Outback BBQ — the Latin-inspired smokehouse making waves across London — has launched its first long-term kitchen residency at The Hawke Pub in Victoria Park. Known for whole-animal butchery, open-fire cooking and bold, flame-led flavours, the residency marks a major step for the rising star of London’s barbecue scene.
A Live-Fire Menu Inspired by Latin America
Helmed by chef Lewis Simmons, Outback BBQ blends the rustic asados and parrillas of Argentina with the smoky taquerias of Mexico, all reimagined through a contemporary London lens. The approach draws heavily on Simmons’ travels through California’s taquerias, as well as his experience working under Martin Anderson and Curtis Bell at London’s cult live-fire outfit From the Ashes BBQ.
The result? A menu built around the primal energy of cooking over fire — simple, slow-cooked dishes focusing on depth of flavour, quality ingredients and the social spirit of shared plates.
From Pop-Ups to a Permanent Residency
After a series of sell-out pop-ups at JAZU in Deptford, Peckham’s Montpelier, and The Great Beyond Brewery in Shoreditch, Outback BBQ is settling into its first sustained home. Diners can expect the same creative energy, but with a more expansive and consistent menu.
Smoke, Flame & Seriously Good Plates
Simmons works closely with independent suppliers across London to source rare cuts and seasonal ingredients, including fresh fish from Victoria Park Village favourite Jonny Norris.
Every dish passes through fire — from slow-smoked meats to charred vegetables and even smoked cream for desserts. Menu standouts include:
-
Smoked lamb birria taco — braised in chillies, onion, tomato, beer and spices, finished with an Italian-style salsa verde
-
Seven-hour smoked pork belly ribs with hot honey, grilled seasonal fruit and chilli pickles
-
Cuban-style mojo pollo
-
Burnt corn ensalada
-
Basque cheesecake x banana pudding hybrid dessert — already becoming a crowd favourite
At weekends, diners can expect premium steak cuts, rotating taco specials, fish-led plates, and a Sunday roast built around traditional smoked meats and fruit cobbler. Midweek menus (Wednesday–Thursday) feature slimmed-down options and great-value deals.
Drinks & Pricing
The Hawke Pub’s drinks list complements the fire-heavy menu with curated wines, craft beers, premium spirits and a now-legendary house Bloody Mary.
Prices sit comfortably in the mid-range:
-
£5–8 for snacks and sides
-
£15–25 for mains
-
£8 for desserts
-
Sharing platters under £50
