The 6 Best Ruby Tuesday Menu Items You Need To Try
Explore the standout favorites from Ruby Tuesday’s menu, with must-try picks for appetizers, entrées, cocktails, and more.
The Best Ruby Tuesday Menu Items: What To Order For An Unforgettable Meal
Ruby Tuesday is a long-standing American casual dining chain celebrated for its expansive menu, approachable atmosphere, and, above all, its iconic salad bar. Launched in 1972 by a group of resourceful University of Tennessee students, Ruby Tuesday was inspired by the rapid rise of vibrant, cocktail-centric eateries, and its enduring name comes courtesy of the Rolling Stones classic. Whether you’re a devoted regular or a curious first-timer, Ruby Tuesday is one of the few national chains where comfort food, classic cocktails, and a robust garden bar all collide in one relaxed dining experience.
Our team set out to sample the thirty most popular menu items at Ruby Tuesday and narrowed them down to the six true standouts. Below, you’ll find the results, with our full tasting notes on the best appetizers, entreés, pasta, cocktails, desserts, and sandwiches you shouldn’t miss.
Ruby Tuesday Menu Highlights Table
| Category | Top Pick | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| Appetizer | Sticky Ribs | Flash-fried, zippy BBQ glaze, crispy exterior, tender inside |
| Cocktail | Ruby Relaxer | Fruity, tropical, smooth; vodka, coconut rum, peach schnapps |
| Sandwich | Philly Cheesesteak Hoagie | Hearty shaved beef, peppers, mushrooms, cheesy sauce |
| Pasta | Crispy Mac ‘N Cheese | Creamy cheese sauce, crispy chicken, tangy marinara |
| Entrée | Hickory Bourbon Salmon | Rich bourbon sauce, perfectly cooked salmon, lighter sides |
| Dessert | Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet | Warm cookie, vanilla ice cream, gooey & sharable |
The Legendary Endless Garden Bar
If there’s one feature that defines Ruby Tuesday and keeps guests coming back for decades, it’s the Endless Garden Bar. When many national chains phased out their buffet-style salad bars, Ruby Tuesday doubled down and rebranded its salad experience, now boasting over 55 fresh toppings, including greens, cheeses, veggies, and a vast array of dressings and crunchy add-ons.
- Customize your perfect salad, from classic Caesar to creative, protein-packed bowls.
- The Garden Bar adds a healthy, interactive element to any meal, making it easy to start off light—or pile on your favorites for a main course.
- This option is especially beloved among regulars, serving as either a hearty appetizer or a full vegetarian meal.
Best Appetizer: Sticky Ribs
Sticky Ribs are a revelation for fans of both barbecue and creative appetizers. Here’s what distinguishes them:
- Flash-fried ribs deliver a unique texture: candied and slightly crispy on the outside, but juicy and tender underneath.
- Coated in a bold, tangy barbecue sauce that’s a perfect mixture of sweet and zesty, with a slight kick that wakes up the palate.
- Ideal portion for sharing to kickstart your meal, but substantial enough to serve as a main if you pair with a side like mac and cheese or a trip to the garden bar.
- Extra BBQ sauce is provided for those who love even more flavor.
Tip: The sticky ribs’ “candied” exterior means you’ll want extra napkins—and possibly a fork, though eating with your hands is part of the fun.
Best Cocktail: Ruby Relaxer
Even skeptics of sweet, fruity drinks find themselves converted by the Ruby Relaxer, Ruby Tuesday’s signature cocktail. It’s a laid-back, tropical concoction featuring:
- Vodka, coconut rum, and peach schnapps for a multi-layered spirit base.
- Pineapple and cranberry juices deliver both sweetness and a tart finish.
- The balance is surprisingly sophisticated—not too cloying, and easy to sip throughout your meal.
- Think “classy jungle juice”: fun and festive without feeling overdone.
Pairing recommendation: The Ruby Relaxer is especially refreshing with the richness of the sticky ribs or the hickory bourbon salmon.
Best Sandwich: Philly Cheesesteak Hoagie
Ruby Tuesday’s take on the Philly cheesesteak earns rave reviews from both in-house experts and Philadelphia natives. This isn’t just another regional knockoff:
- Piles of thinly shaved, tender beef grilled to order, ensuring a melt-in-the-mouth texture.
- A carefully balanced mix of grilled onions, peppers, and mushrooms—never soggy, but caramelized and savory.
- Finished with a decadent cheddar cheese sauce that’s just gooey enough to bind everything together without overpowering the other flavors.
- Served on a fresh hoagie roll that stands up to the juicy filling but never gets tough.
Tip: The sandwich is robust enough for a standalone meal but pairs beautifully with Ruby Tuesday’s classic fries or, for a lighter touch, a side from the garden bar.
Best Pasta: Crispy Mac ‘N Cheese
If you crave hearty, ultra-cheesy comfort food, the Crispy Mac ‘N Cheese is the ultimate pick. Here’s why it stands out on a crowded menu:
- The melted mozzarella and parmesan cream sauce channels nostalgia (think grown-up Velveeta: creamy, thick, and deeply satisfying).
- Crispy-fried chicken chunks lend protein, crunch, and a savory counterpoint to all the cheese.
- A drizzle of marinara sauce keeps the richness in check and adds flavor complexity.
- Ideal for diners who want a main course they can really sink their teeth into—this portion is hearty!
Tip: Add a splash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper if you want to balance the creaminess with heat.
Best Entrée: Hickory Bourbon Salmon
Often cited as a “staff favorite,” the Hickory Bourbon Salmon brings a lighter-yet-satisfying option to the table:
- Grilled salmon fillet is expertly cooked—crispy at the edges, moist and flaky in the center.
- Hickory bourbon glaze has smoky notes reminiscent of cedar-plank grilling, rounded out with a subtle sweetness and depth from the bourbon.
- Accompanied by grilled zucchini and rice pilaf; the vegetables keep the plate balanced and the meal nutritious.
- This entrée feels indulgent but not heavy, making it a smart choice if you intend to sample dessert or enjoy appetizers.
Tip: For a low-carb option, double up on the veggies instead of rice.
Best Dessert: Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet
No matter how full you feel, there’s always room for Ruby Tuesday’s Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet:
- A fresh-baked, still-warm chocolate chip cookie is presented in a mini cast-iron skillet, ensuring gooey edges and crispy crust.
- Topped with two generous scoops of vanilla bean ice cream that slowly melt into the cookie, creating layers of hot-and-cold, salty-and-sweet.
- This dessert is easily shareable, but so good you might want every bite for yourself!
- The ultimate “comfort dessert” for ending a meal on a high note.
Tip: Ask for extra napkins, and don’t be afraid to dig in as soon as it lands—the skillet keeps it warm!
Ordering Tips & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can you customize menu items at Ruby Tuesday?
A: Yes, many menu items can be customized based on your preferences. Ask your server about swapping sides, adding proteins to the garden bar, or omitting ingredients to fit dietary restrictions.
Q: Does Ruby Tuesday offer vegetarian or vegan options?
A: The Endless Garden Bar is ideal for vegetarians and can be vegan if you focus on plant-based toppings. Check with your server for additional meatless entrées or side offerings.
Q: Are there gluten-free choices?
A: Ruby Tuesday offers several gluten-free options, including some proteins and sides. Always verify with your location, as menu items and preparation can vary.
Q: Is the Garden Bar available with all meals?
A: The Endless Garden Bar can be ordered as an add-on, a side, or as a standalone entrée. It’s highly recommended if you love salads or want lighter fare alongside your main dish.
Q: What are the most popular menu items?
A: According to taste tests and guest favorites, the top picks are Sticky Ribs, Ruby Relaxer, Philly Cheesesteak Hoagie, Crispy Mac ‘N Cheese, Hickory Bourbon Salmon, and the Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet.
How To Make The Most Of Your Ruby Tuesday Experience
- Arrive hungry—the portion sizes are generous and you’ll want to try at least a couple of the specialties.
- Bring friends or family so you can share appetizers and desserts.
- Explore daily specials and seasonal menu items for added variety.
- Don’t skip the garden bar—even as a side, it’s part of what makes Ruby Tuesday unique.
- Save room for dessert—the skillet cookie is a must!
Final Thoughts
Ruby Tuesday continues to delight guests with a mix of classic comfort foods and modern-day twists, all anchored by a beloved salad bar that’s stood the test of time. Whether you’re ordering for yourself or a crowd, these six greatest menu hits offer a roadmap for satisfying, memorable meals. Next time you visit, use this guide to navigate the massive menu and discover the best of what Ruby Tuesday has to offer.
