hank's haute dogs
Feb 13 
portuguese haute dog
upon reading that top chef miami contender dale levitski stopped by hank's haute dogs during a visit to the islands on 'ono kine grindz, i immediately jotted it down as a potential lunch stop for my next visit home. acclaimed restaurateur henry adaniya made his name on the mainland with his much lauded chicago restaurant trio (where dale once cooked), but decided to return to his hawaii roots and introduce a more gourmet take on the picnic staple.
the kaka'ako spot is small but modern with limited seating at the counter inside and a few shaded tables outside (adjacent to the parking lot). i opted for the portuguese dog since it seemed like a genius idea, however, it didn't have quite the right spice mix for me (i'm more of a gouvea girl). my fella ordered up a hank's frank, a chicago style dog piled high with onions, tomatoes, relish and hot peppers, and, after sneaking a bite, i wished i had one to call my own.
chicago style
ingredients are high quality so if a costco special is more your speed be prepared for potential sticker shock since prices start at $4.50 (our lunch of two dogs, onion rings, and a drink rang up just under $20). that being said, it was worth the price of admission since i amused myself by insisting we pronounce haute correctly (dropping the "h" à la français) and spent many an afternoon with my fella trying to decide if today was the day to stop for an oht dog.
daily specials feature house made specialties like rabbit, lobster & duck/foie gras dogs so take a peek at the menu before you go.
- where: 324 coral ave (at ala moana blvd)
- hours: mon - sun (click here for details)
get to know hhd's founder over at chow.
Reader Comments (6)
I saw that post too, I wonder if I'll be able to swing by there....
kat, hank's is near restaurant row/ward/ala moana so if you find yourself in the area while you're home do give it a try. the french fries are supposed to be yummy.
on friday evenings, i think hank's is whipping up even more gourmet fare like truffle mac 'n cheese!
so THAT'S how you say "haute". wicked!
i just ate here the other day. had an undog with just avocado and stuff AND a chigaco dog. fries and a lemonade. spent $20 for lunch and ate it all. still happy about it! :)
mais oui!
Thanks for this post... I gotta remember Hank's on my next Oahu visit.
Great place to stop by to treat yourself to hot dog with an upscale touch from the food to the service. Go there and enjoy, I did.