The James Joyce is a vibrant Irish bar featuring an exposed brick interior, excellent beer selection, and strong cocktails. Visitors can enjoy live music on weekends and karaoke on Wednesdays, with bar games adding to the lively atmosphere.
The venue offers a casual, cozy environment with fast service but no kitchen beyond peanuts, focusing on drinks and entertainment. Entry is open to all adults, with a relaxed dress code and no reservations, welcoming groups and tourists alike.
What's Included:
🍺 Great beer and cocktail selection
🎸 Live music and performances weekends
🎯 Bar games including darts and pool
Important Information:
Age Policy: 21+ preferred
Door: No reservations, first come first serve
Parking: Free street parking usually 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
🎤 Karaoke Night: Wednesdays are prime for karaoke enthusiasts looking to sing and engage with a fun crowd.
🍹 Irish Coffee Is a Must: Regulars rave about the homemade whipped cream-topped Irish coffee as a signature drink.
🎯 Bar Games Spot: Darts and pool tables keep the competitive spirit alive, ideal for groups seeking entertainment beyond drinks.
🕒 Visit Early on Weekends: Saturdays get very busy after 9 PM, so arrive early for better seating and quicker service.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
The James Joyce is loved for its authentic Irish pub vibe, lively live music, karaoke, and good drinks, especially their Irish coffee. However, multiple reviews cite serious safety concerns due to peanut dust exposure without warnings and report hostile or unprofessional staff behavior, including discrimination issues.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, and restrooms ensure ease of access for all guests. The bar provides a casual, comfortable environment with free Wi-Fi.
