
Hank's Oyster Bar
A New England-style seafood haven with a buzzing rooftop bar, serving the freshest oysters and classic dishes. Perfect for happy hour or a scenic meal...

Highlights
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Hank's Oyster Bar

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A New England-style seafood haven with a buzzing rooftop bar, serving the freshest oysters and classic dishes. Perfect for happy hour or a scenic meal.
"Enjoy fresh oysters on the rooftop with stunning views and unbeatable happy hour deals!"
Book Ahead for Rooftop
Reservations via OpenTable are recommended, especially for rooftop dining. Secure your spot for great views!
Catch Oyster Happy Hour
Enjoy $2 oysters and drink specials Tuesday-Friday, 4-6 pm. A fantastic deal for oyster lovers.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Seafood
Price
Mid-range
Phone
(703) 739-4265
Address
818 N St Asaph St, Alexandria, VA 22314, USA
Website
hanksoysterbar.com/old-townHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rooftop Views & Oyster Deals
Savor fresh oysters with stunning rooftop views. Don't miss the unbeatable happy hour with $2 oysters on the half shell!

New England Seafood Delights
Indulge in classic New England seafood like lobster rolls, fried oysters, and sea bass with butter sauce. A true taste of the coast.

Lobster-Topped Deviled Eggs
Unique and decadent deviled eggs topped with succulent lobster bits. A must-try appetizer that's a step above the rest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead for Rooftop
Reservations via OpenTable are recommended, especially for rooftop dining. Secure your spot for great views!
Catch Oyster Happy Hour
Enjoy $2 oysters and drink specials Tuesday-Friday, 4-6 pm. A fantastic deal for oyster lovers.
Don't Skip Branzino
Reviewers rave about the branzino, calling it one of the best fish dishes they've ever had.
Rooftop for Games & Dates
The spacious rooftop is perfect for watching sports or a romantic evening out.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead for Rooftop
Reservations via OpenTable are recommended, especially for rooftop dining. Secure your spot for great views!
Catch Oyster Happy Hour
Enjoy $2 oysters and drink specials Tuesday-Friday, 4-6 pm. A fantastic deal for oyster lovers.
Don't Skip Branzino
Reviewers rave about the branzino, calling it one of the best fish dishes they've ever had.
Rooftop for Games & Dates
The spacious rooftop is perfect for watching sports or a romantic evening out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hank's Oyster Bar garners praise for its fresh oysters, vibrant rooftop ambiance, and excellent happy hour deals. While many enjoy the seafood offerings and friendly service, some reviews mention inconsistent food quality, particularly with dishes like lobster bisque and some seafood entrees, and occasionally slow or inattentive service.
"While attending a conference in town, I luckily stumbled upon this neighborhood restaurant. Luckily I found free parking on the street but I quickly realized this was pure luck. It is situated across from the Sheraton and if you are staying in a nearby hotel, I suggest you walk. If you decide to drive, however, there is a parking garage located directly across the street.
I arrived for lunch and was seated immediately. The staff was extremely friendly and provided several menus because it was also Restaraunt Week. They serve Gold Fish as a little snack which is too cute! I had the Fried Oysters and Clam Chowder. The Chowder was a little thin but hearty and the flavor was delicious. I ordered a second Chowder to go. I would’ve ordered the Oysters to go as well but feared they may become soggy during travel. The portions were much larger than expected. I was definitely full when I left. I look forward to trying another location."
Nicole Brickus
"We have been going here consistently for at least a decade and by far has the best offerings for oysters at reasonable prices. Service has always been good and other seafood options vast. On this visit we opted for the deviled eggs topped with bits of lobster and lobster bisque for appetizers. We had the fry platter with portions for 4-6 people consisting of scallops, oysters, hush puppies, fries, shrimp, and haddock. As we were quite full, we ordered chocolate mousse to take home. Everything was sublime."
Mark Benitez
"Amazing! Finally we got to try Hank’s and they didn’t disappoint. Love their calamari, pasta was really delicious. Their choices of oyster make the place special. The second floor is super quiet and can have a nice conversation."
Chris Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The 'Oyster Happy Hour' from Tuesday to Friday, 4-6 pm, is highly recommended for great deals on oysters and drinks. Reservations are advised, especially for rooftop dining.
Yes, Hank's Oyster Bar features a popular rooftop bar, perfect for enjoying the ambiance and views.
Oysters are a clear standout, especially during happy hour. Other highly recommended items include lobster rolls, deviled eggs topped with lobster, and the branzino.
While primarily a seafood restaurant, options like deviled eggs (without seafood topping if requested) and sides might be available. It's best to inquire directly.
Yes, reservations can be made through OpenTable and are recommended to secure a table, particularly for rooftop seating.
Hank's Oyster Bar is generally considered mid-range, with happy hour offering significant savings on oysters.
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Best Restaurants in Old Town Alexandria
For more than 15 years, Jamie Leeds and her team have been serving some of the best Chesapeake Bay seafood, including oysters on the half-shell, at multiple locations around DC. The Alexandria outpost is a mainstay, and recently moved to a new location offering rooftop dining. People especially gravitate here at happy hour for $1.50 oysters and $6 beers from Alexandria’s Aslin Beer Co., but visit any time for towering seafood plateaus and fried seafood sandwiches served with Old Bay Fries.
The Best Restaurants In Old Town Alexandria, Virginia - Washington DC
This is our go-to spot for fresh-as-they-come oysters, lobster rolls, and Old Bay fries—there’s an overarching feeling of never-ending summer, even on a gray winter day. And while the oysters are the real stars of the menu, they also do some larger plates, like shrimp po'boys with cayenne remoulade, a fried chicken sandwich, and a double cheeseburger. Hank’s prides themselves on their local beer selection, and you’ll find a good variety of DC, Maryland, and Virginia brews on tap.
Old Town Alexandria Restaurants
Check out Eamonn’s (fish & chips), the Majestic, Cafe Banh Mi, Hank’s Oyster Bar (also in DC), Brabo Tasting Room, and Killer ESP (coffee, pie and gelato).
Best Happy Hours in Old Town Alexandria
You must check out the new Hank’s Oyster location in North Old Town featuring a large rooftop bar perfect for a date night or to route for your favorite sports team. “Oyster Happy Hour” takes place every Monday through Friday from 4 – 6 pm at the bar, and includes $2 oysters on the half shell, $6 beers, $7 wines, as well as various happy hour drinks — if you’re feeling adventurous try the punch of the day known to be “never the same yet always potent.”. Are you planning a summer trip to Alexandria?
Best Staycation Cities - Washington D.C.
There’s sometime so special about a night out with your kids, and Hank’s Oyster Bar has that fantastic family atmosphere that will make your night even more enjoyable. They are famous for serving some of the freshest oysters on D.C. and have won numerous RAMMY awards for everything from “Best Neighborhood Restaurant” to “Best Casual Restaurant.” The Truffle Roll, The Popcorn Shrimp and Calamari, and the Crab and Grits with Poached Eggs are just a few of the fan favorites.
Why you should visit Alexandria, Va.
That evening, we took one of Doser’s recommendations and dined at the lively Hank’s Oyster Bar in Old Town, enjoying raw Salty Wolfe oysters from Chesapeake Bay, grilled branzino with a butternut squash sauce, and a spicy shrimp po’boy. Another day, we had lunch at BARCA Pier & Wine Bar on the river, with a lively Barcelona beach bar vibe. We shared plates of crispy patatas bravas, herb-y pan roasted mushrooms, garlicky spicy shrimp, and chorizo stuffed piquillo peppers.
7 brilliant things you must do in Alexandria, Virginia
For a real treat, tuck into the seafood platter at Hank’s Oyster Bar in Old Town. It’s overflowing with local fresh treats like Middleneck clams, chilled Maine lobster and oysters on the half shell and at $US59 for two people offers extraordinary value. Book a table on the terrace, preferably early evening, pausing momentarily to watch the oysters being freshly shucked at a workstation just past to the left of the entrance.
Why Alexandria, Virginia, Is A Safe, Smart Choice For A Roadtrip Right Now
Celebrating the ocean’s bounty, this casual spot turns out exceptionally pristine raw seafood, alongside crowd-pleasing cooked classics like crab cake sandwiches and lobster rolls. Outdoor seating is available, but if you’re more comfortable dining at home – order a family meal. Available for delivery or to-go, these kits include everything you need to enjoy a traditional lobster dinner or lobster rolls at your convenience.
11 New Rooftop Bars for Outdoor Drinks and Sunsets Around DC
_If you’re really in it for the views, it’s hard to do better than the Watergate’s newly reopened rooftop bar, with 360-degree views of Georgetown, the Kennedy Center, the Mall, and the Potomac River. You’ll pay dearly for hanging atop the historic hotel—glasses of wine and cocktails start at $25, and even the hummus is near $30. But for celebrating a special occasion, there are few prettier places.
Alexandria's Best Seafood Restaurants in Washington
Serving up coastal favorites and New England beach fare classics since 2005, Hank's Oyster Bar is a favorite among locals. There are three locations, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle and Alexandria, Va., but each offers different menu items daily. The Dupont Circle location offers a Bottomless Brunch menu featuring endless mimosas, champagne or bloody Mary's and you choice of two courses.
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From Friday to Sunday, it’s Mother’s Day weekend at Hank’s, where they are rolling out the red carpet with exclusive offerings including the Build-Your-Own Seafood Tower for two, where you can customize a tower of flavors across three tiers for $80. Got a bigger crowd (or a bigger appetite)?. Then go for the Ultimate Tower which includes every option available for $195.
20 Best Restaurants In Old Town Alexandria, VA, 2024
Hank’s Oyster Bar is an excellent old-town restaurant in Alexandria, Virginia. It offers a classic New England-style seafood experience with delicacies like clams, lobster rolls, a raw bar, and even happy hour specials. Known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious oysters in half shells, Hank’s Oyster Bar has recently moved into a new historic building.
New Hank's Oyster Bar with Rooftop Dining Opens April 5
Work is almost done on the new location of Hank’s Oyster Bar in the former site of Hank & Mitzi’s. Jamie Leeds is so excited to have this new space. She said, “The first floor is the restaurant and bar, the second floor is for private parties and events, and the roof top bar and restaurant is the highlight of this space.
Best Seafood Restaurant in Alexandria Va, Seafood Restaurant near me
Located in the heart of old town, blocks from the king street metro, we offer the freshest east and west coast oyster selection in northern Virginia alongside our urban beach food classics including our seafood po’boys, Maine style lobster rolls, pan seared crab cakes, and seasonally inspired daily seafood specials.
The Best Restaurants in Old Town Alexandria Right Now
With locations throughout the DMV, Hank’s Oyster Bar is an institution in and around Old Town. The family-friendly space in the neighborhood always offers dependable seafood (and land-based offerings) well beyond oysters. Whether you’re in the mood for crab cakes or some popcorn shrimp, Hank’s won’t let you down.
15 Best Restaurants in Alexandria VA You Must Try
Head over to Hank’s Oyster Bar and grab a seat at the rooftop bar for one of the best views in Old Town. The beautiful rooftop bar is always first come first serve, but you can make a reservation inside. There is so much more than just oysters on their dinner menu they have some of the best Alexandria food.
Restaurants in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia
Hank's Oyster Bar has become a neighborhood hotspot, offering a small, friendly, and casual restaurant in which to gather with friends. Hank's five locations in the Washington, D.C. area serve some of the freshest seafood around and even feature daily half-priced raw bar options from 10 p.m.
Best Dinner in Old Town Alexandria, VA: From Casual to Fine Dining
Hank’s Oyster Bar is a go-to spot for fresh seafood with a New England twist. Located in the heart of Old Town, this casual eatery offers a laid-back atmosphere paired with expertly prepared dishes. From raw oysters to lobster mac and cheese, Hank’s menu is both comforting and refined.
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Some of the city’s standout dining spots include Virtue Feed & Grain, known for its modern American cuisine in a historic setting, and Hank’s Oyster Bar, a local favorite for fresh seafood. For a Southern twist, Magnolia’s on King serves elevated comfort food with a side of charm.
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Head to Hank’s Oyster Bar for a reminder that this city is, in fact, located on the water. Almost always packed, there’s a reason locations are opening all over the District. With the best oysters in town, this sophisticated restaurant is perfect for when you’re feeling bougie.
7 Best Restaurants in Alexandria, VA | Blog
Hank's Oyster Bar is the go-to spot for seafood enthusiasts. With a casual yet trendy vibe, this restaurant serves up a wide range of seafood dishes, from raw bar favorites to hearty chowders and grilled fish. The oysters, both raw and cooked, are particularly popular.
The Best Things to do in Alexandria, VA
For a no-fuss meal, fried Virginia oysters pair perfectly with Alexandria brewed Essential Pale Ale from Port City Brewing Company. Society Fair is a food market and restaurant featuring a bakery, butchery and wine bar with a fabulous demo kitchen.
Where to Eat in Alexandria According to a Local
If you are looking for good quality seafood in Alexandria, look no further!. Hank’s Oyster Bar is the best, and of course they’re well-known for the oysters!. Their raw oysters come from all over, and I love tasting the various flavors.
The Best Restaurants in Alexandria and Arlington, Virginia
Hank’s Oyster Bar – A local favorite serving coastal and New England beach fare classics like lobster rolls and daily fish specials. Lightly fried items such as the popcorn shrimp and calamari and clams balance Hank’s ice bar options.
Decadent Dining in Alexandria
I sit back and let the knowledgeable waitstaff enhance my ongoing oyster education with a selection from Hank’s wide variety of oysters on the half shell. This small seafood bar also offers a variety of New England-style beach food.
Old Town Alexandria, Virginia Dining Guide
Hank’s Oyster Bar (818 North St. Asaph Street) – Located in Old Town North and being one of a couple of Hank’s Oyster Bar locations across the Washington, DC area, this seafood restaurant is known for its delicious eats and drinks.
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For an unforgettable seafood experience, head to Hank’s Oyster Bar in Old Town North, helmed by acclaimed restauranteur Jamie Leeds, voted “Best Chef” in the Washington Blade’s Best of Gay D.C Awards for two consecutive years.
What to do in Old Town Alexandria
Hanks Oyster Bar—this DC-area chain has an outpost in Old Town, and what better place to get some seafood than right near the water. I love their Old Bay French fries and am a big fan of their Maryland-style crab cakes.
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1026 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314Phone: 703-739-4265 Visit Website. A post shared by Hank’s Oyster Bar (@hanksoysterbar). Hank’s Oyster Bar is a popular seafood destination found within the heart of Old Town North.
The Best Things To Do In Old Town Alexandria
You should be aware that Joe Theissman’s IS also a sports bar (you’ll really know it’s a sports bar when you dine during March Madness- which is when this photo was taken!
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Hank’s Oyster Bar: We love the seafood, there’s a great kids menu, and my kids love that every meal starts with goldfish crackers and ends with dark chocolate chunks.
Best Things To Do In Alexandria VA
Hank’s Oyster Bar (Instagram: @hanksoysterbar): Seafood restaurant with pretty good rooftop. I prefer to go here for drinks but the food is good too.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit