The Blues Kitchen Shoreditch
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
"The Blues Kitchen Shoreditch" in London is a vibrant restaurant that brings the soul of the American South to Shoreditch with a mix of Texan BBQ, blues music, and a lively atmosphere. It is part of a small chain that also operates locations in Camden and Brixton, and has established itself as one of the best addresses for soul food and live music in the city since its opening. The Shoreditch location, the largest of the three, is known for its unconventional decor and commitment to authentic culinary experiences inspired by Southern cuisine. It attracts a colorful mix of music lovers, foodies, and night owls looking for a relaxed yet energetic environment.
The menu is a celebration for lovers of hearty comfort food, with a focus on slow-cooked meats and bold flavors. Particularly noteworthy are the "Beef Short Ribs", smoked for hours over their own fire with fruit woods and glazed with a sweet and savory beer-hickory sauce – a dish celebrated for its tenderness and intense flavor. Also popular is the "USDA Beef Brisket", a juicy cut of meat with a smoky crust and perfect texture often paired with sides like creamy Mac 'n' Cheese. Standouts for breakfast include the "Bacon Naan Roll" – a British-Indian fusion with crispy bacon, a favorite at brunch. The "Buttermilk Fried Chicken Wings" with hot honey glaze offer a sweet and spicy touch that pairs perfectly with a cool drink.
The Blues Kitchen Shoreditch is not just a restaurant but also a music and cultural center. Live music takes center stage here, with performances almost every evening ranging from blues to rock 'n' roll and gospel – often played by renowned artists like Mud Morganfield or The Jim Jones Revue, adding a special aura to the place. The drink selection is equally impressive, with over 80 bourbon varieties, the largest collection in London, and creative cocktails like the "Tommy's Margarita", refreshing and flavorful. The "Bottomless Brunch" offer on weekends, where guests can enjoy unlimited prosecco or cocktails, has given the venue a cult status and made it a popular destination for celebrations.
The ambiance is a mix of vintage charm and industrial flair. The decor includes luxurious leather benches, light installations made from old gramophones, and a 1950s Airstream trailer serving as a DJ booth, while Nashville music posters adorn the walls. The space is large and open, with a stage focusing on live performances, yet offering cozy corners for a relaxed meal. Especially on weekends, the venue transforms into a dance hotspot as the music plays late into the night and guests fill the dance floor.
The service is another highlight – the staff is often described as friendly, attentive, and passionate, with a special talent for reading the mood of guests and providing recommendations to enhance the evening. On busy days, it can get crowded, and while reservations are recommended, the service remains efficient, even if patience is sometimes required. The restaurant values diversity and offers solid vegetarian options like "Hickory Smoked Celeriac", prepared with the same care as the meat dishes.
"The Blues Kitchen Shoreditch" is a place that brings together food, music, and community. It is not a fine-dining restaurant in the traditional sense but an experience that combines the carefree joy of the South with the urban energy of London. With its authentic cuisine, impressive music scene, and an inviting atmosphere, it has carved out a solid place in the Shoreditch scene. Whether for brunch, dinner, or a night of dancing – everyone finds something that delights them and leaves the place with a feeling of satisfaction and good vibes.
