“Streatham-based Original Jerk has built up a loyal following with its large, exquisitely-crafted drum BBQs and for summer 2022 comes news of a first ‘micro’ version, the Nano-J, and I, for one, couldn’t be happier. 

Weighing around 12kg, the Nano-J is essentially a mini version of the J Cut, the South London outfit’s best-selling oil drum charcoal BBQ. Based around a 60cm x 40cm drum that sits on a foldable, wobble-free ‘X’ stand, the Nano exudes craftsmanship, evidenced in that sturdy steel construction complete with laser cut grills, robust fire box and stubby little chimney. 

Notable refinements compared to the DIY simplicity of a classic oil drum charcoal BBQ include the in-lid thermometer and chunky slatted grill plates. There’s also a slatted shelf above for resting, or smoking, food and when I close the sliding side vent and chimney cover it’s pretty much air tight, aiding cooking control.

With its matt black finish and shallow oiled timber side shelves, it’s a right looker, I reckon. Better still, customers can have their Nano personalised, requesting bespoke picture grills, for example. Sweet.”

KARL CUSHING EVENING STANDRAD