The Tilted Kilt concept originated in 2003, not in Ireland, not in Scotland, not even in England. Believe it or not, the Tilted Kilt actually came to life in America’s own city of sin, Las Vegas. The idea for a modern American, Irish, Scottish and English sports pub was the brainchild of successful restaurateur Mark DiMartino. His vision saw a contemporary, Celtic-themed sports pub staffed with beautiful servers. And guess what the uniforms would be...knee-high socks and short, sexy plaid kilts with matching plaid bra’s under white camp shirts tantalizingly tied to show off the midriff.

DiMartino immediately assembled a stellar restaurant management team consisting of Shannon Reilly, a free spirit and conspiracy theorist and John Reynaud, the original One Shot Johnny—a golf pro who hadn’t made a dime on the mini-tour in such a long time he’d forgotten where his bank was. With team and funding in place, the Tilted Kilt was a go!

The team and the concept enjoyed great success in Las Vegas. And, one of the great things about a Vegas location is the national and global exposure it garnered. Although the Tilted Kilt was not originally intended to be a franchise, it wasn’t long before the concept’s popularity caught the eye of Ron Lynch, an experienced restaurant and franchise developer.

Not only was Ron Lynch a smart and seasoned businessman, he was a figure the team could truly look up to. However, it wasn’t because of his vast restaurant, franchise, and development experience, but because he was so damn tall (6’6”).

After several months of double-dealing, cheap shots, low blows and self-serving positioning, both parties agreed that Tilted Kilt had broad, far-reaching appeal with a great chance to flourish in multiple regions. Thus, the franchise plan was hatched. The first step was to move the Tilted Kilt headquarters to Tempe, Arizona where it is still based today.

Now, with dozens of locations in operation and many more scheduled to open across the country, Tilted Kilt is proving that “A Cold Beer Never Looked So Good.”

Selling the fun of a pub experience is what makes the Tilted Kilt different from other bar/ restaurant concepts--that, and the uniquely designed, theme-driven costumes. But, the customer’s experience encompasses much more than simply a costume, it’s about having fun! Our atmosphere and the timeless design that incorporates a Celtic theme with humorous limericks, along with American, Irish, Scottish and English curiosities lining the walls, create the type of surroundings where customers can let loose!

Sports fanatics love the Tilted Kilt, with HDTV screens everywhere. Add pool tables and dart boards to the mix, combined with contemporary music, and the end result is a dynamic, fun, and exciting atmosphere. This fun atmosphere is reflected in the architectural features of the building and its unique décor— all part of the Tilted Kilt brand. A complete merchandising program also perpetuates the brand.

Likewise, our food is fun, upscale, and delicious. The Tilted Kilt menu includes a variety of moderately-priced and savory choices. The menu features items such as “Big Arse Burgers,” “Drunken Clams,” “Danny Boy’s Shepherd’s Pie” and our “Gaelic Chicken.”

Our philosophy of high standards in using the best and freshest quality ingredients available equates to an enjoyable dining experience. As expected, the Tilted Kilt wait staff provides an appealing visual experience as well as unparalleled customer service. Customers experience that “welcome back” feeling whether they have just arrived from a construction site or an intense corporate meeting.

Tilted Kilt Business Opportunity

1. The Public Deserves an Enjoyable Experience--Many food and beverage operators concentrate primarily on marketing and service, but, they overlook the fact that customers are also looking for the fun factor with their dining experience. The Tilted Kilt franchise package offers an original concept, sound operational procedures, and marketing tools that insure the operator’s ability to deliver the fun factor. The fact that we create a fun and enjoyable atmosphere for our customers develops repeat business and longer visits.

2. “A Cold Beer Never Looked So Good”--The Titled Kilt Pub & Eatery’s registered slogan is highly appropriate! Attractive costumed cast members, cleverly designed and appointed physical plants, and the highest quality food and beverages are the rule by which every Tilted Kilt must operate.

3. The Best Corporate Management--The brain trust behind the Tilted Kilt enterprise has more than 100 combined years of experience, creating a depth of knowledge in operational management plus food and beverage marketing. The Tilted Kilt management team is committed to providing the best possible service and support to both the franchisee and the end user.

4. The Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery--The Tilted Kilt’s successful business history has been defined and solidified by establishing a refined and standardized menu along with complete design and decor packages. These factors combine to create a broad demographic appeal, which provides the restaurant investor the opportunity to move into a proven market sector with a smooth transition.

5. High Standards For Operators--Tilted Kilt investors and operators must undergo a stringent qualification process in order to join the franchise system. Financial and operational standards have been put in place to insure the best possible system-wide success.

6. The Tilted Kilt Growth System--The Tilted Kilt Franchise Operating LLC, based in Tempe, Arizona, has launched a campaign to expand the number of locations at a controlled and manageable rate.

Tilted Kilt Franchisee Support

1. Site Selection

• A location based on target demographics is important to provide a large customer base, translating into higher sales potential
• Location should be easy to find and parking should be abundant

2. Restaurant Design

• Unique design and décor attracts customers
• Comfort in our design keeps customers in the restaurant
• Comfortable and entertained customers stay longer and spend more money
• Adequate seating optimizes sales potential

3. Training

• A well-trained staff takes care of your customers
• A well cared for customer makes more return visits and spends more money
• A customer spending money more frequently means more profit potential for you

4. Manuals & Procedures

• Well-organized manuals and procedures make the Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery system easier to teach to new employees
• An easier to teach system means more consistency of service
• Consistency of service translates to happy customers
• Happy customers come back more often
• Return customers increase your profit potential

5. Restaurant Launch Team

• A well-organized and successful launch equates to satisfied customers who in turn create a “buzz” about the pub, driving more customers to the location
• More people with positive knowledge of the Titled Kilt equals more potential revenue

6. Franchise Services

• Consistency of high standards for quality, service, cleanliness, and entertainment increases customer frequency
• More frequent visits by customers mean more potential revenue

7. Advertising and Marketing

• A systematic approach to creating brand awareness within your market area creates a strong brand
• A strong brand creates more customers
• More customers mean more potential profit

The Brand Is King
The very first thing that a new Tilted Kilt Franchisee does, upon signing his franchisee agreement, is attend a four-day Brand Orientation Seminar at the Tilted Kilt headquarters in Tempe, Arizona.

In this classroom situation the new TK Franchisee (or Area Developer) works though an interactive session with the TKFO management in which they are exposed to:

• The philosophy of the Tilted Kilt brand
• The elements of the brand and why it works
• Site selection basics
• New store opening procedures
• TK marketing philosophy and methods
• Architectural elements
• Decor and ambiance of a Tilted Kilt Sports Pub
• TKFO obligations to Franchisees
• Franchisee obligations to TKFO

The bar and the Captain’s Table are made of rich warm woods and are designed for guest comfort and enjoyment. Mahogany wainscoting and vibrant green, faux painted walls are used to create a delightful, warm and relaxed feeling. Two shades of orange used as accent colors supply the touch that sets off the painted walls, adding to the feeling of fun that permeates the restaurant.

Contemporary and traditional American, Irish, Scottish, and English- themed curiosities cover the walls and ceilings. Humorous and slightly bawdy limericks are placed strategically throughout the pub, helping to establish the fun and entertaining atmosphere.

Beautiful stained glass doors accented with heavy dark iron hardware create a look of class that sets Tilted Kilt apart from other establishments. Carefully positioned arches and mahogany tables and chairs provide that Old World atmosphere that is such a central part of the Tilted Kilt theme.

The Captain’s Table and Pub Meeting Room provide a gathering space for family and friends or for welcoming customers with an inviting atmosphere. Old friends and total strangers can feel welcome while sharing a pint of their favorite brew. In addition, the design of the patio is an important element that gives the feel of being part of the pub while sitting outside.

Pool tables, dart boards and video games add to the fun factor.

The Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery serves up a superior menu as well as lots of fun. A large portion of the fun experience can be attributed to the enjoyment of a well- thought-out, highly developed menu. The Tilted Kilt has a menu that provides guests with a wide variety of delicious choices. Our perfectly prepared, contemporary pub dishes include our famous burgers, Drunken Clams, Sloppy Jane’s (that’s Joe’s sister), Tilted Kilt Signature Wings, Maggie Mae’s Fish & Chips, signature salads and of course, pizza.

We also have included some traditional pub favorites with the Tilted Kilt twist, including Danny Boy’s Shepard Pie and the Long Shank’s Platter (our version of bangers and mash). Additionally, staples including Flannery’s Flat Iron Steak, Irish Stew, Chicken Pot Pie, and several pasta dishes strengthen the overall menu appeal. Guests can top it all off with a delicious selection of desserts. Everyone enjoys our specially designed menu. It creates a dining treat for guests, but still produces the bottom line results necessary for a successful operation.

Tilted Kilts also offer a fresh Limited Time Offer (LTO) menu every quarter. Typically the LTOs feature regular menu items at special prices, seasonal items and new creations from the Tilted Kilt kitchens.

There is always an extensive appetizer menu at a Tilted Kilt. Click Here To See The Current Menu.

At least 18 Beers on Tap
Any Tilted Kilt Sports Pub offers at least 18 beers on tap, including the local favorites. The automated tap system maintains consistently cold temperatures, and the well-trained and experienced TK bartenders know exactly how to pull a beer with just the right head and taste.

Local and national bottle brands compliment the beer selection. Wines and liquors such as Scotch, bourbon and others are also served where licensing permits.

The Tilted Kilt franchise system provides franchisees with the best possible preparation and ongoing support aimed at their success and the maintenance of the Tilted Kilt Brand.

Every Franchisee and their management team is required to attend a four-day Tilted Kilt Brand Orientation School at Tilted Kilt headquarters in Tempe, Arizona. In this intense session, the TKFO management fully explain the system, the brand, and the philosophy behind them. Everything from mission statements to decor and equipment in a Tilted Kilt Pub is discussed.

Then, operating management personnel (General Manager, Kitchen Managers and others chosen by the franchisee) attend a four-week training school. This session covers all operational features of the TK system and includes hands-on work in the Tempe Tilted Kilt.

Once an opening date has been set, a Tilted Kilt training team travels to the new pub location for on-site training of the entire staff, including hostesses, servers, bar tenders, kitchen help and others. Then part of the training crew and the area developer remain onsite through the first few days of operation.

As the TK system continues to evolve and grow, additional training is provided for franchisees and key personnel.

Opening a major investment like a Tilted Kilt sport pub requires planning and should never be rushed. Each location is different. Permit processes for local government vary, building construction or renovation will vary greatly and sometimes weather or financing play a role.

Orientation, training and marketing requirements place the need for a minimum of 120 days of pre-opening work.

While we're proud of our concept, we urge anyone interested in operating a Tilted Kilt to consider all options carefully, choose a site judiciously, and plan in great detail their entire project.

View our franchise opening process here.