Mr Charcoal: The Best Chinese BBQ Hidden Gem in London You Need to Try
When it comes to BBQ, Japanese and Korean options often steal the spotlight — but have you ever tried Chinese BBQ? Packed with bold flavours and often more affordable, it’s an underrated gem that deserves more recognition. Nestled on Kennington Road, Mr Charcoal is one of London’s best spots to experience this style of Chinese charcoal style bbq.
Experience
Ordering at Mr Charcoal adds a fun, interactive twist — you simply mark your choices on a piece of paper, and the kitchen takes care of the rest. The smell of sizzling meats fills the air as skewers and platters arrive fresh off the grill. The laid-back vibe makes it perfect for casual dining. Service is friendly and enjoy the feast at your own pace.
The Food
The beef platter (£36.80) is a must-try, offering generous portions at an affordable price. The meat is tender, juicy, and best enjoyed with their cumin seasoning, which elevates every bite with its aromatic, earthy flavour. The beef short ribs and ox tongue were my main highlights — perfectly cooked, melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness.
If you’re a fan of skewers, the cumin-flavoured beef skewers (£9.60) and lamb skewers (£9.60) are the real showstoppers. Pair them with the assorted mushrooms (£12.80) or the grilled lettuce set (£4.80), and you’ve got an unbeatable combo that balances rich meatiness with smoky, umami flavours.
For something a little different, the scallops (£6.80) were tender and juicy, with a buttery garlic flavour that added a touch of seafood to the feast. They also offer a small selection of cold appetisers and side dishes to round out the meal but we mainly just got the bbq meats and vegetables.
Price
With a price range of £20-£30 per person, the value for the quality and portion sizes were worth it. The beef platter alone is worth every penny. The variety of dishes makes it easy to build a feast to suit any appetite.
Final Thoughts
We left full, satisfied and already planning our next visit. If you’re looking for something different from your usual BBQ experience, Mr Charcoal delivers bold, aromatic flavours at a great price. The cumin seasoning adds a unique twist, and the variety of dishes ensures there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re dining with friends or just craving some seriously good grilled meat, this spot is not to be missed.
Watch my experience at Mr charcoal:
Mr Charcoal London – Restaurant Details:
- Address: 82 Kennington Rd, London SE11 6NL
- Opening Hours: 12–2:30 pm, 5–10:30 pm (Closed Tuesdays)
- Price Range: £20-£30 per person
- Payment options: Accepts cash and card
- Must-try dish: Beef Short Ribs & Ox Tongue BBQ meats and Cumin lamb skewers — tender, smoky, and packed with flavour.
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