NightSwim’s doors swing open to a rush of laughter, clinking glasses, and the kick of old-school beats. There’s a pulse to the place—neon glint, bartenders pouring fast, a backyard waterfall burbling beyond the fence.
What to Expect:
🍔 Smashed burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, wings, and Chicago beef
🍸 Well-made cocktails, local and budget beers, and a rotating draft list
🎤 A steady rotation of live music, DJ sets, karaoke, and burlesque
🎲 Cozy lounge with arcade games and board games, plus a projector for the game
🌿 Backyard patio with a waterfall—prime territory when the weather holds
Important Information:
✔ Table reservations accepted online for groups and events
✔ Ramp at front entrance; main bar and one restroom wheelchair accessible, with mixed standing/high tables
✔ LGBTQ+ and women-owned; crowd is genuinely local and welcoming
✔ Full kitchen service most evenings until late, with takeout available after 7 PM
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
🎶 Late Night Crowd: Friday and Saturday after 10 PM fill up fast—catch DJ sets and live bands but expect a party.
🌿 Backyard Perch: Early evening in the back patio is quieter and the waterfall blocks out Broadway’s hum.
🍔 Kitchen Tips: Kitchen fires up for takeout after 7 PM—a solid bet if other spots in Kingston call last call early.
🎯 Games & Projector: Want sports with your round? The big screen’s usually tuned to playoffs and big events—ask at the bar.
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Regulars love the fried chicken sandwiches, burgers, and crisp wings nearly as much as the loose, friendly rhythm at the bar. Beers run the range from local craft to cheaper cans; cocktails are called out as strong, though a few guests note hit-or-miss consistency. The backyard patio and music lineup make NightSwim an easy pick for night owls and groups, with lively, chatty service from bartenders. Staff get high marks for warmth, but Friday and Saturday nights can get loud and packed. A small minority have run into slip-ups with drinks or food, but most appreciate the value and local feel.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
Accessibility
Front entrance has a ramp, main bar and one restroom wheelchair accessible, standard-height seating limited, backyard has level path but mixed surfaces.
