2010 Best of Sacramento Winner - Best Steakhouse

Although most steakhouses have a masculine charm—dark wood walls, cushy booths and tons of whiskey—Ruth’s Chris is more akin to a well-dressed and classy lady. The layout is surprisingly modern with high ceilings, large white chandeliers, brown drapes pulled back to reveal small private rooms and a bar is surrounded by comfortable espresso- colored barstools. The upscale chain steakhouse is known for its buttery soft cuts of premium meat that are served a la carte. They arrive in 500-degree plates that continue to cook the meat as you eat. The cuts of meat range from a four-ounce petite filet, cowboy rib-eye and a porterhouse for two. “I’ve no joke cut a filet with a spoon,” says Melissa Rojko, server. You can order family-style size side dishes, such as creamed spinach and the sweet potato casserole. Ruth’s Chris also serves fresh lobster, lamb chops, veal and its signature ahi tuna stack that is topped with crabmeat and served on red pepper pesto. Cindy Arora

Recommended dishes: Cowboy rib-eye $41.95, Banana cream pie $10, Porterhouse for two $80.95

Insider tip: Ruth’s Chris has an enormous wine list with Australian Shiraz’s and California wines that you can accent with your meal.

Reservations: Recommended on weekends

Payment methods: Amex, Cash, Mastercard, Visa

Alcohol: Full bar

Corkage fee: $25

Hours: Monday–Thursday: 5 p.m.–10 p.m.
Friday: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. and 5 p.m.–10:30 p.m.
Saturday: 4:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m.
Sunday: 4 p.m.–9 p.m.