Alteño brings a refined take on Mexican cuisine to the vibrant Cherry Creek neighborhood, delivering bold flavors through shareable, family-style plates. With a cozy, trendy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, including standout servers like Mel, guests enjoy an expertly curated menu featuring unique items such as scallops, seafood tostadas, and the famed jalapeño cornbread alongside creative cocktails like the avocado margarita.
What's Included:
🍴 Shareable Mexican small plates and entrees
🍹 Innovative cocktails including avocado margaritas
🍞 Famous jalapeño cornbread with chili-honey butter
🎉 Cozy, trendy atmosphere ideal for groups and celebrations
🪑 Wheelchair accessible seating and entrance
Important Information:
Price Range: $50–100 per person
Reservations recommended, especially for peak times
Parking: Paid street parking and valet available, though can be challenging
Service: Table service with fast and friendly staff
Operating Hours: Open daily from 3 PM to 11 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
🍞 Signature Cornbread: The jalapeño cornbread served with chili-honey butter is a must-try and often hailed as a highlight by returning guests.
🍹 Avocado Margarita Favorite: The black salt rimmed avocado margarita is a unique cocktail exclusive to Alteño, praised for its rich flavor balance.
🍽️ Shareable Plates: Many menu items are designed for sharing, making it perfect for groups wanting to sample multiple dishes without over-ordering.
🌙 Late Dining Option: Open from 3 PM to 11 PM daily, it’s ideal for late lunches or dinners, with a lively atmosphere that suits celebrations and casual nights out.
Public Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Alteño is widely praised for its outstanding food quality, especially the jalapeño cornbread, scallops, and creative cocktails like the avocado margarita. Guests consistently commend the friendly, knowledgeable service and cozy yet trendy atmosphere. Some diners note occasional wait or service delays, but these are rare and outweighed by the overall exceptional experience.
Last updated on
July 7, 2025
🍽️ Standout Dishes
Jalapeño Cornbread, Seafood Tostada (Uni and Kanpachi variants), Avocado Margarita, Hibiscus Margarita, Baked Hokkaido Scallops, Tuna Tostada, Crab and Avocado Lettuce Wraps, Lubina Rayada (Pacific Striped Bass), Pork Shoulder Pizza, Gringa Al Pastor, Chile Rellenos, Steak (medium-rare), Tomato Ricotta Salad, Sweet Potato with Sesame Crunch, Raw Oysters
