I live just around the corner from Dukes Brew & Que in De Beauvoir, Hackney. Having walked by this place (leaving a wide berth) 100’s of times when it was in its former state as a local and pretty rough looking boozer, I was surprised to see it so quickly reformed as an gastropub, with every table packed pretty much from day one. There’s a lively buzzy atmosphere with friendly helpful staff.

I’ve been in for breakfast too, but my most recent visit was for dinner – American cuisine, BBQ and ribs. This time, I didn’t over order, but I did order the same – the beef rib. Yep, ‘rib’ singular, but there is no shortage quantity. The lesson I learnt first time around, when I also ordered sliders and chips. My comrade ordered 2 pork ribs and we shared a side of chicken wings in a medium hot tangy sauce. We both voted the beef rib over the pork – way less fatty. Disappointingly (not what my picture suggests), it was not as good as on previous visits. The beef rib was way less tender and I actually preferred the chicken wings to the rib this time round. Hopefully a one-off dip, I’ll be heading back again for sure.

They have a couple of walk-in tables but it’s best to book ahead as it gets very busy! There’s a small bar area to meet or whilst waiting for your table as well as a good number of seats outside. Oh, and it ain’t cheap. A pear cider set me back a fiver at the bar and my beef rib was just shy of £22.

Fancy trying out? We’re planning a dinner there soon with our Man vs Food Crowd.