Your good
time is our
pleasure

When the fire starts to burn

“Are you coming along?” A seemingly innocent question about a road trip through the BBQ belt of the USA, with a much bigger impact than Kasper Stuart and Jord Althuizen could ever have imagined. Kasper, a well-known Belgian entrepreneur with deep expertise in hospitality, a rebellious edge, and mad cocktail skills, was instantly intrigued by the question in 2015. Little did he know what Jord—a BBQ competition champion, owner of Smokey Goodness BBQ catering, and author of award-winning BBQ books—had in mind when he spoke about a road trip to uncover the true culture behind American BBQ.

The road trip turned into a food frenzy, leaving a 4,000-mile trail of culinary discoveries between BBQ meccas and BBQ legends. Every smoker was opened, plates were filled, Rennies were consumed like Smarties, and the secrets of the craft behind cooking with fire were uncovered. After a stop at The King in Memphis, the journey continued at full speed through a smoke-filled landscape of flavour. Somewhere between the enormous slow-smoked beef ribs, the baked beans, and the true IPAs, an idea rose from the ashes of the dying embers. Why not introduce Europe to this delicious celebration of fire? Not as a simple copy of everything they had seen and devoured, but as their own interpretation. An artisanal BBQ experience enriched by the culinary skills and influences of local heroes from our passionate crew and trusted suppliers?

|BS| Antwerpen

After returning from the States, the idea continued to smoulder beneath the surface. Devious plans were forged, and when the perfect location was found in the former distillery of De Koninck Brewery in Antwerp, the flames quickly spread. In record time, the BlackSmoke concept was brought to life, opened its doors, and delivered a legendary first year with a team of maniacs who gave it everything they had. Two years after their road trip, fiery friends Kasper and Jord look back not only on an incredible journey of discovery through the USA, but also on one hell of a ride in Antwerp.

|BS| Rotterdam

But a good fire can never truly be tamed, and after three years, a new chapter was added to the adventure book. After a long search for the perfect location, it was found in 2018 at the Van Nelle Factory in Rotterdam. A remarkable site with UNESCO World Heritage status and two supportive owners who weren’t afraid of some fiery excitement. A daring plan was forged, a partnership was formed, and the quest for an environmental permit began. Due to the World Heritage status, the process moved at a low & slow pace, but after a long period of smouldering, the flames finally caught fire. After a year of careful preparation, the moment had arrived: BlackSmoke Rotterdam became a reality—and what a reality it was. The fiery friends did it again! Come and witness the result of this friendly fire for yourself. Read more BBQ adventures.

Rules? Where you’re going there are no rules

Mi fuego, su fuego! Our fire burns for everyone, and everyone is welcome. Even if you’re not a meat lover, we’ll serve up the most spectacular vegetable dishes. Are you the designated driver? We’ve got you covered. Our bar staff can create magic without alcohol too. And if all the fiery excitement makes you crave a little privacy, we’ll make it happen. Just ask—that’s what we’re here for!