Smokestak

About

Smokestak, located at 35 Sclater Street in London’s vibrant Shoreditch neighborhood, is a testament to industrial-chic design and serious barbecue craftsmanship. The restaurant’s interior is deliberately moody and atmospheric, featuring blackened steel, exposed concrete, and floor-to-ceiling factory-style windows that flood the space with natural light. The design aesthetic perfectly complements its identity as a premium barbecue establishment, with dark wood furnishings, metal fixtures, and an overall industrial warehouse feel that pays homage to both American smokehouse tradition and East London’s industrial heritage.

What began as a street food venture has evolved into one of London’s most respected barbecue restaurants, with founder David Carter transforming his street food success into this permanent brick-and-mortar establishment in 2016. The restaurant features a 60-cover outdoor terrace and a striking interior dining space centered around their custom-built smokers. The bar area, with its high stools and moody lighting, offers an intimate spot for both dining and drinking, while the main dining room provides a more traditional seated experience.

At its core, Smokestak is renowned for its wood-smoked meats, with signature dishes including their celebrated beef brisket and charred pork belly ribs. The restaurant has successfully merged the casual nature of traditional barbecue with a more refined dining experience, earning recognition from the Michelin Guide and establishing itself as a cornerstone of London’s modern dining scene. The space manages to be both industrial and intimate, with clever lighting and thoughtful design elements creating distinct areas within the restaurant that can accommodate both casual diners and special occasions.