MAKfam offers a unique Chinese dining experience blending traditional flavors with a modern, hip-hop ambiance. The chef, who trained under David Chang, crafts a menu of small and large plates including standout items like pork belly bao and mala wings. Patrons enjoy fast, friendly service in a cozy, trendy setting perfect for lunch or dinner.
What's Included:
🍜 Authentic Hong Kong-style Chinese dishes
🎶 Hip-hop and '80s music vibe
🍹 Great cocktails and happy hour options
🥢 Vegetarian-friendly menu options
A must-visit for adventurous diners seeking bold flavors and a lively atmosphere in Denver’s Baker district.
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
đź“Ť Local Insights
🍜 Must-Try Bao Buns: The shredded pork belly bao and spicy chicken bao are fan favorites, praised for juicy fillings and balanced flavors.
🎶 Hip-Hop Atmosphere: Expect an energetic vibe with music ranging from '80s hits to hip-hop, enhancing the dining experience.
🍹 Unique Cocktails: The bar offers creative drinks like the MSGin and Baijiu-based beverages that provide a bold twist on traditional cocktails.
🕰️ Lunch is Less Busy: Lunch visits typically have no wait, while dinner can get busy; plan accordingly especially on weekends.
Public Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
MAKfam enjoys enthusiastic praise for its authentic and flavorful Chinese small plates, especially the bao buns, dumplings, and spicy noodles. Reviewers highlight the upbeat hip-hop atmosphere and attentive service, with many noting the chef’s background under David Chang. The cocktails receive mixed reviews, and some diners find noodle dishes smaller or less remarkable, but the overall experience is highly recommended. Occasional mentions of loud music and parking challenges appear.
Last updated on
July 7, 2025
🍽️ Standout Dishes
Pork Belly Bao, Mala Wings, Beef Glass Noodles, Chinatown Dumplings, Mozzarella Sticks, Scallion Pancakes, Shredded Pork Belly Bao Bun, Fancy Wun Tun Tong, Sizzling Spicy Noodles, Marinated Shiitake Bao, Tofu Sizzling Spicy Noodles, Shrimp & Broccoli Glass Noodles, Calamari, Chicken Wings, Bao Buns, Dumplings
♿️ Accessibility
MAKfam has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking lot, and seating areas, making it accommodating for guests with mobility needs.
