Ruben Dawnay began smoking meats and curing fish at his parents garden in Brixton during lockdown. Paying homage to his Polish-Jewish roots, Ruben mastered his craft and began to create a range of smoked delicacies. Enter: Ruben’s Reubens. Since then, Ruben has been recognised by Code Hospitality as one of their ’30 Under 30 Rising Stars To Watch.’
After many successful residencies of serving delicious BBQ food at the likes of Naughty Piglets, Meatopia and The Crooked Well and recently in Brixton’s iconic Market Row, Ruben has brought his signature style to Peckham for an incredible summer of alfresco cooking.
Taking over a large open kitchen, Ruben has set up his two signature smokers at the beloved Peckham Arches venue. Guests can enjoy a Meat Tray (£20) which in true Ruben’s style serves up a selection of smoked meats including smoked chicken, house lamb sausage and pulled pork shoulder served with flatbread, pickles and mustard BBQ sauce. Meanwhile, veggies can opt for the Veggie Tray (£20) which features charred hispi cabbage, smoked oyster mushroom, BBQ cauliflower, flatbread, pickles and mustard BBQ sauce. For those looking for a lighter bite, Pulled Pork Buns (£10) and Pulled Mushroom Buns (£10) are also on the menu!
Peckham Arches
If you don’t know Peckham Arches then you’re in for a summer treat! Peckham Arches is a large cocktail bar and outdoor terrace that sits alongside an open fire kitchen and charcoal grill. All of that plus there’s also The Gallery, The Bar, The Games Room, and The Screening Room with custom-made decks and a private cocktail bar. With enough room for 600 guests, Peckham Arches offers a great spot for nights out – especially if you’re a large group. You can enjoy live music, DJs, and events.
To compliment Ruben’s smokey barbecue flavours, guests can enjoy a selection of house-made cocktails from the venues bars. Notable mentions include Passionfruit Mezcalita, Picante and Lychee Martini (£11). And if you’re more of a beer person then you can try Bird House London’s own house lager and pale ale – which is brewed at sister venue Bird House Brewery in Herne Hill.
Offering so much more than just a space to eat and drink, Peckham Arches boasts one of the best and largest outdoor terraces in South East London. So if you ever find yourself south of the river, be sure to visit Peckham Arches and tuck into Ruben’s Reubens’ limited-time menu.
Bookings for Peckham Arches and Ruben’s Reubens can be made on the website here.