Chef Carolyn's Exotic Cuisine Restaurant offers genuine Caribbean dishes infused with rich flavors and generous portions. Guests enjoy a warm, casual environment where the chef's passion shines through vibrant jerk, oxtail, and vegetarian-friendly plates.
What to Expect:
🍗 Jerk Chicken and Oxtail specialties
🥥 Flavorful rice and peas, mac and cheese, and callaloo
🍸 Full bar with cocktails, beer, and wine
♿ Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking
Important Information:
Delivery, takeout, and dine-in options
Free parking available on-site and street
Plan visits around peak dinner hours for the best experience; a favorite for lunch and dinner across Cleveland.
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
🍛 Order Oxtail with Curry Potatoes: Locals recommend the tender oxtail paired with curry potatoes for a perfect meal combination.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music Nights: The spot often hosts local rap artists and karaoke, making for a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
🚗 Park Smart: Free parking is available, but some visitors note street parking can be limited during busy evenings.
🍽️ Try Vegetarian Options: The restaurant offers a large selection of flavorful vegetarian dishes, highly recommended by regulars.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Visitors consistently praise Chef Carolyn's authentic Caribbean cuisine, particularly the jerk chicken, oxtails, and warm hospitality. Many highlight the lively atmosphere, speedy service, and generous portions. Some note inconsistencies with food quality and occasional tough or dry dishes, but overall the restaurant maintains a strong loyal following for its genuine flavors and inviting environment.
Last updated on
November 9th, 2025
From The preserve
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What You'll Find
Jerk Chicken, Oxtail Stew, Curry Goat, Rice and Peas, Cabbage, Macaroni Pie, Plantains, Callaloo, Jerk Wings, Jerk Shrimp Salad, Beef Patties
