Some of the best food in New Jersey can be found at the Jersey Shore. From coastal eateries to bayside seafood shacks that bring in fresh fish straight from the water, if you look around, you'll find all sorts of gems. One out-of-the-way spot on the south end of Sea Isle City has made quite an impression on the Jersey foodie scene.
If you've spent time in Sea Isle City, chances are you've seen this whale sticker before! Or, perhaps you've seen the t-shirts, hats, and hoodies. The Hank Sauce Whale is practically the official logo of the town - but what the heck is Hank Sauce, anyway?
Back in 2010, a trio of college roommates decided to use a hot sauce they often made as a "product" for a school project. The class ended up loving the sauce, and the group started making small batches for the community. By 2011, Hank, Matt, and Josh launched the brand from Sea Isle City.
The hot sauce was wildly popular, immediately. Soon, they realized that Hank Sauce could be more than a condiment, and they opened a small restaurant on Landis Avenue.
More than a decade later, Hank Sauce has become an indisputable part of Sea Isle culture. Their line of sauces ranges from the mild Herb Infused, Cilantro, and Camouflage sauces to the hotter-than-you-expect Hank's Heat and Honey Habanero. Each sauce is absolutely jam-packed with flavor, and it's truly hard to pick a favorite.
The restaurant remains busy year-round, serving up the best tacos, burgers, and handhelds in tow.
Everything served up here is made from scratch with the freshest seasonal ingredients. There is almost always a handful of creative specials to try, so it will take you quite a while to sample everything on the menu!
It's no surprise that their tacos are a best-seller. They offer Mahi, teriyaki tuna, Hawaiian pork, and miso shrimp variations.
You also can't go wrong with a burger! There are five to choose from, including the signature Hank Burger which comes smothered in Hank-A-Que sauce - a delicious Carolina-style hot BBQ sauce that's only available in the restaurant.
Hank Sauce also serves up the best beach food you'll ever try - Pinchos! These skewers of chicken, shrimp, or tuna are stacked on top of a slice of baguette, which sops up whatever sauce you soak 'em in, leaving these as an easy snack to devour on the sand.
A few years ago, Hanx Kitchen opened seasonally and on limited days at Kix McNutley's, a liquor store and bar in the middle of the island. Now, you've got two places to try Hank Sauce's fantastic food - on 86th street and 63rd street!
For more information, including the current menu, seasonal hours, and to order your own sauce, visit Hank Sauce on the web.
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