Maine native Hank Wagner opened his namesake restaurant last summer at the Scarborough spot that was known fondly as Uncle Don’s Spurwink Family Kitchen for more than 70 years. He reinvented the space and created a menu that is an impressive blend of his trained chef skills and down-home approach, but Hank was intent on retaining the family feel. It’s so well-kept that former owner Uncle Don himself is a regular patron.
Hank’s is open seasonally from May to about Thanksgiving, serving up simple-sounding but extra flavorful breakfast and lunch fare that relies on local producers like Alewives and Breludin farms. The menu includes chicken salad on house made focaccia, Cobb salad on local greens, and clam chowder – all perfect for enjoying on the big new deck or for taking away as a beach picnic. Beyond the menu, there are grab-and-go options of Hank’s prepared foods and meal kits, plus local produce and frozen meats.
Hank’s is a Maine spot through-and-through, continuing tradition in new ways with a welcoming vibe that celebrates the local land and sea. Visit at 150 Spurwink Road in Scarborough from 8:00 to 3:00, Wednesday through Sunday.
As a side note, my stepdaughter works here and the manager is a new friend. Between the two of them, they make you feel so welcome and bring the energy and joy that will make you want to come back every weekend - like we do after our weekend walks at Higgins Beach with the pups. Try their breakfast burrito - it's truly delicious!