COLUMBUS, Ohio – Hank’s Seafood, the award-winning Charleston institution renowned for its Lowcountry hospitality and seafood for 25 years and counting, is thrilled to announce the official opening of its new Columbus location, as well as unveil its menu offerings and announce the introduction of lunch service for the first time. Drawing inspiration from its counterpart in Charleston, Hank's Low Country Seafood & Raw Bar promises to bring the flavors of the Lowcountry to the heart of Ohio, offering guests an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates Southern hospitality. The Columbus establishment will be Hank’s second restaurant location and first-ever out-of-state opening, marking an exciting period of growth for the Makeready brand.
As one of the startup visionaries behind Hank’s Seafood’s success, and with his extensive time and experience with the original location, Frank McMahon’s culinary leadership, menu creation and thoughtful team hires ensure that the Columbus restaurant reflects the authentic Lowcountry flavors that have defined Hank’s Seafood for over two decades. With a focus on fresh flown-in-daily ingredients and expertly crafted flavors, Chef Frank's vision for the menu is rooted in authentic Southern cuisine, ensuring each dish is better than the next.
“Hank's has earned its reputation as an award-winning seafood destination, delighting guests with its unwavering commitment to quality and taste,” said McMahon. “I take pride in the culinary team we’ve welcomed to the Hank’s family and their passion for creating exceptional dishes. I can't wait for guests to experience the culinary journey we have in store for them.”
At Hank's Low Country Seafood, guests can expect a menu brimming with the same signature and classic dishes that have delighted diners at the Charleston location for decades. Hank’s beloved She-Crab Soup is widely regarded as some of the best in the Lowcountry, along with its classic Shrimp & Grits, which will transport Columbus patrons to the South with each splendidly savory bite. The menu will feature other popular dishes including Hank’s Pan Seared Sea Scallops, Seafood Al Wando, Bouillabaisse, Seared Beef Tenderloin and Buttermilk Fried Chicken, along with an array of appetizers, Southern-style platters and Hank’s showstopping Shellfish Tower & Castle. Each dish is a testament to Hank’s commitment to culinary excellence and the timeless flavors of the Lowcountry. Hank’s is proud to partner with Columbus purveyor Michael's Meats, ensuring that every ingredient is of the highest quality and sourced with care.
Boasting a spacious and inviting dining room, the thoughtfully designed space accommodates up to 158 guests in total, including seating in the lounge, bar, and main dining area. The dining room exudes an atmosphere of warmth and conviviality, with cozy banquette seating and handsome chairs arranged to encourage conversation. Adding to the communal ambiance, two lively communal tables offer a unique dining experience, where guests can come together to share stories and savor the flavors of the Lowcountry in a vibrant and welcoming setting.
Located right off the main dining room lives a vibrant Raw Bar, a culinary haven showcasing a selection of fresh seafood. From succulent oysters to plump shrimp and tender crab, the Raw Bar is a celebration of the ocean's bounty, inviting guests to indulge in the finest offerings from coastal waters. Here, the art of shucking takes center stage, with skilled hands transforming humble oysters into glistening gems, each one a testament to generations of expertise. Towering seafood platters adorned with shrimp and clams offer a feast for the senses, while individual delicacies stand alone, their freshness and flavor a testament to Hank's commitment to quality. Nestled on ice, this shimmering display not only delights the taste buds but also captivates the eyes, serving as a focal point in the dining room where guests can gather and revel in connectedness in this energetic space.
For those looking for a venue for an upcoming event or gathering, the restaurant includes an intimate and handsome private dining room. Intentionally designed with a separate patio entrance, the private dining room comfortably seats up to 22 guests, making it the ideal choice for intimate gatherings, business meetings, or special celebrations. Additionally, Hank’s offers a special menu exclusively for the private dining room, ensuring a memorable experience for guests. And with the separate entrance option, guests can have easy access to their space with added privacy.
Complementing the menu is a robust white wine program with a new-world focus, offering a broad selection of wines by the glass. Hank's also presents an array of signature cocktails and beers, including updated creations and options available on tap. For non-alcoholic options, guests can enjoy a comprehensive selection of zero-proof beverages.
Adding to the excitement, Hank's will introduce lunch service beginning early June, marking a significant milestone as the first-ever lunch offering in the restaurant's history. Lunchtime at Hank's promises to be an exceptional affair, with an array of dishes to satisfy every palate. Guests can look forward to indulging in flavorful Fish and Shellfish Ceviche paired with vibrant cilantro, jicama, Vidalia onion, and sweet potato. For those craving classic Southern comfort, options like the fried fish sandwich or shrimp and grits will hit the spot. Additionally, the restaurant is pleased to offer an express lunch option in 45 minutes, featuring a chef-inspired entree served with the choice of soup or salad and sweet tea, ensuring a delightful and efficient midday dining experience.
Enhancing the ambiance, the dining room features a music program drawing from the everlasting rhythms of funk, R&B, and soul – while the servers wear an updated version of the white serving jackets that diners have come to love from the Charleston location. Guests can expect an intricately curated nod to the familiar, which enhances the overall dining experience.
"We are thrilled to bring the spirit of Hank's Seafood to Columbus," said Christine Magrann, President & COO of Makeready. "Our team has been spending an increasing amount of time in the city for the last five years, leading to the opening of our hotel, The Junto, and Little West Tavern. The more time we spent here, the more we noticed how many locals had also spent a good amount of time in Charleston, so naturally we felt that Columbus was a perfect fit to introduce our second Hank’s location. Our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional cuisine, warm service, and a memorable dining experience for all our guests. We can't wait to welcome the community to Hank's Columbus and share our passion for Lowcountry seafood and hospitality."
Hank’s Low Country Seafood & Raw Bar is initially open for dinner Tuesday through Friday from 5–10 p.m., Saturday 5 – 11 p.m. The lounge is also open Tuesday through Saturday from 4 p.m. until close. For more information, please visit hanksseafoodrestaurant.com and follow along on Instagram at @hanksseafoodcolumbus.
