Hazel Southern Bar And Kitchen

I went with a group of friends for the first time last night. For a weeknight, the place was packed! Thankfully, one of my friends knew this and we had a reservation--just to sit in the bar! They do serve southern and Cajun food (grits and alligator). We ate a ton of their Cajun fries--they were hot, spicy and delicious! Located at 1446 Market--just off Van Ness--they serve over 300 different whisk(e)ys! (Their parenthesis around the "e".) Not being a whiskey fan--I already drank prosecco earlier--so I was ready for something different and I like tequila or rum when I go out. For my 1st drink, I had a "Smokin' Cactus"! This spicy concoction was made with mezcal and jalapeno and was interesting to say the least. For my 2nd drink, I tried the "Blood Orange Margarita". The rims of both drink glasses were unique tastes. I highly recommend. I would have given 5 stars except for 2 reasons: 1. Even food items that you wouldn't think would have meat--collard greens and cabbage--were NOT vegetarian. I would have preferred more vegetarian options. 2. Maybe because they were busy? But once when we asked for drinking water--they brought not one but TWO huge carafes off HOT water! I do recommend and would return--ideally when not so crowded.

Strange mix of sports bar with southern trendy dining but it works. I kept is basic and went with the fried chicken. The shell was not the traditional flour but almost kinda panko breading. They included a drumstick and breast which was good but it’s too hard to get a chicken breast right without drying it out. Not complaining about it but it was a bit dry. Mac and cheese was good but those biscuits…

My date and I stumbled upon this spot by accident but immediate realized it was a gem. The atmosphere is upbeat and flavorful yet sophisticated. The service was phenomenal and friendly. And the food packed a whole punch. We got recommended the chicken and waffles, and yo...it was absolute fire. 10/10 dish in terms of taste and the presentation was fantastic as well. I honestly was shocked the food was so affordable!