Inside Nelly’s, trays of slow-cooked meats and rice send up steam and spice. Conversations drift over the counter as plates come packed and portions are generous.
What to Expect:
🍛 Dominican and Latin classics served cafeteria-style from a well-stocked steam table
🥩 Pernil, oxtail stew, and roast chicken alongside daily specials
🍚 Fresh rice, beans, sweet and savory plantains
🌱 Vegetarian-friendly plates and rotating options
🪑 Tables for quick meals, with takeout and delivery always available
Important Information:
✔ Counter service; order at the steam table, pick up at the counter or dine in
✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms
✔ Reservations accepted but rarely necessary
✔ For large catering orders, call ahead for best results
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
🍋 Must-Try Drink: Order the lemon juice with evaporated milk for a sweet, tangy house specialty most visitors miss.
🍖 Crispy Pernil Skin: Ask for a piece of the roast pork skin—it goes quick during lunch rush and regulars swear by it.
🕓 Early Bird Advantage: For the widest selection of dishes, stop in before 1 PM, especially on weekends when favorites can sell out.
🥄 Mofongo Move: Mofongo doesn't always appear in the hot bar—ask if the kitchen will make it to order if you don’t see it up front.
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Nelly’s draws loyal crowds for its hearty portions, flavorful pernil, and daily stews, with many raving about the homestyle authenticity and freshly made sides. The oxtail, rice and beans, and mofongo are consistently mentioned as standouts, and locals appreciate generous takeout and fair pricing. Some guests note the place is basic but always clean, and the steam table keeps service quick. A few reviews mention inconsistent service or seasoning, but most find the food vibrant and satisfying, especially for families or a hearty lunch.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Mountain Stats
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Pernil, Oxtail Stew, Roast Chicken, Rice and Beans, Fried Fish, Mofongo, Tostones, Stewed Pork, Chicken Stew, Small Plates, Sweet Plantains, Beef Stew, Arroz con Gandules, Comfort Food Specials.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms. Counter height is manageable and pathways are open for mobility devices.
