Where to Eat in Downtown Redlands This Weekend
Downtown Redlands offers a delightful culinary landscape that transforms every weekend into a food lover’s adventure. Whether you’re a local resident looking to shake up your usual dining routine or a visitor exploring this charming Southern California city, the historic downtown district serves up an impressive variety of flavors that cater to every palate and occasion.
Morning Fuel for Your Weekend Adventures
Starting your Saturday or Sunday morning right means finding that perfect breakfast spot that sets the tone for the entire day. Downtown Redlands doesn’t disappoint when it comes to morning meals. The area features several beloved brunch destinations where you can enjoy everything from classic American breakfasts to innovative breakfast fusion dishes. Consider exploring cafes that serve locally roasted coffee alongside freshly baked pastries, or settle into a cozy booth at an establishment known for their generous portions of eggs benedict and fluffy pancakes.
For those who prefer a lighter morning bite, several coffee shops and bakeries dot State Street and the surrounding blocks, offering artisanal lattes, fresh croissants, and peaceful atmospheres perfect for easing into your weekend. These spots often feature outdoor seating where you can people-watch while enjoying the pleasant Southern California weather.
Lunch Options That Hit the Spot
As midday approaches and you’re exploring the boutique shops and historic architecture that make downtown Redlands special, you’ll find lunch options that range from quick and casual to leisurely dining experiences. The beauty of this downtown district lies in its walkability—you can easily browse several menus before deciding where to land.
Sandwich lovers will discover delis and cafes crafting creative combinations on fresh-baked bread, while those craving international flavors can choose from Mexican taquerias, Italian trattorias, or Mediterranean eateries. Many establishments pride themselves on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients that showcase California’s agricultural bounty. If you’re dining with a group with varied preferences, downtown Redlands makes it easy since multiple restaurants cluster together, allowing your party to split up and reconvene afterward.
Afternoon Treats and Coffee Culture
The hours between lunch and dinner present the perfect opportunity to indulge in downtown Redlands’ growing coffee culture and sweet treat scene. Several specialty coffee roasters and tea houses provide refined afternoon refreshments, while ice cream parlors and dessert shops offer the perfect excuse to extend your downtown stroll. These establishments often double as community gathering spots where locals catch up with friends or settle in with a good book.
Dinner Destinations Worth Planning Around
Weekend evenings in downtown Redlands bring a special energy, and the dinner scene reflects this vibrant atmosphere. Upscale dining rooms offer sophisticated menus ideal for date nights or special celebrations, featuring seasonal dishes paired with carefully curated wine lists. These restaurants often occupy beautifully restored historic buildings, adding architectural charm to your dining experience.
For a more relaxed evening vibe, gastropubs and casual dining spots serve elevated comfort food in laid-back settings where you can unwind after a day of weekend activities. Pizza enthusiasts will find both traditional Italian-style pizzerias and creative contemporary pizza concepts, many featuring wood-fired ovens that produce perfectly charred crusts.
Ethnic cuisine representation continues growing in downtown Redlands, with restaurants serving authentic dishes from various cultures. From Asian fusion to Latin American specialties, these establishments bring global flavors to this historic California community.
Drinks and Social Scenes
As evening settles in, downtown Redlands reveals its social side through various bars, wine tasting rooms, and craft cocktail lounges. Several establishments specialize in local craft beers, giving you the opportunity to sample Southern California’s renowned brewing culture. Wine bars offer flights featuring California vintages, while cocktail-focused spots shake up both classic and innovative drinks.
Many restaurants also feature happy hour specials during weekend late afternoons, providing excellent value while you enjoy the downtown atmosphere. Some venues offer live music on weekends, combining great food and drinks with entertainment.
Planning Your Downtown Dining Weekend
To make the most of your culinary exploration this weekend, consider starting your day early to avoid brunch rushes at popular spots. Weekends see increased foot traffic as people from surrounding areas visit downtown Redlands, so making reservations at dinner destinations—especially for parties of four or more—proves wise.
Don’t hesitate to venture down the side streets beyond the main drag. Some of downtown’s hidden gems occupy quieter corners, offering equally impressive food with a more intimate atmosphere. The compact nature of downtown Redlands means you can easily walk off your meal while window shopping or admiring the Victorian architecture between courses.
Whether you’re planning a progressive dining experience that samples multiple establishments or settling in for a long, leisurely meal at a single location, downtown Redlands provides the variety, quality, and atmosphere to make your weekend dining memorable. The combination of historic charm, contemporary culinary creativity, and genuine community warmth makes every meal here feel special.
This weekend presents another opportunity to discover why downtown Redlands has become such a beloved dining destination in the Inland Empire—so grab your appetite and explore what these talented restaurateurs have prepared for you.
About the Restaurant
Tartan of Redlands has long been a cornerstone of the local dining scene, earning its reputation as a classic steakhouse deeply rooted in the community. Known for its iconic Saturday night prime rib, premium cuts of steak, the legendary Redlands Tartan Burger, and a well-appointed bar, the restaurant has become a go-to destination for generations of diners.
The establishment first opened its doors on April 15, 1964, founded by brothers Velmer, Al, and Art Ctoteau in the heart of downtown Redlands. United by a passion for quality cuisine and sincere, welcoming service, the brothers laid the foundation for what would grow into a lasting neighborhood institution.
As the years progressed, Larry Westin became a partner alongside the Ctoteau family. With the support of his wife, he helped guide the restaurant through decades of success and steady growth. After Larry Westin’s passing in 2003, leadership transitioned to his son, Larry Westin Jr., who continued to uphold the restaurant’s legacy until 2015. That year, ownership was entrusted to Jeff and Lisa Salamon, marking the beginning of a new era. Jeff Salamon, a lifelong Boston native and highly decorated U.S. Marine Corps veteran, brought with him a strong appreciation for tradition, service, and community—principles that naturally align with the spirit of the Tartan. Under their stewardship, the restaurant’s character and long-standing traditions have remained proudly preserved.
Today, Tartan of Redlands remains a welcoming gathering place where history and hospitality come together. While times have changed, the restaurant’s warm atmosphere, timeless décor, and familiar charm continue to resonate with guests old and new. Affectionately referred to as the “Cheers of Redlands,” it offers more than food and drinks—it provides a sense of connection, comfort, and belonging that keeps patrons coming back year after year.
