The lights are soft, records spin, and glasses catch the glow of the old bar top—a gathering place for the quietly curious. Laughter drifts; plates go out and questions fly on trivia nights, each table its own enclave.
What to Expect:
🍷 Rotating, deep-cut wine selection, including Hungarian and orange wines
🥟 Central and Eastern European small plates—pierogis, pot pie, carrot fritters
🔬 Legendary, brain-bending trivia every second and fourth Thursday
🎶 Upbeat and lively tunes, but easy to talk except peak weekends
👩🍳 Friendly owners usually behind the bar and stove, happy to talk wine or food pairings
Important Information:
✔ Table service and long bar seating, with some outdoor tables warmer months
✔ Reservations recommended for Fridays, Saturdays, and all trivia nights
✔ Wheelchair accessible single-level entry, accessible restroom, several low tables
✔ Full NA options and house choice beer alongside the wine list
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
🧠 Trivia Night Tips: Trivia happens second and fourth Thursdays—book early, it always fills up.
🍷 Surprise Releases: Zoe often pours surprise bottles midweek—best time to catch a rare or off-menu wine is Wednesday or Thursday just after opening.
🥟 Seasonal Plates: Ask for Chef's Whim if you want to try new specials; the menu changes with whatever’s fresh or festive.
🧣 Patio Cue: The handful of outdoor tables go fast in spring and fall—bring a sweater for cool nights if you want to sit outside.
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Guests highlight the deeply curated wine list, creative Eastern European-inspired food, and unforced, personal service from the owners. Most describe a welcoming bar with thoughtful vegetarian options and memorable plates—pierogis and pot pies are favorites. Trivia nights draw packed but cheerful crowds, with most evenings remaining chatty and relaxed. One or two guests found music or limited air conditioning uncomfortable on the hottest nights, but the experience and value are overwhelmingly praised.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
