This place was more than just a diner. It’s a neighborhood eatery that’s been there forever where everyone seems to be a regular local. There is a sign outside that reads, “Where hungry people eat and friendly people meet”. With Hank’s swamped with customers and the servers appearing to be working tables by committee, I quickly realized the sign was right regarding how friendly everyone was.

I mean, they really were slammed, but the waitresses we had were on the ball and had the time to stop by and chat every once in a while. We were seated at the counter because every table was taken. It ended up being a great spot, seeing one of the cooks preparing food right in front of us, and working with a machine-like speed that would lead me to believe he could cook in his sleep. It was entertaining.

But how about the first part of the sign? We were indeed hungry. My friend decided to go with the local specialty and order a Portobello mushroom burger which was marinated and grilled to perfection, and smothered in melted cheese and roasted red peppers. He raved about it, while I thought it looked amazing. He finished it before I could ask for a bite. I, on the other hand, went the carnivorous route and got the Reuben. The corned beef slices were paper-thin and contained hardly any fat. The sandwich was another masterpiece. Grilled to a golden brown and crunched with each bite.

To cap things off, the apple dumpling was calling our name. It was massive, and came with ice cream which we added for an extra dollar. All that food came to around $28 with tax if I remember correctly. If Hank’s was not closed the next day (New Year’s) we would have went back. It was that good. For now, they get a 4 out of 5 stars. However, this is the type of place that a few more visits with us having the same experience with different menu items could bring it to that elusive 5th star. To be continued…

Hank’s Place is located at 1625 Creek Road in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania.