Save 20% on RMB100 vouchers at The Rooster, Shanghai. Try 24-hour smoked brisket, BBQ plates & Pickle Martinis. Family-run bar. Limited time.
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By Ned Kelly
A former offensive lineman who played every snap, 16 years ago he hopped on a plane looking for adventure and traded helmet taps for tong taps and a smoker.
We sat down with the man they call Big Lowe to find out how backyard BBQs turned into taking over beloved neighborhood bar The Rooster—and how it is a family-run labor of love.
Grab a pickle martini and pull up a pew...
Big Lowe with a big smile
On his football career...
Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, I played American football at the University of Arkansas–Pine Bluff, where I had the opportunity to attend an HBCU—Historically Black College or University—before they started getting the level of national recognition they’re receiving today.
It was a great experience both on and off the field.
I played every position on the offensive line, which helped me develop a strong understanding of the entire unit and how each position works together.
On his favored position...
Out of all of them, playing center was by far my favorite. I loved being the one to snap the ball and start every play.
As the center, you have to understand not only your own responsibilities but also the assignments of the entire offensive line, which made every down exciting and mentally engaging for me.
On the appeal of the sport...
Football came naturally to me because of my size and physicality, but what I really enjoyed most was the physical and mental battle that happens on every play.
I took pride in being able to dominate at the line of scrimmage and impose my will on opponents, both physically and mentally.
Big Lowe in his playing days
On moving to Shanghai...
After finishing my football career, I was looking for a new kind of adventure and randomly hopped on a plane to Shanghai.
The city was completely different from anything I had experienced before, but the energy of the city hooked me right away.
That was 16 years ago, and the city has become my home.
On his BBQ baptism...
Big Lowe’s BBQ officially started in 2023, but my love for BBQ goes back much further.
When I was playing football in Arkansas, part of game day meant walking through the tailgates before kickoff.
Fans would have smokers going, and for $5 in a red Dixie cup you could get yourself a plate. That experience really stuck with me.
That’s where the idea came from—to bring that style of BBQ plate culture to Shanghai.
On getting into the BBQ business...
When I first arrived, I worked as a teacher, but cooking had always been a passion of mine; I was constantly hosting backyard BBQs with my family and looking for any opportunity to cook for people.
I want my food to take people on a journey they won’t forget. BBQ isn’t just food—it’s about bringing people together around the table.
Big Lowe bringing people together round the BBQ
On it being a family affair...
Cooking is something my wife and I truly love doing together, and it’s very much a team effort in our kitchen.
While I focus on the BBQ and smoked meats, she brings creativity to the sides and desserts and really makes them come to life.
Together we love to create meals that feel complete—great BBQ, memorable sides, and food made with love that brings people together.
On his number one ingredient...
My BBQ style is heavily influenced by Southern and Texas traditions—slow-smoked meats, simple seasoning, and letting the smoke do the work.
My mom always told me the number one ingredient in any meal should be love, and that’s something I try to put into every dish I create.
Lovely looking meat
On The Rooster popups...
I’ve been coming to The Rooster since the Yongkang Lu days. The original owners and staff have always felt like family to me.
READ MORE: This Day in History: Yongkang Lu Bar Street Shut Down
When the opportunity came up to do some popup events and showcase my BBQ plates and smoked meats, I jumped at it right away.
Rooster Gin gets the thumbs up
On taking the Rooster reins...
At first it was just about doing events and sharing my food with their guests. But over time the collaboration worked really well.
When the opportunity came up for me to take things over, it honestly came as a surprise—but it was also an opportunity I was really excited about and ready for.
On what to expect from Big Lowe's Rooster...
The Rooster already has a loyal group of regulars, so keeping them happy is very important to me. There are some fan favorites on the menu that will definitely stay.
At the same time, I’ll be adding more BBQ-inspired dishes and hosting more BBQ events. The goal is to keep the spirit of The Rooster alive while bringing some of my own flavors and ideas into the kitchen.
I want The Rooster to be a place where people can come for great drinks, great food, and a relaxed atmosphere any night of the week.
Regular roosters
On his signature dish...
I’m known for my brisket. I smoke my briskets for at least 24 hours and make sure they rest properly before serving.
I take a lot of pride in the process. Seeing people’s reactions when they try my meat makes all that work worth it.
And what to wash it down with...
Our new Pickle Martini—The Meg—is definitely worth trying. It’s unique, refreshing, and pairs surprisingly well with the BBQ.
On the soul of The Rooster…
A food-driven cocktail bar where casual nights out meet seriously good plates.
The Rooster 107, 445 Jiangning Lu, by Wuding Lu, Jing'an District 江宁路445号107, 近武定路
20% Off!
For a limited time, snag RMB100 The Rooster vouchers for just RMB80!
Click below to get yours now:
[All images courtesy of Jordan Lowe]
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