BBQ is having it’s day on the London foodie scene – there’s even whole festivals dedicated to it. We caught up with Danny Cheetham, restaurant owner, chef and life-long Londoner ahead of Grillstock which hits London in September.
Where do you live in London and why?
I live in London Fields in Hackney. I was born round there and it has always felt like home.
You own a couple of restaurants in East London, how did you start up your first business?
After working in various kitchens in and around London and working as head chef, I soon got to grips with how a food business works. It wasn’t long after I convinced two friends, who are very skilled in other professions, that they should open up White Rabbit with me.
You’re teaming up with Sailor Jerry again this year for Grillstock. Can you tell us what’s in store?
Last year, Grillstock was my first outing with the Sailor Jerry gang and we had a real blast, and we’re really excited to be part of the first London event this year too! We have done lots of events together now, and me and my team have really developed and honed the techniques we are using to deliver our BBQ dishes. Expect bold flavours that really compliment the flavours of Sailor Jerry rum, slow cooked and smoke licked hunks of meat not to mention, some amazing cocktails from the bar to wash it all down.
Where else should we be hitting in Grillstock?
It’s all about the competition! Hang around and get chatting to the other vendors and you should be able to get samples of their carefully prepared meaty fare. These guys are fanatics and are really amazing at what they do.
Finally what would your perfect day in London be?
Head to Maltby St Market for breakfast and to sample all the amazing food they have on offer that day then on my way back home I’d pop into Neal’s Yard Dairy for a little cheese tasting. Once lunchtime rolls around I’d head to Broadway market to meet some friends, and head to Bao Bar in Neil Market for a beer and a steamed bun…or 6! After, a walk around London fields and maybe a toe in the lido before heading out with the Mrs for dinner at whatever new and interesting food offering has popped up that week.
Wanna know more about Grillstock? Then be sure to hit up the website for deets and tickets.