★★★★☆
This spot on the wharf has great views and tasty mezcal oyster shooters. The salty wolfe oysters were tasty and briny really nice but i felt that the shucking left some meat on the half shell they didn’t send out. The steamed PEI mussels with crostini was actually the star of the menu on this evening as the sauce was perfect bite with the pancetta, very enjoyable, should have ordered that twice. The margaritas were just ok and my gripe really starts with the main. I ordered the seared scallops and risotto. This $39 plate featured 4 smeedium scallops,really not well seared and really let down a wonderfully executed risotto. If you had given me 6 of those tiny scallops with a better sear i would have felt different about the overall value of this dish. Unfortunately our waitress never really made it over to ask how our food was ( she was working hard ) or i would have probably sent it back. On my way out a wonderfully staffer named Vilma gave me an extra to go container of their chocolate ( which is delicious), which made me feel better about the service. I spent over $200 but I would go back.
★★★★★
Me and my dad went here, we ordered the ultimate fry plate, it comes with Cod, Oysters, Shrimp, Hush Puppies, Calamari, and French Fries. The 3 sauces on the top were all very good especially the ranch they have top tier ranch. All the food was very good definitely is a meal for 4-6 ppl and not 2 but me and my dad demolished the food though we still feel very full after 2 hrs have passed.
I personally wasn’t a fan of the oysters tho but that’s because I just don’t really like oysters still ate like 3 of them though. Everything is fried and cooked on this plate. My dad did like the oysters he said they taste sweeter than those of LA California.
Also they give you a little cup of goldfish as soon as you sit down then at the end our server gave us a little cup of dark chocolate, the dark chocolate was very good was a nice sweet to end off the night I personally love dark chocolate because it isn’t that sweet.
Please note that they do charge a 5% server fee, it doesn’t count as a tip and is meant for covering wages, and groups of 5 people or more I believe get a 20% fee.
Our server was nice and very attentive she checked up on us probably every 5-7 minutes which is awesome.
Overall a 4.8/5 experience and would recommend coming here!
★★★★★
Had the chance to visit Hank’s Oyster Bar Wharf and it was one of those dining experiences that felt both elevated and genuinely welcoming. Nestled along the intimate atmosphere of The Wharf in Washington, D.C., the restaurant blends fresh coastal flavors with a warm neighborhood feel that makes you want to stay awhile with a small cup of goldfish (ask about the sentiment) you won’t be disappointed.
From the incredible mussels loaded with flavor, to the perfectly crispy fish and chips, and those Salty Wolfe Oysters didn’t even make it to the photo because they were that too delicious to wait and an espresso martini that absolutely delivered — every part of the meal was memorable. The fresh bread soaking up the broth was a meal in itself.
What made the experience even more meaningful was learning the story behind the restaurant. As a family-owned establishment founded by a woman from a minority community and a strong supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, you can truly feel the inclusivity and heart behind the brand. In a world where representation matters, it was refreshing and inspiring to see a welcoming Latina woman in a management position creating such an inviting environment for guests.
A huge shoutout to Taylor J., our waiter, who provided exceptional service from start to finish. Attentive, personable, knowledgeable, and genuinely kind — the kind of service that turns a great meal into a great experience.
If you’re in D.C. and looking for amazing seafood, craft cocktails, and a restaurant that leads with both quality and community, Hank’s Oyster Bar at The Wharf is absolutely worth the visit.
★★☆☆☆
It was a nice place to sit, enjoyed going there, but the small platter was pretty disappointing. Probably the least flavorful oyster I have ever had. No taste, all texture. In general, nothing on the platter stood out and I wouldn't want any of it again. Did enjoy the crab dip. Can't say I had a horrible experience, but very unlikely to ever try it again.
★★★★★
We had an outstanding brunch at Hank’s at the Wharf this weekend. The food was absolutely delicious, the service was attentive without being overbearing, and the atmosphere was perfect. We sat outside and the view of the water made the whole experience even better - relaxing, scenic, and exactly what brunch should be. It’s the kind of place where you want to linger, enjoy another drink, and just take in the view. We’ll definitely be back.
P.S. Order the Shrimp Po’Boy