Our fifth (!) Monthiversary Meal doubled as our Valentine’s Day dinner when we resolved to to go Django Western Taco on Monday. Alas, despite both Yelp and their website claiming they were open, they were, in fact, closed.
Enter Ruth’s Parkside Cafe, an eclectic — think Mediterranean- and American-style fare with a number of vegetarian options — restaurant situated in the American Can Building tucked on Blue Rock Street. I’d heard great things about Ruth’s, but had never made a point to get there. Much to our benefit, we sort of happened upon our experience with this Northside gem.
We were seated at our table, where service was great throughout our visit. To start, we got Roasted Rosemary Potatoes with pecorino, red pepper flakes, and gorgonzola cream sauce. They were fantastic and we dang-near licked our plates. (I was thisclose to taking photographic evidence, but I got a look from BK and decided against it.) It would have been extremely difficult for our entrees to live up to that deliciousness, but they made a valid effort at coming close. I had trouble choosing between the Burger (duh) and Spaghetti with Tomato Herb Sauce, and ultimately opted for a Grilled Bagel with chorizo, grilled pepper, and onion (86 tomato). The grilled pepper was so good, and if you know me, you know I’m not one for veggies in my dishes. The best part? It was served with my choice of one of four sauces, one being buttermilk ranch dressing. I could get ranch on the side without being judged? YEP. (I’d be lying if I said that wasn’t the deciding factor.) BK got the Vodka Garganelli (zesty tomato cream sauce with mushrooms, asparagus, and pecorino romano; add Italian sausage for $2 more), which was also delicious. I really enjoyed the food and it was a reasonable date night to boot ($35 for an app, two entrees, and two soft drinks).
There was plenty of parking in the private lot, the menu was varied and quite sizable, and included wine, beer, and cocktails. There was also a featured artist whose artwork was displayed around the restaurant, which was a great touch. The place itself was pretty casual, but I really enjoyed my experience. I would love to go back.
Visit idea: Take a tour at the American Sign Museum, then make the four-minute drive to Ruth’s for a follow-up lunch or dinner. In 2017 you’ll be able to top that meal off with Dojo Gelato, which is opening a stand-alone location at 1735 Blue Rock Street.
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I love stopping in here at lunchtime for the Tempeh Reuben!
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