Craft & Cleaver is a Brooklyn-inspired barbecue restaurant and bar located in Hitchin. Situated at the junction of Bancroft and Hermitage Road, the venue offers an authentic American barbecue experience in the heart of Hitchin.
The interior of Craft & Cleaver is inspired by American dive bars and industrial-style spaces, featuring rustic textures like wood and steel, neon signs, and an industrial touch. The venue aims to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that mirrors the heartiness of barbecue.
The restaurant frequently collaborates with local suppliers to source high-quality, sustainable ingredients, ensuring freshness and supporting regional producers. The menu at Craft & Cleaver features a variety of smoked meats, including brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and chicken, all cooked low and slow over hickory wood in American smokers imported from Oklahoma. The restaurant also offers combo platters, allowing guests to customize their meal with different meats, sides, and sauces. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, and the venue is gluten-free friendly, with separate fryers for gluten and non-gluten foods.
In addition to the main menu, Craft & Cleaver serves a selection of craft beers and cocktails, providing a diverse range of beverages to complement the barbecue offerings. The restaurant also hosts live music events on the first Saturday of every month, featuring genres such as blues, country, rock, indie, soul, and acoustic, accompanied by the best cocktails and craft beers in town. Its lively event schedule, including quiz nights and special themed evenings, fosters a welcoming environment for both regulars and newcomers. The restaurant also has a great beer garden for soaking up the sun in the summer months.
Whether you're seeking a relaxed meal with friends or a vibrant night out, Craft & Cleaver combines authentic American flavours with a warm, social atmosphere, making it a standout destination in Hitchin’s dining scene.