Sip & Savor: Discover Tartan’s Standout Craft Cocktails in Redlands
Nestled in the heart of Redlands, Tartan has become more than just a dining destination—it’s a craft cocktail haven where mixology meets Scottish-inspired hospitality. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or celebrating something special, Tartan’s bar program offers an experience that goes beyond the ordinary pour.
Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Step into Tartan, and you’ll immediately sense that this isn’t your typical bar. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between cozy tavern charm and contemporary sophistication. Warm lighting reflects off polished wood, while the curated spirits selection behind the bar hints at the creativity waiting in your glass.
The bartenders here aren’t just mixing drinks—they’re crafting experiences. Each cocktail tells a story, drawing inspiration from Scottish heritage while embracing California’s vibrant cocktail culture. The result? A menu that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern.
Signature Sips Worth the Journey
What sets Tartan apart is their commitment to quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. The cocktail menu changes seasonally, ensuring that each visit offers something new to discover. From smoke-infused whiskey concoctions that pay homage to Scottish traditions to lighter, citrus-forward refreshers perfect for Southern California evenings, there’s something for every palate.
The whiskey selection alone deserves special mention. Tartan stocks an impressive array of single malts, blended Scotches, and American whiskeys that would make any enthusiast’s heart skip a beat. But don’t worry if whiskey isn’t your spirit of choice—the gin-based cocktails showcase botanical complexity, while rum and tequila offerings bring tropical and agave-forward notes to the table.
Beyond the Glass
What truly elevates the Tartan experience is the knowledge and passion of the bartending team. They’re eager to guide you through the menu, recommend pairings with your meal, or even create something custom based on your preferences. It’s this personal touch that transforms a good night out into a memorable one.
The bar also functions as a gathering place for Redlands locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re perched at the bar watching your drink come to life or settled into a comfortable booth with friends, the energy is always welcoming and unpretentious.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Tartan’s cocktail program shines in versatility. Planning a date night? The intimate ambiance and sophisticated drink menu set the perfect mood. Need a spot for catching up with friends? The relaxed vibe and shareworthy cocktails make conversation flow naturally. Even solo visits feel comfortable here—there’s something special about enjoying a well-crafted Old Fashioned while chatting with a knowledgeable bartender.
The Redlands Cocktail Scene’s Hidden Gem
While Redlands continues to grow its culinary reputation, Tartan stands out as a destination where drinks aren’t an afterthought—they’re an art form. The attention to detail, from house-made syrups to perfectly clear ice cubes, shows in every sip.
For those seeking an elevated drinking experience without the pretension often found in craft cocktail bars, Tartan delivers beautifully. It’s a place where a perfectly executed classic cocktail is celebrated just as much as an innovative creation featuring unexpected ingredients.
Making the Most of Your Visit
A few insider tips: arrive during happy hour for special pricing on select cocktails, ask about the seasonal specials that showcase local ingredients, and don’t hesitate to let your bartender know your flavor preferences—they’re masters at tailoring recommendations.
Pair your cocktails with Tartan’s elevated pub fare, and you’ve got yourself a complete evening. The food menu complements the drink program perfectly, with dishes designed to enhance rather than overpower the complex flavors in your glass.
Final Pour
In a world where craft cocktails can sometimes feel inaccessible or overly complicated, Tartan strikes the right balance. They’ve created a space where quality and approachability coexist, where Scottish tradition informs but doesn’t constrain creativity, and where every guest feels valued.
Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur hunting for your next favorite drink or simply someone who appreciates a well-made beverage in good company, Tartan’s bar program deserves a spot on your Redlands itinerary. Come for the drinks, stay for the atmosphere, and leave planning your next visit.
Because at Tartan, every cocktail is an invitation to slow down, savor, and discover something worth raising a glass to.
About the Restaurant
Tartan of Redlands is a classic local steakhouse celebrated for its Saturday Prime Rib, diverse steak selections, the iconic Redlands Tartan Burger, and a fully stocked bar. This iconic spot first welcomed guests on April 15, 1964, thanks to the vision of three brothers—Velmer, Al, and Art Ctoteau.
Larry Westin took over managing the restaurant and later became a partner alongside the Ctoteau brothers. Mr. and Mrs. Westin remained at the helm until his passing in 2003, after which the restaurant was entrusted to Larry Westin Jr. He upheld the family tradition until 2015, when Tartan of Redlands was sold to its current owners, Jeff and Lisa Salamon.
Jeff hails from Boston, Massachusetts, and is a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps. Even with the changes in ownership, you will find that the old-school atmosphere has remained and the reputation of being the Cheers of Redlands where everybody knows your name remains strong.
