Tillman's Roadhouse

The Tillman's name continues a 14-year tradition of serving great food in a casual setting. In 1992, Ricky and Sara Tillman opened Tillman's Corner to present Ricky's gourmet cooking in an easy-going atmosphere. The location was off the beaten track, but diners found their way and a loyal following developed. Tillman's Corner has been a fixture in the up-and-coming Bishops Arts district ever since.

Until now, not much has changed inside the restaurant while the neighborhood has grown up around it. The Bishops Arts district is thriving with new restaurants, shops, and galleries in the old storefronts. Now Tillman's Corner is getting a makeover as well. The familiar restaurant has a fresh look, a lively atmosphere, and an updated menu. And Sara and her friendly staff are ready to welcome old friends and new.

Tillman's is a 100-seat restaurant and bar located in an early 20th century storefront in the heart of the Bishop Arts District — an eclectic mix of restaurants, galleries, and neighborhood shops.

New patio seating across the width of the storefront connects Tillman's to the street. Inside, diners sit at repurposed barn-wood or hand-crafted steel tables under over-sized crystal chandeliers. Plush banquettes line one side of the dining room faced by simple wooden chairs. A scattering of one-of-a-kind chairs look like they have been added over time. Wood "taxidermy" heads hang from damask wall panels. Other walls have the look of rough wood, with painted concrete floors throughout.

The bar area is open to the main dining room and the entrance. Rustic wood and damask wall finishes continue in the bar. Sleek bar stools topped with saddle leather are grouped around tall steel cocktail tables. An oversized traditional tufted chesterfield covered in aqua velvet anchors a modern lounge seating area. Vintage stills and movie images are projected on the wall as moving art.

Music is a mix of everything you've heard before with some surprises thrown in — ranging from Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton remixes to standards by Abba and Frank Sinatra. Surprise DJ's occasionally spin from the booth above the bar.

Service is part of the atmosphere at Tillmans — casual, comfortable, personable, knowledgeable, never stuffy. Waiters are dressed in western shirts from Billy Reid and custom belts by Brad Oldham that can open a bottle of beer.