Shaun and Elora, who have been running Hank’s Dirty in Ipswich for the past year, are reopening it as a vegan restaurant in the town centre today (July 2, 2025). Here, they explain why they have dropped the ‘Dirty’ and have added more restaurant-style food to the menu
Who are you both and what do you do?
We are Shaun and Elora, and we own Hanks in Ipswich. Shaun is a trained chef, and Elora runs the front of house.
How did you end up taking over Hank’s Dirty a year or so ago? You were working with the previous owners before?
We did both work for Geoff and Phil for around five years until the closure. The opportunity came up for us to take over the pub in Ipswich and after being so involved in Hank’s and loving working there we decided to take over.
How has the last year been for you?
The last year has gone so quickly, we have really loved the experience of it. Our customers are so lovely and supportive and made the last year so much fun for us.
What has led to the move more towards the town centre?
We have decided to move into the town as we both live in Ipswich and use the town regularly and especially love the small local shops in The Walk. There always seems to be something fun going on in the town centre too so it would be great to be part of it.
And you’re dropping the Dirty?!
Yes, we are dropping the Dirty from the name. Hank’s Dirty was born during lockdown when there was Hank’s deli and Hank’s pub so the name made sense at the time. We are rebranding and hoping to bring back a little piece of each site.
So, what’s on the menu?
Coffees and pastries, restaurant style dishes and cocktails, and keeping the takeaway style food too. We did change our menu back in February to include more restaurant style dishes and a more streamlined version of the takeaway menu.
What else will Hanks offer?
We will be offering some more lunch time deals and veg based dishes for those who don’t like meat substitutes.
Will there still be Sip & Paint evenings etc?
Yes, we will continue with our Sip & Paint evenings, also our open mic nights, karaoke, punk music events and collaborating with some local businesses.
What are your hopes and dreams for Hank’s?
Our hope for Hanks is to continue on the road we have started and try to make a great community space and serve delicious vegan food for all.
Hanks Vegan Restaurant, 5 Thoroughfare, Ipswich, IP1 1BX. Follow on Instagram.
Featured image of Shaun and Elora – supplied
Have always loved Hanks and im really looking forward to my first visit to the new venue . Shaun an Elora are such wonderful and passionate people about good tasting Vegan food and catering for all.