Ruth's Parkside Cafe

Had a delightful experience with a work group for dinner. We called ahead to see about getting a group of 7 in and they were very accommodating. We grabbed drinks at the bar while waiting for a table and sat outside. The interior was an interesting space with unique art decor. Our server was awesome - really friendly and funny and very prompt. He made great recommendations and everyone really enjoyed their meals. I tried the Cajun catfish, which was very good. Another coworker tried the salmon filet, which she really liked. Another had the vodka cavatappi with Italian sausage and he really liked that as well. They had great vegetarian and gluten free options and everyone left full and satisfied. I’d definitely recommend and will be back!

Staff seemed perturbed that we did not make reservations for our group of 12, but we had arrived right at opening for the day and there were only 4 people in the whole place. Waitresses seemed stressed and not particularly happy. Food was good, but the potato chips that came with my meal were more like the crumbs from the bottom of the bag. A person in our group ordered chicken on her salad, but the salad arrived with no chicken. It was promised to be right out, but had to ask halfway through the meal. When they finally brought it out, no apology or any words from the waitress. The older gentleman who I assumed to be the owner asked us where we were from as we were leaving and mentioned to us again in an irritated way that we should have made reservations. He won't have to worry because we won't go back.

The waitstaff are amazing and wonderful people. We came here for my moms birthday but it was so packed they were only taking reservations. But then Jason went into the back and brought a table just for her. I was shocked and still can't express how much that act of kindness meant to us. Highly recommend Ruth's to everyone. They also have the best catfish in the city.

Really good food and cocktails. I had an appetizer (Grilled Corn Risotto Cakes) and a Blue Margarita. Very artsy inside including a large interesting sculpture. Plenty of seating inside and out front as you walk in. It also has it's own parking lot. It's a block east of Hamilton Ave and just north of the new Northside Transit Center.

Ruth's is a Northside gem! Everything we've had has been delicious! The grilled corn risotto cakes are our fave. We love the Mediterrean Plate. The hummus is amazing. The Greek salad is huge. The burger is terrific. Next time we go to Ruth's for dinner, I want to try the Creole Catfish. Can't wait! Oh... Make a reservation! It fills up in a hurry.