Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    The Hayden

    4.4 (900 reviews)
    Open 8:00 am - 9:00 pm

    Order The Hayden Takeout or Delivery

    The Hayden Photos

    Business Info

    THE HAYDEN ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Trendy
    Good for groups

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - The Hayden

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Judy B.

    Ebony was FABULOUS!!! Food was incredible and even my friend who is particular about her food truly enjoyed the special burrito today! Love this place!

    Jennifer D.

    Had to stop back in for another meal. The pastrami and Swiss with a side of potato salad! It's a pretty good size so the hubby and I shared it. So good! We had to try the matzo ball soup! I'll definitely be back to have this when the weather gets colder The hot and spicy chicken sandwich! Wow, the flavor is incredible

    Crispy Brussel Sprouts
    Nancy G.

    Service: I came for lunch with a friend and colleague on a Monday. There was no wait and we were quickly seated. Miles was very attentive and friendly. He check-in in on us frequently yet made us feel like we could be here all day. Food: Delicious. The food tasted natural and fresh. I had the tomate bisque and ted dansen sandwich. It was very filling. I must say the Brussels sprouts we had as an appetizer have been my far one of the best I've had. The plaice itself is lowkey, casual and provides an atmosphere that encourages conversation.

    Pretzel with mustard and pimento cheese
    N D.

    Food was great! First time here and will return. Crystal was our server and very attentive, with recommendations. The pretzel was huge, warm and so full of taste. Don't pass this up. The Rueben was very good.

    Pretzel
    Liz Z.

    We visited The Hayden in Alamo Heights and absolutely loved it. The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between relaxed and upscale, comfortable enough for a casual meal but with a classy dinner vibe that makes it feel special. We started with the made-to-order pretzel, and wow, it is massive. Perfectly pillowy and chewy at the same time, with that classic pretzel flavor done exactly right. We ordered both the mustard and pimento cheese spreads. I'm a huge fan of the pimento cheese, while my husband loved the mustard for its classic flavor. I had the Hot Chicken Sandwich, and it was superb. The breading is unlike anything I've had at other fried chicken spots. I can't quite put my finger on what makes it different, but it's exceptional. The pickles balance the sandwich perfectly, and the house-made potato chips are a must. Nothing about this meal felt standard. Every ingredient felt intentional, elevated, and thoughtfully curated. My daughter ordered the fried chicken and latke waffle, and it was a 10/10. Perfectly crispy with that ideal sweet-and-savory combination. My husband had Elaine's Big Salad and couldn't stop talking about the tomatoes. He even asked our waitress what made them so good. The answer? Just really well-sourced tomatoes. That pretty much sums up The Hayden, you can tell they care deeply about the quality of their ingredients and the details of every dish. If you're looking for a place to relax, enjoy great company, and eat some truly outstanding diner-inspired food, The Hayden is well worth a visit.

    Isabella M.

    My first visit here this afternoon and I could say quite a bit about this place. Food: 5 stars Definitely some passion build into the food here. I tried the apple short stack and the big kahuna burger and wow. First off the pancakes I had were phenomenal. They were perfect fluffy, carrying lots of flavors of butter, and vanilla. They were plenty good enough to eat on their own but with that added apple topping they were just something else. Absolutely perfect is how I would describe the pancakes. The big kahuna burger, man! What a dish. The bun was so soft and delicious. Very nice shallow flavors to combine perfectly with the punch of flavors inside. The sweetness from the pineapple and teriyaki glaze perfectly compliments the beef patty which was also juicy and tender. Absolutely amazing. Service 3 stars While the staff was kind, there was issues with the actual service itself. First thing I notice walking in is that the restaurant was absolutely filthy and I mean it. Food all over the floor, straw wrappers, napkins. Also as I walked my shoes stuck to the floor and whatever residue was on it. The staff did tend to us but honestly I felt bad for them as it seemed they were totally understaffed and rushing through everything they did. Overall though we did still have a nice meal so can't complain too much. Ambiance 5 stars This place has an immaculate interior design. It was absolutely dreamy inside. They had a lovely composition of colors and lights, table flowers. Anything you could want in a dinner place honestly. It felt very welcoming inside and I really could sit and just admire the decor. Very very nice. So overall the score averages out to 4 stars and honestly the place would be solid if they could offer the staff some help and keep the place tidy. Also not to mention some things were a bit pricey. Example an upcharge of 3 for a Side on a dish that's already 17$ seems a little much to me when I could get a whole mean a lot of places for that. But honestly you do get good quality. So pick your preference.

    Fried artichoke
    Brittany G.

    Phil was great! Loved all of his suggestions and the food was excellent. The Ted Danson with bacon is such a classic!

    The Pastrami & Swiss
    Taylor G.

    Such a cute spot for breakfast, brunch and lunch. We loved the 2-person booths next to the bar, and all of the decor felt homey. Phil was our server and he was fantastic. The food was incredible. We got the Pastrami sandwich and apple pancakes. Highly recommend!

    Interior
    Stephanie S.

    Phenomenal spot. They have an all day breakfast menu that goes until 5 pm daily, as well as lunch options and dinner entrees. Everything the table had was delicious! I got the chicken and pancakes with baked apples. The pancake was super fluffy and the apple butter was so flavorful. The meal came with two chicken tenders which were pretty juicy. I also got to taste some breakfast potatoes which were super good. Everyone at the table enjoyed their meal. Portions were good and our service was event better: Our server Nathaniel was really nice and on top of everything. The food didn't take too long and it all came out hot and fresh. He had no problem splitting checks and making recommendations for nearby attractions. This was a great elevated diner experience. The interior is super cute and casual, while also well decorated.

    Matt G.

    Came for Father's Day. It was well reci bed by our party. Our waiter was awesome. Place was nice. Biscuits were a bit dry. Mine had gravy on it but couldn't tell. Food was good. Everyone liked what they had unless it was a biscuit. Would go back. Worth trying. It's something different from the norm.

    Mezcal Paloma
    Sam O.

    We are back at the Hayden again and lucky to have Phil as our server! Food as always was great! I recommend the old timer with the jalapeño sausage. Drinks were phenomenal including the mezcal paloma. But the best part was the service and Phil as always makes it a great experience!

    Levi R.

    The food was spectacular, I had the Kahuna burger and it had immense flavor. The teriyaki did not overbear the other flavors and the bun was very unique to other restraunts. I will say when the hostess sat us down at the tabel we were greeted by a dirty floor this picture doesn't do justice. I will give them grace because it was busy. Other than that the restaurant was nice looking and had some charm to it.

    Fried chicken and Lake waffle
    Richard S.

    We were looking for a new breakfast spot, and Google recommended The Hayden. Our server, Blair was excellent service. We had the meatloaf hash, and the fried chicken and Latke waffle. Food was very tasty and perfectly seasoned. Average cost per plate was 17. Patio seating was dog friendly and the vibe was very hip and chill. Loved everything. Blair kept my coffee cup full.

    See all

    25 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    17 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    16 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Judy B.
    233
    591
    3931

    16 days ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jeremy T.
    13
    15
    92

    5 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    22 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of N D.
    0
    22
    3

    3 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 days ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Kim B.

    Kim B.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    23 days ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Matt G.
    176
    500
    3097

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sam O.
    55
    4
    6

    10 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    17 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Kim B.

    Kim B.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ivy G.
    45
    12
    5

    3 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    20 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Kim B.

    Kim B.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    16 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    23 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    16 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Nick C.
    119
    8
    5

    17 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 day ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sam D.
    2
    34
    10

    29 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mike V.
    1
    16
    40

    16 days ago

    The expertise in the kitchen is unbelievable, the food was amazing! The service was fabulous, keep up the great work!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    17 days ago

    Food and service were great! Our server Phil was very attentive and friendly. Enjoyed our visit very much.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    17 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 day ago

    Delicious! The chicken biscuit is perfect every time. Ana was very attentive and friendly.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    20 days ago

    Blair was the greatest . We really appreciate her great service and dedication. Thanks for everything

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    26 days ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 23

    The Hayden Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - The Hayden

    Do to serve senior citizen plates?

    No, they do not.

    Is this restaurant dog friendly?

    On the patio

    Reservations or waitlist? Also are you all able to accommodate a party size of 14?

    Yes. They do both reservations and a waitlist that is run on yelp

    Is this restaurant owned and operated by the same guy who ran The Classic in the Houston - Memorial Park/Washington Corridor area? Decor, vibe and menu style looks almost…

    No, The Hayden is owned by Adam Lampinstein

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    You might also consider

    The Shack

    The Shack

    4.6
    (536 reviews)
    10.4 mi
    $$

    They have keto buns!!! But it's hit and miss, i've gone a handful of times where they didn't have…read morethem or times where the bun is extremely small. But they do lettuce wrapped, still not the same though. The service is always great since I have the extra modifications. The ambiance is nice, we are able to hear each other speak even though there are tv's playing. I'm a sucker for their bistro burger and the cucumber cup as a side.

    FIRST TIME VISIT!…read more Woohoo! Been looking for chili cheese fries and happened upon a review for this place boasting fries with a homemade chili so we HAD TO stop in tonight. THE LOCATION: on the very end of a string of businesses in a strip mall that I've never been in before, so that was cool. Lots of parking, that'll never be an issue. And right off the 410. THE MENU: Burgers, dogs, Mexi-style munchies and a variety of frozen dessert-type items like shakes, frozen fruit concoctions and Italian ice. THE STAFF: I wasn't overwhelmed with a warm welcome and smiles, at least from the guys. Lol! They should really work on that. There was a sweet gal who ran out our food orders and she was great. THE FOOD: I ordered the grilled chicken sandwich deluxe with tots and a sweet tea. The grilled chicken was juicy and cooked well and the bun was lovely, slightly sweet and toasted. Overall, the sandwich could've used more flavor, like a creamy bbq spread and cheddar instead of the "Swiss" cheese that tasted more like American cheese. But overall, 7/10. The tots were extra crispy and the guy who took my order didn't take heed to my request for ranch. I was too lazy to get up again so I settled for ketchup. The sweet tea was nicely sweet and fresh, I'll be sipping this in my dreams. The hubby ordered the bacon cheeseburger with chili cheese fries and an Oreo cookie shake. The burger looked good and he ate it quick, so there's that. This guy can EAT so it surprised us both when he slowed down fast after eating that burger. Lol! He kept saying how filling it was, but then he also killed a large shake before the food arrived, so there's that. He ate most of his chili cheese fries, leaving me a few bites to sample. Not bad. I order a Coco Haven frozen dessert to go and omg is this thing delightful! Vanilla ice cream and coconut Italian ice (?) with a blue snow cone-like syrup drizzled throughout. I loved the texture of what I believed to be Italian ice. Smooth and flaky, a perfect icy dessert. OVERALL: decent eatery, the hubby said we can go back (LOL!) Shockerrrrr! But I recommend the staff tries harder to make customers feel welcomed and comfortable. The next visit will be telling.

    Photos
    The Shack
    Mmmmmmmm
    Mmmmmmmm
    The Shack

    See all

    Smash'd

    Smash'd

    4.3
    (181 reviews)
    1.5 mi
    $$
    Family-owned & operated
    Live music

    Smash'd is a fantastic spot if you're looking for great food, a wide selection of beers and mixed…read moredrinks, and a fun atmosphere. The outdoor patio is one of the highlights. It's spacious, inviting, and features a large screen that's perfect for catching the game with friends. Whether you're stopping in for a casual meal, drinks after work, or to watch your favorite team, Smashed has a welcoming vibe that makes you want to stay awhile. The combination of delicious food, cold drinks, and a lively outdoor setting makes it an easy place to recommend.

    I've had this place bookmarked a while. It's on my "best burgers in SAT" list…read more Going in the door, let me just tell you: don't bother parking right across the street. Yeah, okay, it's convenient, but by the time you pay to park (minimum of four hours, which pissed me off) and then have your tiny, overpriced burger...you gonna be mad. Do yourself a favor and fight for street parking. I walked up to the outside counter Saturday night about 7:20. Never been here. The ladies behind the counter obviously could NOT have cared less. No nice welcome...no pleasantries. Nothing said. I spoke first, asking about seating availability inside (it was chilly), and they were rude - looked at me like I was from outer space and said they didn't know. They said they didn't know in that "yeah, good luck with that...it's Saturday at 7, dumbass" kinda way. How could you not know? And if you truly didn't know, which one of them should have gone to check for me. So I went and checked myself. Turns out: plenty of seating. Returned to the chilly duo and placed my order. Ordered the Wake and Bacon burger. I also ordered a Topo Chico, which was also met with a blank "are you from this planet?" stare. How do you not have Topo Chico or something similar !? The burger was just okay. Tiny, but tasty. Fries were so salty and over-seasoned as to be almost inedible. No one checked on me after bringing me my burger. Not one time. The only reason I gave the third star: neat, dog friendly outside area which would be cool for a group outing. Probably not going back.

    Photos
    Smash'd
    Philly Cheesesteak
    Philly Cheesesteak
    Wake and Bacon Smash'd

    See all

    Wake and Bacon Smash'd
    The Esquire Tavern

    The Esquire Tavern

    4.1
    (3.6k reviews)
    3.1 mi
    $$

    Update to first review below, rating updated from a 3 to a 5 star (drinks & bartender would get 10+…read morestars if we could rate that high): Saturday night: Went back for after dinner drinks at the Downstairs (a "speakeasy" throwback, look up the history of the place to see why). Drinks were AMAZING! Bartender Rob made the best Negroni I've ever had. I asked him to use whatever gin he thought best--result was an artistic smooooooth full-bodied drink. Told him when I was done I'd lick the glass if it wasn't considered so uncouth for a 'mature' lady like myself to do so Hubby's Buffalo Trace bourbon old fashioned was also outstanding. Rob was the bartender last night who did such a great job, and his work was even better tonight. We highly recommend The EsquireTavern for excellent cocktails. We love the long wood bar and high copper ceiling upstairs, but love the intimate speakeasy atmosphere downstairs even more. We'll definitely be back every time we're in San Antonio! First review, Friday night: Drinks were great (Manhattan and Bourbon Old Fashioned). REAL drinks, no complaints at all about those. And the bartenders were very friendly and helpful. Those aspects of the Esquire get 5+ stars from us. But the appetizers were not good, close to inedible. It was about 8:30pm or so, so maybe they were getting ready to close out the kitchen but the chalupitas with chicken tasted like rubber, and no flavor at all. The seafood platter had something in it that was breading with shell inside, but no meat of any kind. We couldn't figure out what it was supposed to be. The shrimp was good and the fish was good but those other things... We'll always love the drinks, the long wooden bar, and the ambiance at the Esquire Tavern, but we'll eat somewhere else and come here for before or after dinner drinks. (See update above to this review for when we returned the next night for after dinner drinks.)

    Drinks good price but nothing special. Super sweet on the bexar hug and French 75…read more Food was overcooked and mediocre. Au just super salty. Service slow and lacking. Riverwalk restaurants pretty much suck, and for sucker tourists maybe. Haven't had a good experience yet.

    Photos
    Gorgeous full bar
    Gorgeous full bar
    Chicken Fried Steak
    Chicken Fried Steak
    Rum for the Hills
 
 dominican republic rum, piña amaro, gentian amaro,
 pamplemousse, pineapple, lime, demerara
 SERVED ON CRUSHED ICE

    See all

    Rum for the Hills dominican republic rum, piña amaro, gentian amaro, pamplemousse, pineapple, lime, demerara SERVED ON CRUSHED ICE
    The Dogfather

    The Dogfather

    4.5
    (721 reviews)
    2.9 mi
    $$

    This is an official Local Favorite of mine! Dogfather is in a really low key location, and when you…read morewalk in the vibe is completely chill. My partner and I went on a Sunday morning just after 11am and there were already people coming in to eat. It's popular for a reason! I've eaten here a few times and had a very consistently good time, but this review will be about my most recent visit. We visited on a rainy day, but luckily we were able to snag one of the inside tables, we ordered at the counter and our orders arrived very quickly. I got the Ratchet dog which is a beef dog with queso, hot Cheetos and fried jalapeños. Dogfather uses quality dogs and buns for all of their gourmet dogs. I found the Ratchet to be meaty, salty with just right amount of spice from the jalapeños. My partner got the Pop it like it's hot, but removed the jalapeños. This was good but lacking a bit of flavor, however she and I both agreed that was on her for taking the jalapeños off the dog. Both dogs were extremely tasty, and we devoured both. I also got an order of curly fries loaded with their chili and cheese. For me, these did not have to go as HARD as they did. The chili they are using at Dogfather is seriously good, with a slight tang and a good amount of spice. It thrills but does not take away from your meal with too much heat. Very tasty. My only feedback is that Dogfather needs a larger space! There's a good size outside seating area, but for times like today when it's raining people need some coverage. They're doing it right and the crowds want to come! As I have stated this is a local favorite. If you live nearby, make it a regular spot. If you live in San Antonio, do yourself a favor and make a trip over at least sometimes. If you like hot dogs you won't go wrong.

    Everything on the menu is fully customizable! They had a dog of the day, and even a "plain Jane"…read moredog which is what I got. Super tasty loads of flavor. We got tots to share for the table, and I will say these are the best tator tots I've have in a very long time! My daughter, who is 9, just wanted a playing burger with cheese- which was technically not on the menu- but they were so kind to switch things up. Customer service was great, and the cashier was very patient and explain everything to us. We loved the decor- which was very Godfather themed. There are a couple seat in doors, but more seating outside with umbrellas at each table. I highly recommend The Dogfather to anyone who loves hotdogs and great burgers.

    Photos
    Seating/Ordering area.
    Seating/Ordering area.
    Tots with Chipotle Mayo and Parmesan
    Tots with Chipotle Mayo and Parmesan
    Gotti, Curly fries (Guisada loaded), Elote, & fried pickles

    See all

    Gotti, Curly fries (Guisada loaded), Elote, & fried pickles
    Unko Maui’s

    Unko Maui’s

    4.1
    (54 reviews)
    3.5 mi

    We walked in just to "check it out" and ended up leaving after eating a REALLY GOOD BURGER. The…read moreservice was great, the restaurant was clean, and the owner took the time to explain the menu and make suggestions. We ordered Da Slippah, and it was an EXCELLENT choice. He even showed us around and introduced us to his family and staff, which made us feel right at home. The food came out quickly, and the burger was fantastic--but the true STAR OF THE SHOW was the bread. Think Hawaiian rolls, but softer, fluffier, and sized for a burger. These burgers were no joke: meat, cheese, grilled onions, and a secret sauce--and honestly, they didn't need anything else. The grilled onions and sauce were the perfect compliment, and you could taste every flavor in each bite. The drinks came in cans. I didn't notice a fountain setup, so that might be why. It would've been nice to have a cup with ice, but I didn't ask, so maybe that's an option. Overall, this place is definitely worth a try--and we will be back!

    Wow!! After reading reviews on Instagram about this place I decided to try…read more Especially being Polynesian myself I wanted to see what a slice of the islands was like in San Antonio. I can't speak on the authenticity of this place as far as ethnic cuisine but I can tell you this was hands down one of the best burgers I've EVER had and I've had plenty!! It was a smash burger style. I love my burgers soft and this just melted in your mouth. Wasn't a fan of the fries but who needs them? I told my husband if I come back (we don't live in the area) then I am getting 2 burgers instead of 1 burger and 1 fry! Ordering was simple and fairly quick. The time to receive food wasn't too bad either and that burger was worth any wait anyways! Hope this place stays around!

    Photos
    Mushroom Swiss burger - add tomatoes
    Mushroom Swiss burger - add tomatoes
    Menú
    Menú
    Mushroom Swiss burger

    See all

    Mushroom Swiss burger

    The Hayden - diners - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...