Bodean’s BBQ Soho, Bodean’s Tower Hill and Bodean’s in Camden are all listed as temporarily closed on Google, while the brand’s Instagram account appears to have been disabled.
A message on the Bodean’s website currently reads: “We’re currently closed. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank you for your continued support and loyalty.
“We appreciate your understanding during this time and hope to welcome you again in the future. Thank you for dining with us.”
The closures come despite a major refresh of the business over the past year that saw Bodean’s install a new management team and overhaul its menu in an attempt to return the brand to its Kansas City barbecue roots.
Gemma Hampton-Stone was appointed managing director in November 2024 with a brief to revive the business, with meat specialist Richard Turner – whose CV includes Hawksmoor, Pitt Cue Co and Blacklock and who co-founded Meatopia – subsequently brought in as chef director.
The pair developed a dramatically simplified menu, reducing the number of starters and mains from around 45 to 17 and removing nachos, quesadillas, most burgers and its four-strong hotdog range.
At its centre was a large Bodean’s barbecue platter featuring ribs, pulled pork, beef rib, sausage and brisket, designed for sharing.
The refresh followed an acknowledgement from management that the brand had lost focus over the years by expanding its menu into Tex-Mex, burgers, sandwiches and hotdogs and moving away from its original proposition.
Bodean’s was founded by Canadian restaurateur Andre Blais in Soho in 2002, positioning itself around authentic Kansas City-style barbecue.
The brand developed a strong following and expanded rapidly, eventually reaching eight London restaurants at its pre-Covid peak.
Blais stepped back from the operational side of the business in 2020, although he remained a non-executive director.
Bodean’s has been contacted for comment.