Ragin' Hog BBQ offers a rustic, authentic Southern barbecue experience in Berkeley, specializing in tender smoked meats paired with a variety of homemade BBQ sauces and classic sides. The family-owned spot is known for its friendly service and a laid-back atmosphere that locals appreciate.
What's Included:
🍖 Southern-style smoked meats like brisket, burnt ends, pulled pork, ribs
🍽️ Housemade BBQ sauces with diverse flavor profiles
🥧 Classic Southern sides including buttermilk pie, mac and cheese, potato salad, collard greens, cornbread
đźš— Free parking lot and street parking
Important Information:
Open Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 7 PM; closed SundaysCounter-service dining with dine-in, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup optionsWheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restroom, and seating availableNo reservations accepted; walk-ins only
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
🍖 Sauce Variety Delight: The extensive selection of homemade BBQ sauces allows guests to customize their meals, making each visit unique.
đźš— Best Parking Access: Use the west entrance parking lot shared with Safeway for the easiest access and plentiful free parking.
🌞 Peak Lunch Hours: Expect busiest times between 12 PM and 2 PM, especially Fridays; arriving earlier avoids the lunch rush.
🥧 Crowd-Favorite Dessert: The red velvet cookie is a unique sweet treat that draws repeat customers despite its unconventional flavor.
Public Review Sentiment
.svg)
Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Ragin' Hog BBQ is praised for its authentic Southern-style smoked meats, especially the brisket, burnt ends, and pulled pork, complemented by a wide variety of flavorful housemade sauces. Customers love the friendly, efficient staff and the cozy, casual atmosphere. Some reviewers noted inconsistencies with the sides, particularly the collard greens and cornbread, and a few mentioned dryness in certain dishes during delivery. Overall, it is a beloved local BBQ spot with a strong reputation for quality and hospitality.
Last updated on
July 7, 2025
🍽️ Standout Dishes
Brisket, Burnt Ends, Pulled Pork, Ribs, Pork Sandwich, Mac and Cheese, Potato Salad, Collard Greens, Cornbread, Brunswick Stew, Buttermilk Pie, Chicken Gnocchi Soup, Red Velvet Cookie
♿️ Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating ensure comfortable access for guests with mobility needs.
