Best Of

Best Outdoor Bars In The Inland Empire

September 5, 2016 / 5:00 AM PDT / KCAL News

Located east of Los Angeles, the Inland Empire contains a nice cross-section of cities and its fair share of bars and clubs. Many take advantage of the great Southern California weather with their patio seating and, in some cases, outdoor bars. A few notable I.E. establishments actually are more complexes than bars, serving up great food, drink and entertainment throughout the week. If you live in the Inland Empire or just plan to visit, check out the following local businesses and landmarks.

Eden Garden Fusion Grill
392 E. A. St.
Upland, CA 91786
(909) 949-9922
www.edenfusiongrill.com

With a live DJ, belly dancing and patio dining on the weekends, the Eden Garden Fusion Grill is a pretty special place in the I.E. Their full bar complements a menu that features chicken, lamb and grilled steak, plus a selection of seafood and pasta. They even serve shawarma, the dish Tony Stark was craving during the first "Avengers" movie. Located next to a Metrolink Station, this spot also has great desserts and drinks. A happening place in the Inland Empire, the Eden Garden Fusion Grill has something for everyone.

MU Restaurant Bar Lounge
309 W. State St.
Redlands, CA 92373
(909) 798-7747
www.mumartini.com

More than just a restaurant, MU has a great patio as well as the "Mutini" Bar & Lounge. With over 40 different vodkas to choose from, the bartenders can mix just about any drink you care to order. If you come in hungry, try the teriyaki chicken, garlic beef or a nice rib-eye steak with your libation. The chefs also serve up seafood and vegetarian dishes. The staff earns high praise from customers for their attentiveness and great service. When looking for great Redlands nightlife, MU Restaurant Bar Lounge is the place to go.

Tartan Of Redlands
24 E. Redlands Blvd.
Redlands, CA 92373
(909) 792-9919
www.tartanofredlands.com

A landmark in downtown Redlands, the family-owned Tartan is often compared to Sam Malone's bar in "Cheers." As the owners point out on their website, everyone is greeted as they come in the door. (Maybe Sam, Diane or Frasier have even stopped by). Established in 1964, the Tartan has a nice wine selection and a full bar, offering numerous ways to wet your whistle and mellow out. In the mood for dinner with your drinks? Check out the appetizers, burgers and steaks on a menu that won't leave you hungry. Everything can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors on the patio.

Screaming Chicken Saloon
18169 Cajon Blvd.
San Bernardino, CA 92407
(909) 880-0056

Big restaurants and complexes are great when you want to dress up and impress a date. When you want to kick back and just relax, though, head to the Screaming Chicken Saloon in San Bernardino. Fans of this San Bernardino location point out that their beer is served really, really cold. Not for the faint of heart or the overly conservative, it is a place to let your hair down and have some fun. The Screaming Chicken also has an outdoor bar that's used for weddings, bike runs and other functions.

South Side Saloon
495 E. Redlands Blvd.
San Bernardino, CA 92408
(909) 888-1263

There are places in the I.E. that are hidden gems, but the South Side Saloon is a place to share with friends. Customers come for the reasonably priced drinks, atmosphere and some of the friendliest bartenders in Southern California. A nice place with pool, darts and good conversation, the South Side Saloon can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Steven Bryan calls Irvine, California his home. A freelance writer for more than 20 years, he has interviewed a wide range of notable celebrities, including a variety of up-and-coming musicians and artists as well. Passionate about movies and comic books, he also makes an annual pilgrimage to the San Diego Comic-Con.

Orange County