FIELD NOTES
4.6
(
521
)
Midday sun catches the screen door and the smell of hickory smoke drifts to Main Street. Inside, order at the counter and watch platters stack with meat, steam, and sharp pickles.
What to Expect:
🍖 House-smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, jerk chicken, and more
🥒 Homemade spicy pickles, beets, and sharp cornbread
🪑 Indoor tables, a small patio with umbrella shade, and takeout
🥔 Sizable portions—platters and sides built to share
🍺 Beer, soda, and sweet tea in the fridge
Important Information:
✔ Counter service only—order up front, pick up at the window
✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance, restrooms, seating
✔ No reservations; walk-ins all day
✔ Call ahead for large catering orders or special requests
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
🍔 Piggie Pie Pro Tip: The Piggie Pie is a local favorite—it's messy, stacked, and feeds two if you're just snacking.
🌶️ Watch the Pickles: The homemade pickles pack serious heat. Ask for milder sides if that's not your style.
🍺 Outside Drinks Allowed: They've got beer and soft drinks, but you can also bring your own non-alcoholic drinks to the patio in a pinch.
🥩 Brisket Runs Out: Certain meats, like brisket and burnt ends, sometimes sell out by late afternoon. Come early for best selection.
Hours
Monday: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM–6:00 PM
Best For
Groups, families, casual eaters, BBQ seekers
COORDINATES
550 Main St
,
Catskill
,
NY
12414
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
J&J Smokehouse BBQ is a well-loved Catskill fixture for those chasing smoky BBQ and big servings. Reviewers rave about generous portions of brisket, pulled pork, and sausage, with homemade pickles and sides like potato salad and mac & cheese earning regular praise. The counter staff are known for their friendly welcome, and the quick service keeps even big groups moving along. Most agree the value is strong for the amount of food. While some encounter spice in the pickles or wish for table service, regulars and road-trippers alike call it a reliable spot for unfussy, meaty plates and a relaxed meal indoors or out.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
MOUNTAIN MAP
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Mountain Stats
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
What You'll Get
Pulled Pork, Chopped Brisket, Smoked Brisket, Ribs, Jerk Chicken, Pulled Chicken, Piggie Pie, Hot Sausages, Burnt Ends, Cornbread, Spicy Pickles, Potato Salad, Cole Slaw, Mac & Cheese, Baked Beans, Garlic Mashed, Beet Salad, Mango Habanero Sauce.
Best TimeS TO visit
Arrive before 1:00 PM on weekends to beat the lunch rush and get the best pick of brisket and burnt ends. The patio is especially nice on sunny days.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms. All tables are at ground level and staff assist with trays when needed.
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✅ Cancellation Policy
Not applicable; all orders are walk-in or takeout.
