Heavyweight contender Zhilei “Big Bang” Zhang is partnering to open his first restaurant, Three Kingdoms BBQ, on Eighth Avenue in the Times Square area, right in the heart of New York City. The restaurant features mini-fire grills at every table to provide an authentic Chinese-style barbecue experience. Guests can expect sizzling meats fresh off the grill, shared plates and a lively, communal dining atmosphere. One of Zhang’s favorite features of the restaurant is its unique Xita sauce, inspired by a neighborhood in the city of Shenya in northeastern China.
Three Kingdoms BBQ has its name inspired by one of China’s classic novels, Romance of the Three Kingdoms, which evokes legendary warriors known for their loyalty, courage, wisdom, and brotherhood. Their stories involve feasting on roasted meats and drinking heartily. It is therefore appropriate that Zhang, the mightiest Chinese heavyweight in boxing history, is playing a role in bringing this piece of Chinese culture to New York City. Zhang, who won a silver medal for China in the Olympics, does not drink alcohol but nonetheless explained, “the spirit of the Three Kingdoms became the original inspiration for our brand. I hope this restaurant allows boxing fans and friends to come together, eat our barbecue straight off the grill, raise a glass and talk about the sport we love.”
Partnering with Zhang is Peter Song, a longtime supporter and successful restauranteur. Song successfully operates several Michelin-recommended restaurants and has been one of Zhang’s biggest fans and best friends throughout his career. Now, Song brings his expertise in hospitality to lead the operations of Three Kingdoms BBQ, ensuring that the restaurant delivers both culinary excellence and a welcoming atmosphere.
About Zhang Zhilei
Zhang Zhilei is a professional heavyweight boxer from China, known as “Big Bang” for his prodigious punching power. He represented China in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics and went on to build an international professional reputation with major victories on the world stage. His trophy case includes an Olympic silver medal from 2008 and the WBO interim heavyweight championship belt he won in 2023.
About Three Kingdoms BBQ
Three Kingdoms BBQ is Zhang Zhilei’s first restaurant venture, inspired by the heroes of the Chinese classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms. Located at the crossroads of the Times Square and Hells Kitchen areas of New York City, the restaurant offers a bold, communal barbecue dining experience designed to bring people together through food, sport, and shared passion.
