Bodean's, a popular BBQ restaurant chain, has suddenly closed all three of its London sites. The locations in Soho, Tower Hill, and Camden are listed as temporarily shut on Google.
The message on Bodean's website reads: "We're currently closed. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank you for your continued support and loyalty. We appreciate your understanding during this time and hope to welcome you again in the future. Thank you for dining with us."
Chain's history and recent revamp
Bodean's was founded in 2002 by Canadian restaurateur Andre Blais. Richard Turner, former executive chef at Hawksmoor, joined as chef director last year and led a brand revamp, including a return to its Kansas City barbecue roots. The restaurant's philosophy is "barbecue, bourbon, and beer," serving slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and large sharing platters.
The chain was also known for its extensive beer collection, featuring American beers and a "Boilermaker" – a half pint of PBR and a shot of Four Roses bourbon.
Previous closures and industry struggles
At its peak, Bodean's had eight sites across the capital, including in Covent Garden, Balham, Muswell Hill, Clapham, and Fulham, which have since closed.
Another steakhouse chain, Bar + Block, has announced it will shut all its restaurants next month. Many individual and chain restaurants have struggled recently, closing due to higher employment costs, surging business rates, inflation, and lower customer spending.
