New pub and grill brings ‘a taste of Texas and Louisiana to Lancashire’, creating new jobs

Henry’s Smokehouse, a new family-run pub and grill in Kirkham, has officially opened its doors for business in Lancashire today. The restaurant, located at the former Black Valais site in Kirkham, is now open to the public.

The brand new concept and US inspired menu comes from the team behind The Ship in Elswick, including consultation from chef Adam James Bennett, known for his experience under Marco Pierre White and as the private chef for the Moroccan King.

The restaurant, spanning 15,000 square feet, currently holds indoor capacity for up to 100 people, with plans to expand into the garden and launch a coffee shop, during the summer months. The new establishment has contributed to the creation of more than 20 new jobs, providing a boost to the local Kirkham community.

The menu, inspired by the “rich culinary heritage” of Louisiana and Texas, consists of a “unique” Brisket, which will be included in several dishes including the Dry Aged Beef Brisket lightly sauced in bourbon and barbeque, and the Smoked Brisket Banquette which can be ordered for groups of 12 to 16 people.

The menu also features staple favourites, with a variety of Signature Burgers and ‘Dogs’, including The Devil of New Orleans and The Mac Daddy. There are also a variety of vegan options available, including The Smokey Jack, a pulled jackfruit burger, and BBQ Jackfruit Fajitas.

Starting next week, Henry’s Smokehouse will also serve its Sunday Roast with all the trimmings including gravy and fresh roasties. The Sunday meat, sourced from local farmers, will be dry-aged and smoked in-house in view of the restaurant guests, using the finest grade of Himalayan Salt to intensify the flavours.

The restaurant's neighbourhood bar offers a selection of drinks, including milkshakes, classic cocktails, local ales such as Moorhouses, Farm Yard Brewery and Kirby Longsdale alongside a selection of American Lagers including Goose Island Beers and Brooklyn Lagers.

Lee Hughes, founder of Henry’s Smokehouse, commented: “We have been working hard to bring the former Black Valais back to life and we are looking forward to finally being able to open our doors to the public next month. 

“The venue has some great potential, and we are looking forward to developing the concept and launching some exciting new additions over the coming months.”