When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Wine Stop DTLA
Why Wine Stop DTLA is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Wine Stop DTLA, founded by Alvaro Cardenas, is a standout wine shop located in the thriving Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles. With over 20 years of experience in the wine wholesale industry, Cardenas created this store to offer high-quality, sustainable, and ethically sourced wines at affordable prices, making it a fantastic place to meet up with friends for wine lovers of all levels. The shop emphasizes organic and estate-bottled wines, with a curated selection of bottles typically under twenty dollars, which is rare to find in the area. Visitors can enjoy a warm, knowledgeable shopping experience where staff readily provide expert recommendations tailored to each customer’s tastes. Wine Stop also hosts regular monthly tastings and special "Delicious Events," providing an excellent social atmosphere to learn about and enjoy new wines. Their bold Italian Lambrusco Secco, Pronto, is one of the local favorites. Overall, the shop’s focus on affordability, quality, and community engagement through tastings makes it a great spot to discover new wines and share great moments with friends.
Here's what people think of Wine Stop DTLA
As of recent, Wine Stop DTLA holds a 4.9-star rating based on 74 reviews.
Customer reviews of Wine Stop DTLA consistently highlight the exceptional knowledge and passion of the staff, who are praised for their excellent customer service and ability to remember regular customers and their preferences. Positive feedback often mentions the broad and thoughtfully hand-picked selection of wines, spirits, and beers, catering to a variety of tastes from high-end Cabernet Sauvignon to more affordable options. Many reviewers appreciate the store’s sustainable and organic wine options along with staff who have sampled many of the products themselves, enabling personalized and insightful recommendations. Customers also value the monthly wine tastings and special events, which create engaging opportunities to socialize and discover new varietals. On the downside, a few reviews mention the shop’s relatively small size, which can limit browsing space, but this is generally outweighed by the personalized shopping experience. Some customers would appreciate an even larger selection, yet overall, no major complaints arise about product quality or service. The consistently high satisfaction rates and overwhelmingly positive testimonials underpin Wine Stop DTLA’s reputation as a beloved neighborhood gem for both casual wine buyers and connoisseurs alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Edith Law
Happy Thursday!!🥳🥳🥳 aka @winestop’s wine & cheese night🎉 This cute shop is located right outside of Arts District in DTLA and they offer an amazing wine selection at affordable prices. The owner, Alvarado is super knowledgeable about every wine as he goes to each vineyard in Europe to source his bottles👏🏻 🍽Ordered: 1. Wine & cheese night tickets which includes 3 cheese plates & 3 wine pairings Their wines are always delicious and each Thursday a different pairing is showcased. The tapas that come with each wine are fresh and keep you filled while the wine is flowing. This place is a great spot to come with besties for a casual and fun time. 🌟Tips: -parking in that area is a little difficult sometimes but there is a parking lot around the back of the building that you may be able to park at -come before 8pm since they close around 9/9:30 pm -get tickets for wine & cheese night in advance on their website 💰Price: $25/pp for wine & cheese
Mel
We hoped for a glass of chilled wine after braving the 12p heat and traffic to the Arts District. Instead, my husband was berated by a staff member for asking for an orange and natural wine recommendation. This is in fact a wine shop. Rather than offer a friendly recommendation, the man launched into a condescending “lesson” about how orange wine is just white wine, and how he’s even complained to the government about natural wines still containing pesticides. While his point might be valid, all was said to prove that we don't "know" wine. We in fact know wine after 10 years of regular wine tastings. Are we somms? No. Do we know everything? No, who does. We just haven't been able to visit a wine shop in person in the last year to experience new-to-us wines. It wasn’t just unhelpful, it was unnecessarily rude. We were treated poorly, and you can likely guess our ethnicity and draw your own conclusions about why. Despite the treatment, my husband is too polite and still bought something. We will never be back and we will share this with all our friends who copiously drink and collect way too much wine anyway.
Cameryn Shaw
One of the best places in Los Angeles. The amount of thought put into the selections is something I will cherish forever. I will continue to be a returning customer for how ever long I live in Los Angeles. I really appreciate the knowledgeable workers here and how much I learn about the wine. I feel the extra love and care from the store and the will be back!
Brooks Jones
What an absolutely wonderful wine place to accidentally stumble upon while getting my morning coffee. James was the name of the gentleman who helped me and really took his time explaining the shop and it’s history and nearly all of the wines in stock one by one. I ended up, leaving with four separate bottles, all new to me, and I am very excited to try them. This place is approachable and well laid out and I will make sure that I visit anytime that I’m in the area. I highly recommend just popping in for a look and maybe a quick sip of wine.
David G. Stone
Wine Stop is reason enough to move to DTLA. You won't find a better shop with better wines at better prices anywhere in the Los Angeles area. I stopped in out of curiosity after spending an afternoon writing at a nearby cafe and I walked out with two bottles. Now, you should know that Wine Stop does not have all the brand names you'll be looking for. I find this to be truly exciting, but some might find it reason to go elsewhere. Wine Stop offers California exclusive wines. That means you can only find their wines at their store. The result? They say better prices and better quality. While I can't vouch for the "better" prices, I can say the quality you get at the price you pay is incredible. I sampled a few bottles in the store, then I purchased a Rosé and a Red. A friend of mine and I shared the Rosé, and it was just as they said: zesty, refreshing and dry. Just the way I like it. It was good enough that I plan to drive across the city just so I can purchase a new box. They also have a tasting area and they offer a variety of happy hours through the week. It's off the beaten path, at the edge of the Arts District, but it's worth planning a stop if you're visiting DTLA and enjoy a good bottle of wine.
How to reach Wine Stop DTLA
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Why Wine Stop DTLA may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Wine Stop DTLA with your friends?
Wine Stop DTLA stands out as an ideal place to gather with friends because it offers an inviting and knowledgeable environment dedicated to celebrating wine and spirits. The shop’s carefully curated selection of over 150 wines, with an emphasis on California varietals, ensures that everyone in your group can find something to enjoy, from luxury bottles to affordable options. Friendly and expert staff provide personalized recommendations, making the experience informative and fun whether you’re a wine novice or a connoisseur. The store’s intimate, charming atmosphere encourages relaxed, leisurely browsing and conversation, perfect for socializing with friends. Moreover, their regular monthly wine tastings create a perfect occasion to learn together and discover new favorites, turning wine shopping into a social event. With a remarkable 4.9 rating from dozens of glowing reviews, Wine Stop DTLA has earned its reputation as a go-to spot for wine lovers who want to combine quality, service, and conviviality in one location.
What activities does Wine Stop DTLA offer that make it perfect for group meetups?
Wine Stop DTLA is much more than just a retail space; it’s a hub for wine enthusiasts to connect, learn, and enjoy multiple activities tailored for groups. The jewel in its offerings is the monthly wine tasting events, which provide excellent opportunities for friends to gather and explore a rotating selection of wines under the guidance of knowledgeable staff. This educational and interactive setting encourages conversations about flavor profiles, wine pairings, and winemaking stories, forging memorable experiences. Beyond tastings, the shop’s tailored recommendations help groups pick the perfect bottle(s) for any occasion—whether planning a picnic, a dinner party, or a casual hangout. The extensive range of spirits, including unique tequilas, whiskeys, and rare finds, also allows groups with diverse tastes to find something special. The personal touch from the staff, who often remember customers and their preferences, contributes to a warm, welcoming environment that smooths the way from selection to purchase.
How does the selection and staff expertise enhance group visits?
One of the standout features of Wine Stop DTLA is the combination of its impressive wine and spirits selection with the genuine expertise of the staff. The owners, Harry and Indy, bring first-hand experience by having sampled nearly every product they sell, enabling them to offer precise, passionate guidance to shoppers. This expertise shines during group visits when friends might have varying tastes or questions about particular bottles. Staff members take time to understand individual preferences and suggest wines or spirits that cater to those tastes, fostering a personalized and enjoyable shopping experience. For a group outing, this means less time spent deliberating and more time bonding over newfound favorites. Regular customers praise the staff’s ability to remember past orders and recommend products that surprise and delight, making each visit feel like catching up with old friends who share a love of wine.
Why is Wine Stop DTLA’s location ideal for meetups with friends or family?
Situated in the dynamic and culturally rich neighborhood of Downtown Los Angeles, Wine Stop DTLA benefits from being accessible and surrounded by exciting attractions. Its location on South Santa Fe Avenue places it near trendy eateries, art galleries, and entertainment venues, allowing group outings to span beyond the wine shop. Visitors can combine a visit to Wine Stop DTLA with a night out in DTLA’s vibrant nightlife scene or a laid-back dinner nearby, making it easy to extend the social gathering. The store’s relatively intimate size fosters a cozy, inviting setting where groups can focus on enjoying their time together without the distractions or crowds of larger retail chains. Additionally, parking and public transit options close by make it convenient for everyone in your group to arrive and depart without hassle, crucial for stress-free meetups.
What makes Wine Stop DTLA different from other wine shops in Los Angeles?
Wine Stop DTLA distinguishes itself through a unique blend of thoughtfully curated inventory, personalized service, and community-centric events. Unlike larger chain stores, this boutique offers a carefully selected range of California wines and premium spirits, many of which you won’t find elsewhere. The shop prides itself on quality over quantity, emphasizing artisanal craftsmanship and exceptional flavors rather than mass-market options. The passion and knowledge of the owners and staff, who actively sample and learn about their offerings, breed authenticity and trust consumers appreciate. This focus on expertise, combined with excellent customer service where patrons are remembered personally, creates a boutique experience often lacking in bigger competitors. Additionally, the monthly wine tastings and occasional special orders—for example, mini champagne bottles—provide thoughtful touches that cater to shoppers looking for something special, perfect for celebratory occasions or sophisticated group gatherings.
Can Wine Stop DTLA accommodate different kinds of groups and occasions?
Absolutely. Whether your gathering is a casual get-together, a celebratory event, or a tasting party with fellow wine aficionados, Wine Stop DTLA has the versatility to accommodate. Wine newcomers benefit from staff guidance that demystifies wine selection, while knowledgeable aficionados appreciate the rare and high-end spirits available. For celebrations, the store’s ability to source special bottles, including champagne in various sizes, ensures your event stands out. Groups can plan visits around the monthly tastings or simply drop in for some expert recommendations and product discovery. Moreover, the approachable ambiance encourages mingling and conversation, making it suitable for family meetups as well as friends catching up. The wide spectrum of choices in both wine and spirits meets diverse taste profiles and budgets, offering something for everyone without compromising quality or experience.
How do customer reviews reflect the Wine Stop DTLA experience for groups?
Customer reviews consistently highlight Wine Stop DTLA’s superb service, knowledgeable staff, and excellent product selection, making it a highly recommended destination for group visits. With a stellar 4.9 rating across dozens of reviews, patrons often mention the warm, friendly vibes that create a welcoming environment to enjoy wine shopping socially. Many reviews speak to the staff’s exceptional understanding of wines and spirits, which helps groups discover bottles that delight all palates. Repeat customers appreciate the personalized care and the owners’ passion, which translates into a memorable and enriching experience that keeps groups coming back. Testimonials also underscore the joy of sharing monthly tastings with friends, perceiving these events as both educational and entertaining. The combination of friendly service, quality inventory, and an intimate setting consistently wins accolades and makes Wine Stop DTLA an ideal venue for social wine-related outings.
What are some tips to make the most of your group meetup at Wine Stop DTLA?
To fully enjoy a group outing at Wine Stop DTLA, plan to attend one of their monthly tasting events, which offer structured opportunities to learn and taste without feeling rushed. Arriving early can help your group explore the selection at a relaxed pace before participating in tastings or consulting staff members for personalized advice. Don’t hesitate to ask the owners or staff about pairing recommendations or information about a wine’s origin and characteristics—these insights enrich the experience. If you want to celebrate a special occasion with something unique, request the shop to order in special bottles such as mini champagnes or exclusive spirits ahead of time. Lastly, consider combining your visit with plans to dine or explore nearby DTLA attractions, turning the meetup into a memorable day or evening of socializing. Remember to share notes and enjoy the discoveries as a group, making your time together at Wine Stop DTLA not just a shopping trip but a genuine social event.