Hatfield's
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Phone: (323) 935-2977
- Price:
- $$$$
- Cross Street:
- Gardner Street
- Best of Citysearch:
- Dessert 2007
- Hours:
- Mon-Sat 6pm-10pm
Editorial Review for Hatfield's – by Tara de Lis
The Scene
This stylish craftsman features a handsome porch seating area in front and on the side, with a smattering of tables inside. Cream-colored walls surround a sconce-lit space so minimalist it is practically barren. An anti-scene crowd of faithful foodies, curious locals and sophisticated couples make this a multi-visit dining destination. Service is universally accessible, enthusiastic and friendly.
The Food
Quinn Hatfield's deft touch in the kitchen shines through on his short but dead-on, market-fresh menu. Appetizers are playful: Fabulously fleshy charred octopus is offset by a citrus-candied orange rind, and an updated croquet madame features fresh hamachi, along with proscuitto, quail egg and out-of-this-world brioche. Main courses are uniformly excellent, be it juicy pan-roasted seabass, meaty duck breast that eats like a steak, and luscious, mint-crusted rack of lamb. For desserts, Karen Hatfield outdoes herself with the molten-centered house specialty chocolate peanut butter truffle cake, which is worth every decadent calorie its name promises.
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Insider Tips
Know Before You GoReservations are essential, especially on weekends, given the limited seating capacity.
Look GoodThere's an open air patio, but smoking is not allowed. A very small lounge area adjacent to the tables in front is available for drinks and cigarettes
What to DrinkThe wine list is boutique-y and exceptional, including a handful of by-the-glass picks. The silvaner pairs well with the appetizers and lighter entrees. Beware that martinis are $9 for only 2 1/2 ounces, a pretty short pour.
User Reviews for Hatfield's
03/01/2008 Posted by clareh
I am a die hard foodie and fervent fan of the ubiquitous tasting menu, and have tried numerous establishment's attempts throughout the city. So when I saw Hatfield's on Daniel After Hours, I had to go. We started with the Cucumber Gimlet...nice twist on the ever popular Mojito, though just a tad too sweet for my tastes (which grant you, I have a low tolerance for sweet). However, as a result of the evening, we now have a bottle of cucumber vodka infusing in our fridge. Can't wait to play with that! After cocktails started we were served a complimentary starter of velvety squash soup and a creamy deviled quail egg - both very tasty and rich. The tasting menu followed and each course was very good and well executed; however, nothing truly amazed. Service was attentive though scattered, wasn't really sure who our waiter was, since at least 4 people brought our food, and the same 4 cleared plates. The owners/chef were readily available and visible, and we did pop in the kitchen for a bit to express our appreciation, but it was a very busy place so we did not chat long. Their approachability was a refreshing change to the typical LA scene. All in all a very nice evening, but not sure it was worth the $300 bill. I had a little less regret when spending $500 at Sona...THAT was MEMORABLE - One of the few LA places I hope to return. Hatfield's was an experience I am glad to have had, but am looking forward to my next new culinary adventure.
Pros: accomplished chef and well executed, fresh cusine
Cons: somewhat pricey, not overtly memorable
02/16/2008 Posted by CatsbyEatsToo
Hatfields is one of the best restaurants in Los Angeles. The prompt service, the cozy and romantic atmosphere and the food were all amazing. We were early for our reservation so they led us to a waiting area on the patio and sent the bartender right over. The dim lights and sort of beige/gold coloring of the restaurant makes it inviting and warm. Our waiter was very knowledgeable, polite and professional- didn't feel like he hated us for eating there like most LA waiters. The food was unique and simple. We had the scallops, which were delicious. They brought out deviled quail eggs as and a shot of squash soup, fun to eat and complimentary- I had fish- i believe it was trout...it wasn't the most amazing thing I have ever had, but the fish was cooked well with interesting accents- sort of a celery puree- and the presentation was beautiful. My boyfriend had the duck and loved it, it was delicious. For desert we had a molten flourless chocolate cake with a melted peanut butter center and salted caramel ice cream- i don't even like peanut butter, but this was amazing. This place was expensive but worth every penny. A great place for a celebration, intimate get together or any romantic occasion.
Pros: Ambiance, food, service
Cons: There aren't more places like this one!
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