This Upscale Restaurant In A Former Arizona Department Store Offers An Unforgettable Dining Experience
By Katie Lawrence|Published May 11, 2022
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
One of the most unique restaurants in Arizona is hiding in plain sight in downtown Phoenix. A former men’s department store, Hanny’s serves up chic-casual fare and craft cocktails in an upscale, yet nostalgic setting. It’s definitely one of the most memorable dining experiences you’ll ever have!
Hanny's is a downtown Phoenix hotspot known for its trendy fare and handcrafted cocktails. You'll find it on the southwest corner of 1st Street & Adams.
As you can probably tell from the exterior, Hanny's hasn't always been a restaurant. Constructed in 1946, the building was originally an upscale department store. It served the Valley for nearly 40 years before closing in 1986.
Following a brief vacancy, the space was used for the training of city firefighters before it was acquired by restaurant mogul Karl Kopp in the early 2000s.
Much of the department store's original integrity has been preserved. For example, there is an open elevator shaft that used to run between the basement and ground level. Now, it's covered by a glass floor that visitors can stand on and gaze down into the abyss below.
Whatever you do, don't skip dessert. The Strawberry Long Cake, made with vanilla ice cream, fresh strawberries, graham crackers, and whipped cream is a crowd favorite. Other options include brownies, Italian donuts, chocolate mousse, tiramisu, key lime tarts, and cannolis!
Hanny's is also known for its made-to-order cocktails, which range from sophisticated sips like the Moscow Mule and Old Fashioned to newer favorites such as the Mai Tai.
Visit the restaurant’s website or Facebook page for more information, including hours and a full menu.
Have you ever eaten at Hanny’s? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments. Don’t forget to check out our previous article for more of the most unique restaurants in Arizona!
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