Hank's motto is, "You're always welcome until you're not," Being the writer I am, that caught me from the very first time I walked into this bar 2138 S. Military Hwy., Chesapeake, VA.
Hank's, from the outside, is deceptive. Located in a little strip mall, she could easily make some feel she could be a rough gal, and nothing could be further from the truth. Hank's is what I love about bars and what, in my opinion, is something that lacks in these overpriced franchise bars that have as much appeal as a Starbucks on acid.
Hank's is a hole in the wall with character. Its beauty is its charm, and it caters to customers and staff alike. It's the kind of place that doesn't look at you and question whether you're lost.
It's a place that looks at you and asks,
"Hey, where the hell have you been!?"
The name drew me in for obvious reasons, as any writer would get, but that's just an odd coincidence.
The faces may change, but one thing that remains consistent with any top-shelf bar is the feeling that it's your own. Rebecca Nisbet, the former co-owner and the creator of the tagline that I truly admire, has a zero tolerance for bullshit, and honestly, the place is just warm and inviting. It's what a good bar or tavern should be and what too many places try to erase: true character.
Quirky and truly unique, with great prices, good food, and a welcoming environment.
And unique is definitely one thing Hank's is, without a doubt.
From my first walk through the doors, I was served by the singing bartender himself, Trevor Nisbet, on karaoke night as I was handed a Jack and Coke while the room was being serenaded with a rendition of "New York State of Mind."
The guy is working the bar, singing to customers, and practically sweeping the floor, then looks at me and says,
"Male bartender, gotta have a gimmick."
Which you just can't make this shit up. It cracked me up, and being a total recluse who, on his best days, avoids most of humanity, when you make me want to return just to hang out, you're doing something right.
Trevor, along with his wife, may be moving on, but the place holds a bevy of characters, and no matter who is there, its vibe is always welcoming.
It's not one person's place. When you're there, it's your own and the perfect backdrop for some great future memories of your own.
Hank's is real and shares what all the best bars have in common: a place that makes you always want to return, myself included.
If you're ever in town, check it out. I promise you it's worth a visit.
Cheers, and as always, the next round's on me.
John Patrick Robbins
Editor in Chief of The Rye Whiskey Review
If interested here's a link to their Facebook page.
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