The Russian Mule Brewery is where the Catskills slow down and the outdoors drift in. Sun pours onto picnic tables, guitars ring out from under the awning, and the bar’s energy hums with regulars and passersby alike.
What to Expect:
🍺 Rotating house-brewed beers, from IPA to raspberry lime
🥟 Pub classics meet Russian comfort—burgers, pelmeni, Philly cheesesteak
🎶 Frequent live music on weekends, mostly outdoors in warm weather
🍽️ Lively taproom, covered pavilion, and plenty of space for groups
🏞️ Wooded setting, good fresh air, and beer flights for those who can’t decide
Important Information:
✔ Service is counter-order and table delivery; expect relaxed Catskill pace during busy hours
✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance, level indoor and pavilion seating; accessible restroom on site
✔ Groups welcome, but tables inside max at 8; call ahead for large parties
✔ Cans of any beer on tap are available to-go, and cider plus NA sodas are on offer
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
🍻 Early Pour: Fridays right when doors open offer the quietest pints and easiest orders before the dinner rush hits.
🎸 Live Sets: Most live music runs 6:00–9:00 PM on Saturdays—arrive early for best pavilion tables and bring a light jacket.
🍟 Russian Bites: Pelmeni and onion rings are local favorites; they sometimes sell out on busy weekends, so order early if you want them.
🍺 To-Go Tricks: You can get any beer from the taps canned on demand to take home—just ask at the bar before closing.
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Guests praise the variety and freshness of the house beers, with Frost Valley IPA and raspberry lime ale earning special mention. Food gets high marks for hearty pub standards and a handful of Russian specialities, though a few reviews mention the pricing and simplicity of some menu items. Most visitors highlight the easygoing staff, music, and how the space feels welcoming for friends and families. Some complaints note slow service or long waits at peak hours, especially during live music. Overall, folks say it’s worth the drive for the friendly taproom and relaxed Catskills rhythm.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
