09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Popular BBQ restaurant set for return in Ayr with pub to be transformed
The popular Homestead Smokehouse restaurant is set for a return just two and a half years after it closed.
A former Ayrshire restaurant is set for a return after closing its doors two and half years ago.
Homestead Smokehouse in Ayr closed the doors to its former premises on Alloway Place on Hogmanay in 2022.
Just two and half years later, they are back and set to take over the former Retro Bar and Cactus Jak's on Miller Road.
The company has continued trading since closing the restaurant, bringing their signature BBQ cuisine to functions and events throughout Ayrshire.
Signature dishes served at the restaurant before its closure included including freshly ground burgers lathered with cheese, streaky bacon, tender pulled pork and smoked brisket and Ayrshire's foodies will be gearing up to get a taste once again.
Updating customers, Homestead Smokehouse said: "The rumours are true.
"We've heard the whispers and it's time to set the record straight. Yes — a brand new restaurant is coming and it's ours.
"You better believe it's going to be bigger, better and smokier than ever. Smash burgers, real BBQ, killer cocktails. Let the countdown begin."
Opened in 2020, the popular Alloway Place restaurant was running for just over two years before it closed.
Prior to closure, it was Ayr's number one restaurant on Tripadvisor and earned a Tripadvisor's Travellers' Choice award in 2022.
Retro Bar, situated below LA Bowl on Miller Road, was open for less than a year after first welcoming customers in July 2024.
Previously it had been Cactus Jak's between 2008 and 2011 and Miller's American themed bar before that.
Back in the 1970s it was the Darlington Hotel, and featured international cabaret with the likes of Eartha Kitt, Lena Martell, Tommy Cooper and Vince Hill.
