I Hate Cowboys invites guests to an upscale cocktail experience with a focus on bourbon and tequila, accompanied by live country music performances. Located in Cleveland's Flats, the venue boasts a stylish leather and wood interior, offering a spacious bar, small food menu highlights like fried chicken, and friendly, attentive staff.
What to Expect:
🥃 Exceptional bourbon and tequila selection
🎸 Live country and acoustic performances
🍗 Small, tasty food menu including famed fried chicken
🪑 Comfortable seating with outdoor options
Important Information:
– Closed Monday to Thursday; Open Fridays and Saturdays 4 PM–2 AM, Sunday 12 PM–7 PM
– Kitchen open Thursday through Saturday 5 PM–10 PM
– Reservations accepted via OpenTable
– 21+ entrance typically expected; check locally for events
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
🥃 Burning Daylight: Ask bartender Eli for the off-menu 'Burning Daylight' espresso martini, a local favorite.
🎶 Live Music Schedule: Country and acoustic acts like Emma Nichols perform mainly on weekends; check social media for shows.
🕓 Weekend Peaks: Arrive Friday or Saturday by 7 PM to secure seats before the peak crowd.
🍗 Food Highlights: Try the crispy fried chicken with pesto aioli, a top recommendation from guests.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
I Hate Cowboys earned praise for its excellent cocktails, particularly bourbon, flavorful fried chicken, and welcoming staff including standout bartenders like Eli and Rachel. The live country music and leather-accented setting add distinct charm. While some note high prices and occasional slow service, overall guests appreciate the sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere and quality of drinks and food.
Last updated on
November 9th, 2025
