Once upon a time not too long ago, Londoners weren’t as spoiled for choice when hankering for low and slow cooked American style BBQ as they are today. Then Bodean’s came along seizing the BBQ zeitgeist and setting a standard that’s been increasingly upped ever since. So I was happy to accept an invitation to a beer and BBQ pairing at the newest of the now quintet of Bodean’s restaurants in London for a chance to see how they’re doing after a few years since my last visit to a Bodean’s.
First off, I’m pleased to report that the ribs are still awesome. Secondly, Bodean’s Covent Garden eatery has a cool vibe to it and is in a terrific location on Catherine Street across from the Theatre Royal and lined up next to impressive assortment of excellent bars and restaurants.
The beer pairings were lovely. My fave was the aromatic, malty and mildly bitter Single-Wide IPA from Boulevard Brewing out of Kansas City with a rack of baby back ribs and seasoned fries. But the Sierra Nevada’s Tropical IPA paired with Cajun swordfish, mango salsa and pan-fried okra pairing is worth a mention as well. Yeah, Bodean’s seems to have added a few fancy schmancy items to its menu. The swordfish was good; I loved the okra.
I reckon as long as they keep offering great ribs there’s room for some swordfish and mango too.
Bodean’s BBQ Covent Garden is located at 25 Catherine Street, WC2B 5JS. Find out more at bodeansbbq.com.
