The lights are low and the chatter carries through the wood-paneled room. Smoke rises from the grill and plates land with a steady rhythm, while live bands or jukebox keep the energy up late into the mountain night.
What to Expect:
🍔 Juicy burgers, wings, and homemade fries coming straight from the owner’s kitchen
🍻 Cold beer, cocktails, and happy hour specials poured from the classic bar
🎤 Regular live music, open mics, and nights with local bands
🎱 Bar games and TVs tuned to the game in a no-nonsense, welcoming space
🥗 Homemade dressings and small menu with focus on fresh-made comfort food
Important Information:
✔ Table service with owner often cooking and greeting guests
✔ Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating throughout
✔ Reservations accepted; walk-ins typical unless for larger events
✔ Live music most weekends, with dancing into the night
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
Local Insights
🎸 Live Band Tips: Bands start late and crowds pick up after 8:30 PM on weekends—show up early for tables.
🍔 Off-Menu Specials: Ask about any scratch-made specials not on the regular menu—owner enjoys surprising regulars.
🍺 Happy Hour Stretch: Weekday happy hour runs long, and you might catch a game on with the locals at the bar.
🪑 Family Nights: Earlier evenings and Sundays are quieter and family-friendly, especially before music starts up.
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Guests praise the friendliness of both the owner and staff, noting that everything is made from scratch, with fresh burgers and homemade fries a highlight. The bar draws a steady local crew but makes newcomers feel welcome, especially on live music nights. Prices are fair, drinks are solid, and portions keep folks coming back. A few note the building looks worn from the outside, but nearly all agree the food and hospitality inside win them over and far outweigh any rough edges.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrances, seating, and restrooms. Bar has low and standard tables, with clear entryways and flat floors throughout.
