American Southern cuisine is experiencing a rise in popularity across London, with a growing number of establishments exploring its diverse offerings. Texan barbecue, in particular, is gaining significant traction, with Austin-based restaurants InterStellar BBQ and la Barbecue set to begin a residency at The Ned.
John Bates, owner and pitmaster at InterStellar BBQ, noted the UK market's interest in their style of Texas barbecue, stating, "Folks in London are mad for barbecue right now!" Both InterStellar BBQ and la Barbecue received Michelin stars in 2024.
London's culinary scene is also seeing experimentation within Southern cuisine. Cue Point, an Afghan-Texan barbecue outfit, combines Texan barbecue with Afghan recipes. Hon's BBQ, which opened in Hackney Wick this summer, offers dishes like Sichuan peppercorn short rib, while Black Cactus features Caribbean-influenced brisket croquettes.
Beyond barbecue, new restaurants are showcasing other aspects of Southern cooking. All Roads, which opened in Brixton earlier this year, offers Creole shrimp and lamb ribs with pomegranate. Appalachia, which launched in Shoreditch in June, draws inspiration from the Appalachian region, with dishes such as an Old Bay omelette and miso-infused grits.