Updated 12:18 | This story was updated to reflect the restaurant’s finalized menu.

As of today, Capitol Hill denizens have an upscale alternative to the usual dive bars with the arrival of Hank’s Oyster Bar (633 Pennsylvania Ave. SE) and its companion drink haven, Eddy Bar.

With glistening bar, soda fountains and antique bottles decorating the shelves, the 60-seat space evokes a modern update to a 20th-century drugstore. At the end of the bar, an elevated oyster-shucking station allows diners to observe the preparation of the briny bivalves.
The menu, by chef Jamie Leeds, is similar to the two preceding Hank’s locations. The “Meat and Two” plates will feature a different protein each night, Monday through Saturday.

Expect cocktails crafted by mixologist and partner Gina Chersevani to be a big draw. A refreshing-sounding creation called the Virginia is for Lovers uses gin, raspberry shrub (a beverage made from vinegar and fruit) and mint. House-made sodas in flavors such as citrus sage figure into other cocktails, and the Old Salt with Milagro tequila, lime, watermelon espuma and citrus salt is an early favorite of at least one staff member. Eddy Bar also features a well-curated wine and beer list.

Managers say the restaurant will eventually introduce a weeknight happy hour with half-price oysters and discounted beers, wines and cocktails.