SMOK'D Competitors

MISSION BBQ opened for business on September 11, 2011, the tenth anniversary of the day our world changed forever. With a passion for BBQ and a love of Country, founders Bill Kraus and Steve Newton set out to honor, support and give back to Our American Heroes — those who Protect, Serve and Save. From Texas to Kansas City, the Carolinas to St. Louis, they discovered the secrets of authentic BBQ made from the freshest, most delectable ingredients. Then, brought it home to serve in a patriotic dining room filled with tributes to those who’ve made our nation great. Every day at exactly 12 noon, the entire restaurant stands at attention to sing our National Anthem. Proudly Serving Those Who Serve, we do what we do for the love of our soldiers, firefighters, police officers and first responders. Come help us complete Our Mission.

It all started with a road trip… Hickory’s Smokehouse is inspired by the Southern States, the open-hearted service, the atmosphere, soul & incredible flavours of BBQ. Our first Hickory’s opened in Chester in 2010, we now have over 35 restaurants across the United Kingdom, and have exciting plans to open even more! Everything we do at Hickory’s is fuelled by our desire to deliver the best, most authentic guest experience & to do that we have an amazing team of great people. At Hickory’s we look after our team & have some of the happiest people in the industry (as voted by our team). We were named the No.1 “Best Large Company To Work For” in 2022 & recently won Best Pub Employer (over 500 employees) at the 2025 Publican Awards. We invest as much in our people as we do in our food, brand and overall guest experience, with over 60 bespoke courses in our Training Academy, epic enrichment trips (we’ve been known to do 5 States in 5 days on our road trips!) and progression opportunities. We’re always on the lookout for talented, passionate people to join the Hickory’s family. If you think you could love our guests as much as we do & you’re up for the challenge get in touch… careers.hickorys.co.uk At Hickory’s we can promise it will be one heck of a ride!

Inspired by the 19th century shacks and Bar.B.Q joints of the American Gulf Coast, Big Easy and our amazing teams have been serving authentic Bar.B.Q and fresh seafood all to the soundtrack of Blues since 1991. Bringing you over 500 whiskies, signature slushie cocktails, an award winning wine list and live Blues music 7 nights a week in a fun and relaxed environment. Our first restaurant on the Kings Road, Chelsea has become somewhat of an institution. We're delighted to now be sharing the Big Easy experience in Covent Garden, Canary Wharf , Stratford Westfield & Bluewater and we have plans to grow further... take it easy and put a little south in your mouth!