Stellar Jay, perched atop the Populus hotel, delivers a trendy rooftop dining experience blending stunning Denver skyline views with a nature-based menu focused on small plates and cocktails. Guests enjoy a romantic, vibrant atmosphere perfect for special occasions or casual evenings, complete with attentive service and a thoughtfully curated wine list.
What's Included:
🌇 Rooftop seating with city and mountain views
🍽️ Varied small plates including vegetarian options
🍹 Signature cocktails and extensive wine list
🪑 Wheelchair accessible seating and facilities
Important Information:
Hours: Daily from 4:30 PM to 11 PMReservation recommended due to high demandLimited parking; valet and paid street parking available
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
🌆 Rooftop Vibes: The rooftop offers unique views of Denver’s skyline and Rocky Mountains, making it ideal for summer patio dining and sunset cocktails.
🍄 Must-Try Dishes: The tempura mushrooms and gnocchi come highly recommended by locals and repeat visitors.
🍸 Cocktail Culture: Signature cocktails like the Summer Mule and Last Word gin cocktail are favorites and worth sampling during a visit.
🕓 Timing Tips: Arrive early or book reservations to avoid long waits, especially on weekends, as seating is limited and demand is high.
Public Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Stellar Jay impresses many guests with its breathtaking views, chic ambiance, and standout dishes like tempura mushrooms and gnocchi. Guests praise the cocktail selection and professional service, especially for drinks and romantic dinners. However, some reviews express frustration over inconsistent service, wait times, and pricing, with a few citing pretentiousness and disappointment in food quality relative to cost. Management responses reflect awareness of these concerns and ongoing efforts to improve.
Last updated on
November 4, 2025
🍽️ Standout Dishes
Tempura Mushrooms, Gnocchi, Beef Skewers, Grilled Carrots, Salmon, Quail, Carpaccio, Crudo, Chocolate Chip Cookie, Onion Butter Bread, Polenta Cake, Asparagus
♿️ Accessibility
Stellar Jay offers wheelchair accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating; however, wheelchair accessible parking lot is not available. The venue is committed to accommodating guests with mobility needs.
