Inside Joppenbergh Gap Distilling, the hum is low but steady—bottles clinking, someone laughing at the bar, sharp scent of grain and fruit. Old wood beams and plenty of sunlight set the pace for an unhurried visit.
What to Expect:
🥃 Moonshine, whiskey, and creative small-batch spirits for tasting and flights
🍸 Fresh, house-made mixed drinks and a rotating list of seasonal flavors
🧑🔬 Owner-run tours and chats about distilling if you ask
🚚 Frequent food truck visits just outside the door
🪑 Intimate indoor bar with tables plus casual outdoor seating
Important Information:
✔ Walk-in service—bartenders, owner, and regulars keep it friendly
✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance, restrooms, tables; level surfaces throughout
✔ All-ages allowed until early evening, bar service only after 7:00 PM
✔ Call ahead for groups larger than 8 or for special tastings
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
🍇 Berry Alert: Mixed berry moonshine goes fast—ask at the bar before it runs out.
🥨 Food Truck Drop-ins: Check their socials for the weekend schedule—worth timing your visit to catch local BBQ or tacos outside.
⏰ Chill Window: Sundays after 4:00 PM tend to stay quieter for long sips and easy conversation at the counter.
🌳 Outside Perch: Grab an outdoor seat on summer nights—sunset light heads straight across the fields.
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Visitors rave over inventive moonshines and a genuinely welcoming owner with deep Catskills roots. House spirits—especially the fruit flavors—are often name-checked for smoothness and originality. Guests love the relaxed setting and open conversation with the distiller, while food trucks add to the hangout value. There’s praise for the accessible, tranquil space and friendly service. No serious negatives found; the space stays mellow even when busy.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
