The Client

Over the years, the Big Easy brand has developed a strong reputation for cool, atmospheric, eateries with a unique vibe. Inspired by the great American Gulf Coast BBQ and 19th Century crab shacks, its restaurants have become known for their stylish, stripped-back interiors, great menus and high-energy music-driven atmosphere.

Since opening its first venue in Kings Road over 30 years ago, Big Easy has expanded, bringing its signature destination restaurants into Covent Garden, Canary Wharf, and more recently to two of the UK’s top retail hubs — Westfield Stratford City and the Bluewater Centre in Kent.

At Sound Division, we have been a part of that drive from the Covent Garden site onwards, helping to develop the recognisable, high quality, winning technical formula that characterises every Big Easy location.

Project Brief

Big Easy’s operators have always been clear about the need for “warm, even and accurate” sound at each and every venue. They must deliver an ambience and atmosphere that is as welcoming and vibrant as the space itself. They demand a crowd-pleasing, state-of-the-art, high-quality sound to match the high standards set by the décor, food and service.

Core to this formula is the fact that live music — featuring seven nights a week at every venue — is a defining feature of the Big Easy experience. Loudspeakers are prominently positioned and highly visible, signalling to diners that music is front-and-centre. The live music stage is a highlight of every Big Easy night out.

Once developed, this ‘brand standard’ has been followed for every restaurant in the group, delivering a consistently exceptional experience for guests, all while adapting to the unique characteristics and requirements of each site, and keeping pace with ongoing refinements in practice and technology.

System Solution

When the Covent Garden site was in development, Sound Division provided a comprehensive listening test for the client’s decision-makers. We presented demonstrations of systems from the leading pro audio brands serving the top end of the hospitality market.

This demo was conducted at the site itself, so the client could hear exactly how the space would sound. After hours of comparison, the choice was made. Each Big Easy benefits from a unique system which delivers the right formula of sound, vision and control.

The Result

All in all, Sound Division has contributed to the consistent brand of quality and atmosphere that characterises every Big Easy, regardless of location or catchment. From the trendy King’s Road in Chelsea to the modern business district of Canary Wharf, the tourist hubbub of Covent Garden or the bustling shopping destinations of Bluewater or Westfield Stratford, the experience of the brand is recognisable. Big Easy represents effortless style, delicious food, first-class service, top entertainment — and great sound!

“Big Easy remains a highly valued client for Sound Division. Working with them has always been a pleasure, and we are proud to be a part of this winning formula.” — David Graham, Sound Division