Stories is a beloved bookstore and cafe located in the heart of Echo Park, Los Angeles. This cozy establishment offers an impressive selection of literary fiction, music, poetry, and art books, catering to the diverse interests of the local community. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a welcoming atmosphere, with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sight of an old, curly-haired staff member overseeing the store like a guardian of Gondor. The interior boasts a quaint and charming ambiance, perfect for settling in with a good book and a cup of coffee. The cafe within the bookstore serves up delicious iced coffee, smooth and bold, as well as a rich and moist chocolate cake that has been highly praised by customers. While the food and beverage options are generally of high quality, the customer service can be a mixed bag, with some baristas providing excellent service and others exhibiting a more aloof or even rude attitude. Despite the occasional inconsistencies in service, Stories remains a cherished hub for the local community, offering a space for events such as comedy shows and serving as a gathering place for book lovers and intellectuals. The bookstore's selection, though limited, is carefully curated and reflects the diverse interests of the Echo Park neighborhood, including a focus on Chicano/a literature and art. Overall, Stories is a unique and beloved institution, blending the worlds of literature, coffee, and community in a cozy and inviting space that continues to draw in both longtime residents and newcomers to the area.
Super cute bookstore with a cafe and plenty of seats!
June 2024
Not to be dramatic but stories is the reason I moved to echo park. It’s a landmark, a historic piece of architecture in my eyes. I love the baristas, the books and the events.
April 2024
Incredible place with friendly stuff, but coffee was absolutely disgusting...?