Hurricane Hanks Loves Their Team: A Heartfelt Tribute to the People Who Make It All Happen

A Community Favorite on Anna Maria Island

Hurricane Hanks Restaurant has long been one of the most beloved local gems on Holmes Beach, Anna Maria Island. Known for its warm hospitality, scratch-made comfort food, refreshing drinks, and welcoming island atmosphere, the restaurant has grown into a staple for locals and vacationers alike. Over the years, it has become more than a place to grab lunch or dinner—Hurricane Hanks is part of the community’s identity.

From its early days as a cozy island hangout to its evolution into a bustling, vibrant restaurant offering some of the most delicious dishes and refreshing beverages on Anna Maria Island, Hurricane Hanks owes its success to one thing above all: its incredible team. Hurricane Hanks Loves Their Team.

The Heart of Hurricane Hanks: The Team That Makes Everything Possible

If there is one truth that defines Hurricane Hanks, it is that the restaurant would not exist without the dedication, professionalism, warmth, and hard work of its entire staff. The team is the heartbeat of the restaurant, greeting customers with smiles, serving up delicious island-inspired dishes, mixing refreshing drinks, and creating an atmosphere that guests return to year after year.

The staff at Hurricane Hanks doesn’t just come to work—they bring a passion for hospitality that transforms every shift into an opportunity to brighten someone’s day. Whether it’s a busy dinner rush, a rainy afternoon where locals gather to unwind, or a holiday crowd, the Hurricane Hanks team always delivers outstanding service with grace, positivity, and a genuine love for what they do.

A Team That Held Strong After the Hurricanes

Last year’s hurricanes brought immense challenges to the entire island. Homes were damaged, businesses struggled, and communities were shaken. But in the midst of all of this, one thing remained constant—the strength and unity of the Hurricane Hanks team.

They came together with resilience and determination, supporting one another, helping to get the restaurant back on its feet, and ensuring that locals had a familiar and comforting place to gather as the community rebuilt. From cleanup and repairs to serving visitors who needed a moment of normalcy, the team demonstrated what true dedication looks like.

The owners and management remain deeply grateful for how the team held everything together when it mattered most. Their commitment, teamwork, and positivity helped restore not just the restaurant, but also the spirits of those who walked through the doors. Hurricane Hanks simply could not have overcome those difficult months without them.

Customers Love the Team Just as Much

One of the most inspiring parts of Hurricane Hanks’ story is how customers feel about the staff. Regulars and tourists alike rave about the friendliness, efficiency, and professionalism of the team. Reviews often highlight how the servers go above and beyond, how the bartenders make guests feel like family, and how the kitchen consistently puts out flavorful, perfectly prepared dishes.

Visitors frequently mention that the staff at Hurricane Hanks are a major reason they return each time they visit Anna Maria Island. Beyond the food and drinks (which are always exceptional), it’s the people—the servers, cooks, bartenders, hosts, and managers—who make Hurricane Hanks the special place it is.

Delicious Dishes Prepared by a Dedicated Kitchen Crew

Behind the scenes, the kitchen staff works tirelessly to craft incredible, scratch-made dishes that keep people coming back for more. Some guest favorites include their famous Bacon Wrapped Scallops, a flavorful appetizer that blends sweet sea scallops with savory applewood smoked bacon for the perfect bite.

Other standout dishes include the hearty and refreshing Taco Salad, a crowd-pleasing favorite that has become one of the most talked-about menu items on the island. Each plate is prepared with care, ensuring that every customer receives a delicious, memorable meal.

From appetizers to handhelds, entrées to desserts, Hurricane Hanks’ kitchen team consistently delivers quality, flavor, and creativity—all thanks to their commitment to excellence.

The Bar Team: Masters of Refreshment

Hurricane Hanks also boasts a dynamic and talented bar staff who craft some of the best cocktails and pour some of the coldest beers on Anna Maria Island. Whether guests are enjoying a tropical drink after a beach day or pairing a cold beer with their favorite entrée, the bar team ensures every beverage is made with precision and personality.

Refreshing choices like their ice-cold drafts, specialty cocktails, and island classics help set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. Guests especially love the bar team’s ability to make everyone feel welcome—whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor.

For a look at some of their refreshing drink selections, check out their drink menu here:
Hurricane Hanks Drinks & Cocktails.

A Culture of Teamwork, Respect, and Family

Hurricane Hanks has always been more than a restaurant—it’s a family. Many team members have worked together for years, forming friendships, mentoring new staff, and fostering an environment where everyone supports one another. It’s this culture of mutual respect and genuine care that creates the warm, inviting atmosphere customers feel the moment they walk in.

Managers encourage teamwork, empower employees to take pride in their roles, and celebrate the accomplishments of both individuals and the team as a whole. Whether it’s navigating a busy holiday weekend or adjusting to unexpected challenges, the staff comes together to make it happen.

Honoring the Daily Commitment of the Team

Running a bustling island restaurant means long hours, fast-paced shifts, and constant attention to detail. The entire team—from the back-of-house to the front-of-house—shows up every day ready to provide exceptional service.

• Servers who connect with customers and deliver flawless hospitality
• Cooks and chefs who pour skill and passion into every dish
• Bartenders who mix, pour, and charm
• Hosts who set the tone the moment guests arrive
• Dish crew who keep the entire operation running smoothly
• Managers who guide, support, and uplift the entire team

Hurricane Hanks is grateful every single day for the commitment and hard work of each team member.

Looking Ahead: A Future Built on Team Strength

As Hurricane Hanks continues to grow, evolve, and welcome more guests from near and far, one thing will never change: the restaurant’s deep appreciation for the people who make it all possible.

From overcoming storms—literally and figuratively—to celebrating triumphs, the Hurricane Hanks team is the foundation upon which everything is built. They are the reason the food tastes great, the service shines, and the atmosphere feels like home.

The community loves them, the restaurant cherishes them, and the island is better because of them.

A Final Thank You to the Hurricane Hanks Team

To every team member past and present—thank you. Thank you for your dedication, your kindness, your spirit, your humor, your professionalism, and your unwavering commitment to excellence. Hurricane Hanks would not be Hurricane Hanks without you.

Here’s to many more years of serving the island together, celebrating milestones, and continuing to make Hurricane Hanks one of the best places to eat, drink, and relax on Anna Maria Island.

Cheers to the team—today and always.

For more delicious island favorites, explore the full menu:
Hurricane Hanks Menu.