Set in Austin’s Windsor Park, this California style café, bar and restaurant has design goals written all over it. Hank’s minimalist interiors, wraparound patio, and menus that include all things -- down to the pasta -- homemade, make this spot an easy go-to any day of the week. This is the kind of place where happy hour happens on the daily, you can bring your laptop or your dog along any time, and no one is ever made to feel like a stranger. So, if this is Austin’s idea of a neighborhood restaurant, we’d sure like to be a neighbor.
Photography by Wynn Myers
With its white walls and simple furnishings, the space at Hank’s can easily be called minimalist. But look beyond the simple bistro tables and banquettes and you’ll find that the most important focal point of the space is all the warmth this place serves in abundance. Potted plants and raffia light fixtures add character to the interior space, while outside you’ll find a wraparound patio with a mix of bistro table seating and crushworthy lounge vignettes.
Hank’s does all-day dining and does it well. Come on by for a morning café au lait and avocado toast with feta and a poached egg. Or head in for lunch with your colleagues and share the wood grilled artichoke before chowing down on a couple of burgers. Don’t feel like cooking dinner tonight? Maybe the brined fried chicken with hot honey is your jam. Kick it all back with a Smokey Shrub cocktail of mezcal, celery, guava and lemon. Oh, that reminds us, hot tip number one: Hank’s hosts happy hour every day of the week from 3 to 6:30pm. Hot tip number two: Every Tuesday is half off bottles of wine.
Hank’s simply wouldn’t have the same familiar, comfortable vibe if not for its namesake. Co-owner Andy’s grandfather was a gentleman who was affectionately called Hank. He threw a mean gathering and loved to bring people together over good food and music. Keep your eyes peeled at the restaurant and you might spot a tribute to him here or there, maybe a little illustration of him dancing with his wife in his favorite striped t-shirt, or riding his horse, Queen B.
