Nashville stands out as a city celebrated for its music, culture, and warm hospitality. Beyond its musical reputation, the city boasts a diverse culinary scene, ranging from laid-back barbecue joints to upscale dining establishments. If you’re on the lookout for Tennessee’s most exclusive dining experience, you need not look further than Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse in Nashville, renowned for its opulence and culinary excellence. In this article, we’ll delve into what distinguishes Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse as the priciest restaurant in Tennessee and why it commands its high price tag.
The Rich History of Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse
Established by Jeff Ruby, a prominent restaurateur and philanthropist, Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse is a family-owned business with roots dating back to 1970. Jeff Ruby’s journey in the restaurant industry began humbly, washing dishes at a Cincinnati steakhouse. His rapid ascent led him to become a manager, partner, and eventually the owner of successful restaurants. In 1999, Jeff Ruby opened the first Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse in Cincinnati, expanding later to Louisville, Kentucky, and Nashville, Tennessee.
More than just a restaurant, Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse embodies a brand synonymous with quality, excellence, and passion. Guided by the motto “The Jeff Ruby Experience,” the establishment consistently strives to provide patrons with top-tier food, service, and ambiance. Recognized with accolades like the AAA Four Diamond Award, the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, and the Forbes Travel Guide Four Star Award, Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse has been voted Music City’s best steakhouse by readers of the Tennessean.
The Distinctive Menu at Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse
At the heart of Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse’s culinary allure are its premium steaks. Each steak is meticulously chosen, dry-aged, and cut on-site, then expertly cooked on a custom-built 1,000-degree Montague broiler. The steaks, ranging from a $48 10-ounce filet mignon to a $168 6-ounce wagyu filet, showcase the pinnacle of culinary craftsmanship. Toppings and sauces, such as red king crab, Louisiana crawfish, béarnaise, and bordelaise, further enhance the dining experience.
Beyond steaks, the menu offers a diverse selection of dishes, including seafood, chicken, lamb, and pasta. Freshly flown-in seafood, such as truffle-poached lobster, Alaskan king crab, and Chilean sea bass, grace the menu alongside chicken, lamb, and pasta dishes infused with global flavors. For those with plant-based preferences, a dedicated vegan section offers options like chickpea and eggplant croquette, roasted cauliflower steak, and mushroom risotto.
To complement the cuisine, Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse boasts an extensive wine list curated by its sommelier team, featuring over 1,000 selections from around the world. Rare and exclusive bottles, including the 1997 Screaming Eagle Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2010 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti La Tâche, make appearances alongside more affordable options starting at $10 by the glass and $40 by the bottle. The restaurant also offers a cocktail menu with classic and signature drinks.
The Elegant Atmosphere of Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse
Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse is not merely a dining destination; it’s an immersive experience. The restaurant’s design blends art deco and contemporary elements, creating a stylish and elegant ambiance across its spacious dining room, cozy bar, private dining room, and patio. Live entertainment featuring local and national musicians adds a vibrant touch, encompassing jazz, blues, and pop music.
Guests can expect to be treated with warmth and professionalism by Jeff Ruby’s friendly staff. The establishment enforces a business casual dress code and a reservation system to ensure a seamless and timely service. A loyalty program rewards patrons with points, perks, and privileges, ranging from priority seating to complimentary desserts and exclusive event invitations.
Conclusion: A Splurge Worth Making
In summary, Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse is undeniably the most expensive restaurant in Tennessee, but it’s also among the finest. This establishment delivers not only exceptional food and service but an unparalleled dining experience. Whether you’re marking a special occasion, impressing a date, or simply indulging, Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse justifies its premium status, offering a culinary journey that’s well worth the splurge.