4.5
(
305
)
Heart of Gold delivers a cozy yet trendy atmosphere with a sharp focus on scratch-made comfort dishes like their celebrated fried chicken sandwich and smash burgers. With a robust bar program boasting craft beer and cocktails, plus options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery, guests enjoy attentive service and a welcoming vibe.
What to Expect:
🍗 Signature fried chicken sandwich with unique batter flavors
🍔 Juicy smash burgers and hearty small plates
🍹 Diverse cocktails and extensive local beer list
🌞 Outdoor seating and cozy indoor bar atmosphere
Important Information:
Parking: Free and paid street parking available; sometimes challenging
Wheelchair accessible restrooms and seating
Reservations accepted, recommended on busy days
Price range varies from $20 to $30 per person
Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner with options accommodating dietary restrictions.
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
đź“Ť Local Insights
🍗 Must-Try Fried Chicken Sandwich: Fans recommend this signature dish, noting the sweet-spiced batter as a standout feature few others replicate.
🍔 Smash Burgers Are Crowd Pleasers: The smash burger is often cited as juicy and flavorful, pairing well with the famous waffle fries.
🍸 Happy Hour Specials: Take advantage of their celebrated happy hour for craft cocktails and local beers, offering good value and variety.
🌞 Outdoor Seating Available: Great for sunny days, the patio seating adds to the cozy vibe and is perfect for groups or solo diners.
⏰ Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
👉 Best For
Brunch, lunch, dinner, solo dining, casual groups
Heart of Gold
4133 Lorain Ave
,
Cleveland
,
OH
44113
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Heart of Gold is highly praised for its made-from-scratch comfort food, especially the fried chicken sandwich and smash burgers. Reviewers highlight the friendly atmosphere, great cocktails, and craft beers. While service generally receives positive remarks, a few found staff attitude and wait times inconsistent, cautioning about occasional cold or delayed food and some host or server indifference.
Last updated on
November 9th, 2025
MOUNTAINÂ MAP
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Mountain Stats
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Fried Chicken Sandwich, Smash Burger, Green Curry Wings, Waffle Fries, Couscous Bowl with Fried Miso Tofu, Loaded Fries with Duck Gravy, Caesar Salad, Chorizo, Mocktails, Craft Cocktails, Local Beers, Vegetarian Options
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit weekday lunches early (11 AM–1 PM) to avoid crowds; weekends fill fast by noon; evening peak on Friday with busy happy hour and dinner.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible restroom and seating available; entry may have a step but accommodations can be made upon request.
‍Reservation Policy
Reservations accepted; recommended on busy days
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