About
4.8
(
81
)
Riot BBQ delivers a mouthwatering barbecue experience featuring perfectly smoked brisket, pork belly, and al pastor ribs alongside inventive sides like esquites cornbread and creamy mac and cheese. The casual vibe and friendly staff create a welcoming spot, perfect for families and BBQ aficionados alike.
What's Included:
🔥 Signature smoked meats including brisket, pork belly, and pulled pork
🌽 Unique sides such as esquites cornbread, mac and cheese, and beans with brisket
🎉 Casual, lively atmosphere with friendly service
🅿️ Free parking and easy street access
Important Information:
Hours vary by day; closed TuesdaysNo liquor license yet but in progressWalk-up counter service with no formal reservations
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
⏰ Arrive Early: Guests recommend getting there early, especially for popular items like burnt ends, which often sell out fast.
🌮 BBQ Meets Mexican: The al pastor ribs and esquites cornbread bring a unique Mexican flair that is a must-try for adventurous palates.
🅿️ Parking Made Easy: Plenty of free parking is available on-site and ample street parking nearby, making visits hassle-free.
🚫 Liquor License Coming: They are working on obtaining a liquor license, so expect beer and cocktails in the near future to complement your meal.
⏰ Hours
Monday: 11 AM to 8 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 11 AM to 8 PM
Thursday: 11 AM to 8 PM
Friday: 11 AM to 9 PM
Saturday: 11 AM to 9 PM
Sunday: 11 AM to 8 PM
👉 Best For
Families, BBQ enthusiasts, casual dining
📍
Riot BBQ
2180 S Delaware St
,
Denver
,
CO
80223
Public Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Riot BBQ is widely celebrated for its exceptional smoky flavors and tender meats, with many praising brisket, pork belly, and al pastor ribs. Reviewers highlight the unique sides and welcoming atmosphere. Some note the premium prices and occasional dryness in pulled pork, but the majority agree the quality justifies the cost. A few guests mention a lack of liquor license and suggest arriving early to avoid sellouts.
Last updated on
July 27, 2025
🍽️ Standout Dishes
Brisket, Pulled Pork, Pork Belly, Al Pastor Ribs, Burnt Ends, Texas Sausage, Chorizo, Chicken Taco, Cornbread, Esquites Cornbread, Mac and Cheese, Beans with Brisket, Dirty Rice, Banana Pudding, S'mores Dessert, Potato Salad, Cole Slaw, Pulled Chicken
📆 Best Times to Visit
For the best experience at Riot BBQ, visit early in the day to avoid sellouts, especially on weekends. Summer evenings on the covered patio are ideal once the liquor license is secured.
♿️ Accessibility
The location offers free parking with ample spaces. The dine-in area is casual and accessible via a walk-up counter; specific accessibility details are not provided, so guests may want to inquire directly for accommodations.
🧑🍳 Reservation Policy
None
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