Ruby Tuesday - All locations, Nationwide Review

Ruby Tuesday is an international chain. We've eaten at many locations. Most often the food and service is great. Last night's dinner is no exception. This specific review is about the Ruby Tuesday at Exit 398 (Strawberry Plains) in Knoxville, Tennessee.

My husband, teenage daughter and I were on the go all day yesterday. By the time we had a chance for dinner it was nearly 9pm. We weren't sure where to go but I was sure I didn't want to cook. So, it was off to Ruby Tuesday's and we were glad we went.

Decor

The first thing we noticed was the change in the decor. Kudos to Ruby Tuesday for the update. No longer do loud TV's blare from perches in the upper corners of the restaurant. Gone is the wall clutter of clanky nostalgic items that were so popular with restaurants a few years ago. The new look of Ruby Tuesday's is that of a 70's diner. The atmosphere is retro, cleaner and more relaxed. The chairs are more comfortable and it's easier to have a table conversation.

Food

Decor isn't the only change here. They've also added WIFI and changed the menu.

One thing I should note is that over the past year to year and a half they've changed the menu several times. Some items have remained stable. These include the steaks, burgers and salad bar. They've tried to update to include some of the popular trendy items that are in demand at the moment. So, love the menu or hate it they'll probably change it again soon.

The new menu has a good selection. My husband is almost always happy with a steak and potatoes or the Alpine Swiss Burger and fries. This creation is a think hamburger with baby portabella mushrooms that's smothered in swiss cheese. Loaded with lettuce, tomato and the trimmings it's priced at $8.69. Last night he chose the Alpine Swiss and was happy. It came out piping out with crisp lettuce.

Finding something for our picky teenage daughter took longer. The great thing about this restaurant is the healthy choices on the menu. Normally she dives into the usually fresh salad bar or grilled chicken but last night she surprised us by ordering an appetizer for an entree.

Her choice was the Classic Sampler is priced at $9.49 and comes with chicken tenders, cheese fries and fried mozzarella. She had a nice sized portion of fries but only about 3 each of the tenders and mozzarella.

What draws our daughter is actually not the food but the beverages. If you've not tasted a Jone's Soda they're great! Labels are printed in limited quantities with photographs taken by the customers. A slogan or saying is printed on the underside of the lid. The downside is that these fizzy fruit drinks are about $3 per bottle. This wasn't mentioned when the waitress asked my daughter if she wanted a refill. Next time she gets seconds it will be with water. (For comparison, the iced teas my husband and I ordered were just over $2 with complementary refills.)

Service

When it comes to service this Ruby Tuesday shines. The hostess was friendly and able to seat us immediately (one advantage to going late).

Our favorite server, Regina, had just gone home for the evening. She usually does an excellent job. I didn't catch the name of the server who took care of us last night but she did a good job. Even though we were dining late the food was served hot and we didn't have to wait too long for iced tea refills. The only quibble was not reminding us of the cost of the second bottle of soda. Otherwise, it was a top notch night for service.

I love the new look and experience found at this Ruby Tuesday. I'm not sure about the new menu although time will tell. Still, I know it's a good place to relax and a great place for service. Those two perks alone will keep me coming back. I hope you decide to try it too.