For most, the phrase “old man bar” conjures a specific image of worn upholstery, bowls of peanuts on a laminate bar top and crotchety curmudgeons. This is not the Old Man Bar you’ll find at Hatchet Hall. Tucked away in the rear of the elegantly eclectic Culver City restaurant, the intimate space is considerably dark, even slightly spooky, with taxidermy, antlers, animal skulls and black-and-white portraits illuminated only by the low glow of etched antique lamps, candles and an ornate fireplace. You'll find Old Fashioneds here—nine variations, to be exact. The Oaxacan replaces bourbon with Fidencio Clasico mezcal and angostura with Aztec chocolate bitters for a smoky, sweet and slightly spiced finish, while the American Trilogy brings George Dickel rye and Laird's apple brandy to the bourbon party, creating a smooth and utterly patriotic concoction.
Culver City may no longer be up-and-coming—that ship sailed with the furious influx of coffee shops and pricey apartments—but this little metropolis is still worth exploring. The neighborhood is buzzing with great restaurants, shops and, of course, bars; you'll find everything from dives with an excellent karaoke scene to a barbershop sporting a speakeasy. Check out our guide and start planning your very own Culver City bar crawl.