Afternoons slip easily into evenings here — sun trades places with string lights and the sounds of laughter and cutlery fill the air. Inside, rows of bottles anchor crisp white walls, while out on the patio, the town slows down for a good meal.
What to Expect:
🍷 Deep natural wine list spotlighting Balkans, with glass and bottle specials
🥙 Balkan platters, Mediterranean share plates, and seasonal fish
🌿 Crisp, pet-friendly patio that’s lively all summer
🎶 Occasional live music and special event nights
👩🍳 Attentive, knowledgeable service in a women-owned spot
Important Information:
✔ Reservations accepted and recommended weekends and for groups
✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance, low tables and accessible restroom
✔ Indoor dining, bar seating, and picnic tables outside
✔ Full drink menu plus NA, vegan, and vegetarian options
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
🍽 Platter Pays Off: The Balkan platter feeds three, but regulars split it as a meal for two — don’t miss the spinach pie.
🍷 Bottle Bargains: Ask about discounted bottles from the list to-go, especially for rare Balkan blends.
🪑 Patio Rhythm: Patio tables fill first after 6:00 PM on warm nights, but late Sunday afternoons tend to be quieter for a glass and snack.
🎶 Watch Events: Live music and Balkan festival nights pop up about monthly — check their Instagram for the next one before heading over.
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Guests consistently call out the thoughtful Balkan menu, with the platter and seasonal fish leading the pack. Natural wine selection draws both casual drinkers and bottle collectors, with staff who reliably read the room and offer recs without fuss. The patio is a summer favorite — lively yet with enough space to talk. Crowds can spike on weekends, but service keeps up. Flies on hot days and the rare under-seasoned plate are minor quibbles in a spot that’s earned its keep as Margaretville’s favorite for small celebrations and relaxed meals.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
Best TimeS TO visit
Quieter for lunch or early seatings, especially on Saturdays and Sundays before 3:00 PM. Evenings after 7:30 PM Thursday–Friday are usually lively but not overwhelming. Check Instagram for event nights.
