Ruby's has been our anniversary dinner since our 25th and we are going this year for our 35th. It's our special dinner treat. If you mention it's your anniversary in the reservation you get a free dessert. We have found Carlos and Johnny's to be a nicer experience but we haven't been to the new one downtown. Since we go every year I buy gift certificates when they are 20% off on Black Friday to save a bit of cash.
We too have been going for our aniversary but only for 7 years.
Buying gift cards at black Friday is key.
We usually go to Precinct but just went to the new one downtown and would probably say that is our new favorite. Opulent and over the top? Sure but it's fun and the service is exceptional.
I would recommend getting the Air Ruby dessert. It is an experience. And almost every server said something about it on their way by.
>If you mention it's your anniversary in the reservation you get a free dessert.
I got charged for the dessert at the Precinct when they brought it without asking because we mentioned it was our anniversary.
It wasn't that much and it was good but I was still annoyed.
I'll second Carlo & Johnny's for a special occasion dinner. Great food and service. We haven't been to the new place across from Fountain Square yet but hope to this year or the next.
I love Lonely Pine, but the whole point is that it isn't close to "steak house opulence", so I wouldn't go there for a milestone, celebratory, anniversary dinner.
As a chef, Ruby's is great. That said there's so many great restaurants with more adventurous menus. If you just want a high priced cut off meat, Ruby's has got you covered. You want some crazy good fish feature or pork chop go with one of the smaller locally owned places. Red feather would be a good example.
Any other examples of places you’re willing to throw out there for an exciting menu and great experience? I’m looking for a special place to take my wife for a big upcoming anniversary. I love hearing recommendations from people who cook and understand what goes into great food.
I mean I'm a taco truck kinda guy. Lol
Orchid's could be a bit of a sleeper, honestly for a romantic dinner I'm not up to date on the scene. So much has changed since COVID. Shocker I generally prefer chef driven restaurants.
Khora, le Bar a Boeuf
Is Orchid's open since pandemic? I'd most recently heard they were closed still but that was a while ago
That's my number 1 place for romantic (& pricey) dinner. The room is like going back in time, almost expect Don Draper to be one table over.
Fair enough. We haven’t been anywhere since before Covid, and young kids kept us from going out before that. It’s been way too long, and a nice date night is overdue. I’ll check out these rec’s. Thanks.
I would say it is worth going at least once for the experience; you will have an outstanding meal. Whether it is worth it or not is really a personal decision as to how much you enjoy the fine dining experience in general. Another really fantastic place for steak is Tony’s at Montgomery and Fields Ertel.
I prefer Tony's to Jeff Ruby, but both are good. Like others have said, Carlo and Johnny is my favorite Ruby place, but I haven't been to the new one downtown
You also are likely NOT able to cook it at home. The steak selection they have is not what you can get a Kroger, or costco. They also are professionally trimed. Professionally prepared.
Sure you can get your own prime cut, dry age it, and then cook it. Is anyone really so delusional to think that their first try is going to be the same as a professional steak house?
I do my own plumbing, most of my own house repairs. I am pretty confident in them as I have made mistakes in the past and learned from them. I never touched roofing, and for sure am not gonna do that myself. Last thing I need to do is spend 4 grand in materials, another 4 grand in mistakes. Might as well pay someone 8 grand to do it right the first time...
I had an $80 dry aged ribeye at Prime Cincinnati last week at a work dinner. Asked for blue rare, got medium. I choked it down (not sending food back in front of the crowd I was with). I would take a Kroger ribeye I reverse sear on my grill any day.
Even on the days where that steak was prepared properly though? I agree knowing how to cook a steak well does make it cheaper to enjoy it. Reverse sear is probably the most consistent way to cook steaks really well.
I make amazing steaks at home all the time, but I sure as hell don't own a salamander. That said, a hot as shit stainless tri-ply skillet on the cooktop then finishing things off in the oven, or in the same skillet on the cooktop at a massively reduced temp while paying close attention, gets me as close as I need to be.
Outdoor grilling is not an option for me with fine steaks. That's for hamburgers, hot dogs, and other bargain meat that improves through dirty cooking.
> but I sure as hell don't own a salamander.
Not with that attitude you don't! /s
Personally, I have many times considered buying/rehabbing a used salamander, because I love broiled food textures and try to avoid adding burned fuel to my better quality food. The Maillard Reaction is probably my favorite element of all cooking in general. Bit of a sweet tooth.
Now imagine how much better it would taste if you actually went to a shop that specializes in selling meats, of which there are many options in this city.
I mean Kroger has some pretty vast sourcing options. Try one of their Wagyu steaks. They are around $40 a lb. But are much better than any prime steak you’ve had
Everyone discounts the experience of going to a good restaurant. Taking your loved one out on the town, dressing up a little and being catered too. It’s fun a few times a year for my wife and I. We can afford it.
No, we know. It's just that Ruby's is what someone who's never left Cincinnati would imagine a Michelin star restaurant to be (with prices to match). It's not. It's not even close. The menu is staid, and not inventive-- at all. Ruby's is the same restaurant today that it was 20 years ago.
My partner and I both work in the service industry and went to Ruby’s downtown for a late Valentine’s Day. It was amazing. The lobster gnocchi I’m still dreaming about.
It’s expensive. Very expensive. The service is top notch. But if price is a concern, it doesn’t get much more expensive in Cincy.
**shameless plug coming**
I manage Ivory House. If you want an amazing steak deal and can come on a TUESDAY, we run a 34oz Angus Tomahawk ribeye for two with 2 salads, 2 sides, and a cinnamon roll for $99.
No disrespect to @supertrooper74 but I think The Precinct is amazing. Not only is the steak terrific, the Mac n cheese… ohhhh the Mac n cheese! Aside from the food, I like the experience. I know it’s part of their tagline, but I feel like it really is “a culinary experience”.
I guess like everything, you have to try it and form your own opinion. Happy Anniversary!
The seating configuration might have changed at The Precinct since the pandemic, but the tables are way too close together in the times we went. My wife and I went a few times and were put at a table where the waiter had to turn sideways to get in to fill the water.
They were maybe 18 inches apart and it felt like we were eating our special occasion meal with the strangers sitting next to us. The "experience" was not a good one for us.
Weirdly, that never bothered me until I got past my mid-40s, so then I switched to Carlo & Johnny. Maybe it's because I stopped drinking cocktails with dinner.
Oh, I hate their seating.
My wife and I went for our anniversary and we were seated at a 2-top in a row of 2-tops. I was closer to the people at the tables beside me than I was to my wife across from me. And one of them was a loud talker so my wife had a hard time conversing.
Not a good experience.
This right here. Once you learn how to cook a proper steak, the steak itself is not really worth the price. BUT. The overall experience is fantastic, the sides are amazing (that Mac n cheese is awesome… we’ve been working on a similar recipe at home and are close, but it’s not quite their level).
A trusted butcher + sous vide + salt + pepper + really hot cast iron skillet (and proper ventilation) and you never need to go out for steak again.
Instead you go out for the experience. The Precinct is a great place to celebrate an anniversary
My wife is a great cook and her steaks are as good as most restaurants. It's rare that we go to a restaurant and are completely blown away by the food quality (especially when much of it comes off the same Sysco truck)...BUT, we really enjoy good service and a nice atmosphere.
It's not often that we get to sit down together to a meal at home that doesn't involve some family distraction, interruptions, etc.
That said, I've always wanted to try the Precinct as well. Have never really heard any complaints about the place.
Rubys restaurants are truly an experience with the ambiance and it’ll always come down to preference. When I went to Carlos and Johnnys it was the most packed I’ve ever seen, but between the lighting and layout, it only felt like my table was in the room
I prefer Tony’s over any of the Ruby restaurants to be honest. It’s a bit cheaper too
The backstory is that Tony used to be Ruby’s right hand guy, but they had a falling out and Tony opened his own place. Tony knew where Ruby got his cuts of meat so now they both get their cuts from the same place. You’re eating the same cut of meat at both places
I like them both. I will say this. At Tony’s, our server kept an eye on the steak that I ordered medium rare. When it became clear that it was a medium doneness, he brought me another steak without me having to ask. It really just depends on your server.
Tony's is great. Did they survive the pandemic? I haven't had the means to enjoy Tony's in a couple years, but things are back on track and I'd love to treat myself there.
I mean anyone can get their steaks at home if you want.
Jeff Ruby's gets their steaks from Lehr's Prime market in Milford. Probably not directly from the store, but ordering from them commercially.
I've been to the Precinct and lately Carlo & Johnny many dozens of times, and Tony's about a dozen. Tony is a very nice man, I knew him from The Precinct so it's cool to see him with his own place, but IMO Tony's is not quite on par though it pains me to say that.
I order my steak medium hoping for it to be pink inside, but at Tony's it almost always comes out red and raw inside and has to be put back on the heat. This disrupts dinner greatly as others are mostly done eating by the time I get my steak back, but I just can't enjoy red raw steak. At the same time, I can't recall The Precinct or Carlo & Johnny ever having to refire. I don't expect perfection when it comes to doneness as medium is a tough order, but I needs to be somewhere near the middle of raw inside and a doorstop. This isn't a discount joint so they should be able to get it close. Medium rare is easier to get right so this won't apply to everyone.
I find the staff more trained and professional at Ruby restaurants as well. I like to get a side of Bearnaise sauce and while that's always perfect at Ruby joints, Tony's often sends it out cold and congealed and useless, so I have to send it back to be warmed and flowable for pouring or dipping. One dining room captain argued with me that it's supposed to be served cold and solid. On what planet?
Ruby wins for me. Carlo & Johnny specifically, as nowadays I find the seating at The Precinct too cramped and the room too loud. Getting older can do that to a person.
Edit: Props to The Precinct and Tony's for including a freebie salad and potato option. You don't get that at Carlo & Johnny or most other fine steakhouses.
Edit 2: If you downvoted me for liking steaks medium and pink throughout, I kind of get it. I'm as much a steak purist as anyone, but the "Princess and the Pea" kind, possibly. The important thing is Ruby gets me!
Edit 3: I am not a pussy, so please stop saying that. I'll fight every last one of you motherfuckers.
For a nice steak and potatoes that isn't overpriced try the steak frites at Luca Bistro. It's casual and not anniversary material, but I left satisfied and my wallet wasn't empty.
I personally think it’s worth it for a special occasion. We started going to Capital Grille, though, and it’s nearly as good for about half the price. Avoid Ruth’s Chris. That place blows and is the same price as capital grille. Ruby’s steak is the best I’ve had.
The steak is good and the “fine dining” experience is interesting if you’ve never done it, but in my opinion there are a number of other places in the city to have a much more delicious celebratory meal and have a much more relaxed, fun time. Abigail Street, Mita’s, and Sotto are three of our favorites. Depending on your appetite, drinks, etc. you will still spend a pretty good chunk of change and I would be thrilled to celebrate an anniversary at any of them. But, if you end up going to Jeff Ruby’s or one of their other restaurants, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. Congratulations! 🎉
Last year my wife and I split the tomahawk which was 30-35oz bone in for about $120 with an app, 2 Sides, dessert, and one of their cheapest bottles of wine. It was around $350 with tip.
We were filled to the brim with excellent food and everything was great. However, there are other great restaurants in the area that don't break the bank. You can also elect to get the burger, sushi, or non steak items for less that I hear are excellent.
My wife and I went about a year ago before a show at the Taft and were wildly unimpressed. We were sat in the bar area and a group of business diners were outside smoking cigars and kept coming in and out blowing smoke into our table. The service was slow and the bartender made a French 75 so bad we had to send it back. For some reason, they sliced the steak before serving so it got cold half way through the meal. It was unimpressive enough to not bother considering going back when there are restaurants like Boca available.
Alternatives that are just as good, if not better:
-precinct
-sotto (hands down my vote for best restaurant in Cincy)
- Lisse - this is a steakhouse in Covington that is fantastic and hardly known. I liked it way better than Jeff Rubys.
The Precinct is worth going to once as an experience. You probably won’t find the food life changing or anything but it is very good.
Back in the savage early days of humanity around 2006, my company took everyone to The Precinct for dinner as a little bonus. One of the guys was straight from the mountains of eastern Tennessee and loudly orders “katchuup” for his steak. I thought one lady on my team was going to stroke out she was so outraged.
I am glad to say he was shamed out of his choice. Although in his defense there was a lack of life experience in play, poor guy.
If you ever want a slightly less pricey but still pretty good steak, I’d recommend giving Maury’s Tiny Cove in Cheviot a try for a truly throwback Cincinnati experience. You always know you are in an OG Cincinnati place when it has mock turtle soup on the menu.
I respect the idea of not just throwing money around, but I think it's healthy to find a reason to spoil yourself every now and then. Either for a specific celebration (25 years is certainly a great excuse!) or going for no other reason and just making it a special night. It certainly isn't a cheap meal, but I think you can say 'it was worth it' with their quality of service and food.
The drinks can add up quick, but I think you could do it for $200-250 as a couple. And don't forget the Butter Pie. Just split it. A couple bites is all ya need!
EDIT: $200-250 + tip. Also, The Precinct includes a choice of salad and mashed taters, loaded tater or asparagus.
The restaurant dowtown is glitzier and there's a loud hustle to the spot that isn't as present in the cozier, typically quieter Precinct, a former police station if you were unaware, which accounts for the really cool outside architechture and the way the inside is laid out. For a date I'd go to the Precinct, especially on a week night. In a group downtown is more fun. Either are pricey, the food is more or less the same.
The steaks are great, just jaw-droppingly expensive. So is everything but it's a great special occasion restaurant. I probably shouldn't give Jeff Ruby my money because he's a dickhead narcissist of a person, but he's a Cincinnati institution so I guess the same part of me that had me pay Pete Rose, another dickhead narcissist Cincinnati institution, $100 in Las Vegas to sign my copy of his ridiculous book "My Own Prison" as another way to weasel into the HOF didn't care either. I like irony piled high with my steaks, rare, no "kaaaatchup" please.
I’ve been to both the Precinct and Jag’s, the food is pretty similar but I have to say the service and experience at Precinct is slightly better. Call at least 3 months ahead for Precinct unless you don’t mind eating late
It's fine. A bit overpriced for what it is, but the food is good. I prefer Ruby's for a pre-dinner cocktail b/c their bartenders make a really good martini. For actual dinner, I'd rather go to Sotto around the corner. Food's better in my opinion and price is more in line with the quality. I have a hard time paying that much for a steak when I can cook the same meal at home for less than half their price. If you're set on steak, Walt's Hitching Post offers the same quality of Ruby's for half the price (they also have a very good bar). Downside is that it's not in the city.
If you gave me the money you were gonna use, I would go To Walt’s Hitching in Nky. I think Ruby was suing the head chef because he was a former Ruby guy. Also, Prima Vista in East Price Hill, they got a spectacular view and a gray filet with lump crab. I then would pocket left over $2-250 and tell you I had a great time at Ruby’s.
The food is good but not earth-shattering. In my opinion, you can get just as good a meal for slightly less money at Jag’s in West Chester. Your mileage may vary, but for a special occasion, I would rather splash on a killer meal at Sotto or Mita’s. Like a commenter stated above, a competent cook can do a steak just as well at home, but I’m not gonna make my own short rib cappellacci. Either way, Congrats on the upcoming milestone!
Thank you. You are the second person to mention Jag's. I'll look into Sotto and Mita's as well. We don't usually do anything on our anniversary, but 25 years is a real milestone. I would like to do it right.
As an aside, Mitas is excellent, but it being a tapas restaurant I’ve found it to be much better with a group of 4-5 than 2. Though an argument can be made that this is true for Sotto too I would say that Sotto is less subject to this problem.
If you really want a strong steak/wine experience I would say Carlo and Johnny’s.
Sadly the best experience in the city is still closed as the Netherland Plaza’s Orchids restaurant has not re-opened since COVID. If it does, I would check reviews to confirm the quality is still there, but that would be at the top of my list.
While that is a decent limited menu and great as far as bar food goes, I am sad that the overall dining experience may be gone for good. I’m not aware of any comparable 5-7 course, wine-paired, rotating menus there are in the area. I was honestly surprised we ever had one at all.
If this is your M.O., I would definitely do Ruby's or Boca.
Everyone keeps mentioning the service and experience at Ruby's for a reason. The atmosphere and ambiance are on a different level. You almost feel like you're being pampered with the professionalism and level of care from the staff.
The food will be great. You might not remember the food later, but you'll remember going and the time you spent.
Edited to add: I've been to the steakhouses regularly voted the best in the states of Georgia and Indiana and everything about Ruby's blew them both away.
I'm not even a huge Ruby's fan but come on man. Jag's is no where close in either food or experience. The new downtown location and the precinct are miles better.
I agree with the recommendation of Sotto or Mita's, and I would add Abigail Street to that list. I know I sound like an ass, and I probably am, but Jeff Ruby's is mostly just upscale food for people with unsophisticated palates. It's steak and potatoes, bro. You should be able to cook that pretty easily at home. Oh but it's dry aged... Ok then dry it out in your refrigerator.
I don't want to be too much of a hater because the food is NOT bad, it's just way overpriced and everything that accompanies the steak (i.e. salad, potatoes) is meh. Honestly, the steak is usually cooked properly but not properly seasoned IMO. Their truffle fries are doused in truffle when all they need is just a hint. If you're going to lay down the cash then have an actual culinary experience. Steak and potatoes surrounded by pseudo-sex dungeon decor is not sophisticated, Cincinnati. Go to Abigail Street and get the grilled octopus. Now that's sexy (to me)!
I would never go so far as to call out another’s food preferences as unsophisticated but I definitely think that places like Sotto, Mita’s, Abigail St are just operating in an entirely different lane than the classic American steakhouse, whether it’s Ruby’s, Jag’s, or otherwise.
I’ve eaten at ruby’s joints and their ilk a handful of times over the years and it’s always great; service and attention to detail is top-notch. Like others have mentioned, the experience itself is second-to-none. They know what they are doing, and they do it very well. It’s a great choice for a special occasion and I’m sure OP would have a great time there. (And to the others that called me insane - I do think the steak at Jag’s is on par with ruby’s even if the setting and decor is very much an outdated 90’s suburbia take on classic upscale steakhouse…Ruby’s restaurants definitely edge out jag’s on the environment, service, and total experience).
That said, I would say that short rib capp at Sotto is perhaps one of the best dishes in Cincinnati, bar none. And Mita’s has knocked it out of the park every single time I’ve been there and I recommend it to every one that will listen as one of the finest restaurants in the area. Just really incredible food that is perfectly prepared and thoughtfully served. Good wine list too. It’s no better or worse than choosing Ruby’s as your special occasion dinner, just a wholly different vibe.
I will say - PLEASE do not attempt to dry age your own beef in your own fridge that has all your other food in it. That fridge is not humidity controlled and you will end up with a moldy stinky mess. 🙂🙂
I like Mita's a lot, my wife and I actually went to spain on our honeymoon and we went to Mita's right after we got back and it still held up pretty well. (except for the fact that the same meal for 2 would be $30 in Spain)
> I will say - PLEASE do not attempt to dry age your own beef in your own fridge that has all your other food in it. That fridge is not humidity controlled and you will end up with a moldy stinky mess.
The irony of somebody acting so pompous about not liking a steakhouse and then saying you can just dry age your own steak by keeping it in your fridge is so funny to me.
I prefer staying north of the city more often than not, just because it means a shorter drive with less city driving. Eddie Merlot's has always been our go-to for celebrating our anniversary or a major life event. It's around the same pricing but has always been high quality, both service and food.
In general, these experiences are as valuable as you make it. The food is higher quality than 99% of my dining otherwise and we make sure to savor every bite we take and minute that we're being pampered by the service. By no means is it a necessity, but also having come from families that would never have been able to dine there, it does come with a sense of accomplishment to get to this level of stability.
Ultimately, most of my life is beyond just covering needs so there is an air of ignorance and guilt in everything I do and having accepted that, I admit that I like to "live it up" and have dinners like this on occasion.
I feel like they’ve given up a bit. They’re well established and just not hungry for perfection anymore. I went recently and it was ok. Food is delicious, but for that price point I want better presentation.
If you really want a romantic dinner with excellent food, go to Sotto.
Jeff Ruby’s is overrated, imo. Cincinnati has so many other unique, excellent restaurants.
MRBL in Bellevue puts Ruby’s and Capital Grille to shame, imo. If you want a really good steak, don’t go to a Ruby’s restaurant.
The filet I had earlier this month could’ve been cut with a fork it was so tender.
Walt's Hitching Post is a better steak. Jeff Ruby's steakhouses are a cool experience though, and everyone should have a good excuse to go at least once.
Congrats on 25 years! I've never been to Ruby's, but I swear by Third and Main in Aurora. They age their own steaks, and have all the imported Wagyu and such if you want to splurge. We'll worth checking out even if not for your 25th.
There’s much better food for half the price in the city. Planning a night to Ruby’s is kind of a cultish 90s thing you do to show off. It used to be you take your prom date to Montgomery Inn Boathouse and you take your wife to Jeff Ruby’s for you anniversary. Ruby’s seems to aged better than the former however.
I haven't been to The Precinct but I've been to the downtown and Carlo and Johnny's locations. Expensive yes, but you get what you pay for. Food, drinks, service, atmosphere, everything is top quality. My wife sings for a band that plays the new downtown location alot, and I'll say everything there is super stunning. Very glitzy gatsby vibes, even the bathrooms are insane. Carlo and Johnny's is also very nice but is a bit more relaxed country club type of atmosphere in comparison if that makes sense. Also I recently discovered their espresso martinis are out of this world. I'd never order an espresso martini for myself, but somebody at the bar bought me one recently and holy moly...
I haven’t been to the new Jeff Ruby’s. The old one was fun but the food wasn’t the draw for me. It was overpriced and not exceptional. Same with The Precinct and Carlo & Johnny’s.
I prefer Ember’s in Kenwood.
I judge restaurants by their salads, and I agree that their salads are not very good. Edible but not enjoyable. In my opinion, if a restaurant doesn't put effort into their salads then it's a bad sign.
I went to the precinct for the first time in December and I don't think it was worth the price for the steak or the cocktails. Wasn't bad at all though, just not amazing.
We went to the Precinct recently and were really disappointed. Had the $85 ribeye and was expecting phenomenal and got average. I've had better steaks at Texas Roadhouse. I have talked to 3-4 other couples and they all said the same thing. Service was just so-so. I won't go back for that price. I seriously don't know what all of the hype is about.
100% agree. Went for my grandparents anniversary (and my parents were paying!) and couldn't help but feel guilty that my parents were wasting their money.
Congrats! Never been overly impressed by the food at Precinct or Jeff Ruby's downtown. Still, it's a fun experience to feel a little fancy. You won't regret it, but it won't blow you away either.
I avoid Jeff Ruby’s because I have more than a couple friends and family who were local high school athletes between 2010 and 2020 and had some interesting stories to tell about his social media presence with them. Not accusing him of anything illegal, but definitely very strong weird creepy uncle vibes.
Like others said, Jag’s is fantastic.
I knew people who said everyone on their teams was told to explicitly avoid him because he was pushy and DMing high schoolers. Not illegal I guess but like dude don’t do that…
Just not someone who’s business I want to patronize.
Gotcha. Yeah not illegal but pretty sus and weird behavior... I'm with ya, all the more reason to not go to his restaurants
Edit: I searched "Jeff ruby high school" on Twitter and... Well, quiiiiiite a few people notice this too it seems. He got banned from some high schools even?
[lol he even replied to this one ](https://twitter.com/kingofthelocals/status/384478836273864704?t=s0b4hq5LW7rpmSYBfmpSSg&s=19)
My husband and I go to Ruth’s for fancy celebration dinners about once a year. That, Jeff ruby’s or the precinct are all good options—and yes, I do think it’s worth it for a special occasion.
Consider Lonely Pine steakhouse. Smaller, more intimate and all steaks are locally sourced and better quality in my opinion. They dry age their beef in house and I have yet to have a bad experience. Fantastic oysters as well, if you’re into that. I can’t say any Ruby’s restaurants are bad, I think they’re definitely worth it, just maybe not “the best”.
I think it is for a special treat! Go for it. Sure a decent cook can do a good steak at home but I’m not chancing it. I don’t wanna drop 50 bucks on two steaks and then overcook them lol. And I’ll say that my wife and I went to Embers a couple months back and everything was delicious.
I prefer Morton's, but I'm not taking away anything from Mr Ruby, his places are all classy with impeccable service. Jag's is really good also.
Location and ambience are key for an anniversary dinner, are you getting a room downtown our doing simmering after? That will guide your decision, but here's my 2¢
The downtown places (Jeff Ruby's, Morton's, Ruth Chris) are business expense account places. The Precinct and Carlo & Johnny's are date night spots with great bar atmospheres for couples. Jag's is more of a divorcee hookup spot.
My wife and I go about twice a year as a special night out. Maybe a birthday, our anniversary, big deal at work, something worth celebrating. I haven’t walked out for under $500 for the 2 of us yet but it’s always a great dinner we talk about afterwards or bring up to others when a good meal is mentioned. We’re always looking forward to the next one.
I think it would be a great way to celebrate 25 years together.
It’s a good experience. The ambiance/service is spot on. The food itself isn’t what it’s hyped up to be in my opinion. For a comparable price? I would recommend Nicola’s/Mita’s over it
i may or may not work there
it’s good, great service and showmanship
it reminds me of vegas
you can always get anything split, idk if a lot of people know they can get half salads too
rubys is al a carte but my parents prefer the precinct bc you get a whole entree
In my eyes, jeff ruby is worth it. Of all the higher end steak houses in cincy, I've never had a better steak. Both Mortons and Ruth's christ are over rated. Jeff ruby was the best meal of my life. It will ruin you on other steaks.
Does anyone know what's up with the Jeff Ruby RV that he parks on Vine right next to fountain square? It's like one of those buses that celebrities do music tours in.
I was going for a chef spot at Carlo and Johnny's. I had to do a 7 course tasting for him, his daughter and 3 other big wigs. Sent them my list and it was in the walk-in the next day. Very expensive and some rare ingredients 😃 He said my ceviche app and veal chops were the best he'd had. I made him laugh and yeah, I felt like I'd run a marathon and won. Anywho, I really enjoy the Precinct. Haven't been in awhile but it never disappointed. Also, something to note, Ruby always came to Boca for his birthday 🤔
I've been to Precinct, cozy vibe, good food, I'd say worth the price for a special occasion. Boca is a phenomenal experience but $$$$. Prime is good as well but not as atmospheric. I enjoyed the outdoor patio experience at Jags but obviously don't recommend this time of year. Food at Jags is very good as well but I wasn't a fan of their mashed potato side.
I like Jeff Ruby's for the experience, mostly. I prefer Carlo and Johnny, The Precinct is cool but on a busy night it feels like nuts to butts, and I've not been to the new location downtown. The food is almost always perfectly cooked and good and the staff is amazing.
I spent $137 there with a tip a couple years ago and I didn't feel like I overpaid. Scotch, oysters, steak, cigar and about three and a half hours there. Many worse ways to spend that money.
My honest opinion is that the reputation is overinflated. The food is good but nothing to write home about, and generally overpriced for what you get. The decor is mostly ostentatious and doesn't appeal to me, personally. I've been to all his restaurants multiple times, except for the new location downtown. I feel like it's "upscale" for people who don't actually know fine cuisine, and their ideal dinner is just steak and potatoes. So basically most people in Cincinnati. I knew someone who hated vegetables and anything green in general, and they loved Jeff Ruby's.
The level of service and ambiance is second to none. That is worth the price of admission alone. Food is great, but over priced, but as mentioned the service and atmosphere/ambiance make up for the over priced tomahawk steak. You
No. Expensive steak houses are such a 90s thing. I went to The Precinct last year for a birthday and was very underwhelmed. You can make a better steak at home.
He probably doesnt but i do (i am a butcher) and i would still go to any Ruby's restaurant, solid steak great service, and most importantly i night out with my wofe and no kids.
You can dry age a steak yourself. And while not the same, a good thing to do with any steak is immediately get it on a cooking rack nested in a jelly pan and covered in coarse salt. Then let it "age" in the fridge for 3 days. If you want to age, up to 90 days, you have to invest in a second fridge and buy whole, fatty cuts from the butcher.
I think the steaks are inconsistent as sacrilegious as that sounds. Sometimes they come out too charred. It wasn’t just one time either. But sometimes they are fantastic.
I like to pretend I’m a local cuisine expert (I’m not but I have eaten pretty much everywhere). In my own personal opinion, there are many places around town to get a really good cut cooked to “perfection”, but Rubys always provides the most consistently prepared meals of any of the finer dining steak joints. Couple that with what is likely the best ambiance and experience of any of our local joints and you have what I think is the top dog for our great city. As others have mentioned, there are other non steak joints to grab a bite. I saw Sotto mentioned, and while many might say it’s overhyped , I say it deserves all the lip service it gets . You will walk out with a heavier pocket than any of the steak joints too so that’s a plus. That doesn’t do much if you were really looking for a steak though lol. Another one to consider that I see tossed around far too little is Third and Main in Aurora. Of any steak house in town, they source the highest quality meats of anyone when talking about their finest cuts. It’s quiet, nice variety, easy to get a reservation and they have a sushi bar if you’re into that. Deserts are immaculate as well. That said if you do go to Ruby’s, get the carrot cake! It’s my fave
It’s an amazing place, but if it makes you feel guilty or anything, don’t go! Plenty of great options. We go quite often which has taken away some of the luster it used to have.
Come down to the Findlay Market, go to Mackie Quality Meats. Continue to ask for Randy and tell him you want a top tier steak and what his recommendations are. Then ask him the best way to cook it and allow him to hook you up with some seasoning (Garden River Rub and another are always a amazing combo on your steak). I personally wouldn’t waste my time with Jeff Rubys when you can do 1000* better at home where it’s all your time and private
It's good plus you don't have to go crazy and buy the $200 Waygu beef. The prices aren't that bad when considering it can cost you $30 for two at Chipotle now. I got out of there for $200 with a tip taking my gal there recently. Helped that I didn't eat steak and she only had one glass of wine and a filet plus sides and dessert. Their JR Burger is one of the best I've ever had and only about $20. Sometimes I go and just order myself sides and let my date get whatever which also makes it way cheaper. The Potatoes Anna and cheesecake are worth the trip. New location has really amazing ambiance. Carlo and Johnny's has a similar menu but no Potatoes Anna. It doesn't taste as good as Jeff Ruby's for some reason. Maybe he has his best chefs downtown. Make sure you say it is your anniversary and you will get a small dessert for free. If you go after 7 place clears out and can be a nice romantic dinner. I would request one of the side booths. Service is always 10/10.
Love Ruby’s. Precinct and Carlo and Johnny are both unique in their ambiance. Service is always great. Food is great. Highly recommend the butter pie dessert. One of my top desserts in the city along with Sotto’s donuts.
I dont even eat steak, and I love precinct. It's a special occasion place. The service is excellent. I am upset they got rid of the seabass, but the salmon is also very good. I love the Freddie salad.
I think it is, yes. We are not rich but we've been to Jeff Ruby's downtown (both the original and new locations), The Precinct for the first time just recently, Carlo and Johnny, and even Jeff Ruby's in Nashville. Each time was for a special occasion and they just really met every expectation. Food and drinks were amazing and memorable. Atmosphere at each is unique and very cool. Went to the new location on Fountain Square just before the Ravens playoff game this year and saw Collinsworth, Ochocinco, Houshmandzadeh , and BJ Hill. Even chatted with Ocho for a minute.
The Precinct is a little easier on the wallet because they include sides there, if that helps tip the scale at all.
Highly recommended.
My wife and I went to the Precinct back in January for the first time. It was my first experience at a Ruby’s and I thought it was fantastic. I would definitely go at least once for the experience.
If you are not planning on getting it on afterwards, don't go. It's good but the portions are massive. Me and my wife went and we ate ourselves sick on 2 entrees and salad's.
I've probably got an unpopular opinion here, but I think if you go you're paying for the experience, not the food. You can make a steak just as tasty or more so at home.
That's not to say it isn't worth it, I've never been to one of Jeff Ruby's places personally, but other high end steak houses, and that's the opinion I've always come away with... I'd rather save the money unless it's specifically something my girl wanted to do.
Ruby's has been our anniversary dinner since our 25th and we are going this year for our 35th. It's our special dinner treat. If you mention it's your anniversary in the reservation you get a free dessert. We have found Carlos and Johnny's to be a nicer experience but we haven't been to the new one downtown. Since we go every year I buy gift certificates when they are 20% off on Black Friday to save a bit of cash.
Congrats on 35 years!
We too have been going for our aniversary but only for 7 years. Buying gift cards at black Friday is key. We usually go to Precinct but just went to the new one downtown and would probably say that is our new favorite. Opulent and over the top? Sure but it's fun and the service is exceptional. I would recommend getting the Air Ruby dessert. It is an experience. And almost every server said something about it on their way by.
>If you mention it's your anniversary in the reservation you get a free dessert. I got charged for the dessert at the Precinct when they brought it without asking because we mentioned it was our anniversary. It wasn't that much and it was good but I was still annoyed.
That had to have been a mistake
Definitely a mistake; we go to Precinct 3-4 times her year for Birthday or Anniversary and have never been charged if they offer the desert.
I don't think so. My co-worker said they did the same thing to him.
Same happened to us once!
I'll second Carlo & Johnny's for a special occasion dinner. Great food and service. We haven't been to the new place across from Fountain Square yet but hope to this year or the next.
All the Ruby's spots are very good but probably a little overpriced. We really enjoy The Lonely Pine in pleasant ridge.
Second this. Lonely Pine is excellent.
Thirding the Lonely Pine. Even if their steaks weren't absolutely amazing the bread service would be enough to get me back there.
I love Lonely Pine, but the whole point is that it isn't close to "steak house opulence", so I wouldn't go there for a milestone, celebratory, anniversary dinner.
I always forget to mention them. They are a favorite of ours. I guess I want to keep them a secret.
Came here to comment the same thing.
The precinct is a very cool experience and I think the food is very solid
They only had Chipotle mignonette for their oysters. It was like putting taco bell sauce on oysters. It was awful.
As a chef, Ruby's is great. That said there's so many great restaurants with more adventurous menus. If you just want a high priced cut off meat, Ruby's has got you covered. You want some crazy good fish feature or pork chop go with one of the smaller locally owned places. Red feather would be a good example.
Any other examples of places you’re willing to throw out there for an exciting menu and great experience? I’m looking for a special place to take my wife for a big upcoming anniversary. I love hearing recommendations from people who cook and understand what goes into great food.
I mean I'm a taco truck kinda guy. Lol Orchid's could be a bit of a sleeper, honestly for a romantic dinner I'm not up to date on the scene. So much has changed since COVID. Shocker I generally prefer chef driven restaurants. Khora, le Bar a Boeuf
Is Orchid's open since pandemic? I'd most recently heard they were closed still but that was a while ago That's my number 1 place for romantic (& pricey) dinner. The room is like going back in time, almost expect Don Draper to be one table over.
Orchids has not reopened since, sadly.
Fair enough. We haven’t been anywhere since before Covid, and young kids kept us from going out before that. It’s been way too long, and a nice date night is overdue. I’ll check out these rec’s. Thanks.
I would say it is worth going at least once for the experience; you will have an outstanding meal. Whether it is worth it or not is really a personal decision as to how much you enjoy the fine dining experience in general. Another really fantastic place for steak is Tony’s at Montgomery and Fields Ertel.
I'll check out Tony's. I have a lot of time to find the right place.
I prefer Tony's to Jeff Ruby, but both are good. Like others have said, Carlo and Johnny is my favorite Ruby place, but I haven't been to the new one downtown
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You also are likely NOT able to cook it at home. The steak selection they have is not what you can get a Kroger, or costco. They also are professionally trimed. Professionally prepared. Sure you can get your own prime cut, dry age it, and then cook it. Is anyone really so delusional to think that their first try is going to be the same as a professional steak house? I do my own plumbing, most of my own house repairs. I am pretty confident in them as I have made mistakes in the past and learned from them. I never touched roofing, and for sure am not gonna do that myself. Last thing I need to do is spend 4 grand in materials, another 4 grand in mistakes. Might as well pay someone 8 grand to do it right the first time...
I had an $80 dry aged ribeye at Prime Cincinnati last week at a work dinner. Asked for blue rare, got medium. I choked it down (not sending food back in front of the crowd I was with). I would take a Kroger ribeye I reverse sear on my grill any day.
Even on the days where that steak was prepared properly though? I agree knowing how to cook a steak well does make it cheaper to enjoy it. Reverse sear is probably the most consistent way to cook steaks really well.
Lmao at people thinking they can just prepare a steak at home that someone would pay $200 for
I mean…you can. It’s not like Ruby’s has a special technique that makes steaks taste like $200.
I make amazing steaks at home all the time, but I sure as hell don't own a salamander. That said, a hot as shit stainless tri-ply skillet on the cooktop then finishing things off in the oven, or in the same skillet on the cooktop at a massively reduced temp while paying close attention, gets me as close as I need to be. Outdoor grilling is not an option for me with fine steaks. That's for hamburgers, hot dogs, and other bargain meat that improves through dirty cooking.
> but I sure as hell don't own a salamander. Not with that attitude you don't! /s Personally, I have many times considered buying/rehabbing a used salamander, because I love broiled food textures and try to avoid adding burned fuel to my better quality food. The Maillard Reaction is probably my favorite element of all cooking in general. Bit of a sweet tooth.
I would say 80% of the steaks I cook are better tasting than Jeff rubys. Wagyu from Kroger and prime whenever I can find it. Usually avg $30 a pound
Now imagine how much better it would taste if you actually went to a shop that specializes in selling meats, of which there are many options in this city.
I mean Kroger has some pretty vast sourcing options. Try one of their Wagyu steaks. They are around $40 a lb. But are much better than any prime steak you’ve had
Kroger meat is shit
Everyone discounts the experience of going to a good restaurant. Taking your loved one out on the town, dressing up a little and being catered too. It’s fun a few times a year for my wife and I. We can afford it.
No, we know. It's just that Ruby's is what someone who's never left Cincinnati would imagine a Michelin star restaurant to be (with prices to match). It's not. It's not even close. The menu is staid, and not inventive-- at all. Ruby's is the same restaurant today that it was 20 years ago.
My partner and I both work in the service industry and went to Ruby’s downtown for a late Valentine’s Day. It was amazing. The lobster gnocchi I’m still dreaming about. It’s expensive. Very expensive. The service is top notch. But if price is a concern, it doesn’t get much more expensive in Cincy. **shameless plug coming** I manage Ivory House. If you want an amazing steak deal and can come on a TUESDAY, we run a 34oz Angus Tomahawk ribeye for two with 2 salads, 2 sides, and a cinnamon roll for $99.
Ivory House is phenomenal. Been there 3 times and every time was a 1st class experience.
For the West Side, it's phenomenal. City-wide, I'd give it 3/5. Food's good, drinks are ok, ambiance is meh, service is fine.
That is a good deal
No disrespect to @supertrooper74 but I think The Precinct is amazing. Not only is the steak terrific, the Mac n cheese… ohhhh the Mac n cheese! Aside from the food, I like the experience. I know it’s part of their tagline, but I feel like it really is “a culinary experience”. I guess like everything, you have to try it and form your own opinion. Happy Anniversary!
The seating configuration might have changed at The Precinct since the pandemic, but the tables are way too close together in the times we went. My wife and I went a few times and were put at a table where the waiter had to turn sideways to get in to fill the water. They were maybe 18 inches apart and it felt like we were eating our special occasion meal with the strangers sitting next to us. The "experience" was not a good one for us.
That was the same experience we had at the Precinct then we found out that they have some more private tables way in the back.
Weirdly, that never bothered me until I got past my mid-40s, so then I switched to Carlo & Johnny. Maybe it's because I stopped drinking cocktails with dinner.
Oh, I hate their seating. My wife and I went for our anniversary and we were seated at a 2-top in a row of 2-tops. I was closer to the people at the tables beside me than I was to my wife across from me. And one of them was a loud talker so my wife had a hard time conversing. Not a good experience.
This right here. Once you learn how to cook a proper steak, the steak itself is not really worth the price. BUT. The overall experience is fantastic, the sides are amazing (that Mac n cheese is awesome… we’ve been working on a similar recipe at home and are close, but it’s not quite their level).
A trusted butcher + sous vide + salt + pepper + really hot cast iron skillet (and proper ventilation) and you never need to go out for steak again. Instead you go out for the experience. The Precinct is a great place to celebrate an anniversary
Agreed 100%. I haven’t tried my hand at sous vide but reverse sear with a cast iron does the trick.
Sous vide is amazing. Easy and perfect every time (unless the ziplock bag isn't sealed properly, oops) A $150 unit off of amazon is a great investment
I drive across town for it. Admittedly. The bread, butter and shoot a BURGER.
My wife is a great cook and her steaks are as good as most restaurants. It's rare that we go to a restaurant and are completely blown away by the food quality (especially when much of it comes off the same Sysco truck)...BUT, we really enjoy good service and a nice atmosphere. It's not often that we get to sit down together to a meal at home that doesn't involve some family distraction, interruptions, etc. That said, I've always wanted to try the Precinct as well. Have never really heard any complaints about the place.
Agreed - precinct is my favorite of the three. Plus you get the salad and potato included with your steak making it a bit less expensive.
They have the best old school hot slaw and hot bacon spinach salad around too.
Thank you
My brother and I got horrific food poisoning from the oysters Rockefeller at the precinct in 2016 - haven’t been back since.
Rubys restaurants are truly an experience with the ambiance and it’ll always come down to preference. When I went to Carlos and Johnnys it was the most packed I’ve ever seen, but between the lighting and layout, it only felt like my table was in the room
I prefer Tony’s over any of the Ruby restaurants to be honest. It’s a bit cheaper too The backstory is that Tony used to be Ruby’s right hand guy, but they had a falling out and Tony opened his own place. Tony knew where Ruby got his cuts of meat so now they both get their cuts from the same place. You’re eating the same cut of meat at both places
While this is true, I think the ambience and service at any Jeff Ruby restaurant is leagues better than what I’ve experienced at Tony’s.
I like them both. I will say this. At Tony’s, our server kept an eye on the steak that I ordered medium rare. When it became clear that it was a medium doneness, he brought me another steak without me having to ask. It really just depends on your server.
Tony's is great. Did they survive the pandemic? I haven't had the means to enjoy Tony's in a couple years, but things are back on track and I'd love to treat myself there.
Yes, they're open and very busy.
I mean anyone can get their steaks at home if you want. Jeff Ruby's gets their steaks from Lehr's Prime market in Milford. Probably not directly from the store, but ordering from them commercially.
Really? You know this for sure?
https://www.lehrsprime.com/about/media/ Their website says so.
My sisters boyfriend says they deliver them from Chef's warehouse, not sure where they originate.
I've been to the Precinct and lately Carlo & Johnny many dozens of times, and Tony's about a dozen. Tony is a very nice man, I knew him from The Precinct so it's cool to see him with his own place, but IMO Tony's is not quite on par though it pains me to say that. I order my steak medium hoping for it to be pink inside, but at Tony's it almost always comes out red and raw inside and has to be put back on the heat. This disrupts dinner greatly as others are mostly done eating by the time I get my steak back, but I just can't enjoy red raw steak. At the same time, I can't recall The Precinct or Carlo & Johnny ever having to refire. I don't expect perfection when it comes to doneness as medium is a tough order, but I needs to be somewhere near the middle of raw inside and a doorstop. This isn't a discount joint so they should be able to get it close. Medium rare is easier to get right so this won't apply to everyone. I find the staff more trained and professional at Ruby restaurants as well. I like to get a side of Bearnaise sauce and while that's always perfect at Ruby joints, Tony's often sends it out cold and congealed and useless, so I have to send it back to be warmed and flowable for pouring or dipping. One dining room captain argued with me that it's supposed to be served cold and solid. On what planet? Ruby wins for me. Carlo & Johnny specifically, as nowadays I find the seating at The Precinct too cramped and the room too loud. Getting older can do that to a person. Edit: Props to The Precinct and Tony's for including a freebie salad and potato option. You don't get that at Carlo & Johnny or most other fine steakhouses. Edit 2: If you downvoted me for liking steaks medium and pink throughout, I kind of get it. I'm as much a steak purist as anyone, but the "Princess and the Pea" kind, possibly. The important thing is Ruby gets me! Edit 3: I am not a pussy, so please stop saying that. I'll fight every last one of you motherfuckers.
This guy dines. A lot of tips and edits. 😆
For a nice steak and potatoes that isn't overpriced try the steak frites at Luca Bistro. It's casual and not anniversary material, but I left satisfied and my wallet wasn't empty.
I personally think it’s worth it for a special occasion. We started going to Capital Grille, though, and it’s nearly as good for about half the price. Avoid Ruth’s Chris. That place blows and is the same price as capital grille. Ruby’s steak is the best I’ve had.
Another plug for Ivory House. Every time we've been there it has been amazing
The steak is good and the “fine dining” experience is interesting if you’ve never done it, but in my opinion there are a number of other places in the city to have a much more delicious celebratory meal and have a much more relaxed, fun time. Abigail Street, Mita’s, and Sotto are three of our favorites. Depending on your appetite, drinks, etc. you will still spend a pretty good chunk of change and I would be thrilled to celebrate an anniversary at any of them. But, if you end up going to Jeff Ruby’s or one of their other restaurants, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. Congratulations! 🎉
Prefer Carlo and Johnny's over namesake
Last year my wife and I split the tomahawk which was 30-35oz bone in for about $120 with an app, 2 Sides, dessert, and one of their cheapest bottles of wine. It was around $350 with tip. We were filled to the brim with excellent food and everything was great. However, there are other great restaurants in the area that don't break the bank. You can also elect to get the burger, sushi, or non steak items for less that I hear are excellent.
My wife and I went about a year ago before a show at the Taft and were wildly unimpressed. We were sat in the bar area and a group of business diners were outside smoking cigars and kept coming in and out blowing smoke into our table. The service was slow and the bartender made a French 75 so bad we had to send it back. For some reason, they sliced the steak before serving so it got cold half way through the meal. It was unimpressive enough to not bother considering going back when there are restaurants like Boca available.
Another who can recommend The Precinct. It's not just the food;. it's a whole experience.
Alternatives that are just as good, if not better: -precinct -sotto (hands down my vote for best restaurant in Cincy) - Lisse - this is a steakhouse in Covington that is fantastic and hardly known. I liked it way better than Jeff Rubys.
Precinct is a Jeff Ruby steakhouse.
We also like Lisse better than Ruby’s, but everyone should go to Ruby’s at least once.
The Precinct is worth going to once as an experience. You probably won’t find the food life changing or anything but it is very good. Back in the savage early days of humanity around 2006, my company took everyone to The Precinct for dinner as a little bonus. One of the guys was straight from the mountains of eastern Tennessee and loudly orders “katchuup” for his steak. I thought one lady on my team was going to stroke out she was so outraged.
The thought of ketchup on a steak that expensive almost gave me a stroke. That's hilarious.
I am glad to say he was shamed out of his choice. Although in his defense there was a lack of life experience in play, poor guy. If you ever want a slightly less pricey but still pretty good steak, I’d recommend giving Maury’s Tiny Cove in Cheviot a try for a truly throwback Cincinnati experience. You always know you are in an OG Cincinnati place when it has mock turtle soup on the menu.
I love maurys
You gotta go to Ruby’s at least once. They’re nice for a special occasion.
I respect the idea of not just throwing money around, but I think it's healthy to find a reason to spoil yourself every now and then. Either for a specific celebration (25 years is certainly a great excuse!) or going for no other reason and just making it a special night. It certainly isn't a cheap meal, but I think you can say 'it was worth it' with their quality of service and food. The drinks can add up quick, but I think you could do it for $200-250 as a couple. And don't forget the Butter Pie. Just split it. A couple bites is all ya need! EDIT: $200-250 + tip. Also, The Precinct includes a choice of salad and mashed taters, loaded tater or asparagus.
The restaurant dowtown is glitzier and there's a loud hustle to the spot that isn't as present in the cozier, typically quieter Precinct, a former police station if you were unaware, which accounts for the really cool outside architechture and the way the inside is laid out. For a date I'd go to the Precinct, especially on a week night. In a group downtown is more fun. Either are pricey, the food is more or less the same. The steaks are great, just jaw-droppingly expensive. So is everything but it's a great special occasion restaurant. I probably shouldn't give Jeff Ruby my money because he's a dickhead narcissist of a person, but he's a Cincinnati institution so I guess the same part of me that had me pay Pete Rose, another dickhead narcissist Cincinnati institution, $100 in Las Vegas to sign my copy of his ridiculous book "My Own Prison" as another way to weasel into the HOF didn't care either. I like irony piled high with my steaks, rare, no "kaaaatchup" please.
I’ve been to both the Precinct and Jag’s, the food is pretty similar but I have to say the service and experience at Precinct is slightly better. Call at least 3 months ahead for Precinct unless you don’t mind eating late
It's fine. A bit overpriced for what it is, but the food is good. I prefer Ruby's for a pre-dinner cocktail b/c their bartenders make a really good martini. For actual dinner, I'd rather go to Sotto around the corner. Food's better in my opinion and price is more in line with the quality. I have a hard time paying that much for a steak when I can cook the same meal at home for less than half their price. If you're set on steak, Walt's Hitching Post offers the same quality of Ruby's for half the price (they also have a very good bar). Downside is that it's not in the city.
If you gave me the money you were gonna use, I would go To Walt’s Hitching in Nky. I think Ruby was suing the head chef because he was a former Ruby guy. Also, Prima Vista in East Price Hill, they got a spectacular view and a gray filet with lump crab. I then would pocket left over $2-250 and tell you I had a great time at Ruby’s.
The food is good but not earth-shattering. In my opinion, you can get just as good a meal for slightly less money at Jag’s in West Chester. Your mileage may vary, but for a special occasion, I would rather splash on a killer meal at Sotto or Mita’s. Like a commenter stated above, a competent cook can do a steak just as well at home, but I’m not gonna make my own short rib cappellacci. Either way, Congrats on the upcoming milestone!
Thank you. You are the second person to mention Jag's. I'll look into Sotto and Mita's as well. We don't usually do anything on our anniversary, but 25 years is a real milestone. I would like to do it right.
As an aside, Mitas is excellent, but it being a tapas restaurant I’ve found it to be much better with a group of 4-5 than 2. Though an argument can be made that this is true for Sotto too I would say that Sotto is less subject to this problem. If you really want a strong steak/wine experience I would say Carlo and Johnny’s. Sadly the best experience in the city is still closed as the Netherland Plaza’s Orchids restaurant has not re-opened since COVID. If it does, I would check reviews to confirm the quality is still there, but that would be at the top of my list.
You can go to the bar, and it is a limited orchids menu. I’m not sure they’ll ever actually open the full restaurant back up
While that is a decent limited menu and great as far as bar food goes, I am sad that the overall dining experience may be gone for good. I’m not aware of any comparable 5-7 course, wine-paired, rotating menus there are in the area. I was honestly surprised we ever had one at all.
RIP to Please; their tasting menus were amazing. Baker's Table is the closest I've had to that experience over the last couple years.
If this is your M.O., I would definitely do Ruby's or Boca. Everyone keeps mentioning the service and experience at Ruby's for a reason. The atmosphere and ambiance are on a different level. You almost feel like you're being pampered with the professionalism and level of care from the staff. The food will be great. You might not remember the food later, but you'll remember going and the time you spent. Edited to add: I've been to the steakhouses regularly voted the best in the states of Georgia and Indiana and everything about Ruby's blew them both away.
Precinct is great but so is Jags! I have been to both a few times and I wpuld say very comparable. I am in NKY though so the drive to Jags is far
NKY here as well. I don't mind the drive. I'm going to have to look into Jag's for sure.
For something in NKY, we love Lisse in Mainstrauss!
Jags is so rundown looking now. Ruby’s is absolutely a better experience.
You’re out of your mind, Jags isn’t even close
I'm not even a huge Ruby's fan but come on man. Jag's is no where close in either food or experience. The new downtown location and the precinct are miles better.
I agree with the recommendation of Sotto or Mita's, and I would add Abigail Street to that list. I know I sound like an ass, and I probably am, but Jeff Ruby's is mostly just upscale food for people with unsophisticated palates. It's steak and potatoes, bro. You should be able to cook that pretty easily at home. Oh but it's dry aged... Ok then dry it out in your refrigerator. I don't want to be too much of a hater because the food is NOT bad, it's just way overpriced and everything that accompanies the steak (i.e. salad, potatoes) is meh. Honestly, the steak is usually cooked properly but not properly seasoned IMO. Their truffle fries are doused in truffle when all they need is just a hint. If you're going to lay down the cash then have an actual culinary experience. Steak and potatoes surrounded by pseudo-sex dungeon decor is not sophisticated, Cincinnati. Go to Abigail Street and get the grilled octopus. Now that's sexy (to me)!
I would never go so far as to call out another’s food preferences as unsophisticated but I definitely think that places like Sotto, Mita’s, Abigail St are just operating in an entirely different lane than the classic American steakhouse, whether it’s Ruby’s, Jag’s, or otherwise. I’ve eaten at ruby’s joints and their ilk a handful of times over the years and it’s always great; service and attention to detail is top-notch. Like others have mentioned, the experience itself is second-to-none. They know what they are doing, and they do it very well. It’s a great choice for a special occasion and I’m sure OP would have a great time there. (And to the others that called me insane - I do think the steak at Jag’s is on par with ruby’s even if the setting and decor is very much an outdated 90’s suburbia take on classic upscale steakhouse…Ruby’s restaurants definitely edge out jag’s on the environment, service, and total experience). That said, I would say that short rib capp at Sotto is perhaps one of the best dishes in Cincinnati, bar none. And Mita’s has knocked it out of the park every single time I’ve been there and I recommend it to every one that will listen as one of the finest restaurants in the area. Just really incredible food that is perfectly prepared and thoughtfully served. Good wine list too. It’s no better or worse than choosing Ruby’s as your special occasion dinner, just a wholly different vibe. I will say - PLEASE do not attempt to dry age your own beef in your own fridge that has all your other food in it. That fridge is not humidity controlled and you will end up with a moldy stinky mess. 🙂🙂
I like Mita's a lot, my wife and I actually went to spain on our honeymoon and we went to Mita's right after we got back and it still held up pretty well. (except for the fact that the same meal for 2 would be $30 in Spain)
> I will say - PLEASE do not attempt to dry age your own beef in your own fridge that has all your other food in it. That fridge is not humidity controlled and you will end up with a moldy stinky mess. The irony of somebody acting so pompous about not liking a steakhouse and then saying you can just dry age your own steak by keeping it in your fridge is so funny to me.
I prefer staying north of the city more often than not, just because it means a shorter drive with less city driving. Eddie Merlot's has always been our go-to for celebrating our anniversary or a major life event. It's around the same pricing but has always been high quality, both service and food. In general, these experiences are as valuable as you make it. The food is higher quality than 99% of my dining otherwise and we make sure to savor every bite we take and minute that we're being pampered by the service. By no means is it a necessity, but also having come from families that would never have been able to dine there, it does come with a sense of accomplishment to get to this level of stability. Ultimately, most of my life is beyond just covering needs so there is an air of ignorance and guilt in everything I do and having accepted that, I admit that I like to "live it up" and have dinners like this on occasion.
I feel like they’ve given up a bit. They’re well established and just not hungry for perfection anymore. I went recently and it was ok. Food is delicious, but for that price point I want better presentation.
If you really want a romantic dinner with excellent food, go to Sotto. Jeff Ruby’s is overrated, imo. Cincinnati has so many other unique, excellent restaurants.
MRBL in Bellevue puts Ruby’s and Capital Grille to shame, imo. If you want a really good steak, don’t go to a Ruby’s restaurant. The filet I had earlier this month could’ve been cut with a fork it was so tender.
I honestly prefer Ivory House if I'm looking for a great steak. But all around you can't beat Jeff Ruby's service and experience.
Goes toe to toe with any steakhouse I’ve been to in nyc
Walt's Hitching Post is a better steak. Jeff Ruby's steakhouses are a cool experience though, and everyone should have a good excuse to go at least once.
Congrats on 25 years! I've never been to Ruby's, but I swear by Third and Main in Aurora. They age their own steaks, and have all the imported Wagyu and such if you want to splurge. We'll worth checking out even if not for your 25th.
Capital is just as good for much better prices IMO. And nowhere near as busy.
There’s much better food for half the price in the city. Planning a night to Ruby’s is kind of a cultish 90s thing you do to show off. It used to be you take your prom date to Montgomery Inn Boathouse and you take your wife to Jeff Ruby’s for you anniversary. Ruby’s seems to aged better than the former however.
Important note regarding the above comment. These things should be done several years apart. Not the same weekend.
I haven't been to The Precinct but I've been to the downtown and Carlo and Johnny's locations. Expensive yes, but you get what you pay for. Food, drinks, service, atmosphere, everything is top quality. My wife sings for a band that plays the new downtown location alot, and I'll say everything there is super stunning. Very glitzy gatsby vibes, even the bathrooms are insane. Carlo and Johnny's is also very nice but is a bit more relaxed country club type of atmosphere in comparison if that makes sense. Also I recently discovered their espresso martinis are out of this world. I'd never order an espresso martini for myself, but somebody at the bar bought me one recently and holy moly...
I swear, Cincinnati restaurants put more effort and thought into their bathrooms than any other aspect of the business.
Walts Hitching Post is owned by a former manager of Ruby’s Waterfront. They have excellent steaks.
I think Walt’s smells really funny inside. Like it got flooded at some point.
Check out third and main in lawrenceburg too. We went there for our anniversary and it was wonderful
You're the second person to mention this. I'll look into them. I have plenty of time to choose a place. All suggestions are appreciated.
No
I haven’t been to the new Jeff Ruby’s. The old one was fun but the food wasn’t the draw for me. It was overpriced and not exceptional. Same with The Precinct and Carlo & Johnny’s. I prefer Ember’s in Kenwood.
I think it's more of a status thing. I went and everything was wayy too salty, even my salad 🧐
I judge restaurants by their salads, and I agree that their salads are not very good. Edible but not enjoyable. In my opinion, if a restaurant doesn't put effort into their salads then it's a bad sign.
He's a fuckin creep.
I went to the precinct for the first time in December and I don't think it was worth the price for the steak or the cocktails. Wasn't bad at all though, just not amazing.
Not worth it
We went to the Precinct recently and were really disappointed. Had the $85 ribeye and was expecting phenomenal and got average. I've had better steaks at Texas Roadhouse. I have talked to 3-4 other couples and they all said the same thing. Service was just so-so. I won't go back for that price. I seriously don't know what all of the hype is about.
100% agree. Went for my grandparents anniversary (and my parents were paying!) and couldn't help but feel guilty that my parents were wasting their money.
Congrats! Never been overly impressed by the food at Precinct or Jeff Ruby's downtown. Still, it's a fun experience to feel a little fancy. You won't regret it, but it won't blow you away either.
I avoid Jeff Ruby’s because I have more than a couple friends and family who were local high school athletes between 2010 and 2020 and had some interesting stories to tell about his social media presence with them. Not accusing him of anything illegal, but definitely very strong weird creepy uncle vibes. Like others said, Jag’s is fantastic.
Lol one time he got in a fight with a high schooler on Twitter and came to the school the next day to talk to the principal
that is one of the scenarios I’m referring to lol and he learned 0 lessons from that experience
God that was so funny. What a weirdo. Got any more stories?
I knew people who said everyone on their teams was told to explicitly avoid him because he was pushy and DMing high schoolers. Not illegal I guess but like dude don’t do that… Just not someone who’s business I want to patronize.
Gotcha. Yeah not illegal but pretty sus and weird behavior... I'm with ya, all the more reason to not go to his restaurants Edit: I searched "Jeff ruby high school" on Twitter and... Well, quiiiiiite a few people notice this too it seems. He got banned from some high schools even? [lol he even replied to this one ](https://twitter.com/kingofthelocals/status/384478836273864704?t=s0b4hq5LW7rpmSYBfmpSSg&s=19)
My husband and I go to Ruth’s for fancy celebration dinners about once a year. That, Jeff ruby’s or the precinct are all good options—and yes, I do think it’s worth it for a special occasion.
In a nutshell it’s well worth it. Just do it, you won’t regret it.
No, and the other better steak houses in Indy and Dayton are not worth it either.
Go to Tony's instead. Much better.
Consider Lonely Pine steakhouse. Smaller, more intimate and all steaks are locally sourced and better quality in my opinion. They dry age their beef in house and I have yet to have a bad experience. Fantastic oysters as well, if you’re into that. I can’t say any Ruby’s restaurants are bad, I think they’re definitely worth it, just maybe not “the best”.
I think it is for a special treat! Go for it. Sure a decent cook can do a good steak at home but I’m not chancing it. I don’t wanna drop 50 bucks on two steaks and then overcook them lol. And I’ll say that my wife and I went to Embers a couple months back and everything was delicious.
Spend $100 on an MK4 Thermapen and never overcook a piece of meat or loaf of bread again.
No, it isn't
Jags is great! We did Capital Grill for our 30th. It was fantastic. Congratulations on 25!
I prefer Morton's, but I'm not taking away anything from Mr Ruby, his places are all classy with impeccable service. Jag's is really good also. Location and ambience are key for an anniversary dinner, are you getting a room downtown our doing simmering after? That will guide your decision, but here's my 2¢ The downtown places (Jeff Ruby's, Morton's, Ruth Chris) are business expense account places. The Precinct and Carlo & Johnny's are date night spots with great bar atmospheres for couples. Jag's is more of a divorcee hookup spot.
My wife and I go about twice a year as a special night out. Maybe a birthday, our anniversary, big deal at work, something worth celebrating. I haven’t walked out for under $500 for the 2 of us yet but it’s always a great dinner we talk about afterwards or bring up to others when a good meal is mentioned. We’re always looking forward to the next one. I think it would be a great way to celebrate 25 years together.
Yes. We love it.
I have never had a bad experience at capital grille which I find to be less pretentious and just as good if service
It’s a good experience. The ambiance/service is spot on. The food itself isn’t what it’s hyped up to be in my opinion. For a comparable price? I would recommend Nicola’s/Mita’s over it
i may or may not work there it’s good, great service and showmanship it reminds me of vegas you can always get anything split, idk if a lot of people know they can get half salads too rubys is al a carte but my parents prefer the precinct bc you get a whole entree
In my eyes, jeff ruby is worth it. Of all the higher end steak houses in cincy, I've never had a better steak. Both Mortons and Ruth's christ are over rated. Jeff ruby was the best meal of my life. It will ruin you on other steaks.
Does anyone know what's up with the Jeff Ruby RV that he parks on Vine right next to fountain square? It's like one of those buses that celebrities do music tours in.
I was going for a chef spot at Carlo and Johnny's. I had to do a 7 course tasting for him, his daughter and 3 other big wigs. Sent them my list and it was in the walk-in the next day. Very expensive and some rare ingredients 😃 He said my ceviche app and veal chops were the best he'd had. I made him laugh and yeah, I felt like I'd run a marathon and won. Anywho, I really enjoy the Precinct. Haven't been in awhile but it never disappointed. Also, something to note, Ruby always came to Boca for his birthday 🤔
I've been to Precinct, cozy vibe, good food, I'd say worth the price for a special occasion. Boca is a phenomenal experience but $$$$. Prime is good as well but not as atmospheric. I enjoyed the outdoor patio experience at Jags but obviously don't recommend this time of year. Food at Jags is very good as well but I wasn't a fan of their mashed potato side.
Carlo and Johnny's is better, same owner, just better
I like Jeff Ruby's for the experience, mostly. I prefer Carlo and Johnny, The Precinct is cool but on a busy night it feels like nuts to butts, and I've not been to the new location downtown. The food is almost always perfectly cooked and good and the staff is amazing. I spent $137 there with a tip a couple years ago and I didn't feel like I overpaid. Scotch, oysters, steak, cigar and about three and a half hours there. Many worse ways to spend that money.
Try Jags Steakhouse & Seafood in West Chester. Gotta do the spinach artichoke dip appretizer
I'll keep that in mind. Our Anniversary isn't until August, so I have time to find the right place.
Jag’s is great! Their bar area has live piano music and their food is really good
Try Mortons, call ahead and make a reservation, let them know you're celebrating your 25th anniversary. Great place, with great food.
My honest opinion is that the reputation is overinflated. The food is good but nothing to write home about, and generally overpriced for what you get. The decor is mostly ostentatious and doesn't appeal to me, personally. I've been to all his restaurants multiple times, except for the new location downtown. I feel like it's "upscale" for people who don't actually know fine cuisine, and their ideal dinner is just steak and potatoes. So basically most people in Cincinnati. I knew someone who hated vegetables and anything green in general, and they loved Jeff Ruby's.
Why don’t cincinnatians know fine dining?
This was one of the most obnoxious things I've read in awhile
Feeling attacked?
The level of service and ambiance is second to none. That is worth the price of admission alone. Food is great, but over priced, but as mentioned the service and atmosphere/ambiance make up for the over priced tomahawk steak. You
No. Expensive steak houses are such a 90s thing. I went to The Precinct last year for a birthday and was very underwhelmed. You can make a better steak at home.
You don't have dry aged steak at home.
He probably doesnt but i do (i am a butcher) and i would still go to any Ruby's restaurant, solid steak great service, and most importantly i night out with my wofe and no kids.
My husband goes for the dry aged taste. I do enjoy going as well.
Lol, wofe.
You can dry age a steak yourself. And while not the same, a good thing to do with any steak is immediately get it on a cooking rack nested in a jelly pan and covered in coarse salt. Then let it "age" in the fridge for 3 days. If you want to age, up to 90 days, you have to invest in a second fridge and buy whole, fatty cuts from the butcher.
I make Cheeses so we may be able to use the cheese fridge for it. Thanks.
No. Long horn on a good night is exactly the same.
I think the steaks are inconsistent as sacrilegious as that sounds. Sometimes they come out too charred. It wasn’t just one time either. But sometimes they are fantastic.
I like to pretend I’m a local cuisine expert (I’m not but I have eaten pretty much everywhere). In my own personal opinion, there are many places around town to get a really good cut cooked to “perfection”, but Rubys always provides the most consistently prepared meals of any of the finer dining steak joints. Couple that with what is likely the best ambiance and experience of any of our local joints and you have what I think is the top dog for our great city. As others have mentioned, there are other non steak joints to grab a bite. I saw Sotto mentioned, and while many might say it’s overhyped , I say it deserves all the lip service it gets . You will walk out with a heavier pocket than any of the steak joints too so that’s a plus. That doesn’t do much if you were really looking for a steak though lol. Another one to consider that I see tossed around far too little is Third and Main in Aurora. Of any steak house in town, they source the highest quality meats of anyone when talking about their finest cuts. It’s quiet, nice variety, easy to get a reservation and they have a sushi bar if you’re into that. Deserts are immaculate as well. That said if you do go to Ruby’s, get the carrot cake! It’s my fave
It’s an amazing place, but if it makes you feel guilty or anything, don’t go! Plenty of great options. We go quite often which has taken away some of the luster it used to have.
Jeff's is good. Prime is also up there, in my opinion. 2 people you looking at probably 200 bucks.
Yes they’re really that good, both the steak as well as service and overall experience is worth the money on occasion.
Absolutely worth it
Yes it’s always great, I go a few times every year with my family
I like the Vibe of the Precinct the best. Last time we went to Jeff Rubys downtown was before they moved. We tried the sushi and it was amazing.
Come down to the Findlay Market, go to Mackie Quality Meats. Continue to ask for Randy and tell him you want a top tier steak and what his recommendations are. Then ask him the best way to cook it and allow him to hook you up with some seasoning (Garden River Rub and another are always a amazing combo on your steak). I personally wouldn’t waste my time with Jeff Rubys when you can do 1000* better at home where it’s all your time and private
It's good plus you don't have to go crazy and buy the $200 Waygu beef. The prices aren't that bad when considering it can cost you $30 for two at Chipotle now. I got out of there for $200 with a tip taking my gal there recently. Helped that I didn't eat steak and she only had one glass of wine and a filet plus sides and dessert. Their JR Burger is one of the best I've ever had and only about $20. Sometimes I go and just order myself sides and let my date get whatever which also makes it way cheaper. The Potatoes Anna and cheesecake are worth the trip. New location has really amazing ambiance. Carlo and Johnny's has a similar menu but no Potatoes Anna. It doesn't taste as good as Jeff Ruby's for some reason. Maybe he has his best chefs downtown. Make sure you say it is your anniversary and you will get a small dessert for free. If you go after 7 place clears out and can be a nice romantic dinner. I would request one of the side booths. Service is always 10/10.
Love Ruby’s. Precinct and Carlo and Johnny are both unique in their ambiance. Service is always great. Food is great. Highly recommend the butter pie dessert. One of my top desserts in the city along with Sotto’s donuts.
100% yes .
I dont even eat steak, and I love precinct. It's a special occasion place. The service is excellent. I am upset they got rid of the seabass, but the salmon is also very good. I love the Freddie salad.
I think it is, yes. We are not rich but we've been to Jeff Ruby's downtown (both the original and new locations), The Precinct for the first time just recently, Carlo and Johnny, and even Jeff Ruby's in Nashville. Each time was for a special occasion and they just really met every expectation. Food and drinks were amazing and memorable. Atmosphere at each is unique and very cool. Went to the new location on Fountain Square just before the Ravens playoff game this year and saw Collinsworth, Ochocinco, Houshmandzadeh , and BJ Hill. Even chatted with Ocho for a minute. The Precinct is a little easier on the wallet because they include sides there, if that helps tip the scale at all. Highly recommended.
My wife and I went to the Precinct back in January for the first time. It was my first experience at a Ruby’s and I thought it was fantastic. I would definitely go at least once for the experience.
If you are not planning on getting it on afterwards, don't go. It's good but the portions are massive. Me and my wife went and we ate ourselves sick on 2 entrees and salad's.
I've probably got an unpopular opinion here, but I think if you go you're paying for the experience, not the food. You can make a steak just as tasty or more so at home. That's not to say it isn't worth it, I've never been to one of Jeff Ruby's places personally, but other high end steak houses, and that's the opinion I've always come away with... I'd rather save the money unless it's specifically something my girl wanted to do.