One of Downtown Stockton’s culinary gems, Cast Iron Trading Co., is hip, modern, industrial, and down-right delicious
The driving force behind its success is much to the credit of Executive Chef and owner, Eric Lee, who opened the doors just a mere 14 months ago to the delight of Stockton foodies.
Hailing from a self-proclaimed foodie family, Eric’s stepmother was his biggest culinary influence. And while he isn’t formally trained, Eric has spent most of his life working in restaurants—getting acquainted with both front and back of the house operations. His motivational muse? Eric credits the Gourmet Food Truck Revolution, the Food Network, and Danny Bowien and Chris Yings’s Cookbook—The Mission Chinese Food Cookbook— to open Cast Iron.
Eric’s love for Central Valley products is distinctly showcased in every gourmet menu option he offers. He’s even teamed with Trail Coffee Roasters to provide a custom medium blend with hints of cocoa nib, black pepper, walnuts, and clove. But, he’s also drawn to the comforting pub-style food that started it all. His mantra is, “Use seasonal, fresh ingredients and put a craft spin on each dish.”
Cast Iron’s signature dish has to be the Pulled Pork Sliders, a menu staple that’s been around since Eric began cooking for the popular StockMarket events. But the BLT and BEC (bacon, egg and cheese) are popular among regulars as well.
One of his most indulgent specials is the BEAST Burger. The beast boasts equal parts Lamb, Ribeye, and Double Smoked Bacon. The sliders, burgers, and breakfast sandwiches are all accompanied by pickles and jalapeños from Puentes Farms. Both are made in-house and are perfectly brined.
As for Eric’s current favorite dish? The Brussel Sprout Tacos. “The sprouts are par roasted, then sautéed and blackened upon ordering,” Eric details. “The tacos are complemented by a chipotle crème, house-made Roma tomato salsa, and topped with pickled veggies.”
Cast Iron also boasts one of the best Craft Beer selections in Stockton, often tapping High Water Brewing, Morgan Territory, and New Glory. The hot spot also features Dust Bowl, Firestone, and many other popular craft beers, offered alongside an assortment of wines and other beverages for guests to sip on.
As Executive Chef, Eric believes in changing up the menu and giving customers what they want—comfort food with an urban twist. And though he continues to transform menu items, Eric has definitively found his culinary voice. But, does the young chef miss having weekends and evenings free?
“Opening and operating a restaurant is one of the scariest things I have ever done, but also the most rewarding,” Eric admits. “Sometimes showcasing a part of you every day to give to your community is overwhelming, but being a part of the Downtown Stockton revitalization is incredible, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”
Taste Lee’s Bites at:
Cast Iron Trading Co.
114 N. San Joaquin St., Stockton
CastIronTradingCo.com
