RED rooftop revival
Step into summer at RED the Steakhouse, where the casual rooftop ambiance delivers an effortlessly cool hangout with serious flavor.
RED the Steakhouse has just launched rooftop dining at both locations, providing panoramic views paired with the perfect cut. (Photography: Adrienne Rose)
For a (literally) elevated experience that blends a dash of summertime escapism with sweeping views, a super stylish vibe and award-winning fare, don’t miss the newly renovated rooftop bars at RED the Steakhouse, with locations in downtown Cleveland and Pinecrest in Orange. From golden hour cocktails to late-night bites under the stars, these rooftops are designed for effortlessly chic evenings.
“The panoramic views are breathtaking,” says COO Sean Latona. “In downtown, we look out onto the city skyline. For Guardians home games on Friday and Saturday nights, we’re the best seat in town for the Progressive Field fireworks show. At Pinecrest, we overlook the courtyard, which has cool energy and live music on Friday and Saturday nights.”
The rooftop decor at both RED locations mirrors that of the interior, with chic new furniture, tables and chairs, and lounge seating. Festoon lighting running overhead, candle sconces and sconce lighting create a warm ambiance.
“Overall, we’re going for an elevated casual dining experience that’s perfect for date night, night out with friends or before and after games,” says Sean, who notes that over the past 20 years they’ve earned many awards, including Cleveland Magazine’s Silver Spoon for best steak.
Smashing New Rooftop Menu
I sat down recently with the chefs from both locations‚ Chef Rowan Murray at Pinecrest and Chef Michael Tolosa downtown, to get their take on the new Rooftop Menu.
“We’ve spent the last month finalizing the dishes, many of which are a reflection of our most popular ones from the regular menu,” says Rowan. “One of our most popular summer dishes is a purely throwback, deli-style Cleveland dish, the Pastrami Short Rib. Essentially, we treat short rib like it’s pastrami, brining it and then smoking it in peppercorn and coriander, inspired by old-school deli traditions. It’s the kind of dish that surprises you in the best way.”
Lovable Libations
The restaurants have earned a rep as perfecting the Happy Hour with a new bar menu and drink specials. Happy Hour is Monday through Friday, 4-6:30 p.m. downtown and 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Pinecrest.
Sharable dishes are all $10 on the menu and include flavor-packed delights such as Loaded Fingerlings with cheddar chive butter, bacon and scallions; Crisp Chili Calamari with chili aioli, Fresno peppers and garlic; and Whipped Ricotta with fresh dill, lemon oil and grilled bread, to name a few.
Since the chefs spent so much time experimenting with the flavor profiles, I had to ask what their favorite dishes are.
For Michael, who is southern, it’s hands-down the Old School Pimento spiced cheese spread. “We keep it classic and serve with simple crackers to let the cheese shine,” he says.
For Rowan it’s two dishes from the Rooftop Menu: Watermelon Gazpacho with pickled watermelon, and the Hamachi Crudo appetizer, thinly sliced yellowtail rolled with orange and lime segments, cilantro oil, micro-cilantro and jalapeño peppers.
“Both represent the essence of summer and are meant to be shared,” says Rowan. Fresh, bright and designed to wow—these are summer’s must-try bites.
Summer in a Glass
When it comes to cocktails, the wildly inventive barkeeps have knocked it out of the ballpark.
“Two of our most popular ones are the Cucumber Cocktail, which includes botanical and mint vodka, fresh cucumber, lemon and simple sugar. Another is named for the bartender who invented it, the Oceanside by Jose, a heady mix of gin, Aperol, lime, simple sugar, sparkling grapefruit and an orange twist,” says Sean.
During Happy Hour, signature cocktails are only $10, select wines are $8, and beer bottles and cans are $5.
Since this is a steakhouse, it’s worth noting that Red only serves Certified Angus Beef from Blue Ribbon Meats and the picky chefs hand select the meat with the highest of standards.
“For preparation, we believe in letting the product speak for itself,” says Michael. “We only use salt and pepper on our steaks and broil them to the perfect char. Then we finish with our signature garlic-herb aglio. We also bring in different types of steaks, such as Japanese and Australian Wagyu.”
To complement the fine cuts, the chefs have curated a wine cellar with about 300 bottles from California to Italy and France, with the Cali cabs being the top sellers.
A Culture of Caring
The management at Red is big on culture, striving to create a dining experience forged from a gracious level of hospitality and service.
“Staying relevant to us means always searching for new ways to grow as an organization and cater to those we serve,” says Sean.
While RED is known for its award-winning steaks and polished service, the rooftop experience brings a more spirited and social energy. “We’ve created a space that feels elevated but not exclusive, where great flavors and great company take center stage,” Sean says. “Where guests can gather, unwind and enjoy elevated food and cocktails in a setting that feels both stylish and comfortable.”
RED the Steakhouse has two locations: 417 Prospect Avenue East in Cleveland and 200 Park Avenue, Suite 130 in the Pinecrest district in Orange Village. For Cleveland, visit RedDowntownCle.com or call 216-664-0941. For Pinecrest, visit RedPinecrest.com or call 216-279-7700.
Half-Price Dining!
Visit MimiDeals to purchase a $100 RED the Steakhouse dining certificate for $50 and enjoy twice the fresh fare for half the price.
Live Music at Pinecrest
Kick off your weekends early on Thursdays from 6-9 p.m. at RED Pinecrest, where the tunes from a myriad of local musical performers will put you in a chill vibe.
Half-Price Wine Night
Thursdays are Half-Price Wine Nights on bottles less than $200 at both RED locations.
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