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BBQ chain Bodean’s secures seventh site in the capital

Barbecue smokehouse restaurant Bodean’s has announced it is to open its seventh restaurant in London.

The chain, which was founded by Andre Blais in 2002, will take over a 1,800 sq ft site at 25 Catherine Street in Covent Garden which was formerly occupied by Mishkins deli.

Due to open in April, the restaurant will be split over two floors and contain space for 90 covers.

Speaking to BigHospitality, Blais explained how a recent trip to Kansas provided inspiration for some of the new dishes that will be trailed in the new venue. He said: “Our return to the Midwest in January made us more determined than ever to bring authentic Kansas City-style barbecue to London’s thriving food scene.

“It’s where it all started for us, so to receive such a warm welcome from some of the best barbecue establishments in the world was truly humbling.

“When we landed back in London we had a brand new venue, a head full of truly exciting menu concepts and a band of newly acquired stateside friends.”

Kit Alexander from leisure property agency Shelley Sandzer, who acted in the deal, commented: “This is a great location situated adjacent to the Opera House and just a stone’s throw from the bustling Covent Garden market.

“Shelley Sandzer continues to act as valued advisors at the heart of the leisure property industry, helping to identify prime sites for brands.”