If one thought is clear whilst being drawn inside by the sweet and spicy scent of smoked meats, it’s that Fancy Hank’s takes barbeque seriously. How seriously you ask? As proud owners of a custom built two-tonne smoker, we reckon pretty seriously. Capable of cooking free-range meats sourced from Gippsland for up to 22 hours, these barbeque bosses mean business.
Form what started as a food truck turned Queen Vic Market pop-up, Fancy Hank’s has worked its way up to a Melbourne barbeque institution. After their original plans for a six-month pop-up seamlessly extended into a bamboozling three-year success, they knew they had something special in their hands.
With offerings such as pork shoulder, brisket, sausages and three different types of ribs, their mighty list of meat just goes on – but veggie lovers, don’t despair. Two-thirds of the menu is vegetarian, guaranteeing there’s something to satisfy all. Paired with delectable sides as Mac‘N’Cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, and potato salad, all essentials are ready and waiting to be devoured.
Dine amongst scattered Americana memorabilia such as images of Jackie Robinson, and an old-school map of the Great Smoky Mountains. A soundtrack of rocking oldies from the ‘60s and ‘70s accompanies your every bite. The dining room provides the authentic charm and comfort of the South, yet is elevated by a contemporary freshness that reminds you that you are, of course, still in Melbourne.
Which brings me to my next point – would it really be Melbourne without another added level of food, drink, and general frivolity? Absolutely not. Cue the ’80s inspired rooftop bar, Good Heavens.
Do yourself a favour and head down into both Fancy Hank’s and Good Heavens, and double down in some good old fashion Americana food and drink. Their current offering makes it all the easier to enjoy the best of both worlds. Plus, with every Fancy Hank’s purchase of $25 or more, you can wet your whistle with one of two special Melbourne Moonshine cocktails – think lemonade and sweet tea with a splash of booze. Doesn’t get much better, easier, and more delicious than that.