Hon's BBQ: Texas Smoke Meets Hong Kong Flavor in Hackney Wick

Hon Luk, the creator of London’s cherished second-hand record store Vinyl Pimp, has launched Hon's BBQ, a permanent eatery situated above Crate Brewery in Hackney Wick. His culinary adventure commenced at a poker tournament in Austin in 2021, where he experienced the now Michelin-starred InterStellar BBQ and learned about Texan smoking techniques from pitmaster John Bates. After training in the U.S., he refined his craft through pop-ups and a two-year stint at All My Friends in Hackney Wick, ultimately raising £36k through crowdfunding for this permanent establishment. Designed by Luk, the restaurant merges his Hong Kong roots with the local music scene, featuring red accents, custom furniture by Mo Tong, and handmade items by David B Ross, while honoring Silo's zero-waste philosophy with recycled materials. Music is provided by Noise Control Audio, founded by veterans of the Nineties rave scene, with DJ sets after 9:30 pm. The menu includes Texas-style smoked meats infused with Chinese and Asian flavors, such as beef short ribs with Sichuan peppercorn sauce, Taiwanese pork belly, five-spice ox cheek, and a distinctive mac and cheese with smoked lap cheong sausage. Luk begins his day at 5 am to start smoking, and due to high demand, pre-ordering is advised. The restaurant is located at Unit 7, The White Building, Queen's Yard, London E9 5EN.