Introduction
If you’ve ever walked into a Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery, you know it wasn’t just another sports bar. With its tartan-themed uniforms, Celtic-inspired décor, and pub-style menu, Tilted Kilt carved out a distinct place in American dining culture. But in recent years, many have asked: is Tilted Kilt still open?
The short answer: yes, but only in select locations.
What Was Tilted Kilt All About?
Founded in 2003 in Las Vegas, Tilted Kilt was designed to capture the spirit of a Celtic pub — mixing sports-bar energy with nods to Scottish and Irish themes. Its servers, known as “Kilt Girls,” wore modernized tartan outfits, and the chain grew rapidly across the U.S. during the 2000s and 2010s.
At its peak, Tilted Kilt boasted 90+ locations nationwide.
Which Tilted Kilt Locations Are Still Open?
According to the official Tilted Kilt website and recent updates, only a handful of locations remain in operation:
- Las Vegas, NV
- Lexington, KY
- Clarksville, TN
- Killeen, TX
- Laredo, TX
- Prince George, VA
Meanwhile, other outlets including once-popular venues in California, Arizona, and Florida — have closed their doors. For example, the Orange, CA location officially announced its closure on Facebook in 2024.
👉 For the most up-to-date list, check the Tilted Kilt locations page.
Why Did So Many Close?
Several factors contributed to Tilted Kilt’s downsizing:
- Changing dining trends: More customers shifted toward casual dining chains and fast-casual concepts.
- Competition: Sports bars like Hooters, Twin Peaks, and local craft pubs offered similar experiences.
- Pandemic impact: COVID-19 accelerated closures for restaurants struggling with margins.
Tilted Kilt’s Legacy in Celtic-Inspired Dining
Though diminished in number, Tilted Kilt remains part of a larger story: the enduring fascination with Celtic and Scottish pub culture in America. For many in the diaspora, it offered a playful, if stylized, nod to heritage.
For a deeper dive into authentic Scottish traditions, check out:
And if Tilted Kilt inspired you to explore real Highland wear, you’ll find authentic kilts and accessories at ScottishOutfits.com.
Conclusion
So, is Tilted Kilt still open? Yes, but only in a few U.S. cities. While many locations have closed, the chain lives on in select markets, and its Celtic pub concept remains fondly remembered by fans.
For those who miss the atmosphere, you can still experience genuine Scottish culture through authentic kilts, sporrans, and tartan heritage, the traditions Tilted Kilt playfully borrowed from continue to thrive.