Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey

First time here, ordered way too much food. Their portion sizes are quite enough for 2. Server was very nice and welcoming. The ambience was quite nice. It is definitely on the expensive side. We ordered brisket, short rib (should be called a large), 1/2 chicken, burnt ends, pulled chicken sandwich, and 6 sides. All the sides were amazing!! Brisket was a bit dry but it works with the available sauces. There are 3 different types of sauces? One of which is kind of a creole/cajun mix, second is a vinegar base and lastly what tastes like tamarind/whiskey which was quite nice. Rib falls off bone and melts in your mouth, this is definitely the best. Chicken was as good as chicken can be. It wont blow you away, was juicy and seasonings went in. Did I mention the amazing sides? And corn bread with honey butter?

Overall, on the fence about this one. Better options in the area. Food is just ok. I asked the table their thoughts and they generally echoed my thoughts. The brisket was somewhat dry, and definitely requires plenty of their sauce. Sauce flavours were mediocre with nothing jumping out as spectacular. Portions compared to pricing was a bit steep, this includes drinks as well as food. Also, be sure to ask for ‘white bread’ with your brisket as it’s listed as ‘free’ but doesn’t come with your meal unless you ask. However, there are plenty of drink options available. Service was friendly and talkative. Pricing was steep all around for the end product. Drinks took a while to be delivered and the brisket took even longer. Location was not busy at this time. Atmosphere on the other hand is nice. It’s clean, warm, cozy and inviting. The bar is impressive. Depending on your seating/table your seat may be bolted to the floor. Overall, knowing what I do now I would likely pass on this location and opt for somewhere better priced or offering better dishes.

3.9 ⭐️ Great atmosphere. I’ve sat on both levels however, I prefer the tucked away upper level. It almost feels like a speakeasy. Nice selection of Whiskey and Gin cocktails. We always order a platter of the smoked meat which includes pulled pork, smoked brisket, chicken and sausage. Ordered some broccoli 🥦 and beets as palate cleansers and they were absolutely delicious. Very good house made dipping sauces to complement the meat.

Cozy and hip environment with really good smoked brisket and delectable cornbread. But the standout performer was the smoked old fashioned, which the bartender smokes in front of you with a blowtorch. If cocktails aren’t your thing, they have an insane list of different whiskeys you can try

Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey is a Texas-style BBQ restaurant located in Kensington Village shopping area in the heart of Hillhurst, Calgary. This charming BBQ spot is just north of the Bow River from downtown Calgary across the 10th Street bridge. This BBQ place is well-known for its brisket and pork spare ribs, with all of its meat being smoked in-house for ten to fourteen hours. It also has the longest list of whiskey available in Calgary restaurants. All whiskey are 1/2 price daily from 3 to 6 pm during Happy Hour. They also has Late Night Meats 1/2 off after 10 pm. It is always busy with great food and drinks. Prices are reasonable.

Very local smokehouse. Portion size is pretty good. Definitely recommend the brisket, corn bread and the chicken wings. Also, the chipotle maple pork belly was very good, sweet and savoury.

Absolutely phenomenal food, drink and service. My brother and I went here and we will definitely be visiting again. Absolutely recommend the burnt ends, the fat melts in your mouth and the sweet barbecue sauce is indescribable by words.. If you're thinking about visiting, it's definitely worth it! Amazing cocktails as well!!

Overall and amazing experience. My older sibling and I went here for dinner and we had the smoked wings, burnt ends, and lastly the smoked pork belly. All was absolutely incredible. If you are in town and come across this establishment, you need to stop for food. Server was also incredible, and the chefs make their food with love ❤️.