grillbird

GrillBird is an Izakaya pop-up created by Ben Smith in early 2023.

An Izakaya is a type of Japanese tavern that serves drinks, small plates and snacks in a comfortable casual setting. Similar to a Spanish tapas bar, a British gastro pub or an American Saloon.

GrillBird takes this concept by creating classic Japanese dishes while using modern European techniques with seasonal British ingredients.

Ben has worked around Europe in France, Spain, Wales and for the most time, in London. Working in restaurants such as The Quality Chop House in Farringdon. He has spent some time researching in Japan and has tried to mix his love for Japanese cuisine with his experience and skills from working in London and on the continent.

We cook mostly over binchotan charcoals on a Hibachi grill to get a distinct smoky flavour. With no frills, punchy flavours, and fun food to share. The best way to describe the eating experience is "social dining". With guest encouraged to order many different things and to share with each other to experience all the joys of a Japanese Izakaya in the UK.

GrillBird uses, what we think is, the best chicken in the UK. From Fosse Meadows Farm. Slow grown, organic, total freedom chickens that are a minimum of 82 days old. This gives a distinct deep and rich flavour to the meat. As well as being the most ethical option. All other ingredients are organic, seasonal and ethically sourced.