Zanzibar Soul Fusion serves authentic soul food with a modern touch in Cleveland’s Downtown, offering fast service, a fireplace, and a great beverage selection including cocktails, wine, and beer.
Guests enjoy a casual yet trendy atmosphere with private dining options and outdoor seating. Reservations are accepted, and the restaurant is family and wheelchair friendly.
What to Expect:
🥘 Classic soul food dishes with locally sourced flavors
🍹 Extensive drink menu with craft cocktails and local beers
🔥 Cozy fireplace setting and laid-back vibe
🪑 Accessible seating and private dining rooms
Important Information:
Identifies as Black-owned
Outdoor seating available
Takeout, delivery, and dine-in options
Accepts credit/debit and mobile payments
Reservations recommended for brunch
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
🍹 Bartender Tati's Magic: The cocktail menu, especially drinks crafted by bartender Tati, is a customer favorite for both flavor and presentation.
🎶 Grown & Sexy Fridays: Fridays bring a lively, mature atmosphere perfect for adults looking to unwind with wings and Long Island iced teas.
🥘 Must-Try Soul Rolls: Soul rolls come highly recommended as a signature appetizer, capturing the essence of soul food here.
🚗 Parking Tips: While street parking is free and ample, paid lots and garages are nearby; weekends can make parking trickier.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Zanzibar Soul Fusion delights guests with authentic soul food and a welcoming vibe praised for flavorful dishes and excellent cocktails. Service receives mixed reviews, with some noting slow or inattentive staff and food timing issues during busy periods. The venue’s atmosphere and drink selection generally earn high marks, though a few reports mention temperature inconsistencies in food. Most diners appreciate the comfortable and lively setting despite occasional service hiccups.
Last updated on
November 9th, 2025
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Mountain Stats
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Soul Rolls, Jerk Wings, Honey Glazed Chicken, Shrimp & Grits, Mac and Cheese, Collard Greens, Catfish, Cornbread Muffins, Peach Cobbler, Fried Okra, Turkey Chops, Cajun Corn, Black-eyed Peas, Smothered Steak
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating ensure easy access for all guests.
