Washington, DC: Say Hello to Hank's

I've been all over the place this month, so I apologize to you Angelenos for a lack of local updates. In August, it'll be all-LA, all the time. If you want a restaurant similar to Hank's (discussed below) in SoCal, I can't recommend the Hungry Cat enough.


Despite the bureaucratic blueshirts and pandering pols, Washington, DC remains one of my favorite U.S. cities. The leafy neighborhoods, lively music scene, free museums and walkability add up to a very livable urban space. The fact that it’s home to Hank’s Oyster Bar doesn’t hurt either.

This casual slip of a restaurant serves up a slim, well-chosen menu. While noshing on a small dish of goldfish crackers, you can choose from a handful of fresh fish dishes and seafood shack staples like a fried oyster po’boy or crabcakes.

On a recent business trip to the city I caught up with an old friend over a summery dish of scallops. Crispy outside, smooth inside, the seared mollusks matched nicely with some fresh corn and bacon. With a glass of Spanish rose, this meal almost made up for spending a day in a suit in 95 degree heat and humidity.

One quirk: no dessert menu. But really, compared to most restaurant desserts, I’d rather take the bowl of high-quality chocolate chunks you get with your bill at Hank’s.

Hank's Oyster Bar
1624 Q Street NW
Washington, DC 20009
202.462.HANK (4265)