One of the Phoenix Convention Center’s best amenities isn’t actually in the convention center — but it’s within walking distance. Located in the historic building that once housed Hanny’s Department Store, Hanny’s restaurant blends early twentieth century mercantile with art patronage for an atmosphere as satisfying as the dishes it serves. The gold and maroon terrazzo tiles at the entry are among many original architectural features; the “beaded lady” mannequin exemplifies the passion restaurateur Karl Kopp had to incorporate unique art pieces in his restaurants; and the immersive “kaleidoscope” current owner Trent Crump reimagined for a nonfunctioning elevator car is testament to the value this establishment continues to place on guest experience. With so much to engage the senses, the absence of any TV hardly registers. That absence is a purposeful decision, as Crump explains, “We want you to pay attention to the people you’re with.”
From the couches to the cuisine, every feature of this Downtown Phoenix hot-spot screams creativity and originality. The first-story dining room is wide open, with meticulous detail paid to sightlines and guest comfort. (Mirrors that line the wall above the row of booths are ever-so-slightly tilted, for example, so the person seated facing the wall has as good a view of the room as the person seated facing outward.) This results in a sensation of community with one’s fellow diners, all without creating that claustrophobic feeling we have all experienced in some of the Valley’s hot spots. If privacy is desired, Hanny’s delivers with mezzanine seating overlooking the main dining room.
This meticulously curated atmosphere is complimented by a menu that highlights both classic comfort foods and inventive twists. As decadent as it is reasonably priced, its menu has matured alongside the Valley in which it resides.
Among the sandwiches is the Sausage & Peppers, fresh ciabatta with a generous filling of Italian sausage, sautéed Calabrian peppers and onions. On the side, Hanny’s signature Sidewinder Fries — thick, curly potato wedges with a golden, seasoned crust served with creamy basil parmesan dip (think Ranch, but elevated) and Calabrian pepper, olive oil and garlic aioli.
Proving pizza does not require red sauce is the Chicken Pesto Pizza, liberally topped with pesto, Italian cheese blend, strips of chicken breast and roasted tomato. Most of the other pizzas do have red sauce, such as hot-selling Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza, with its hot honey drizzle over all. Common feature is the crust, crisp and seasoned in a signature oval shape.
New items are added from time to time. This month sees the debut of the Tuscan Burger — Hanny’s first hamburger. Served on a buttermilk bun from Noble Bread, the burger takes its Italian flavor from Fontina cheese and a topping of shredded asparagus and mushroom sautéed together.
Beyond lunch, Hanny’s also boasts late-night service with a kitchen that stays open until about half an hour before the restaurant’s closing at midnight Sunday through Thursday and 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Hanny’s
40 N. First St., Phoenix
(602) 252-2285
Hanny’s Market Salad Mixed greens, artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, avocado, mushroom, hard-boiled egg, hearts of palm, red onion and Parmigiano-Reggiano served with Dijon balsamic vinaigrette $17 |
Chicken Pesto Pizza Pesto, Italian cheese blend, chicken breast and roasted tomato $18 |
Hanny’s Steak Sandwich with Sidewinder Fries Grilled steak, bacon, fried egg and arugula served with remoulade on ciabatta $20 |
Did You Know: Hanny’s is a visual piece of Phoenix history. The building was constructed in 1947 to house Hanny’s Department Story, which opened in November of that year.
Photos courtesy of Hanny’s
