A Closer Look at the Calories in Ruth's Chris Bread
The warm, complimentary bread served at Ruth's Chris Steak House is a beloved part of the dining experience, but for those watching their diet, the question of its caloric impact is a common one. Knowing the nutritional breakdown can help you enjoy your meal without compromising your health goals. The data indicates that each slice of the complimentary table bread contains roughly 92 calories, bringing a two-slice serving to approximately 184 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie bread option compared to some other restaurant offerings, allowing diners to indulge moderately.
Macronutrient Profile of the Bread
Beyond just the calorie count, understanding the macronutrient breakdown of the bread is beneficial. The numbers show that the primary components are carbohydrates and a smaller amount of protein.
- Carbohydrates: The bread contains a significant portion of its calories from carbs, providing energy for your meal.
- Protein: With 6 grams of protein per two-slice serving, the bread offers a small but notable protein contribution.
- Fat: The fat content is minimal, with two slices containing 0g of fat and saturated fat.
The Impact of Added Butter
While the bread itself is relatively low in fat, the butter served alongside it can significantly increase the calorie and fat content. Butter is dense in calories, so each pat added will boost the overall nutritional count. This is an important consideration for those tracking their intake. For example, a single pat of butter can add an extra 35 to 100 calories, depending on the portion size. The rich, salty butter melts perfectly into the warm bread, but its indulgence comes with a caloric price tag.
Comparison with Other Restaurant Breads
It can be helpful to compare Ruth's Chris' bread to similar offerings at other popular steakhouses. While the exact recipes and serving sizes vary, this comparison helps provide context on where the restaurant's bread stands in terms of calories. The data below shows how Ruth's Chris stacks up against another well-known chain.
| Restaurant | Item | Calories | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ruth's Chris Steak House | Complimentary Table Bread (2 slices) | 184 calories | 0g fat, 36g carbs, 6g protein |
| LongHorn Steakhouse | Fresh-baked Bread (full loaf) | 480 calories | 7g fat, 88g carbs, 16g protein |
| Ruth's Chris Steak House | Complimentary Table Bread (1 slice) | ~92 calories | Relatively low-calorie per piece |
| LongHorn Steakhouse | Fresh-baked Bread (partial serving) | Varies | Best shared to manage calories |
This table illustrates that while the full loaf at LongHorn is significantly higher in calories, the per-piece comparison makes the Ruth's Chris option more manageable for calorie-conscious diners.
Managing Your Bread Intake Strategically
To enjoy the bread without derailing your diet, here are some strategic tips:
- Share the basket: With generous portions, sharing the complimentary basket with your dining companions can help you enjoy a taste without overdoing it.
- Request less butter: You can ask your server for less butter or skip it entirely to keep the fat and calorie count down.
- Portion control: Limit yourself to just one slice to keep your calorie intake around 90 calories.
- Balance your meal: Account for the bread's calories when choosing your entree and sides. Opting for lighter main courses can create a more balanced meal. For example, pair a smaller filet mignon with grilled vegetables instead of a heavier side like potatoes au gratin.
The Takeaway for Diners
The complimentary bread at Ruth's Chris is an appealing start to any meal. By understanding that two slices contain 184 calories, diners can make intentional choices about their eating habits. Whether you decide to savor one slice, pass on the butter, or skip the bread altogether, being informed empowers you to stay on track with your nutritional goals while still enjoying the full dining experience. This knowledge can also help inform decisions about what to order for the rest of your meal, ensuring your entire dinner aligns with your dietary preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the complimentary table bread at Ruth's Chris Steak House contains approximately 184 calories for two slices, with a minimal fat content. Its primary nutritional contribution is from carbohydrates, with a small amount of protein. The addition of butter will increase these numbers. By employing portion control and making mindful choices about your entire meal, you can enjoy this delicious treat guilt-free and in line with your health objectives.
Related Information
If you're interested in the nutrition of other restaurant items, resources like nutritional tracking websites can be helpful. For additional restaurant nutrition details, you can consult sites that provide comprehensive food data, such as Nutritionix.
Note: The nutritional information is based on available data and may vary slightly depending on location and preparation.
Key Takeaways on Ruth's Chris Bread Calories
- Calorie Count: Two slices of Ruth's Chris bread contain approximately 184 calories, or about 92 calories per slice.
- Macronutrient Content: The bread is primarily composed of carbohydrates, with a minimal fat content and some protein.
- Butter Increases Calories: The butter served with the bread adds significant calories and fat, so mindful consumption is key.
- Consider Other Breads: Compared to other steakhouse bread options, Ruth's Chris offers a more calorie-conscious choice per individual serving.
- Strategic Eating: Use portion control and ask for less butter to minimize the caloric impact of the complimentary bread.
- Balance Your Meal: Account for the bread's calories by making lighter choices for your entree and sides.
- Enjoy Moderately: The low-fat nature of the bread itself means it can be enjoyed in moderation without compromising dietary goals.
FAQs About Ruth's Chris Bread
What is the approximate calorie count for one slice of Ruth's Chris bread?
Approximately 92 calories, based on a serving of two slices containing 184 calories.
Does the bread at Ruth's Chris contain any fat?
The complimentary bread itself contains virtually no fat, but the butter served with it will add fat and calories.
How many carbs are in a serving of Ruth's Chris bread?
A two-slice serving of the bread contains 36 grams of carbohydrates.
Is the bread at Ruth's Chris gluten-free?
No, the complimentary table bread is not gluten-free. Ruth's Chris offers a separate gluten-free menu for guests with dietary restrictions.
Can I get the nutritional information for other items on the Ruth's Chris menu?
Yes, nutritional information for other menu items can be found on nutritional tracking websites or by consulting with the restaurant directly.
How does Ruth's Chris bread compare to other restaurant breads calorically?
Compared to some other chain restaurant breads, like the full loaf at LongHorn Steakhouse, the Ruth's Chris bread has a lower calorie count per serving, making it easier to manage calorie intake.
Does Ruth's Chris serve the bread with butter?
Yes, the complimentary bread is typically served with butter, which can add a significant number of calories.
How can I make the bread a healthier choice during my meal?
To make it a healthier choice, you can opt for one slice instead of two, or ask for no butter.
Is the complimentary bread at Ruth's Chris a source of protein?
Yes, a two-slice serving provides 6 grams of protein.
