01
Best special-occasion pick
The Pines Modern Steakhouse
Yaamava' Resort & Casino • Upscale Steakhouse And Wine-Focused Dining Room • Special-Occasion Steakhouse
A polished steakhouse with serious chops, deep wine lists, and a grown-up atmosphere inside Yaamava' Resort & Casino.
If you want to dress up and linger over a perfectly cooked steak, The Pines is the obvious choice near Highland. The room feels quietly luxurious, from the generous booths to the well-trained service, and the kitchen treats everything from prime ribeyes to seafood with equal care. It is pricey, but for anniversaries, client dinners, or a splurge night at the casino, it more than earns its reputation.
02
Neighborhood favorite
Mi Cocina
Central Highland • Casual, Family-Run Mexican Restaurant • Best For Relaxed Family Dinners
Comforting combo plates, fresh chips and salsa, and friendly service make this Mexican standby a go-to for locals.
Mi Cocina is the kind of place where staff remembers your usual order and plates arrive piled high and hot. The menu sticks to familiar classics—enchiladas, fajitas, burritos, and big combination plates—but the flavors are bright and the portions generous. It is easy to bring a group, settle into a booth, and make an unhurried evening of it without breaking the bank.
03
Best quick bite
Fuego Cravings
East Highland • Fast-Casual Mexican Grill And Street-Food Spot • Quick, Flavor-Packed Bite
A counter-service spot turning out loaded fries, tacos, and burritos with bold, crowd-pleasing flavors.
Fuego Cravings specializes in the kind of hearty, messy plates that hit the spot after work or a late night. Think carne asada fries, overstuffed burritos, and tacos with just enough heat to keep things interesting. Service is fast, the vibe is unfussy, and it’s a smart move when you want something satisfying without committing to a full sit-down meal.
04
Refined nearby escape
Caprice Café
Downtown Redlands • Stylish New American And Mediterranean Bistro • Date-Night Destination Nearby
An elegant bistro in historic downtown Redlands, pairing thoughtful seasonal plates with a solid wine list and sidewalk seating.
Caprice Café draws Highland diners who don’t mind a short drive in exchange for a more urban-feeling night out. The menu mixes California and Mediterranean influences—think well-composed salads, seafood, pastas, and grilled meats—without feeling fussy. Sit on the patio when the weather is mild and you get built-in people-watching along with one of the better wine selections in the area.
05
Best for drinks and bites
The State
State Street, Redlands • Lively Craft-Cocktail Gastropub • Go-To For Drinks And Shared Plates
Buzzy and brick-walled, The State is known for its long list of craft cocktails and elevated comfort food built for sharing.
When Highland locals want a night that revolves around drinks as much as dinner, they often end up at The State. The bar program leans into inventive cocktails, but the kitchen keeps pace with burgers, mac and cheese, and shareable small plates that feel far from typical bar fare. It can get loud and energetic on weekend nights, which only adds to the appeal if you are out with friends.