Bodean's, a popular London-based barbecue restaurant group, has abruptly closed all of its restaurants after more than 20 years in business. Founded in 2002, the smokehouse and BBQ restaurant has said its three restaurants are “currently closed”.
Closure notice and locations
Their website appears to be no more, with a notice apologising “for any inconvenience caused by the closure of its Soho, Tower Hill and Camden locations”, adding that it hopes to welcome guests back in the future. The full message read: “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.”
History and expansion
Bodean’s was the brainchild of Andre Blais. At its peak, the smokehouse had eight locations across the capital, opening restaurants in locations including Clapham, Fulham, Tower Hill, Balham, Old Street and Covent Garden. Its flagship branch opened 24 years ago on Poland Street in Soho with the concept of introducing authentic Kansas City-style slow-smoked meats, bourbon, and beer to the capital. Its menu was built around American barbecue classics, from slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork and baby back ribs to burnt ends, Texas hot links and hearty sharing platters.
Recent changes and industry context
Founder Andre Blais stepped back from daily operations in 2020. In a major shakeup, former Hawksmoor executive chef Richard Turner joined as chef director last year and introduced a revamped menu built around the brand’s original ethos of “barbecue, bourbon and beer”. Meanwhile, Gemma Hampton-Stone took over as managing director in late 2024. This comes just days after Bar + Block announced that all 20 of its UK and Northern Ireland locations will shut permanently on Thursday, September 3. Among the sites closing their doors are the Whiteley Shopping Centre and Portsmouth branches in Hampshire.
