Hank's Restaurants

Restaurant Partners Jamie Leeds and Sandy Lewis Announce The Upcoming Opening of Hank’s Oyster Bar in Old Town, Alexandria, Virginia

Washington, D.C. (August 1, 2007)—A mid September opening is anticipated for the Hank’s Oyster Bar, Old Town located at 1026 King Street, in Old Town Alexandria. Chef/Owner Jamie Leeds and Partner Sandy Lewis plan to bring the New England beach fare, along with the rustic charm found in the popular Washington neighborhood eatery, across the river. Lewis is excited about launching a restaurant in her home state of Virginia especially on King Street, where so many great restaurants are opening. The Hank’s in Old Town will also be intimate with 50 seats plus outdoor patio seating for 10. Patrons can anticipate finding the signature exposed brick walls, chalkboard menus, marble bar and bountiful fresh oyster selection. Hank’s Old Town menu will also be the same, down to the dark chocolate chunks presented with the bill.

“Architect Eric Gronning of GDM Design is helping us bring the casual, inviting design concept to the new location. We were attracted to this King Street space because it has so many of the architectural qualities Gronning emphasized in the design plan of the Hank’s in DC,” states Jamie Leeds. “The great thing about Hank’s Oyster Bar, Old Town is that we will be able to serve lunch, with a menu that includes more salads and sandwiches. Hours for lunch will be Tuesday-Friday, from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM.”

“Another slight difference in the Virginia location is that we will begin operations with only a beer and wine license. The wine and beer lists may be slightly larger than Dupont Circle, because we have a little more storage space,” says Sandy Lewis, who has been instrumental in the development of award-winning wine lists and cocktail menus for many area restaurants in both Washington and Virginia. Lewis was the opening general manager of Hank’s Oyster Bar, Dupont Circle and in addition to her partnership role, she is acting as director of operations.

A major neighborhood success since it opened in May 2005, Hank’s Oyster Bar was nominated for “Best New Restaurant” in 2006 and “Best Neighborhood Restaurant” in 2007 by The Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington. Chef Leeds’s success is based on her simple, approachable seafood, consisting of small and large plates for sharing. Patrons enjoy coastal favorites and New England classics like her notable lobster roll, daily fish specials and famous meat n’ two. Lightly fried items such as the popcorn shrimp and calamari and Ipswich clams balance Hank’s ice bar options which consist of a selection of raw oysters, tartar and ceviche.