The group, which currently has eight UK sites, is working with stockbroker Berenberg to gauge potential demand among City fund managers for its shares, according to The Times.
Co-founder Will Beckett said the firm was 'exploring a variety of options, including an IPO', though stressed no listing was imminent.
“We want to be in the best shape possible for the numerous opportunities that are already coming our way post-Covid,” he continued.
The first Hawksmoor restaurant was opened by Beckett and childhood friend Huw Gott in London's Spitalfields in 2006.
Its estate has since grown grown to include six restaurants in the capital, as well as one in Manchester and another in Edinburgh.
Last month it was reported that Hawksmoor is planning to launch its biggest restaurant to date and its first in London for four years in a floating pavilion on the docks of Wood Wharf at Canary Wharf.
Spread over three floors and set to open later this year, the restaurant will include a 150-cover dining room and 120-cover bar, as well as an outdoor dining terrace.
Following a lengthy delay as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, the group is also expected to open its first restaurant in New York later this year.