Stocking Frame

stocking frame (noun): a machine for knitting stockings or other knitted goods. { merriam-webster }

Stocking Frame, DTLA (noun): a hip restaurant located in DTLA that brings a warmth similar to wearing stockings or other knitted goods. Flannel seems to the be the fabric of choice here, which means, for better or for worse, it is a breeding ground for hipsters.  Or in their words, it is bar and refuge.  Yes, please.

Upon entry, you will probably wonder whether you entered a restaurant or a lodge.  I don't know if the Christmas tree, lights, and electric fireplace are regular fixtures, but the inviting welcome will surely put you in a brighter mood.

My visit was at 5:00 pm, which explains why the place was relatively empty, but come 7:00 pm, it was bustling and buzzing with activity -- mostly glasses clinking and people nomming over the tasty, shareable plates.

The bar.

Menus are seasonal and subject to change.
Click on photo to enlarge or go here: lunch | dinner.

Ginger beer.

Avocado Cornbread with whipped honey butter -- $5

Wood Oven Nachos with guac -- $13

Octopus & Pork Belly Tacos with mango/ tomato relish, sour cream, and lime -- $15

Overall, everything I tried, which is not much, was flavorful and delicious.  I must note that in addition to the well-prepared and well-plated food, the detail that went into designing and decorating the restaurant space is impressive and creates great atmosphere.  It's a great place to cozy up with your significant other, whether that is a human or food.

The only downside is that Stocking Frame doesn't offer a true happy hour.  They do have what they've dubbed a "mid-day menu," which offers some discounted food and drink.  Unfortunately for full-time employees, it is indeed mid-day from 3pm-6pm, so unless you rush out of work at 5pm (a luxury, if you ask me), you'll miss out on the discounts.

Nonetheless, if you're looking for a DTLA restaurant that will doubtlessly serve a satisfying meal, go to Stocking Frame.



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cuisine: American
location: Downtown LA
hours: Tues-Fri: 11:30am-midnight; Sat: 5pm-12:30am; closed Sundays and Mondays
websites: { SF | yelp }
parking: Valet (F and Sat nights); sreet meters or paid lot across the street
attire: Casual
other reviews: { LA Weekly | la-eats | Zagat }