Downtown Denton celebrated a culinary milestone this September as Hannah’s Off the Square marked its 25th anniversary. The restaurant, which first opened in 2001 at 209 W. Hickory St., Ste. 104, has become a staple of the city’s vibrant dining scene, offering chef‑driven American cuisine rooted in farm‑to‑table principles.
Owner and family legacy
Phil Shirley, who took over the space about a year after it opened, says the venture was his “hardest ever” entry into the food business. Together with his wife, Kerry Shirley, who also manages the restaurant, Phil has watched Hannah’s grow alongside Denton’s downtown revitalization. “We love when people say, ‘I can come from the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival all sweaty in my shorts, have brunch and not feel like it’s too stuffy for me to have a great meal,'” Kerry noted, underscoring the restaurant’s relaxed yet refined atmosphere.
Chef Anton Babarovic’s seasonal vision
Three years ago, chef Anton Babarovic assumed the kitchen helm, instantly earning Phil’s admiration. “It was love at first sight,” Shirley recalled. Babarovic, a native of Slovenia, brings international experience from Michelin‑starred kitchens in London, the Caribbean, and various European locales. He curates a rotating menu roughly every five to six months, selecting produce that is in season within a 100‑mile radius and pairing it with a protein that inspires him.
Signature dishes illustrate his creative approach, such as tomato‑and‑feta‑stuffed squid and a popular ostrich meat entrée. When asked about his process, Babarovic said, “If I like it, I’ll use it,” reflecting his willingness to experiment with whatever ingredients catch his eye.
Looking ahead: Halloween celebrations and pet‑friendly patio
Continuing the tradition of Denton’s 31 Days of Halloween, Hannah’s will host “SPOOKEASY” nights on Fridays and Saturdays throughout October. The events feature extended hours, live music, and a themed cocktail menu with drinks named Carrie, Masquerade, Beetlejuice, and Corpse Bride. An outdoor patio invites diners to enjoy the crisp fall weather alongside their dogs, reinforcing the restaurant’s family‑friendly reputation.
Community impact
Shirley and his team credit the restaurant’s success to the thriving downtown community. By sourcing locally, supporting regional farmers, and providing a welcoming space for residents and visitors alike, Hannah’s contributes to Denton’s economic vitality and cultural vibrancy. The anniversary celebration serves as both a reminder of the restaurant’s roots and a promise of continued dedication to quality, local flavor.
About Hannah’s Off the Square
Located in the heart of downtown Denton, Hannah’s Off the Square offers a menu that changes with the seasons, a commitment to local sourcing, and a relaxed dining environment suitable for families, couples, and pet owners. For more information, visit their website or stop by the patio during the upcoming SPOOKEASY nights.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Denton — read the source article.
