Hal's Bar & Grill
Venice, CA 90291
Phone: (310) 396-3105
- Price:
- $$$
- Cross Street:
- California Avenue
- Hours:
- Mon-Fri 11:30am-2am, Sat-Sun 10am-2am
Editorial Review for Hal's Bar & Grill – by Citysearch Editors
The Scene
Whitewashed, high ceilings, an inviting 40-foot bar and frequently revolving artwork by artists such as Peter Alexander and Joni Mitchell contribute to the restaurant's hip, contemporary ambience. A mixed bag of diners--from casual beachcombers and trendy young professionals to more mature singles--relax in cozy booths with cool stone tabletops.
The Food
The menu changes seasonally, but always features traditional American dishes with California flair. Ahi, Pacific yellowtail and salmon sushi hand rolls are fresh and prepared in generous portions, and served with a nuclear wasabi-soy diping sauce. Main-course winners include the crisp-skinned duck breast in blood orange-sesame oil, served over creamy polenta; sauteed sweet parsnips add zing to the tender filet mignon with port-wine reduction. Dessert is a must-have: crispy-outside, creamy-inside pear-cranberry bread pudding is the house favorite, and arrives warm atop a velvety, raspberry-swirled creme Anglaise.
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Insider Tips
Where to SitOn packed weekend nights, ask for a table in the quieter, upstairs dining room, which may also be entirely rented out for private dinners of up to 40 people.
What to DrinkCreated by a Hal's bartender, the cantaloupe martini is a house specialty, with a fresh melon flavor and potent vodka kick.
The ExtrasLocal and world-renowned musicians play live jazz on Sunday from 8pm till 11pm and Monday nights from 9pm till midnight; there is no cover charge.
User Reviews for Hal's Bar & Grill
04/19/2008 Posted by unclemitch
I'm surprised by some recent reviews. My first time there was last week based on a friend's recommendation. I had a Thurs, 7:30 reservation. I arrived early and had a drink with my date at the bar. Crowded, but friendly. Bartenders were FANTASTIC - very friendly, whatever they are paid it's not enough! We were seated right on time. The waiter was just right - not pushy and he never rushed us. The food was terrific. We loved the sweat potatoe ravioli and the calimari was outstanding! We shared dessert over coffee and even though we held the table for 2 hrs, we never were rushed to finish. The place was crowded, and everyone seemed to be having a great time. I don't always write reviews, but I had to in this case. I will return. I will recommend to others.
Pros: Great location, great service, great food, can't say enough great things
Cons: a bit loud when crowded
04/12/2008 Posted by nevereatalone
lazy table service, food is decent but not worth the wait, had reservation waited 40 min. can't hear yourself think. Long evening with no pony Nice bar
Pros: food
Cons: service
