Unearth The Voyage
Craving burnt ends that make you pause mid-bite and grin? Hank’s Smoked Briskets in Indianapolis has long been the quiet legend locals whisper about, then rave over.
From juicy brisket to cobblers that taste like Sunday, this roadside spot delivers flavor without frills. If you are hunting for the best burnt ends in Indy, here is exactly what to know before you go.
About The Location
Find Hank’s at 3736 Doctor M.L.K. Jr St STE A, tucked into a modest strip that is easy to miss if you speed by.
It is carryout only, with a small waiting area and friendly staff. Think pure focus on smoke, not seating.
Parking is straightforward, and lines move steadily during rush hours. Pro tip: call ahead right when they open at 11 AM.
You will be in and out, arms full of legendary brisket.
Hours And Best Times To Visit
Hank’s opens Tuesday through Saturday 11 AM to 6:30 PM, plus Sunday 12 to 3 PM. Mondays are closed.
Early birds get first pick, and sellouts happen on busy days.
Weekdays around 2 PM are quieter, perfect for a relaxed pickup. On Fridays, expect a rush from lunch through late afternoon.
If you are chasing burnt ends, call just before opening to reserve.
Signature Burnt Ends Experience
Hank’s burnt ends hit that perfect sweet spot of bark, smoke, and buttery tenderness. You get little cubes with caramelized edges, gentle tug, and deep oak-kissed flavor.
Sauce complements but never overpowers, so ask for it on the side.
Order early because they sell out, especially on weekends. The burnt ends crown baked potatoes, fill sandwiches, or ride solo with classic sides.
If it is your first time, start with a half pound and a side of mac and cheese.
Menu Highlights Beyond Burnt Ends
The sliced brisket is the headliner, tender and moist with smoke in every bite. Corned beef surprises newcomers with silky texture and a savory crust.
Rib tips for those who love gnaw-off-the-bone moments.
Do not skip the Big Hank potato loaded with sausage, brisket, and tip meat. Sides rotate from mac and cheese to baked beans, slaw, and green beans with turkey.
Peach or pecan pie seals the deal.
The Big Hank Potato
This monster potato arrives split open, piled with smoked sausage, brisket, and tip meat. Add cheese, request sauce on the side, and customize each bite.
The smoke hits first, then the buttery potato richness.
Regulars call it a ten out of ten when you control the sauce. It is messy in the best way, so grab extra napkins.
Perfect for sharing or conquering solo when extra hungry.
Sauce Strategy And Seasoning
The meat at Hank’s stands tall without sauce, thanks to balanced rub and consistent smoke. That said, the house sauce brings a sweet-tangy accent.
Ask for it on the side for texture control and less soggy buns.
If you are ordering sandwiches, mention light sauce or sauce separate. On potatoes, drizzle gradually to keep the top crisp.
You will taste the difference in every regulated bite.
Carryout Tips For Freshness
Since it is takeout only, plan your route so the meat does not steam too long. Vent the container slightly to preserve bark.
Bring a small towel to keep everything upright in the car.
At home, warm sides gently to avoid breaking the mac’s creaminess. If a sandwich sits in sauce, transfer to a fresh bun.
Keep extra sauce cold, then reheat lightly for best gloss.
What Locals Say
Reviews praise the moist brisket, friendly samples, and honest hospitality from Hank and team. People rave about the mac and cheese, baked beans, cobblers, and that smoky corned beef.
Visitors from Texas even vouch for authenticity.
Not every order is perfect, and some note customer service hiccups or heavy saucing. Still, repeat customers keep returning for flavor and value.
Overall sentiment: best brisket in Indy, worth the line.
Price Point And Value
Hank’s lands around mid-range pricing, with hearty portions that stretch into leftovers. Sandwiches and dinners feel generous, especially with sides.
The Big Hank potato can feed two, depending on appetite.
If you are budget-minded, order meat by the pound and split sides at home. The value shows in the smoke, tenderness, and portion balance.
You pay for quality without paying downtown premiums.
How To Order Like A Regular
Call right at open for the fastest pickup and best selection. Ask for samples if you are undecided, especially between brisket and corned beef.
Request sauce on the side and extra napkins.
When ordering the Big Hank, add cheese and keep sauce separate. If you want bark-heavy bites, mention end cuts.
For a feast, pair brisket by the pound with mac and green beans.
Sides And Desserts To Try
Mac and cheese leans creamy and gooey, a perfect match for smoky meat. Baked beans bring a sweet-savory balance that complements bark.
Green beans with turkey add comfort and seasoning.
Finish with peach cobbler or pecan pie, both local fan favorites. On lucky days, sweet potato pie appears.
Grab dessert early because they disappear fast.
Why It Stands Out In Indy
In a city full of barbecue, Hank’s keeps it simple: consistent smoke, generous portions, and no-frills service. The brisket draws travelers and locals alike, often converting first-timers into regulars.
Flavor leads every decision here.
You are not here for decor, you are here for that juicy slice and caramelized burnt-end cube. When the meat is this good, nothing else matters.
That is why Hank’s keeps its crown.
