Tartan’s Downtown Redlands Cocktail Bar & Steakhouse: What to Expect
The intersection of exceptional cocktails and perfectly prepared steaks creates a dining experience that transcends typical restaurant visits. In the heart of Redlands, Tartan of Redlands has mastered this combination, establishing itself as the premier destination for those seeking both culinary excellence and craft beverages. Whether you’re searching for a sophisticated cocktail bar Redlands locals trust or a complete dining experience that satisfies multiple cravings, this establishment delivers on every front.
Understanding what awaits you at Tartan helps set expectations and ensures you make the most of your visit. This isn’t simply a restaurant that happens to serve drinks, nor is it just a bar with food as an afterthought. Instead, Tartan represents a carefully balanced concept where the bar and steakhouse elements complement each other seamlessly, creating an environment where you can enjoy world-class cocktails alongside premium cuts of meat in a setting that honors both traditions.
The Cocktail Bar Experience
Walking into the bar area at Tartan immediately distinguishes this establishment from generic drinking spots. The bar/cocktail atmosphere radiates sophistication without pretension, striking that elusive balance between approachable and upscale. Rich wood tones, ambient lighting, and comfortable seating create an environment where conversations flow naturally and guests settle in for more than a quick drink.
Behind the bar, experienced mixologists demonstrate genuine craftsmanship in their approach to cocktail preparation. These aren’t bartenders simply following recipes—they’re professionals who understand flavor profiles, balance, and presentation. The cocktail menu reflects both classic expertise and creative innovation, offering timeless favorites prepared correctly alongside signature creations that showcase seasonal ingredients and contemporary techniques.
Beyond just cocktails, the bar offers a remarkable assortment of wines, artisan beers, and spirits. Whether you prefer a meticulously crafted old fashioned, a crisp glass of wine, or a locally brewed beer, the beverage program accommodates diverse preferences with quality selections at every price point. This comprehensive approach means groups with varying tastes can all find options that satisfy their individual preferences.
Premium spirits line the shelves, including top-shelf whiskeys, fine tequilas, craft gins, and specialty liqueurs that enable bartenders to create drinks with depth and complexity. The investment in quality ingredients translates directly to superior cocktails that justify their price through taste and execution. When searching for a cocktail bar near me that doesn’t compromise on ingredient quality, Tartan consistently delivers.
Downtown Redlands Location Advantages
Positioning as a bar in downtown Redlands provides numerous benefits that enhance the overall experience. The central location makes Tartan easily accessible whether you’re a local resident or visiting from surrounding areas. Downtown’s walkable layout means you can park once and explore multiple establishments, making Tartan an ideal starting point, mid-evening stop, or final destination during an evening out.
The surrounding downtown district contributes to the overall ambiance. Historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and a genuine sense of community create an environment that feels authentically Californian rather than artificially manufactured. This organic character distinguishes downtown Redlands from strip mall developments or isolated suburban locations, adding context and atmosphere to your visit.
Proximity to other downtown attractions allows for complementary activities. Couples or groups can enjoy a pre-dinner walk through nearby shops, catch live music at neighboring venues, or extend the evening with post-dinner drinks at various establishments. This integration into the broader downtown ecosystem makes visits feel like complete experiences rather than isolated stops.
The location also benefits from downtown Redlands’ ongoing revitalization efforts. As the area continues attracting quality establishments and community investment, being positioned at the heart of these developments ensures Tartan remains central to the city’s social scene. This momentum contributes to the vibrant energy that defines nightlife Redlands residents and visitors increasingly appreciate.
Steakhouse Excellence
While the cocktail program commands attention, the steakhouse foundation remains equally impressive. The kitchen sources premium beef cuts that meet rigorous quality standards, ensuring every steak delivers the tenderness, flavor, and marbling that define exceptional meat. Whether you prefer filet mignon, ribeye, New York strip, or other cuts, preparation techniques honor the quality of the ingredients through proper seasoning, temperature control, and timing.
The signature Prime Rib service on Saturdays has become a local tradition, drawing regulars who plan their weekends around this offering. Slow-roasted to achieve optimal texture and flavor, the Prime Rib exemplifies the kitchen’s commitment to classic preparations executed flawlessly. This dedication to signature dishes demonstrates respect for steakhouse traditions while maintaining standards that justify the establishment’s reputation.
Beyond steaks, the menu offers thoughtfully curated options including fresh seafood, chicken dishes, and the famous Tartan Burger that has achieved legendary status among Redlands diners. This variety ensures that even in groups where not everyone wants steak, all guests can enjoy meals that reflect the same quality standards and culinary expertise.
Side dishes and accompaniments receive the same attention as main courses. Classic steakhouse sides like creamed spinach, loaded baked potatoes, and seasonal vegetables arrive properly prepared and appropriately portioned to complement rather than overwhelm the featured proteins. These details demonstrate comprehensive culinary thinking rather than focusing solely on headline dishes.
The Bar and Steakhouse Synergy
The genius of Tartan’s concept lies in how the bar and steakhouse elements enhance rather than compete with each other. Guests can start evenings at the bar with craft cocktails and appetizers, transition to dining tables for full meals, then return to the bar area for after-dinner drinks. This flexibility accommodates different pacing preferences and social dynamics throughout the evening.
The cocktail program has been specifically designed to complement the food menu. Aperitifs stimulate appetites before meals, wines pair beautifully with various cuts, and digestifs provide satisfying conclusions to multi-course dinners. This intentional coordination between beverage and culinary programs creates cohesive experiences where each element supports the others.
For those who prefer bar dining, the full menu remains available at bar seating. This option suits solo diners, couples seeking more casual atmospheres, or anyone who enjoys the energy of bar environments while still wanting complete access to the kitchen’s offerings. The flexibility to enjoy steakhouse-quality meals in a bar setting distinguishes Tartan from establishments that rigidly separate these experiences.
The staff demonstrates fluency in both aspects of the operation. While waiters are adequately knowledgeable about the cocktail program to direct guests toward suitable beverage choices, bartenders are able to discuss menu items and offer well-informed recommendations. This cross-training ensures consistent service quality regardless of where you’re seated or what you’re ordering.
Atmosphere and Ambiance
The physical space at Tartan reflects careful design thinking that considers multiple use cases. The bar area provides lively energy perfect for socializing, while dining sections offer more intimate settings conducive to conversation-focused meals. This variety within a single establishment means you don’t need to compromise between vibrant atmosphere and comfortable dining.
Lighting design deserves particular recognition. The illumination levels create ambiance without sacrificing functionality—you can read menus comfortably while still enjoying the mood-setting effects of thoughtfully placed fixtures. This attention to practical aesthetics demonstrates understanding that restaurants serve functional purposes alongside creating experiences.
The Scottish-inspired décor adds distinctive character without feeling themed or gimmicky. Tartans appear as tasteful accents rather than overwhelming elements, creating visual interest that sparks conversation while maintaining sophisticated restraint. This design philosophy creates memorable environments without resorting to over-the-top theming that can feel forced or dated.
Acoustic management ensures that busy evenings maintain energy without becoming uncomfortably loud. The space has been designed to absorb sound appropriately, allowing the buzz of conversation to create atmosphere while still permitting guests to hear their companions. This balance proves particularly important in establishments combining bar and dining functions.
Nightlife Integration
As part of the broader nightlife Redlands landscape, Tartan serves multiple roles depending on what guests seek. Early evenings attract diners focused primarily on meals with drinks as accompaniments. As nights progress, the bar area becomes increasingly social, drawing people looking for craft cocktails in sophisticated settings without dance club intensity or sports bar chaos.
This evolution throughout the evening creates natural opportunities for extended visits. Groups can arrive for early dinners and remain as the atmosphere transitions toward nightlife energy, never feeling pressured to vacate tables or relocate to other venues. The seamless progression from dining to socializing accommodates various evening pacing preferences.
Weekend nights showcase the establishment at its liveliest, with the bar area buzzing with conversation and the kitchen maintaining steady output to fuel social gatherings. The energy during these peak periods demonstrates Tartan’s role as a community gathering place where locals reconnect and celebrations unfold.
The cocktail program’s sophistication attracts clientele seeking elevated nightlife experiences. Rather than competing with college bars or clubs, Tartan appeals to adults who appreciate quality drinks, interesting conversations, and environments that facilitate connection rather than shouting over music. This positioning fills an important niche in Redlands’ nightlife ecosystem.
Value and Accessibility
Pricing at Tartan reflects the quality of ingredients, skilled preparation, and comprehensive service without reaching levels that make visits feel like once-in-a-lifetime splurges. The value proposition balances premium positioning with accessibility, allowing for both special occasion celebrations and more regular visits for those who prioritize dining and drinking quality.
The cocktail menu includes options at various price points, from straightforward classics to elaborate signature creations featuring premium spirits. This range means you can enjoy a few drinks without committing to top-shelf pricing for every round, while still having luxury options available when occasions warrant the investment.
Happy hour specials and promotional offerings provide opportunities to experience the establishment at reduced costs. These value windows introduce new guests to Tartan’s offerings while rewarding regular patrons with periodic deals that encourage more frequent visits. The strategic timing of these promotions helps manage traffic flow while building customer loyalty.
Portion sizes strike appropriate balances between value and profit margins. Steaks arrive properly sized to satisfy without requiring takeout containers, while cocktails contain sufficient alcohol to justify pricing without becoming irresponsibly strong. This thoughtful calibration demonstrates respect for customers’ expectations around value delivery.
Service Standards
The service team at Tartan demonstrates professionalism that elevates the entire experience. Staff members exhibit genuine hospitality rather than scripted interactions, reading guests to determine appropriate levels of engagement. Attentive without being intrusive, they manage the delicate balance of ensuring needs are met while allowing guests to enjoy their time without constant interruption.
Bartenders display both technical skill and personable demeanor. They efficiently manage busy bar periods while still taking time to chat with regulars, recommend drinks to indecisive guests, and craft each cocktail with appropriate care. This combination of efficiency and engagement creates bar experiences that feel both professional and welcoming.
Servers demonstrate comprehensive menu knowledge, answering questions about preparation methods, ingredients, and pairing recommendations with confidence. Their familiarity with offerings enables them to guide guests toward selections that match stated preferences, reducing the uncertainty that can accompany ordering at new establishments.
The management’s visible presence contributes to consistent service quality. Leadership actively monitors operations, addresses issues promptly, and maintains standards that prevent the deterioration that sometimes affects restaurants over time. This hands-on approach ensures that first-time visitors receive the same quality experience that keeps regulars returning.
Community Connection
Tartan’s integration into the Redlands community extends beyond simply occupying downtown real estate. The establishment functions as a gathering place where residents celebrate milestones, professionals conduct business dinners, and friends maintain regular meetup traditions. This role as community anchor creates social value that transcends the transactional nature of typical restaurant relationships.
Regular patrons receive recognition that fosters belonging. Staff members remember names, usual orders, and personal details that transform anonymous transactions into genuine connections. This “Cheers” atmosphere where everybody knows your name has become integral to Tartan’s identity and contributes significantly to customer loyalty.
Local partnerships and ingredient sourcing demonstrate commitment to the broader regional economy. By working with nearby suppliers and participating in community events, Tartan positions itself as a stakeholder in Redlands’ success rather than simply a business extracting profit from the location.
The multigenerational appeal creates interesting dynamics where different age groups coexist comfortably. Young professionals, established couples, and longtime residents all find reasons to visit, creating diverse crowds that reflect the community’s demographic variety. This inclusive atmosphere prevents the establishment from becoming narrowly focused on specific demographics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the bar hours at Tartan of Redlands?
The bar at Tartan of Redlands typically operates during regular restaurant hours, with extended service on weekends when nightlife activity increases. Specific hours may vary seasonally or for special events, so calling ahead ensures you have accurate information for your planned visit. The bar remains accessible throughout operating hours, serving the full cocktail menu whether you’re dining or just enjoying drinks.
Can I just go to the bar without having dinner?
Absolutely. Tartan welcomes guests who want to enjoy the bar experience without committing to full dinners. The bar area provides comfortable seating where you can order cocktails, wines, beers, or appetizers without pressure to order entrees. This flexibility makes Tartan an excellent option for after-work drinks, casual meetups, or pre-dinner cocktails before heading elsewhere.
Do I need reservations for bar seating?
Bar seating operates on a first-come, first-served basis and doesn’t typically require reservations. However, if you’re planning to dine at the bar during peak weekend evenings, arriving earlier helps ensure seating availability. For dining table reservations that include access to the full cocktail menu, booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially for weekend visits or special occasions.
What types of cocktails does Tartan specialize in?
Tartan’s cocktail program balances classic preparations with creative innovations. The menu features expertly crafted versions of traditional cocktails like martinis, Manhattans, and old fashioneds alongside signature creations incorporating seasonal ingredients and contemporary techniques. The bartending team can also customize drinks based on your spirit preferences or flavor profiles you enjoy, providing personalized options beyond standard menu offerings.
Is there a dress code for the bar area?
While Tartan maintains smart casual standards, the bar area tends to be slightly more relaxed than the dining room. Clean, put-together casual attire works perfectly for bar visits, though many guests dress up when combining bar time with dinner. Avoid overly casual items like athletic wear, flip-flops, or beach attire. When in doubt, business casual represents a safe choice that fits the establishment’s sophisticated atmosphere.
Does Tartan offer happy hour specials?
Tartan periodically offers promotional pricing and special offerings, though specific happy hour details may vary. Contacting the restaurant directly or checking their current promotions ensures you have accurate information about any available specials. Even without promotional pricing, the quality-to-cost ratio makes Tartan’s cocktails competitive with other premium establishments in the region.
About the Restaurant
Tartan of Redlands is the quintessential steakhouse known for Prime Rib on Saturdays, an assortment of steaks, a Redlands Famous Tartan Burger, and a full bar. This beloved establishment opened its doors on April 15, 1964, founded by three brothers: Velmer, Al, and Art Ctoteau. Larry Westin managed the restaurant and eventually became a partner, with Mr. and Mrs. Westin owning it until Larry’s passing in 2003. The restaurant was then passed down to Larry Westin Jr., who continued the family legacy until 2015 when Tartan of Redlands was sold to its current owners, Jeff and Lisa Salamon. Jeff was born in Boston, Massachusetts, and served in the 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.