Nottingham Red's True Barbecue could reopen with major change

There was sadness when meat-lovers' heaven Red's True Barbecue in Nottingham closed its doors earlier this year - but there may be good news on the horizon. The meaty joint in Queen Street could be reopening if a licensing application is approved, which would lead to a significant change.

Tokyo Industries, which operates Red's, has outlined its plans in the application to Nottingham City Council. Operations director Chris Bateson revealed they want to reopen the site but pivot the business to help it survive.

The changes would mean punters could visit for a drink without having to eat. He said: "We have currently had to close the premises due to increased business costs which made the operation non-viable in the current climate.

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"We still occupy the premises as the leaseholder and have intentions to reopen the premises, pivoting the model to allow for drinks consumption without the need for food purchase. The main focus of the business will remain food oriented but we need the ability to allow customers to occupy our venue for a drink only also."

Sweet and meaty - the Donut Burger at Red's (Red's True Barbecue)

The current licence states alcohol cannot be sold or supplied on the premises other than to people eating a "substantial meal."

Red's, renowned for its towering burgers and feasts of ribs, brisket, wings and pulled pork, closed in February this year as energy costs rose and the cost of living crisis hit hard.

Its closure was announced in a sign on the window saying: "Sorry for the inconvenience, but due to business costs and the cost-of-living crisis Red's True BBQ will be closing for the unseeable (sic) future. Thank you to everyone that that has been with us over the years, it has been an absolute pleasure!"

The restaurant opened in 2015, latching on to the trend at that time of smokehouses and big meaty feasts. In 2019, the company, which also had restaurants in cities including Leeds and Manchester, was bought out of administration by Manchester-based club and bar operator Tokyo Industries.