Debra Levine, whose grandfather established the family’s first jewelry store 95 years ago in Endicott, N.Y.
In 1986, Debra moved to California to attend the Gemological Institute of America, where she obtained her graduate gemologist diploma. She was then selected to work at the institute as a diamond grader in its lab. Her desire to work more closely with people led her to transfer to the education division, where she continued her career as a diamond instructor.
In 1990, she moved to San Diego, where she became a partner in a diamond wholesale company. She chose to open a store in Bird Rock because, she said, “it has the intimate feeling of a small community” and is reminiscent of her hometown.
Debra is joined by son David at her new Bird Rock location, which offers “that personal touch in selecting the perfect engagement ring, designing custom jewelry or repairing your jewelry.”
Beads of La Jolla, at 5645 La Jolla Blvd., is one of several artsy-crafts businesses around this block.
“With 1,200 square feet of stones, glass, porcelain, shell, vintage German, Fire polish, druks, seed beads and tools, Beads of La Jolla is the go-to place for anyone with an interest in beading,” said the store in promotional materials. “Expert-level customers will find everything they need to make their visions a reality, including a large selection of Sterling, gold and base metal findings and chain. We offer jewelry repair and custom design work. You’ll find new beads and findings each time you visit the store to keep your creative ideas flowing. And follow us on Instagram.”
Another standout small business in this block area is La Jolla MailBox Rentals, at 5666 La Jolla Blvd. For years, locals of Bird Rock have relied on the services of La Jolla Mailbox Rentals and its owner, Anita Wood. Anita acquired the business in February of 1987. She attributes her success to her ability to interact well with her customers.
“I have personal interests in all the people; I take the time to service people individually,” Wood said. “My customers know they can send anything anywhere around the world and it will arrive safe and sound. I love the area: Coming to work doesn’t seem like work because of the people and the environment that surround my establishment.”
Three architects who’ve hung their shingles in Bird Rock are IS Architecture, at 5649 La Jolla Blvd., Robinson Brown Design, Inc., at 5637 La Jolla Blvd. and Mark D. Lyon, at 410 Bird Rock Ave.
“IS Architecture pursues two passions: creating beautiful, enduring homes in any style and preserving historic structures,” said firm principal architect Ione Stiegler, FAIA. “Our firm specializes in custom residential design with a unique expertise in historic restoration and the adaptive re-use of rare buildings. Our award-winning studio comfortably spans both worlds, offering inspired, timeless solutions whether clients are building anew or preserving the past.”
For those younger and young at heart, there is Adrenalina Longboard Skateboard Specialty Skate Shop, at 5726 La Jolla Blvd., No. 105.
“Adrenalina is home to the top skateboard brands in the industry,” said Pabol Lanatta. “We carry skateboard decks, completes, trucks, wheels, bearings, accessories, apparel and shoes. Our mission is to provide you with everything you need to make your session epic. We rent skateboards, and we can refurbish your old skateboards as well. We are the creators of the Adrenalina Skateboard Marathon, a 26.2-mile skateboard race to promote health, fitness (and) skateboarding and to raise money and awareness for Parkinson’s research.” For more information, call (858) 456-2061 or visit adrenalinastore.com.
Tai Nguyen, owner of Seabreeze Nails Spa, at 5726 La Jolla Blvd., No. 105, has only been in business five months, but her salon is already the talk of the town.
“We offer a full range of nails services,” said Nguyen. “We also offer waxing, facial and massage services as well as organic/natural colors for those who are concerned about the toxicity in nail polish.”
The ONYX Furniture Gallery recently opened at 5726 La Jolla Blvd., No. 104 The gallery creates the most exclusive and innovative items made with Mexican onyx, used in areas where you want to create an atmosphere of exclusivity or differentiation.
“We focus on designs without limits, with artful touches such as lighting products, geometric lamps, minimalist accessories, centerpieces for bathrooms and more unique items, designed to give style to your space,” said owner Moises Tejeda. “We invite you to stop by and see furniture and accessories that are truly works of art.” Restaurants of note in this block section include but are not limited to Beaumont’s Eatery, at 5662 La Jolla Blvd., Voce Del Mare, at 5721 La Jolla Blvd., Bahia Don Bravo, at 5504 La Jolla Blvd., Lupi Italian Restaurant, at 5518 La Jolla Blvd. and Bird Rock Oyster and Sushi Bar, at 5752 La Jolla Blvd. Wheat & Water woodfired pizza, at 5737 La Jolla Blvd., is under construction and will open soon. Other business include Capricorn Boutique, at 5628 La Jolla Blvd., Pacific Training Center, at 5755 La Jolla Blvd., Little Locks Children’s Salon & Toy Boutique, at 5717 La Jolla Blvd., Whitelight Pilates, at 5689 La Jolla Blvd., Tyson & Mendes law firm, at 5661 La Jolla Blvd., Shabby Chic Boutique, at 5651 La Jolla Blvd., Bird Rock Coffee Roasters, at 5627 La Jolla Blvd., The Bird Rock Massage Studio, at 5604 La Jolla Blvd., The Rush Indoor Cycling Studio, at 5628 La Jolla Blvd., Bird Rock Art Nest of La Jolla, at 5785 La Jolla Blvd., Lele’s Cleaners, at 5617 La Jolla Blvd., Studio Barre, at 5705 La Jolla Blvd. and The Sign Factory, at 5676 La Jolla Blvd.