Why the team at Smoke & Dough love Liverpool so much

It’s not just the globally inspired menu at Smoke & Dough that brings people together — it’s the people themselves.

At Liverpool’s unique BBQ restaurant — where guests enjoy flame-grilled goodness all year round — the team is as diverse and vibrant as the flavours on the plate.

From Europe to the US, the restaurant’s menu takes inspiration from around the world, and so do its people. On any given day, you’ll be welcomed by staff from nearly 10 different countries — all bringing their own culture, energy, and warmth to the experience.

Located on Paradise Street and hugely popular with families, shoppers, and group diners, Smoke & Dough has become more than just a place to eat — it’s a place to connect.

Co-founder Sachin Bajpai says the international team is one of the restaurant’s biggest strengths:

“It was always a conscious choice to have team members from so many different countries,” he explains. “Liverpool is an international city, and we get visitors from all over the world — especially thanks to Liverpool Football Club.

“Having a diverse team helps us connect with guests more meaningfully and brings fresh energy to everything we do. It creates a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that you can really feel.”

The diversity behind the scenes is also reflected in the stories being told. In this special video, team members from across the globe share what it’s like working at Smoke & Dough — and living in Liverpool, a city they now call home.

Smoke & Dough Staff - July 2025 — Credit: Smoke & Dough

“It’s a place where we all learn from one another,” Sachin adds. “And that makes it special — not just for the team, but for every guest who walks through our doors.”

One of Smoke & Dough’s international team members is General Manager Rajat Sharma, originally from India.

The 42-year-old has been part of the team for almost six years, helping deliver the restaurant’s brilliant BBQ experience— think beefed-up and plant-based burgers, chicken, stuffed mushrooms, and marinated meats cooked to perfection on the grill, along with delicious wood-fired pizzas and more.

Rajat says:

“I moved to Liverpool in 2019 to be part of the exciting hospitality industry. I’d heard great things about the city – especially the energy, the culture, and how friendly the people are.

“As General Manager, it’s my job to make sure everything runs smoothly so that our guests have the best possible experience.

“I love working here and I love the team spirit. Everyone supports each other, and there’s a real sense of unity. It’s a fun and energetic place to work, especially on busy nights. And my colleagues are more than co-workers to me — they feel like family.

“We take care of each other, and that makes work really enjoyable. I’m also lucky to have my own family here in Liverpool, so I feel supported both at home and at work.”

Like many of his colleagues who now view Liverpool as home — and who praise the city for its lively atmosphere and buzz — Rajat quickly fell in love with one of its most defining qualities: its people.

He smiles:

“The people in Liverpool are incredibly warm and welcoming.”

“I love the mix of old and new in Liverpool — from the city’s history and music to its modern, vibrant culture. There’s a real sense of community here. Liverpool has become my second home, and I’d love to stay here for the long term.”

Smoke & Dough offers a range of menus, from its budget-friendly lunchtime feast with hot and fresh dishes that won’t break the bank, to its mouthwatering evening grill menu packed with meaty, vegetarian and vegan favourites — plus a fabulous bottomless brunch.

And at the heart of it all?

Smoke & Dough’s signature two-course, fixed-price BBQ grill meal experience — featuring seven different kinds of meats — is something you simply can’t miss.

Find out more about Smoke & Dough here.

Find more great places to eat across Liverpool here.

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