Why Tartan of Redlands Is the Best Steakhouse in Redlands CA
When searching for an exceptional dining experience in the Inland Empire, discerning food enthusiasts consistently turn to one establishment that has stood the test of time. Since opening its doors on April 15, 1964, Tartan of Redlands has earned its reputation through unwavering commitment to quality, atmosphere, and service that transforms a simple meal into a memorable occasion.
A Legacy Built on Brotherhood and Dedication
The story begins with three brothers—Velmer, Al, and Art Ctoteau—who shared a vision of creating something special in Southern California’s historic district. Under the management of Larry Westin, who eventually became a partner, the foundation was laid for what would become a Redlands institution. The Westin family stewarded this beloved establishment until Larry’s passing in 2003, when Larry Westin Jr. carried forward the family tradition.
In 2015, current owners Jeff and Lisa Salamon took the reins, bringing fresh energy while honoring decades of heritage. Jeff, a Boston native and Marine Corps veteran, understood the importance of preserving what made Tartan of Redlands special. The result? An old-school atmosphere that has remained intact while continuing to deliver the consistency that generations of guests have come to expect.
The Cheers of Redlands: Where Community Meets Cuisine
What separates an ordinary restaurant from a truly remarkable one? The answer lies in creating a space where people feel genuinely welcomed, not just served. This steakhouse Redlands CA establishment has earned its reputation as the place “where everybody knows your name”—a distinction that reflects years of treating guests like family rather than transactions.
Regular patrons return not just for exceptional food, but for the familiarity and warmth that greets them at the door. First-time visitors quickly understand why locals guard this gem so fiercely, discovering that authenticity and quality never go out of style at Tartan of Redlands.
Signature Dishes That Define Excellence
While variety graces the menu, certain offerings have achieved legendary status among those who know where to find the best dining experiences in the region.
The Saturday Night Tradition: Prime Rib Perfection
Saturday evenings bring something special to the table—literally. The Prime Rib at Tartan of Redlands has become synonymous with weekend celebrations, date nights, and family gatherings throughout the community. This isn’t just another menu item; it’s a tradition that has brought people together for decades.
Slow-roasted to achieve the perfect balance of crusty exterior and tender, juicy interior, each cut showcases the expertise that comes from preparing this classic dish thousands of times. Seasoned with care and cooked with precision, the Prime Rib represents everything a steakhouse restaurant should deliver: quality ingredients treated with respect and skill.
Steak Selection That Satisfies Every Preference
Beyond the famous Saturday Prime Rib, an assortment of premium steaks ensures that every preference finds satisfaction. Whether you prefer the rich marbling of a ribeye, the lean elegance of a New York strip, or the tender perfection of a filet, the kitchen at Tartan of Redlands delivers consistent excellence.
Each cut receives individual attention, cooked to precise specifications that honor guest preferences while preserving the integrity of premium beef. The result? Every visit reinforces why this location stands as the best steakhouse in Redlands.
The Redlands Famous Tartan Burger
Some dishes transcend their category to become cultural landmarks. The Tartan Burger has achieved exactly this status, earning fame throughout the community and beyond. This isn’t an afterthought for non-steak eaters—it’s a destination in its own right.
Crafted with the same attention to quality that defines every menu offering at Tartan of Redlands, this burger delivers satisfying flavor and perfect execution. The combination of premium beef, fresh toppings, and expertly toasted bun creates an experience that validates its legendary reputation. Locals know that when friends visit from out of town, introducing them to this burger makes for a perfect casual dining experience.
Ambiance: Where History Lives and Comfort Reigns
Step through the doors of Tartan of Redlands and you’re transported to an era when dining out meant something different. The ambiance reflects over six decades of hospitality, where classic steakhouse aesthetics meet genuine warmth.
Old-School Atmosphere Preserved with Purpose
In a world of constant change and trendy redesigns, Tartan of Redlands has maintained its character with intentionality. The classic décor doesn’t feel dated—it feels authentic. Rich wood tones, comfortable seating, and thoughtful lighting create an environment that invites lingering conversations and relaxed enjoyment.
This isn’t a museum piece frozen in time; it’s a living space that honors its heritage while remaining fully functional for modern dining expectations. The atmosphere manages to feel both nostalgic and timeless, appealing to guests across generations.
The Full Bar Experience
Complementing the exceptional food, a full bar offers carefully selected beverages that enhance the dining experience. Whether you prefer classic cocktails, cold beer, or wine selections that pair beautifully with steak, knowledgeable staff at Tartan of Redlands guide choices that complement your meal.
The bar area itself serves as a gathering spot where the “Cheers” atmosphere particularly shines. Regular patrons mix with newcomers in a setting that encourages friendly conversation and relaxed enjoyment—exactly what the founding brothers envisioned decades ago.
Why This Stands as the Best Steakhouse Near Me
When multiple establishments compete for attention, what creates clear differentiation? The answer involves history, consistency, community connection, and genuine understanding that reputation must be earned repeatedly rather than assumed.
Six Decades of Consistent Excellence
Opening in 1964 means weathering changing tastes, economic shifts, and evolving competition while maintaining standards that keep guests returning. This longevity doesn’t happen by accident—it requires dedication that extends beyond pursuing profit to genuinely caring about the experience delivered.
Through three ownership transitions, the core identity of Tartan of Redlands has remained intact. New owners haven’t imposed dramatic changes that chase trends; they’ve honored what works while making thoughtful refinements that serve guests without abandoning character.
Community Integration That Creates Loyalty
Being the “Cheers of Redlands” means something deeper than catchy marketing language. It reflects genuine relationships built over years of consistent interaction, where staff remember preferences, celebrate milestones, and create the comfortable familiarity that turns customers into community members.
This integration manifests in countless ways at Tartan of Redlands—regulars who’ve celebrated every anniversary at the same table, families who’ve marked graduations across generations, business relationships forged over Saturday Prime Rib dinners. These connections create loyalty that transcends simple food quality to become part of personal and community identity.
The Fine Dining Redlands Standard Redefined
This category encompasses more than expensive menu items or formal atmosphere. True fine dining represents elevation of the complete experience, where attention to detail creates occasions worth remembering.
Quality Without Pretension
Excellence doesn’t require stuffiness or intimidating formality. At Tartan of Redlands, premium ingredients and expert preparation combine with approachable warmth that welcomes everyone. Whether you’re wearing business attire after work or casual clothes on a Saturday afternoon, you receive the same quality and attention.
This balance makes the establishment accessible for various occasions—special celebrations receive appropriate acknowledgment without uncomfortable spotlight moments, while regular visits maintain excellence without unnecessary formality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Tartan of Redlands different from other steakhouses in the area?
Tartan of Redlands distinguishes itself through authentic heritage spanning over six decades of continuous operation. Since opening in 1964, it has maintained old-school atmosphere and community connection while delivering consistent excellence across all offerings. Current owners Jeff and Lisa Salamon preserve the character that made this location legendary while upholding standards that have satisfied generations of guests.
When is the best time to visit for the famous Prime Rib?
Saturday evenings showcase the signature Prime Rib that has become a Redlands tradition at Tartan of Redlands. This special offering draws crowds who plan their weekends around this experience, so advance reservations are strongly recommended. The slow-roasted preparation delivers perfect tenderness and flavor that validates its legendary status among locals and visitors alike.
What makes the Tartan Burger so famous throughout Redlands?
This signature creation has earned its reputation through consistent quality and exceptional execution at Tartan of Redlands. Premium beef receives the same attention to seasoning and cooking precision as the steak offerings, while fresh toppings and perfectly toasted bun create an experience that transcends typical burger expectations. The Redlands Famous Tartan Burger represents destination dining in its own right.
How has the restaurant maintained its character through ownership changes?
From the founding Ctoteau brothers through the Westin family era and into current ownership by Jeff and Lisa Salamon, each transition has honored the core identity that makes Tartan of Redlands special. Jeff’s Marine Corps background brings commitment to maintaining excellence and respecting tradition. The deliberate preservation of old-school atmosphere and the “Cheers of Redlands” community feeling demonstrates that ownership changes have enhanced rather than altered the fundamental character.
Is this establishment suitable for both special occasions and regular dining?
Absolutely. The welcoming atmosphere at Tartan of Redlands accommodates everything from casual weeknight dinners to milestone celebrations. Special occasions receive appropriate acknowledgment without uncomfortable theatrics, while regular visits maintain the same quality standards. The community-oriented environment makes everyone feel like a regular, whether visiting for the first time or the hundredth.
Does the menu accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences?
The kitchen at Tartan of Redlands accommodates various dietary needs and preferences with advance notice. While the menu focuses on traditional steakhouse fare, staff work with guests to address restrictions and special requirements. Communicating needs when making reservations allows the team to prepare appropriately and ensure a satisfying experience for all diners.
The Verdict: Where Heritage Meets Excellence
When evaluating restaurants claiming superiority, evidence matters more than assertions. Over sixty years of continuous operation, consistent community loyalty, and maintained character through three ownership transitions all point toward clear conclusions about Tartan of Redlands’ position within the regional dining landscape.
Those seeking the finest experience in the area have found their answer. The combination of signature dishes like Saturday Prime Rib and the Redlands Famous Tartan Burger, authentic old-school atmosphere preserved with purpose, full bar offerings, and service rooted in genuine hospitality creates dining occasions worth planning around.
Whether marking important milestones, enjoying the Saturday Prime Rib tradition, discovering why the Tartan Burger has achieved legendary status, or simply experiencing what makes this the “Cheers of Redlands,” every visit to Tartan of Redlands confirms that authentic excellence never goes out of style.
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.
