SMOKE.

Foodies of the world have long felt the call of America’s deep south, a craving that has intensified in recent years thanks to the plethora of celeb chefs, cooking shows and documentaries that explore the region and its cuisine. Although the white isle may seem worlds away from the Blue Bayou, there’s a cute little corner in Cala Llonga where good old-fashioned soul food is always the order of the day. Just add music, art and lively vibes and you’ve got the southern-inspired recipe for hip roadhouse-style bar and grill SMOKE.

On the cusp of the horseshoe-shaped bay that’s deservedly earned its reputation as a must-visit culinary hotspot, SMOKE. channels a classic USA diner with its wood-panelled bar, low lighting and speakeasy style interior. Historic jazz photographs from the 40s, 50s and 60s – shot by renowned artist Herman Leonard – line the Ibiza restaurant’s walls, setting the mood for a day or night of raucous revelry and fabulous feasting that evokes the essence of NOLA’s finest establishments, chefs and traditions.

Proudly declaring its specialty to be ‘low +slow’ barbecue, the tantalising aromas wafting from the open kitchen at SMOKE. tell tales of grandma’s secret recipe spice rubs, ancient pitmaster techniques and classic comfort food alike. There’s finger licking goodness for all appetites at this Ibiza restaurant, from BBQ chicken wings and celery dunked in blue cheese sauce, and crispy Po’ boy prawns served with zingy homemade tartare, to melt-in-your-mouth smoked brisket brioche with pickles and cajun potato wedges and much more.

The burger at SMOKE. is said to be life changing, a smashed beef double patty topped with red onion jam, melted cheese, crispy smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato and bourbon BBQ sauce – best teamed with fries or creamy mac and cheese. Sundays at the buzzing Ibiza restaurant are a fusion of sorts, when the sizzle of the south meets the best of British, for a Sunday roast that comes smoked, Louisiana-style, and is served with the all the traditional trimmings.

Naturally, the savoury treats at SMOKE. should be balanced with something sweet, so save room for fudgy choc-brownies and traditional apple pie, just like mama used to make. Wash it all down with a classic shake (make it boozy if you like), an icy cold craft beer or a twist on classic cocktails like bourbon sours or a tropical Julep. Kick back to the toe-tapping soundtrack of authentic jazz and blues or – if you happen to be in the Ibiza restaurant on a Thursday night – live music jam sessions courtesy of the island’s best musicians.

In summer, the Ibiza restaurant makes the perfect respite from the blazing Balearic sun, or après beach hangout, while in the quieter months SMOKE. becomes the cosy cantina where everyone knows your name. Whether you’ve got a hankering for some soul food, you’re hungry for an adventure or you simply want to find a place where you can transport yourself to the other side of the world for a few hours, SMOKE. is heating things up on the east coast of Ibiza.