Big John's Biltong Bar on Deptford High Street has been awarded a 5-out-of-5-star review by Time Out London, with critic Dan Stubbs praising its unique charm, artisan cured meats, and role in sparking the area's independent revival.
A Dive Bar with Heart
The bar, described as the 'diviest of dive bars,' appears to have collapsed into place or been excavated, with its name drawn onto the glass using a paint pen with letters half-heartedly colored in red. Despite the rough exterior, Stubbs notes that 'heart is what this place has in spades,' highlighting the welcoming atmosphere and customers loudly singing along to unfamiliar songs.
New Zealand native Big John himself often chats with patrons, sometimes sharing stories about playing an Orc in the Lord of the Rings movies. His concept for the bar—beer, cured meat, and tat—is described as culturally confusing yet delicious: 'New Zealand man, Australian meat, South African biltong.'
Artisan Biltong and House Beer
The meat, served simply on paper trays at the bar, is the work of a real artisan. Stubbs recommends ordering all of the meats, cured and cooked, and checking with Big John about what's available on the day. The house beer is Staropramen, which pairs perfectly with the biltong.
According to the review, Big John's Biltong Bar is arguably the place that kickstarted the arty, grungy, independent revolution happening in Deptford, and it is likely to be the most resistant to change in the long term.
Location and Nearby Attractions
The bar is located at 29 Deptford High Street, London SE8 4AD. Time Out suggests hopping a few doors down to check out Home Deptford, a recently opened independent record shop, cafe bar, and event space. Deptford's beloved weekly market, known for its chaotic mix of used goods, clothes, tat, records, and an abundance of wellies, adds to the area's vibrant character.
