There are restaurants you stumble upon, and then there are restaurants you discover, the kind that feel like you've been let in on Redlands' best-kept secret. Cedar Agave is decidedly the latter.

Tucked on the second floor at 14 E State Street, above Don Orange, this intimate 44-seat boutique restaurant isn't trying to announce itself to the world.

There's no flashy signage on State Street. No neon lights beckoning passersby. Instead, you enter through the oyster bar, walk down a dimly lit corridor, and climb a staircase that feels more like a portal to another world than a simple path to dinner.

And when you reach the top? You've arrived somewhere special.

The Discovery

On a Friday evening, I had the privilege of experiencing what makes Cedar Agave more than just another restaurant opening in downtown Redlands. This is a place with vision, purpose, and—most importantly—soul.

Meeting General Manager Rafael Iniguez (who prefers "Farel"), I quickly understood why this establishment operates with such polish and warmth.

With over 36 years in the hospitality industry, including extensive experience at the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa (2007-2020) and current involvement with Cabo Wabo Beach Club and Waterfront Beach Resort in Huntington Beach, Farel brings a wealth of knowledge from managing some of Orange County's most unique and prestigious dining establishments.

 

A Concept Born from Two Cultures

The name itself tells the story: Cedar—representing the majestic tree that symbolizes Lebanese heritage—and Agave, the heart of Mexican culture and cuisine. This isn't fusion for fusion's sake. It's a thoughtful celebration of two rich culinary traditions that share more common ground than most realize.

"The Lebanese and Mexican cultures both center around family, hospitality, and gathering around the table," Farel explained as we settled into the intimate, dimly lit space. "Both cuisines emphasize fresh ingredients, bold spices, and the art of sharing food. What we've created here honors both traditions."

The connection runs deeper than philosophy. Historically, Lebanese immigration to Mexico in the late 19th and early 20th centuries left an indelible mark on Mexican cuisine, most famously in the creation of tacos al pastor, which evolved from Lebanese shawarma. Cedar Agave brings that relationship full circle with intention and elegance.

The Space: Speakeasy Sophistication

Cedar Agave's atmosphere commands attention. The space is dark, moody, and undeniably romantic, perfect for date nights and intimate celebrations. Velvet seating, carefully curated lighting (including adjustable table lamps with different temperatures and brightness settings), and thoughtful décor create an ambiance that's simultaneously exclusive and welcoming.

 

The speakeasy vibe is intentional. From the hidden entrance to the intimate 44-seat capacity, every detail reinforces the feeling that you're part of something special—a culinary secret shared among those in the know.

 

The Menu: Where Two Worlds Unite

Cedar Agave's menu is structured as mezze and tapas-style small plates, designed for sharing and exploring. The approximately 70/30 Lebanese-to-Mexican ratio allows the restaurant to showcase Lebanese foundations while incorporating Mexican spices, techniques, and ingredients.

Standout dishes include:

• Lebanese Florets – Cauliflower elevated to an art form, consistently mentioned as a guest favorite
• Muhammara Rojo – A twist on the classic red pepper and walnut dip with Mexican heat
• Mexican Fattoush Salad – Fresh greens with crispy pita, pomegranate, and a Mexican-spiced twist on the traditional Lebanese salad
• Batata Harra – Crispy twice-fried potatoes with cilantro, garlic, and chili
• Harissa Lamb Chops – Tender chops with North African-Mexican spice fusion
• Falafel Pockets – Crispy falafel with tahini and pickled vegetables
• Papi Ghanoush – A playful name for their smoky eggplant dip served with warm pita
• Filet Mignon Skewers – Premium beef with Lebanese-Mexican seasoning
• Baklava Cheesecake – Reportedly made by the owner's mother, this dessert bridges both traditions beautifully
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The cocktail program deserves special mention. Creative drinks like the Zaatar Martini, C.R.E.A.M. Light (a sophisticated lemonade-based cocktail), Golden Aztec, and Once Upon A Time In Mexico showcase the same fusion philosophy—unexpected combinations that shouldn't work but absolutely do.

 

The Vision and the Mission

 

What struck me most about Cedar Agave wasn't just the food or the ambiance—it was the clear sense of mission. Under Farel's leadership and the owners' vision, this restaurant aims to create more than memorable meals. They're building a gathering place where cultures intersect, where strangers become friends over shared plates, and where every detail, from the music selection (think Aaliyah, Masego, and Don Tolliver) to the temperature of your table lighting—has been considered.

 

"We want guests to linger," Farel told me. "This isn't about turning tables. It's about creating an experience where people feel comfortable staying, talking, and really connecting—the way both Lebanese and Mexican families do naturally."

 

That philosophy extends to service. The staff is knowledgeable, attentive without being intrusive, and genuinely passionate about the food they're serving. Many speak both English and Spanish, ensuring all guests feel welcomed and understood.

A Testament to Redlands' Evolving Dining Scene

 

Since its quiet opening in September 2024, Cedar Agave has earned a devoted following. Guests describe it as "mind-blowing," "a hidden gem," and "one of the best spots in Redlands."

 

The restaurant has been featured in the Orange County Register's "Best Things We Ate" and continues to generate buzz throughout the Inland Empire and beyond.

 

The intimate size (just 44 seats) means reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dining.

 

The restaurant operates Wednesday through Saturday from 5:00 PM to late (11:00 PM Wednesday-Thursday, midnight Friday-Saturday) and Sundays from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

 

Why This Matters for Redlands

 

Cedar Agave represents something important for downtown Redlands: sophisticated, culturally rich dining that rivals anything you'd find in Los Angeles or Orange County. It's the kind of restaurant that gives residents a reason to stay local for special occasions and gives visitors a reason to seek out Redlands specifically.

 

In Farel's words: "Redlands deserved something different, something special. We're not trying to be like everyone else. We're trying to honor two incredible cultures and create something unique to this community."

 

The Verdict

 

My Friday evening at Cedar Agave wasn't just dinner—it was an education in how food can tell stories, bridge cultures, and create community. From the moment you find that hidden staircase to the last bite of baklava cheesecake, every element works in harmony.

 

Is it pricey? Yes—small plates range from $12 to $42, with most proteins in the $30-40 range. But the quality, creativity, and experience justify the investment, especially for special occasions.

 

Cedar Agave isn't trying to be everything to everyone. It's intimate, intentional, and unapologetically unique. And that's exactly what makes it essential.

 

 

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Cedar Agave
📍 14 E State Street, 2nd Floor (above Don Orange)
Redlands, CA 92373
📞 (840) 251-3695
🌐 cedaragave.com
📧 reservations@cedaragave.com

Hours:
Wednesday-Thursday: 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Friday-Saturday: 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Sunday: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Monday-Tuesday: Closed

Reservations: Highly recommended
Parking: Street parking available in downtown Redlands
Dress Code: Smart casual to elevated casual
Price Range: $ (Small plates $12-42)

 

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Carlos Samaniego is a Redlands resident, Publisher of RedlandsNow.com, tax resolution specialist, and passionate supporter of local businesses that bring authentic culture and quality to the Inland Empire dining scene.