Hatchet Hall's idyllic garden patio has one of the most eye-catching outdoor setups in the city, with its mismatched dining furniture, tall plants, and outdoor rugs. That’s why this Southern-leaning spot in Culver City is one of our favorite options for big groups. The next time you end up here with seven friends on a Friday night, keep calm and order at least one dish from every section of the menu.

Although Hatchet Hall serves a fairly refined take on Southern food, there’s nothing stuffy about it. We've seen couples sipping housemade whiskey sours and slurping oysters at the bar, families with kids having pork belly and grits outdoors at brunch, and coworkers catching up over a grilled branzino at dinnertime. With a massive spread of seating indoors and out, there's usually little to no wait for a table. If you’re looking for a last-minute dining option that hits the sweet spot between fancy and casual, Hatchet Hall is worth keeping in your regular rotation.  

Food Rundown

photo credit: Jakob Layman

Country Ham

This aged ham from Kentucky is light and salty like prosciutto—a few slices shared among the table makes for a great appetizer. It’s so flavorful it doesn’t need any additional accouterments, but it does pair nicely with a buttermilk biscuit.

photo credit: Jakob Layman

White Cheddar Cornbread

If Hatchet Hall has a signature dish, it’s the cornbread. Served in a cast iron skillet with a fistful of butter on top, this is an indulgent plate of food that you need to start your meal. With bits of shishito pepper mixed into the bread, it also has a welcome kick.

Grilled Pork Chop

A succulent show-stopper, this grilled pork chop comes out pre-sliced and ready to eat. There isn’t much of a gravy, but the meat is so juicy and tender you won’t even mind.