Nicholas Stevenson
Google
While exploring Seaport Village we decided to make last minute reservations here. I’ve known of Ruth’s Chris forever, but this is the first time I popped into one
This location is prime San Diego real estate overlooking the Bay and out towards Coronado Island. The layout is a little bizarre as the entire lobby downstairs is bare other than a staircase, restrooms, and light decor. You walk upstairs into the main dining area, but the hostess stand is up the stairs and all the way to the back. This was confusing to me. I would have assumed they would put it either downstairs in the lobby or just at the top of the stairs. There wasn’t a noticeable sign indicating where to go either
The dining area was elegant and very intimately lit. I had known that this was a “fancy” steakhouse chain, but I didn’t expect it to feel as “stuffy” like a formal dining area on a cruise ship (unnecessarily formal for what it is). The menu offers all the cuts of steak you would expect, sides, appetizers, and other entrees. The cocktail menu was underwhelming, but with “NYC style pricing.” One thing I don’t love with “fancy steakhouses” is having everything a la carte. I like having at least a side of veggies, asparagus, or a Caesar salad without having to build my meal piece by piece.
We weren’t incredibly hungry, so, we just ordered two filets and some garlic mashed potatoes to share. I will say everything tasted delicious. I have no notes. Was it the best steak I’ve ever had? No. But it was delicious. Also, they provide a complimentary bread and butter basket while you’re waiting for your food and drinks
The service was good. We got our meal and everything in a timely manner and there weren’t any issues. Our server was a little bizarre though. I don’t know how to articulate exactly what it was, but this individual made me uncomfortable. They took the order professionally, offered suggestions, and tried to be friendly, but everything this person was saying was some what confusing in terms of verbiage and the demeanor was trying to be “fine dining” but it really came off as creepy and uncomfortable. Again, I can’t exactly put it into words, they were absolutely trying to be friendly and a good server, but every interaction just felt off, and we were just waiting for this person to leave us alone again
I don’t know that I would go back to a Ruth’s Chris myself, but I will say it’s probably a nice date or celebratory spot for anyone that likes to feel as if they’re dining in a fancy restaurant. I think at this point in my life that’s just not me. I enjoy an elevated dining experience, but I like a little more flair or personality, and less of a stuffy and overly priced steakhouse chain feeling
Some tips:
If you are celebrating something special you should let them know in advance as they try to accommodate and add some celebratory flair to the meal if they know in advance. We parked near the Unconditional Surrender statue as we were exploring, so, we didn’t have to deal with parking at the restaurant. Also, try to snag or reserve a window seat to get a better view of the waterfront (especially at sunset)
Cheers!!