The chef at a new barbecue restaurant in Norfolk got a standing ovation from customers on its opening weekend.

The Smokehouse launched at the Garden House pub in Banham on Friday, June 23, and enjoyed a busy first weekend.

Head chef Dave Hart even managed to impress US airmen with his dishes inspired by the American South, who were eager to visit for a taste of home.

Diss Mercury: Smokehouse head chef Dave 'the mad scientist' HartSmokehouse head chef Dave 'the mad scientist' Hart (Image: Stuart Kendall)

Landlord Stuart Kendall said: "We had a successful start which we are really pleased with.

"At one point when I asked how the food was, a group of people gave our chef a standing ovation which was great.

"We had quite a few Americans working at the nearby airbases at RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall wanting to have some food that reminds them of home.

READ MORE: Banham pub 'heart of community' once again after reopening

"One customer even said the barbecue food tastes as good as it does in Texas."

From 'Boneyard platters' and smoked brisket to fully-loaded burgers, there is an extensive menu to try with an array of sides such as mac and cheese and wings.

Smokehouse is open at the pub between 5pm and 9pm on Wednesday and Thursday, midday to 9pm on Friday and Saturday, and on Sunday between midday and 6pm.