The Tipsy Cow: A Burger Haven with Local Flair
The Tipsy Cow is a name that pops up in various corners of the world, from the burger joints of Redmond, Washington, to the laid-back vibes of Cedar Key, Florida, and even a cocktail spot in Ho Chi Minh City. But let’s zoom in on one of its most celebrated spots—the Tipsy Cow Burger Bar in Redmond, a place that’s become a local legend for its creative burgers and craft beer scene.
What’s the Tipsy Cow Burger Bar?
Tucked at 16325 Cleveland St, Redmond, WA, the Tipsy Cow Burger Bar is all about elevating the humble burger with locally sourced ingredients. Since opening, it’s been a go-to for grass-fed beef patties, inventive toppings, and a vibe that’s equal parts cozy and industrial. Think burgers like “The Winemaker” (triple-cream brie, alfalfa sprouts, caramelized onions, white truffle aioli, ~$15) or the “Big Eye” (wasabi-crusted ahi tuna, sriracha lime aioli, ~$16), alongside truffle fries ($6) and over 30 beers on tap ($5-$8). It’s not just beef—turkey, salmon, and black bean patties cater to all tastes. With 419 Tripadvisor reviews averaging 4.2/5, it ranks #1 of 156 Redmond eateries, a testament to its pull since 2016 (tipsycowburgerbar.com).
How Does It Work?
Walk in or book a table via their site—reservations are handy during peak hours (5-8 PM). The menu’s a playground: pick a burger (7oz patties, ~$12-$18), pair it with a craft beer or a “tipped” milkshake (think bourbon-spiked vanilla, ~$10), and add sides like brew-battered onion rings ($5). Orders come quick—10-15 minutes even when busy—and the staff’s known for being clued-up, especially on gluten-free options (dedicated fryer for fries!). You can dine in the open-plan space, grab takeout, or order delivery via DoorDash. I heard a local swear by their happy hour (3-6 PM, $3 off select items)—it’s a steal for a quick bite and brew.
Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
The Tipsy Cow nails the balance of quality and fun. Their burgers, made from local grass-fed beef, are juicy and packed with flavor—reviewers rave about the “Tipsy Burger” for its classic perfection (~$13). The drink menu’s a draw too, with 30+ taps of regional beers and cocktails that don’t skimp on creativity. In 2024, burger joints like this saw a 10% uptick in visits across the U.S., as folks craved hearty, local eats. Gluten-free folks love it too—Udi’s buns and a dedicated fryer make it celiac-friendly, with reviewers reporting no issues (findmeglutenfree.com). The catch? It can get packed, and parking in downtown Redmond’s a hassle during rush hour. Some say the shakes are overly sweet, so maybe ask for a lighter pour.
Perfect for Redmond
Redmond’s techy, outdoorsy crowd—think Microsoft workers and trail hikers—fits the Tipsy Cow like a glove. It’s a stone’s throw from Marymoor Park, ideal for a post-bike burger, and the vibe screams Pacific Northwest with its focus on local ranchers and brewers. No permits needed to dig in—just cash or card—and the place hums year-round, rain or shine. Prices are fair for the quality: a burger, fries, and beer won’t break $25 unless you go wild with extras.
The Tipsy Cow Burger Bar is a Redmond gem, dishing up burgers and beers from $12 that hit all the right spots. Check tipsycowburgerbar.com for the menu or swing by to soak in the buzz. It’s not flawless—crowds and parking can test your patience—but for a meal that’s fresh, local, and damn tasty, it’s tough to beat. Grab a “Winemaker” and see why locals keep coming back.
