There may be no better place for that special occasions than Ruth’s Chris, but beware it comes at a price. So if you are celebrating a birthday, getting engaged or simply want to impress a client and a $100 or more a plate dinner is not in your wheelhouse, save up a little and enjoy.
First the ambiance, overlooking the St John’s River and the downtown skyline. Tables are set up on two rows, so anywhere you sit, you will have a good river view. If you want to take pictures, there is an outside deck that is perfect for selfies and group shots.
But the food, what should you order?
Spicy Shrimp Appetizer - normally I avoid appetizers but I have found two good ones, Spicy Shrimp is one.
Mushroom Stuffed - the other appetizer I enjoyed, but as I said, I normally skip them.
Caesar Salad - this is DELICIOUS, perfectly prepared and large enough to split.
Wedge Salad - good, but it is just lettuce, much better options on the menu.
Lobster Bisque - AMAZING dish and a good portion. My son loves lobster bisque and he really loves this version.
Prix Fixe Menu (PF) - this is always a really good value, you get smaller portions of menu items but it comes with salad/soup, entree and dessert.
Mashed Potatoes - great flavor, but the consistency always seem to thin for me.
Sweet Potato Casserole - as good as a dessert and the perfect texture.
Spinach - this is a Ruth’s staple, so you have to get it at least once on your visit.
Brussels Sprouts - we never order enough of these, they are so good.
Crimini Mushrooms - my favorite side, but it is a pretty small portion.
Steak and Shrimp (PF) - two or three shrimp along with a small beef filet. The Shrimp are jumbos and beautifully butterflied.
Crab Cakes - three good size crab cakes, but for some reason I don’t love these.
NY Strip - my favorite cut of beef and they do it so well.
Tomahawk - sounds good but never ordered it.
Filet - as with most RC steaks, you can get different sizes but if you like it well or medium well ask yo get it butterflied.
Ribeye - ooh-wee, this steak is SO GOOD.
Lamb Chops - options other than steak, never had it.
Chocolate Cake - dense, rich, wish there was more raspberry.
Cheesecake - great option on prix fixe, really good.
Bread Pudding - another dense dessert with a great flavor, speckled with raisins.
Budget ideas - skip alcohol and choose the price fixe menu and sample lobster bisque, steak/shrimp and dessert.
Splurge ideas - order soup/salad and a ribeye, then add a lobster tale or sauce and finish with cheesecake. You will leave satisfied.
The only real issue is price, this place is perfect when someone else is paying.
