SCENE OF THE CRIME By Natasha
After giving the Parkway some love last week, I had to follow up in the second of this three-part neighborhood bar expose with Hank's Corner Bar on Sixth and North K Street. Both establishments are owned by the same proprietor, but the personalities are quite different.
You'd never know the name of the bar unless someone told you - there's no sign out front anywhere that lists it, but somehow, people always find their way.
I haven't been back to Hank's ever since I found out that a guy I was dating who works there had a girlfriend the entire time. Grrrrrrr. But I decided that for the sake of this fine entertainment rag I wouldn't let that degenerate keep me from getting the scoop that you, dear readers, deserve. 
I went forth bravely.
My friend John started working the door there on the weekends, and he'd given me several reports on how the place is crackin' on Fridays and Saturdays. I'm pleased to report it's true.
I've always been amused by how comfortable and unpretentious Hank's is.  It's great for kickin' back, playing pool and just catching up with your friends in a non-meat market fashion.
Fleece, jeans and flip-flops are all that's required.  Underwear, too, if you want.
However, don't assume that since the people are casual in dress that they treat their livers the same way. The drinking crowd at Hank's is much more ambitious than the Parkway, mostly because the patrons at Hank's love to get after the hard alcohol.
Red the bartender takes the helm on Fridays and Saturdays. He was one of the first friends I made in Tacoma. Talking to Red is entertaining with his quick-wit, jokes and the occasional sexual innuendo.  I still contend that a little fun-loving harassment from your local bartender is good for the soul.
I usually like to sink $5 in the jukebox there. They have great selections - not as good as the jukebox at Magoo's or the Unicorn but fun all the same. I always get busted for playing Destiny's Child - a guilty pleasure of mine.
And now, a public service announcement: When you're leaving Hank's at closing time, as tempting as it may be to scream the lyrics from the last song you heard or have rowdy discussions with your friends 10 car lengths apart about the after hours party, please return to your vehicle or hop into your cab in a quiet fashion.  The bartenders will be shhhhing you because the north end snobs who live in the homes next to Hank's need their beauty sleep.
Hush little baby, don't say a word. Natasha's gonna buy you a drink that's stirred.
Hank's Corner Bar, 524 N. K St., Tacoma, (253) 627-3480

Tell me where you like to party at sceneofthecrime.