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The Stronghold
Category: Shopping Fashion Used, Vintage & Consignment Used, Vintage & Consignment [Edit]
1625 Abbot Kinney BlvdVenice, CA 90291
Neighborhood: Venice
(310) 399-7200
- Price Range:
-
$$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
D L. said: "WORTH THE TREK FROM ANYWHERE. EVEN FROM A LOUNGE CHAIR IN ST. BARTS WITH A PINA COLADA IN HAND. If you are looking for one -of -kind fashionable eye glass frames this is the place to go. They have 3 shops in LA. (I have been to all…" read more »
28 reviews for The Stronghold
Review Highlights
"The Stronghold is an amazing venue for music."
(in 3 reviews)
"We are blessed with great music venues and mind-blowing..."
(in 3 reviews)
"This Place is a private club."
(in 3 reviews)
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28 reviews in English
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Review from Joe D.
Los Angeles, CA
6/3/2010
The Stronghold is a wonderful venue with positive energy, based on my one experience there tonight on a weeknight. I think they have lots of singer/songwriters with backup bands playing there. I had a great time due to the amazing music of Nina Storey, and how great the sound was.
Positives:
- Great acoustics
- Place feels friendly, like a living room
- Comfortable sofas and chairs
- No loud drunk people, since they don't serve alcohol
- Free street parking nearby
- Friendly, quiet cute dogs wandering the venue (I'm not kidding)
- The stage and lighting were good
Negatives:
- The place is kinda small
- I heard that they turn people away at the door if they want, by saying that it's a private club, which is probably true.
- No alcohol
- Ten bucks entry on a weeknight is a bit steep, but it was 100% worth it tonight, due to how great the talent was.
We are blessed with great music venues and mind-blowing music talent here in Los Angeles. The Stronghold proved that they are participating in this scene tonight by showcasing the music of Nina Storey. Cheers to the Stronghold! -
Review from Willie P.
San Francisco, CA
12/22/2011
Fantastic merchandise, but the people on the sales floor are the most pretentious douches that I have ever met on either coast. At first, I thought the guy was trying to do an ironic impression of a condescending hipster taking himself too seriously. Turned out, he was not joking.
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Review from tomos e.
Santa Monica, CA
9/30/2011
Great styling and a classic selection of products...however the entire experience fails due to the level of service.
Custom jeans are great - but not when six weeks after you order you're still waiting.
Being told that "no one else in LA has these shoes, so you can't argue with our availability" was probably ok 10 years ago, but guess what, they are available on the internet.
Coming from Williamsburg, NYC where stores like this are plentiful and attitude goes with the deal, it's a real shame that Stronghold which could be one of the highlights of Abbot Kinney leaves such a bad taste in the mouth. -
Review from Christina Y.
Santa Monica, CA
3/10/2010 1 Check-in Here
I've admired the boutique portion of this place for a long time now, and I like the high-end dustbowl chic look they're going for. Yesterday I visited their upstairs music venue for the first time and was really impressed. Up a narrow staircase, there's a cozy, intimate space filled with comfy leather couches and armchairs and a cute little makeshift bar.
Everyone who works there is really friendly with no attitude, and the crowd alone is enough entertainment to make it worth the $10 cover. From a crazy guy who danced his ass off to all of the songs to the slow dancing lesbian couple to the final band of the night dressed as some sort of deranged carnival performers, it truly was an eclectic group.
I have one complaint, but it was a big one. Although I've come to expect that shows run behind schedule, this one was over an hour behind, and they allowed the first guy to go on and on and on and on (and on). Although he was good, the crowd was nodding off and everyone was getting cranky that they couldn't see who they had come to see. What was a great show was tarnished by our sheer exhaustion. I hope that the staff gets this problem fixed and then I'll be back for sure! -
Review from Ching T.
Whittier, CA
1/14/2010
I have to thank DC'er Yelper N for putting this place on my radar - Ironic, since I'm the Angeleno here! Had I not seen his review, I would have just written off The Stronghold as just another apparel shop I'd seen while strolling on Abbot Kinney during the day. I rarely go to AK in the evening, and after tonight, I'm beginning to wonder why the hell not since its just a stone's throw from work.
I came here tonight after my yoga class to meet up with my friend John M. to see Michael Jost play. Well, a $10 cover (thanks to John for spotting me because I rarely carry cash with me) and we were treated to 3 different sets by 3 different artists in the upstairs loft area.
- First artist was a blue grassy honky tonk band that kinda reminded me of Green Acres. Great toe tapping sound, but not my usual cup of tea.
- Second up was Michael Jost, a guitarist from Sweden. OMG, his sound is AMAZING and to watch his fingers caress and pluck those strings, it was almost pornographic to see, hear and feel him work his magic THAT up close!
- Last band was a John Mayer/Sugar Ray-esque aspiring band made up of former frat boys that had an easy fun sound. Guy in the plaid was cute and I think should sing lead more often. ;-)
I really enjoyed the laid back vibe of the Stronghold Speakeasy. It could easily moonlight as a non pretentious wine tasting room cuz its just that cool. Otherwise, its a great intimate venue for bands to cut loose while the rest of us lounge about standing or seated in those comfy sofas.
Oh yeah, they sell jeans here during the day....lol. Great place to chillax with drinks, a fun mixed crowd and obviously with great, and sometimes not so great (depending on your taste), varied live music. -
Review from Ellen S.
West Los Angeles, CA
5/10/2010
Had to post my review here, too, since most of these reviews are for the "Music Lodge," which has a different Yelp entry:
Yeah they tried to get $15 cover out of us calling it a "donation" (we ended up getting in for free through a band member) then did the same for crappy beer (ONLY beer), $5 a can. The door guy was an asshole on a power trip, as were the patrons, in general. Then right after we left, the cops showed up and closed the place down! I feel bad for the people who actually spent $15 only to be kicked out. If I want to go to some hippie-dippy bullshit, overpay, and have to abide by a bunch of stupid rules (no talking, no flash photography), I'll go to Portland. At least they're polite there. -
Review from Darrin R.
CA
2/21/2007 1 photo
Designer work-denim resurrected. Hundred year-old company is brought back to life by the guys who did the same for Von Dutch -- but who left before the ridiculousness.
The jeans are EXPENSIVE, yes. I can't give it four stars out of principle, but most of you who are into jeans couture will likely gush and five-star the shit out of this place.
What I love is the flavor of the store on Abbott Kinney. Straight up Film Noir. Brick building that used to be a boxing club. Fedoras and suspenders. Vintage style haberdashery with a tough-guy slant.
The look and feel of the place is a must-see because of how this place defines cool for itself. This place makes me want to drink Sailor Jerry and re-read Raymond Chandler -- 100 proof Bay City.
I can't help it -- I'm enamored with the people (Kenny Howard, Don Ed Hardy) but the commercialism involved with designer denim is tragic. At least Don shares some profits.
http://sailorjerry.com
and more details for the curious:
http://ozoux.com/eclec... -
Review from Dan H.
Saint Johnsbury, VT
9/29/2008
I don't know much about their retail operation but this was a pretty great spot to smoke a Cohiba and sip on a Ketel and Tonic at the street fair yesterday. We started the day off with a college nostalgia fueled Power Hour at Lauren's and Ian's crib and made it down to Abbot Kinney for around 2:30. Monique knew the DJ who was spinning the Stronghold's back porch...there were probably a hundred or more people mixing and grooving on the back patio.
I had the strangest kiss of my life waiting in line for the bathroom.
"Hi I'm Dan."
"Hi, I'm _______"
"You're totally cute..."
And we both kinda just went for it. And that was it. Nothing like alcohol to fuel some lusty and incomprehensible debauchery.
I guess they sell expensive jeans. So I probably won't be back until next year :)
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I just found out that there was a shooting on Abbot Kinney and California last night as the street fair was dying down. A man was killed. Alcohol was involved. It really, really, really sucks. -
Review from Cecilia J.
Long Beach, CA
2/16/2009
I'm not sure what they sell in this place, but as far as hosting a party - they do a great job. I came to the Stronghold last night with him for the Big Moves show. The place looks very speakeasyish, which we L.A. people seem to like. It felt as if I was going to an old apartment in a nice tenement apartment. The party was upstairs. The main room is where the band played, with Mr. French and Uncle Garth on the turntables. There is a bar in the corner, and a few side rooms for who knows....
In the back is a balcony area and yard where you can smoke or just get a break from the music. There are beautiful sofas outside to make-out on too, in case that's what you're into...
Lots of dancing going on, but the crowd last night seemed to be a "there to be seen" crowd. Thank goodness the band is amazing! -
Review from aditya s.
Venice, CA
11/11/2007
While I realize the denim is much of the attraction here, I am in love with this store because of its rough-hewn style, and what I take as a so cal interpretation of the classic Seattle outfitter and mercantile.
They are purveyors of Filson, which is a brand I just cant get enough of, and which I wish I had more use for... Although I neither fish nor hunt, nor do I pan for gold, I still feel the need for waxed cotton jackets, and specially made canvas cases for all the gear I dont have.
Stronghold is also the place to find a vintage pocket knife, a flask or a fine stetson hat. All the odds and ends that make a man into a gentleman... a gentleman who uses his hands that is.
True, they have expensive denim, but you might justify a pair... walking into their back room where custom jeans are cut and sewn, gives you the feeling that these jeans arent fancy, they are an investment in trousers that may last a lifetime.
I'm a huge fan. I'll be back for that Filson bag, or a real stetson hat.
Stronghold, you make me want to be a better man...
UPDATE: okay, look I know this place is cool, but their jeans are $300. Every pair, regardless of denim weight or style. $300. Seriously?
This place poses as a sort of working mans establishment, but who is wearing these jeans?
And leather work gloves (nice quality) for $50? Really?
And custom boots that they order from Whites, exactly the way you would if you went online to Whites website... but you pay more for them? Why would you? They dont come faster or better made.
Honestly guys. Give us a break!
Minus one star: serious rip off. -
Review from Lauren S.
3/18/2009
Music, Magic, and pre-WWII fabric! What a steal! Affordable and vintage, fabulous and original... Spread the word and support his incredible business and all it's unique glory!
Just had the pleasure of meeting MIchael and his little dog, Charlie. Cool backyard, beautiful setting, great sound, world class music and a fun crowd ... What a great event! I saw the Leftover Cuties, Tom Fruend, all for $15 WITH AN OPEN BAR!
Great venue - kind service, great energy, fabulous vibrations, and smiles abound! I can't wait until my next visit to Venice so I can be a part of the Stronghold crowd again!!! -
Review from John M.
Santa Monica, CA
4/2/2010
I saw a show here last weekend and really enjoy the "living room" type feel this place offers.
The selection of beers is somewhat slim, you're definitely going to have to wait to use the bathroom upstairs if it is at all crowded, but overall, the intiimate setting for seeing a show is worth it.
I didn't notice if there is valet, street parking is somewhat hard to find. Make sure you read the street signs because a number of the nearby streets start ticketing at 11pm (oddly enough). -
Review from Min T.
Los Angeles, CA
8/10/2009
I came here on Friday for an event so I didn't go through the retail space. This is a review for what they were billing as the "Stronghold Speakeasy."
After waiting in line briefly, we went upstairs to a big open space with a couple of cubbyholes. They had wine tasting in one cubby hole, two bars and another table with wine outside. Now, this is a great idea! People always need more booze! Ha, and it was open bar for four hours.
Unfortunately, it was packed! And although I love dogs as much as the next person, please don't bring your dog to a packed event where everyone is spilling all over the place. It smelled strongly of BO and there were long lines for the restroom.
Escaping outside seemed like a better idea even though I was tortured by the smell of the little appetizers being grilled (who knew you could grill mini-quiches and make them smell like bacon-wrapped hotdogs?).
Overall, I would probably come here again but man, Abott Kinney needs more parking. It took us half an hour to find parking. I would have been willing to pay for a lot but there really isn't anything close by. It was also First Fridays where everyone was hanging out on the street and it was jammed. -
Review from Raphael Aizan S.
Torrance, CA
8/9/2008
I'm not worthy of The Stronghold. At least, I could never rock this style. To see what I'm talking about, look for Bill's WAYWT pics on superfuture.
Really nice folks here, and they even have small sizes that almost everybody else has deemed unprofitable.
The shop is a must see, but if you're ordering online, size down 4 on your waist.Listed in: Clothing
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Review from Justin T.
Los Angeles, CA
1/6/2011
Classic styling, unbelievable selvedge denim, lifetime garauntee, alterations included. Nothing like a pair of Strongholds to top off your favorite pair of Redwings... Oh, by the way, you can get those at The Stronghold too. Just be ready to drop a couple bills. It's worth it.
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Review from Chelsea L.
New York, NY
4/26/2010
Really unfortunate. First time I came here, I got right in and watched a great band in a very cool, living room-like space. Had a great time and was excited to return. This past Friday, I went back because a singer I have liked for a long time was playing and I was excited to introduce this place to my friends.
The bald doorman - beyond rude. Asked me to wait outside because it was too crowded upstairs, yet lets a huge group of people in right after that. I then approach him asking why I can't go in and he gives me some lame excuse and calls me baby (gross). I pass him by and go in anyways. At the top of the stairs I encounter even more jerks telling me that I need to pay $15 a person (no problem by me) and still need to wait until "Mike" comes and gets me. Then I'm told it's a private club (BS) and finally I get so sick of the run around, I left. My friends then went in a few minutes later and were told the $15 is donation-based?
Unfortunately, the arrogance of Hollywood has leaked over into Venice and it's starting at this place. Save your donation money and take it next door to the Brig for a drink. NEVER GOING HERE AGAIN. -
Review from Nicollette H.
Los Angeles, CA
4/11/2010
An amazing venue for music. I like the "living room" feel to this place. I also like that it's a bit of a speakeasy feel to it. Everyone who works at Stronghold is super nice. I adore the fact that it's open super late.
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Review from d s.
Fair Oaks, CA
10/15/2010
Love it.
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Review from Venu N.
1/13/2010
4.25 stars. Other than apparently being an extraordinary place to buy vintage jeans, I happened to catch a show here as well. Sadly, I don't remember the name of the band (which hopefully will be fed back to me via other Yelpers), but it was an amazing set of country drenched tunes sung with indie spirit. The upstairs venue sported a semi-circular row of comfortable chaises to lounge upon while watching the band and there was ample space in the back for those who wanted to dance along to the music (which we did). I'd definitely come back to this venue for a show, and I would suggest residents to look past the boundaries of this jean store and into its possibilities as a late night spot for great music.
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Review from Mike I.
Marina del Rey, CA
5/22/2010
Terrible place. Once was ok, but now I hear if you want an 8 ball or a hassle for no reason, then this is the place. I'm surprised it hasn't been shut down since the street says it serves beers after hours to anyone.
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Review from g k.
Los Angeles, CA
7/22/2010
I liked the after hours stuff, however the bull!@#!@# with $15 donations, surly doorpeople was annoying.
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Review from oh yeah .... ..
Venice, CA
8/7/2008
cool store ... cool truck .... cool jeans .....
denim is expensive but custom and worth it ...
the other stuff they sell in there I am not sure I can justify springing for ... really expensive and really only worthwhile buying if that look is your style ... that is the whole 50's retro worker schtick ...
the store itself is beautifully done and may just be one of the coolest and tastefully done shopping environments I have been in ....
NICE PANTS .... nuff said .... -
Review from Jara F.
Los Angeles, CA
2/27/2010
The Stronghold is an amazing venue for music. Due to the vaulted wood ceiling the acoustics were outstanding. I can't wait to return - it's just a really no-nonsense, clean classic music venue and great for a mid-sized party of friends. Mucho love!
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Review from yo k.
Alhambra, CA
5/29/2010
Cool custom denims!
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Review from Hope M.
Studio City, CA
3/28/2010
This place is super cool. Chill/hipster vibe. Great music. Comfy couches. Strong drinks. They'll even let dogs come listen to the band.
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Review from Tanya J.
El Segundo, CA
3/11/2010
This was such an amazing venue. Dim, small and completely intimate and the acoustics were awesome. Can't wait to go back .
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Review from Vic C.
Redondo Beach, CA
9/30/2009
Sweet, throwback to the old speakeasy days...has a nice vintage feel to it...not too many people know about this place and the great parties they host...but the trick it to get invited to their last second music and dj shows...usually a great time, tons of guys and girls and plenty of drinks!
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Review from Andrew G.
Santa Monica, CA
5/20/2010
This Place is a private club. It isn't the other room or the brig. It's a great "underground" event space set up for people to go and enjoy a quiet intimate atmosphere. It's because of arrogant jerks that go and expect things, like free entry and VIP treatment that make the place appear douchey. I know the owner personally and can tell you he is anything but a Jerk. Appreciate the scene and support it by paying the measly 15 bux for entry. if you don't like it GO SOMEWHERE ELSE!
