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Beautiful building that feels more like a cabin than restaurant. It's a fun place for groups and has a great atmosphere. The BBQ leans more hipster than traditional. The pulled pork was my favorite. It's flavorful and something I'd definitely order again. The ribs were solid, the beans were terrific, and the cornbread was surprisingly good, but the topping looked a little like potato salad at first glance. The Chicken Loco wasn't a repeat order for me, and the sauce had a curry-like texture that just didn't work. The turkey was good but over-seasoned. Overall, there were some really good individual items, but I left disappointed with the meal as a whole.
If someone asks me where to get BBQ in Denver, my answer is usually Riot BBQ. I've eaten their food multiple times at this point and every visit reminds me why I like it so much. What stands out to me is that they're doing their own thing. You can tell there are Texas barbecue influences, but there are also flavors from Northern Mexico throughout the menu, which I personally love. The chicken loco is fantastic. The Texas sausage is always a good choice. And if the al pastor pork ribs are available, get them. The sides are great too. Don't skip the esquites cornbread, mac and cheese, or potato salad. More than anything, I appreciate the attention to detail. Nothing feels like it's there just to fill space on the menu. Every item feels intentional. I've recommended Riot BBQ to plenty of people and will continue to do so.
Entirely possible they had a bad day, but for a well recommended bbq place, I was disappointed. I can at least say the smoked chicken was pretty good. And I didn't really like anything else sadly. The brisket was dry, and the pulled pork was bland. Not so bad with the sauces, but it should stand on its own. The Mac was also very genetic. Good, but same as any mac-n-cheese from anywhere. Nothing made it stand out. I love bbq, but unfortunately this place not likely to be in my repeat list
I really needed brisket yesterday, and oh man did this place deliver! Everything was delicious! They had the World Cup game on too. By far the best barbecue I've had in Denver! The Mexican flavors aren't interesting twist. Can't wait to go back!
Thanks again Yelp for directing me to the Michelin star Riot BBQ place in Denver. Let me start by saying WOW! Meat was cut by the LB while you wait. Served on metal trays with bandanna napkin wrapped silverware- nice touch. I wanted ribs and they disappeared off my tray. I was a bit too adventurous and ordered 6 ribs and that was 2 lbs! A bit too much for just me. They scaled back to a pound. Lol. I could have polished off a couple more. Macha slaw was interesting and totally unique in the world of same old slaws. I like a bit more punch and added the house made thin cucumber pickle slices with each bite. Fantastic! Those pickles are with the trip to this place. Not kidding. They give em away. I debated on Mexican key lime pie and while I shrugged it off, the manager said, here, take a banana pudding on me. That was as good as Magnolia Bakery and that really saying something folks! BBQ sauce was Da'Bomb! Riot sweet and smoky did the trick. I wanted to drink it! Do NOT miss this BBQ gem in Denver. Thank me later!
The best BBQ I've had in Denver. I may have said that before about other BBQ places, but after having Riot BBQ, nope, this wins, hands down. The flavoring, the tenderness of the meat, the sides, the staff, the decor it was all excellent. I split, with my bestie, the pulled pork, brisket, the esquites cornbread, and Mac and Cheese. They have a few different types of sauce you can select from. Each sauce does fit well with one meat- you just have to try them all out and see what sauces tastes best with what meat. They are closed on Tuesdays and are open at 11am on all other days as long as they still have food to feed you for that day! Burnt ends run out fast on the weekends. Divine! Highly, highly recommend!
The exterior does not do Justice to how cute this eatery is inside. It's very welcoming and comfortable once you get in the door. The counter service was friendly and fast. Seating was ample. We sat outside on the back patio where music played and plenty of shade covered us. We enjoyed our food from the brisket to the beans to the quesadilla. We were disappointed that the sauces were odd tasting. We couldn't find one that was traditional, classic bbq sauce. The cornbread, potato salad and citrus chicken were not much to our liking as they were either bland or odd tasting. For a bbq place, it is pretty good, but not for those who like the traditional, classic flavor profiles.
Being from Kansas City, I don't hand out BBQ praise lightly -- we're spoiled with some of the best in the country. That said, Riot BBQ is the real deal. The meats were perfectly smoked, tender, and packed with flavor, and the sauces complemented everything without overpowering it. You can tell they take pride in doing BBQ the right way. Portions were generous, sides were on point, and the staff was friendly and welcoming. If you're looking for legit BBQ that would absolutely hold its own back in KC, this is the spot. We'll definitely be back.
My new BBQ obsession: the fiery fusion of Texas-style smokiness and Northern Mexico's asado traditions from Top Chef alum Manny Barella and longtime AJ's pitmaster PatrickKlaiber. They've revived and reimagined the former AJ's Pit BBQ space in the cozy space hidden on a residential street. (Don't miss the patio with the mural paying homage to all the famous barbecue classics). Already a neighborhood favorite, they're selling out nearly every day ever since launch -- so get here early! Here's what's stealing the show: - 14-hour smoked prime brisket -- melt-in-your-mouth perfection (also available as an entire rib) - Wagyu pastrami -- rich, smoky, and indulgent - Pork ribs al pastor -- smoky with a tangy kick (my favorite) - Smoked turkey -- the delicious sleeper hit you didn't see coming - Esquites cornbread -- the fan-favorite bite everyone's talking about - Salsa-macha slaw -- spicy, nutty, and fresh (I'm now always adding macha salsa to my slaw) - Chicken tacos -- zesty citrus-marinated smoked chicken on a pueblo green chile tortilla, topped with salsa fresca & avocado crema (another surprise favorite of mine) Wash it down with: - A killer margarita or bourbon peach smash cocktail - Plus a lineup of local draft beers that pairs perfectly with the smoke
Being that I was just at Franklin's in Austin this summer, I can honestly say I know a thing or two about good bbq! The brisket was super tender and I can't wait to come back and compare the beef rib. I also really wanted to try the burnt ends but alas, they were already sold out. Great smoke on everything g and I loved the beans and potato salad! Very cool ambiance and friendly service- they even gave me the rest of the pork belly for no charge since it was it for the day! I'll be back for sure!
I loved everything about my experience here. Even waiting in the long line! We had the Friday daily special with a few sides and some pork belly. Everything was fantastic! The place was poppin'. The only thing I'd change is coming early, so I could try some other meats before they sell out.
Came across Riot BBQ on Yelp and we decided to give it a try for a late lunch. It was a great choice. Located in what appears to be somewhat of a transitioning industrial area, you turn the corner and there it sits with stacks of wood around the front entrance. You walk in and it feels like a historic home with antique furnishings, lighting, as you enter the main dining area, the order and pickup counters to your left. Staff we encountered were all friendly and we were acknowledged immediately upon approaching the order counter. The young lady who took our order, did a great job explaining menu items. We decided on ribs, brisket, cornbread, macha slaw and beans. I also ordered a Hibiscus Aqua Fresca. A couple of our ribs were a bit dry but otherwise everything was delicious!! Good flavor, nice bark on ribs and brisket. They have great bbq sauces. We enjoyed our sides as well. Riot felt like being at a backyard bbq.
This may be the best BBQ spot in Denver. You'll come hungry and leave stuffed and smelling like that sweet smoker if you sit on the back patio. There are a few things that stand out about Riot BBQ, however. The food is obviously the bomb dot com. The meats are cooked in a traditional American method, and have hints of Mexican influence that take their flavors and textures over the top. You wouldn't confuse this with Mexican food, however. It is American BBQ through and through. I am extremely picky about fat in my meat and the Riot team offers a delicate balance of lean and fatty. Five stars. Hands down. The drinks and sides have much more distinctly Mexican flavors, but still fit cleanly into American BBQ sides - potato salad, corn bread, beans, etc. Another 5 stars. Typical, casual BBQ spot decor. The patio is spacious and integrates the dining experience with the slow process of smoking and cooking the meats on your plate. I like that I was immersed in a way that made me think about the process of how the food I was eating is made. Five stars. The employees seem to like their jobs and genuinely care about their clientele and the business they are running. A rarity. Five stars. Make a trip. It's worth it. read more
In town visiting family and they told us about this very good BBQ place they tried before and wanted to share the amazing food with us. Riot BBQ offers incredible meats and sides created by their staff. All friendly and ready to help you in every way when you order. This is a walk up and order menu and you take it back to a table of your choice. Loved the decor creating an atmosphere of someone's home when you walk in the front door, then you enter the kitchen area to order in an open dining area with industrial feel highlighting old signs and light fixtures. Then you have outdoor seating so there is plenty of room for all. Riot offers local beers and some mixed cocktails, daily specials on the meats and freshly made Iced Tea, lemonade and Hibiscus Fresca which was the best I have ever had! Our food was amazing, we tried the brisket, pastrami, burnt ends and ribs. All were cooked to perfection moist and seasoned Texas style. The sides of Mac n cheese, cornbread, bbq beans, dirty rice, loaded baked potato and house made pickles were an incredible side to the deliciousness of the meat. So many other options as well, but the S'mores Pot de Creme and banana pudding were a great finish to the lunch enjoyed by all. Bravissimo Riot BBQ you guys truly Rock, simplicity meets deliciousness. Bon Appetitto read more
14 days ago
What an experience. We flew into Denver earlier that day and wanted to get some dinner. I was craving soul food and settled on Riot BBQ. It was close enough to where we were staying and I love some good BBQ. We get in there and there's one guy ahead of us and he has a huge order so we had to wait awhile. Not a problem at all. The aromas in there were making my mouth water. I was happy to wait. I seen a young guy slicing meats up and juice flowing out of them! I was excited. I asked for a taste of what was their smoked turkey and it melted in my mouth. I never had turkey like that! Wowowow! When we were next up they hooked it up! I felt like royalty only because we had to be patient. I wanted to order everything! I got brisket, the smoked turkey, the pork ribs, the man n cheese, the pit beans, the esquites cornbread, and all the desserts. They gave me a little extra turkey cause they seen my face light up like Christmas morning after trying it. They gave us a discount at that AND threw in a free dessert. It was outstanding. The meats were amazing, juicy and flavorful. The sides were just as delicious. The bbqs sauce on the table were delicious too. The Carolina Gold, the Chipotle, and the Mop sauce was my favorite. The service was impeccable. Larry and his crew got something amazing going on there at Riot BBQ. They made me feel like family and that they cared about my experience there. It's been a long time since I've had service that great. It will definitely be a must stop every time I come to Denver. Also who would have thought Denver to have such good BBQ?! But be sure to get there early because right after we got there around 6, everything was sold out by 7! Someone also suggested to go on a day they have burnt ends! Riot BBQ y'all have my whole heart! read more
Beautiful building that feels more like a cabin than restaurant. It's a fun place for groups and has a great atmosphere. The BBQ leans more hipster than traditional. The pulled pork was my favorite. It's flavorful and something I'd definitely order again. The ribs were solid, the beans were terrific, and the cornbread was surprisingly good, but the topping looked a little like potato salad at first glance. The Chicken Loco wasn't a repeat order for me, and the sauce had a curry-like texture that just didn't work. The turkey was good but over-seasoned. Overall, there were some really good individual items, but I left disappointed with the meal as a whole. read more
If someone asks me where to get BBQ in Denver, my answer is usually Riot BBQ. I've eaten their food multiple times at this point and every visit reminds me why I like it so much. What stands out to me is that they're doing their own thing. You can tell there are Texas barbecue influences, but there are also flavors from Northern Mexico throughout the menu, which I personally love. The chicken loco is fantastic. The Texas sausage is always a good choice. And if the al pastor pork ribs are available, get them. The sides are great too. Don't skip the esquites cornbread, mac and cheese, or potato salad. More than anything, I appreciate the attention to detail. Nothing feels like it's there just to fill space on the menu. Every item feels intentional. I've recommended Riot BBQ to plenty of people and will continue to do so. read more
Entirely possible they had a bad day, but for a well recommended bbq place, I was disappointed. I can at least say the smoked chicken was pretty good. And I didn't really like anything else sadly. The brisket was dry, and the pulled pork was bland. Not so bad with the sauces, but it should stand on its own. The Mac was also very genetic. Good, but same as any mac-n-cheese from anywhere. Nothing made it stand out. I love bbq, but unfortunately this place not likely to be in my repeat list read more
I really needed brisket yesterday, and oh man did this place deliver! Everything was delicious! They had the World Cup game on too. By far the best barbecue I've had in Denver! The Mexican flavors aren't interesting twist. Can't wait to go back! read more
12 days ago
The Brisket was finger lickin good & the staff was amazing I have had the ribs previously & they were mighty tasty read more
Thanks again Yelp for directing me to the Michelin star Riot BBQ place in Denver. Let me start by saying WOW! Meat was cut by the LB while you wait. Served on metal trays with bandanna napkin wrapped silverware- nice touch. I wanted ribs and they disappeared off my tray. I was a bit too adventurous and ordered 6 ribs and that was 2 lbs! A bit too much for just me. They scaled back to a pound. Lol. I could have polished off a couple more. Macha slaw was interesting and totally unique in the world of same old slaws. I like a bit more punch and added the house made thin cucumber pickle slices with each bite. Fantastic! Those pickles are with the trip to this place. Not kidding. They give em away. I debated on Mexican key lime pie and while I shrugged it off, the manager said, here, take a banana pudding on me. That was as good as Magnolia Bakery and that really saying something folks! BBQ sauce was Da'Bomb! Riot sweet and smoky did the trick. I wanted to drink it! Do NOT miss this BBQ gem in Denver. Thank me later! read more
The best BBQ I've had in Denver. I may have said that before about other BBQ places, but after having Riot BBQ, nope, this wins, hands down. The flavoring, the tenderness of the meat, the sides, the staff, the decor it was all excellent. I split, with my bestie, the pulled pork, brisket, the esquites cornbread, and Mac and Cheese. They have a few different types of sauce you can select from. Each sauce does fit well with one meat- you just have to try them all out and see what sauces tastes best with what meat. They are closed on Tuesdays and are open at 11am on all other days as long as they still have food to feed you for that day! Burnt ends run out fast on the weekends. Divine! Highly, highly recommend! read more
The exterior does not do Justice to how cute this eatery is inside. It's very welcoming and comfortable once you get in the door. The counter service was friendly and fast. Seating was ample. We sat outside on the back patio where music played and plenty of shade covered us. We enjoyed our food from the brisket to the beans to the quesadilla. We were disappointed that the sauces were odd tasting. We couldn't find one that was traditional, classic bbq sauce. The cornbread, potato salad and citrus chicken were not much to our liking as they were either bland or odd tasting. For a bbq place, it is pretty good, but not for those who like the traditional, classic flavor profiles. read more
7 months ago
Being from Kansas City, I don't hand out BBQ praise lightly -- we're spoiled with some of the best in the country. That said, Riot BBQ is the real deal. The meats were perfectly smoked, tender, and packed with flavor, and the sauces complemented everything without overpowering it. You can tell they take pride in doing BBQ the right way. Portions were generous, sides were on point, and the staff was friendly and welcoming. If you're looking for legit BBQ that would absolutely hold its own back in KC, this is the spot. We'll definitely be back. read more
7 months ago
My new BBQ obsession: the fiery fusion of Texas-style smokiness and Northern Mexico's asado traditions from Top Chef alum Manny Barella and longtime AJ's pitmaster PatrickKlaiber. They've revived and reimagined the former AJ's Pit BBQ space in the cozy space hidden on a residential street. (Don't miss the patio with the mural paying homage to all the famous barbecue classics). Already a neighborhood favorite, they're selling out nearly every day ever since launch -- so get here early! Here's what's stealing the show: - 14-hour smoked prime brisket -- melt-in-your-mouth perfection (also available as an entire rib) - Wagyu pastrami -- rich, smoky, and indulgent - Pork ribs al pastor -- smoky with a tangy kick (my favorite) - Smoked turkey -- the delicious sleeper hit you didn't see coming - Esquites cornbread -- the fan-favorite bite everyone's talking about - Salsa-macha slaw -- spicy, nutty, and fresh (I'm now always adding macha salsa to my slaw) - Chicken tacos -- zesty citrus-marinated smoked chicken on a pueblo green chile tortilla, topped with salsa fresca & avocado crema (another surprise favorite of mine) Wash it down with: - A killer margarita or bourbon peach smash cocktail - Plus a lineup of local draft beers that pairs perfectly with the smoke read more
8 months ago
Being that I was just at Franklin's in Austin this summer, I can honestly say I know a thing or two about good bbq! The brisket was super tender and I can't wait to come back and compare the beef rib. I also really wanted to try the burnt ends but alas, they were already sold out. Great smoke on everything g and I loved the beans and potato salad! Very cool ambiance and friendly service- they even gave me the rest of the pork belly for no charge since it was it for the day! I'll be back for sure! read more
4 months ago
I loved everything about my experience here. Even waiting in the long line! We had the Friday daily special with a few sides and some pork belly. Everything was fantastic! The place was poppin'. The only thing I'd change is coming early, so I could try some other meats before they sell out. read more
Came across Riot BBQ on Yelp and we decided to give it a try for a late lunch. It was a great choice. Located in what appears to be somewhat of a transitioning industrial area, you turn the corner and there it sits with stacks of wood around the front entrance. You walk in and it feels like a historic home with antique furnishings, lighting, as you enter the main dining area, the order and pickup counters to your left. Staff we encountered were all friendly and we were acknowledged immediately upon approaching the order counter. The young lady who took our order, did a great job explaining menu items. We decided on ribs, brisket, cornbread, macha slaw and beans. I also ordered a Hibiscus Aqua Fresca. A couple of our ribs were a bit dry but otherwise everything was delicious!! Good flavor, nice bark on ribs and brisket. They have great bbq sauces. We enjoyed our sides as well. Riot felt like being at a backyard bbq. read more
First time here. I wanted some tender, flavorful BBQ. I was pleasantly surprised. What a hidden gem. I had a hard time deciding on what to get because everyone's plate looked so delicious. So I got the pork ribs pastor, Texas sausage, brisket, and pork belly with a side of pit beans & black cherry cola. Everything was so tender that all I needed was a fork. My timing was good because there was a minimal line to order however when I left people were lining up; this was on a Sunday at 2:30 pm. So you may have to be a little patient. Cool little rooms to hang out and eat in or just eat in the main area. Friendly staff. Check it out! I'll be back. I wanted to try one of their deserts next time. read more
When visiting Denver on a Friday, just as Riot BBQ opened for the day, we got our order fast as heck. The place was a spot picked for a quick lunch by my husband, and I could not be happier about how outstanding everything was. Given it was lunch, we did not order a lot. Everyone cares about fast service (check) and amazing ambiance (check), but it's the taste of food that matters most, right? I have never had a better brisket in my life, and that is no lie. Mac n Cheese, awesome as well. This was such a great lunch. It was too early in the day for a drink, but their drink menu was so enticing! Once we were seated to eat, the place became very busy, but hungry patrons were served with efficiency, so I could see this being a great spot to meet friends for lunch. Pay at the counter...it lessens that awkward splitting the bill convo! There are different little areas to eat, which are so well-appointed and cozy. We ate in the main area, but it was just the best vibe. If I find myself in Denver again, I will certainly be seeking Riot BBQ out for another great meal. read more
Riot was on point! I enjoyed our visit here! I walked in just to checkout the layout and ended up staying! When I headed back outside to get my family the cashier made eye contact and asked where I was going! That was very warming to know they wanted us to stay. Best choice for food in our visit to Denver! We ordered brisket chili, brisket quesadillas Mac-n-Cheese, and beans! Everything was delicious and had the right flavors! That Mac was absolutely a hit too... that Smokey flavor was a nice compliment. We had the chance to enjoy their live band and sit in their dining room to eat. It was a peaceful yet satisfying time. read more
Omg, decided we wanted bbq on a whim. It and was a great choice. The brisket was tender and pulled pork delicious. The service was great you order 1st before seating. Super fast and easy. Great ambience very chill small place we beat the lunch rush a bit of music playing and 1 Tv. Great deals throughout the week and good choice of beers and cocktails Will definitely come again read more
I was visiting Denver and had been impressed with AJ's BBQ on a previous trip. I later found out that the owner of AJ's ran into some serious issues with taxes and unpaid wages, but this story has a silver lining. The former pitmaster teamed up with a talented Mexican chef with an incredible résumé, and together they created Riot BBQ. The food is outstanding, a thoughtful and flavorful fusion of BBQ and Mexican cuisine. A perfect example of this blend is the pastor pork ribs, which were phenomenal. Everything we tried was excellent, though we were a little bummed to miss out on the daily special (burnt ends) even though we arrived early for dinner service. A friend described the Mexican Key Lime Pie as a mix between tres leches and Key Lime pie, a spot-on observation. The place itself is a no-frills, cozy BBQ joint with communal tables and a great patio. Service is counter-style, friendly, and knowledgeable. Highly recommend if you want something familiar yet refreshingly original in the BBQ scene. read more
Top notch bbq, cool spot, great staff. We stopped in to scratch our meat itch and it was well scratched. We tried a smattering of everything and were over the moon about just about everything. Starting with the meats, we had the brisket, pulled pork, chicken loco, ribs, pork belly, sausage, and smoked turkey. Also not pictured is wagyu pastrami. It was all good but we thought the smoked turkey, pork belly, and pastrami were especially fantastic. As it relates to sides, we had the mac, esquites corn bread, tater salad, beans, pickled veg, and macha coleslaw not pictured. It was all good but the tater salad and coleslaw were our favs. All in all, some damn good Q. Will definitely be back to try the rest of the menu. read more
1 year ago
okay i heard about it on TikTok, let's be realistic:. ALL food influencers are paid with free money and free food to review. Such a scam Yet the backstory was good enough for me to double check the Yelp reviews and make a trip here myself Fear not YELPERS no one pays me, and the blind paid tiktok squirrel found an acorn. Protip - by yourself? Order 1/4 instead of 1/2lb The food: 1 - brisket, amazing and real smoke. If you don't like that go elsewhere. Best brisket I've had since Austin 2 - chicken loco. It's fine. It's in the shadow of the brisket. A decent chicken with spices . . . 3 - beans. Pit beans. This is what I'm talking about. Smoke, good, chunks of meat. Almost vegan if you don't count pigs as a meat 4 - pickle bar + awesome craft beers and cocktails ....hells ya There are few places in Denver where I live the BbQ. This place actually delivers on the smoke and flavor and texture . read more
11 months ago
So good I forgot to take a pic--which is basically the highest compliment. Hit up Riot BBQ in Denver and let me just say: this place does not mess around. From the moment I walked in, the smell alone had me ready to commit to a full meat coma (zero regrets). The food? Unreal. Juicy, smoky, flavorful--basically everything you want from BBQ without needing a napkin for your soul. I meant to take a photo for the 'gram, but my taste buds overruled my brain and, well... RIP to that opportunity. The vibe? Chill but lively. The service? Quick, friendly, and efficient--no BBQ egos here, just people who know how to feed you right and keep it moving. If you're in Denver and not eating here yet, I don't know what you're doing with your life. Get the brisket. Trust me. read more
1 year ago
My co-workers and I came to Riot BBQ for lunch. Upon entering, the place was fairly packed, and there was a line to order. Despite this, service was reasonably fast. The brisket was cooked to perfection and fell apart in my mouth. The ribs easily fell off the bone and was perfectly marinated. The potato salad was too creamy for my tastes, but it was well seasoned. Riot BBQ is definitely a spot I would visit again for BBQ. read more
I was caught off guard (in a great way) by this hole-in-the-wall bbq spot! Maybe because I'm not a huge bbq fan, but I didn't know this was here and haven't heard about it before. There is an outdoor covered patio spot as well as an indoor space to sit, and the space was a lot larger than I thought it was going to be, from the outside. We came here on Friday after a long week, and it was just the kind of pick-me-up we needed. I tried their Clementine Margarita, which was a nice, unique twist on a margarita. I thought the mac and cheese was FANTASTIC and enjoyed all the sauces they had bottled for you to self-serve. We got a 1/4 lb of brisket and 1/4 lb of pulled pork. I liked the brisket more than the pulled pork. Sadly, they were out of the ribs at that point, so we'll have to come back for it! I also enjoyed the smores dessert. The folks were friendly the moment we walked in, and they brought our dessert out to us. I had a great experience here and will be coming back! read more
I sadly accepted AJ's demise, though I understand it had to happen. Thank you, Riot, for keeping the bar high, raising it, even. The place feels brighter and happier now. This first trip to Riot was of the takeout variety. It was ready several minutes early. I ordered quarter-pound portions of four different meats--three old faves and something new.: Juicy turkey, ringed in black peppery goodness, held serve--at love. Brisket seemed better than before--bark and flavor, in particular. Jalapeño cheddar sausage remains stellar. It's one of my fave BBQ items around,. Al pastor ribs were new and rounded us out. While the pastor flavor was somewhat muted, these were tender, meaty, and tasty. Pit beans taste great, though the chunks of meat are way smaller. Nobody in town got beans like these. My only complaint? They don't ask you how many complimentary slices of bread you want with your meal. This is how you know you're eating Texas BBQ somewhere outside the Lone Star State. Riot is option #1 for my overall Denver BBQ needs--can't wait to come back. read more
7 months ago
If you're anywhere near Riot BBQ, do yourself a favor and go--especially for the al pastor ribs. Absolute . Perfectly cooked, insanely tender, and packed with flavor. That al pastor seasoning is unreal--sweet, smoky, just the right kick. These ribs were straight-up bomb and easily some of the best I've had. Great vibes, great food, and a menu that clearly knows what it's doing. Riot BBQ just earned a permanent spot on my go-back list. read more
6 months ago
First time. The inside is rustic with bare picnic tables and metal chairs. Lots of memorabilia on the walls. The food menu is posted above the counter with meats by the half pound, sides and desserts. Large colorful chalkboard with beverages. No wine indicated but I did see a white & red in single serve 187ml bottles. I got the burnt ends with Macha slaw and dirty rice. I added the Incline White Peach cider served in a mason jar. The burnt ends were good but not crunchy. The macha slaw had a bit of heat. I tried each of the 3 BBQ sauces. The Colorado Gold & Chipotle were best. I got a banana pudding later. No sign of vanilla wafers but plenty of graham cracker topping. Not particularly sweet. The AC was cranked up even though it wasn't hot. Most people were wearing coats. There is large covered patio in the back and a comfy waiting area just the entrance. read more
21 days ago
The food was incredible! Specific shout-out to the Colorado Gold sauce, it was a phenomenal blend of sweet and spicy. Brisket was incredible as well, and the cornbread was to die for! Definitely saving this place for future visits to Denver read more
2 months ago
Love this better then Oregon needs this in Oregon bad great job riot we need this l love this read more
Picked up some smoked bbq for a picnic at the park. Absolutely delicious and reminded me of growing up in the south! All they need is some collards (but that's just what I love with my bbq ;) haha! We ordered a 1/2 lb of brisket, burnt ends, and Texas sausage. The burnt ends are a MUST -- perfect! Sides we got were the potato salad and macha slaw, and the staff gave us a complimentary esquite cornbread which was so nice because it was so tasty! Definitely don't skip out on the bread and potato salad. If you like it a bit spicy, 1000% grab those pickles and jalapeño veggies when you get your sauces! Restaurant is family friendly with many different spots to hang out - game room, chill area, dining inside, and dining outside. Big plus is they have a big parking lot out front so you don't have to stress about street parking. Can't wait to go back and try the other menu options! read more
Business owner information
Caleb B.
Thank you for dropping us such a great review! We're stoked y'all…
Delicious BBQ! We stayed downtown and took a $2.75 bus ride to a stop very close to riot. We went with a group of friends and ordered a ton to sample including brisket (10/10), ribs (8/10), pulled pork (10/10), and chicken. The sides were potato salad (10/10), esquites corn bread (10/10), Mac (10/10) rice, and baked beans. If back in Denver solo, I would order the fatty brisket, the corn bread, and potato salad. They were my favorite out of our giant group order. They have sweet tea and lemonade in the back, which makes a yummy Arnold Palmer when mixed. Don't sleep on the pickles and peppers in the back. I wouldn't go for the ribs or the rice because they were both dry. I liked the atmosphere and the communal tables, but the line to order goes right through the middle of the tables. You order up front and self-abuse tables. read more
Business owner information
Caleb B.
Thank you for joining us and were stoked you had an amazing time!…
8 months ago
I had heard so many good things about this barbecue spot, and when I walked in, not only was the line all the way to the back of the restaurant, but people behind me were raving about how good the food was. Well... It was not. I got the pork belly, burnt ends, and mac & cheese. It's not that the food lacked flavor, the flavor is just did not appeal to me. It was missing that je ne sais quoi. I definitely don't have to come back here. read more
6 months ago
Riot BBQ is hands down my favorite barbecue spot anywhere, not just in Colorado but anywhere I've eaten barbecue. I've taken so many people here over the last two years and every single person doesn't only love it but say it it's the best barbecue in Colorado! The brisket is consistently incredible. Perfect bark, tender slices, and packed with deep smoke flavor without ever being dry. The burnt ends are just as good, rich, caramelized, and melt in your mouth tender. Their Texas sausage is easily one of the best around, with that perfect snap and juicy, seasoned flavor in every bite. On top of that, their smoked pork belly is unreal. Everything tastes intentional and made with care, not rushed or mass produced. This is the place I recommend to friends first, and it's where I bring visitors when I want to show them what great barbecue should taste like. Consistently amazing food, great flavors, and worth every visit. If you love real barbecue, Riot BBQ is a must. read more
Star 1: The decor is well-suited for a BBQ joint but is not the typical industrial, diamond plate, square iron bar that is so common for BBQ restaurants. Star 2: The staff were welcoming, friendly, and able to give us the rundown on GF options. Star 3: The condiments bar was well-stocked with multiple sauces, including an excellent Colorado Gold sauce and Chipotle sauce. Star 4: The brisket slices were thick with good bark that did not taste burned. The ribs required just enough tug to get the meat off the bone that the meat didn't just fall off onto the plate (or worse!). They even asked if we prefer our brisket with more or less fat. Star 5: The burnt ends were some of the best I have had. I think they used a chipotle sauce on them, which was unexpected but definitely welcome. I hesitate to write a great review because this is the type of place where once the food is gone, that's it for the day, and I want all of that burnt end goodness! There is no frozen burnt ends available when the supply for the day is sold. Bonus Star for freshness, quality, and integrity. read more
Business owner information
Caleb B.
Thank you for the amazing review!…
Page 1 of 4
More info about Riot BBQ
2180 S Delaware St
Denver, CO 80223
Southwest
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(303) 872-6862
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http://www.riotbbqcompany.com
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Liquor license? If so, any special Margaritas?
Yes they serve. They even walk up the line to serve you when you are waiting. Don't know of anything special.
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1 review that is not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
1 year ago
Riot BBQ - bbq - Updated August 2026
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