Bar Oni Izakaya offers a unique Japanese-inspired dining experience focusing on seasonal small plates complemented by a solid selection of cocktails, whiskey, and beer. Guests enjoy a cozy yet lively atmosphere enhanced by attentive, knowledgeable staff and a mix of curated music and sports on TVs.
What to Expect:
🍢 Seasonal Japanese-style small plates and skewers
🍸 Craft cocktails, whiskey varieties, and local beers
📺 Sports broadcasts mixed with intimate bar seating
🪑 Cozy, narrow seating fostering a communal feel
Important Information:
– Hours vary by day; closed Tuesdays
– Wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating
– Free 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
🕕 Arrive Early: The bar is small and fills quickly, especially on weekends; getting there at opening ensures a better chance at bar seating.
🍢 Try the Skewers: Skewers like pork belly and Wagyu beef come highly recommended as signature dishes by regulars.
🍹 Seasonal Cocktails: Ask bartenders for off-menu or chef-recommended cocktails like the Plum Press and mulled sake for a special experience.
📅 Check Kitchen Hours: Note the kitchen closes by 10 PM on most nights and earlier on Sundays; plan visits accordingly to dine.
Review Sentiment
.svg)
Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Bar Oni Izakaya is widely praised for its authentic and inventive small plates alongside excellent cocktails and whiskey options. Reviewers appreciate the friendly service and intimate, lively atmosphere. However, some note inconsistent kitchen hours and a limited menu size, with occasional quality fluctuations under new ownership. Despite mixed feedback on food portions and pricing, most guests find it a worthwhile, unique spot in Cleveland's bar scene.
Last updated on
November 9th, 2025
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms are available, ensuring easy navigation for guests with mobility needs.
