Navigating the Ruth's Chris Menu for Diet Success
For many, a steakhouse like Ruth's Chris conjures images of rich, buttery indulgence. While that is certainly an option, the menu offers plenty of paths to a healthy, satisfying meal. The key is to make conscious choices, focus on protein and fresh vegetables, and communicate your dietary needs to the staff. This starts with appetizers and leads all the way through to dessert.
Lean Appetizer Choices
Starting your meal with a smart appetizer can set a positive tone for the entire dining experience. Avoid heavy, fried, or cream-based starters and opt for fresh, protein-rich seafood or a customizable salad.
- Shrimp Cocktail: Chilled jumbo shrimp with a New Orleans-style cocktail sauce is a classic and lean choice. The cocktail sauce is low in calories, making it a flavorful option. Request extra lemon for a fresh twist.
- Chilled Seafood Tower: If dining with a group, the seafood tower is an excellent choice. It features a variety of chilled seafood like Maine lobster, jumbo shrimp, and crabmeat, providing a lean, protein-packed start to your meal.
- Caesar Salad (Customized): Order the Caesar salad but ask for no croutons and the dressing on the side. Use only a small amount of the dressing and load up on the crisp romaine lettuce. You can also opt for a simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette dressing on the side.
Entrée Excellence: Protein Power
The centerpiece of any Ruth's Chris experience is the protein, and this is where you can make excellent choices for your diet. Focus on lean cuts of beef or fresh seafood options.
- Petite Filet: The Petite Filet is an excellent low-carb and low-calorie option, and it's also a lean cut of beef. It's equally tender as other filets but comes in a smaller, more diet-friendly 8oz portion.
- Salmon Fillet: For a dose of healthy fats, the broiled salmon fillet is a fantastic choice. It's high in protein and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. Request it prepared with minimal butter.
- Stuffed Chicken Breast: A double chicken breast stuffed with garlic-herb cheese is another option, though it's important to be mindful of the added cheese and lemon butter sauce. A good modification would be to request the chicken breast be cooked without the stuffing or excessive sauce.
- Customization is Key: Remember that the steaks are typically served sizzling in butter. Don't be afraid to ask for your steak to be prepared with less butter or none at all. Seasoning with simple salt and pepper will still provide plenty of flavor.
Smarter Side Dishes
Side dishes are where many diets get derailed at steakhouses. Skip the creamed spinach, potato options, and fried sides in favor of green vegetables.
- Fresh Broccoli: This is the simplest and healthiest side choice. Request it simply steamed with no butter or salt.
- Grilled Asparagus: Another great vegetable option. Be aware that it may come with hollandaise sauce. Ask for the sauce on the side or omitted entirely.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts (Modified): These can be a healthy option, but they are often prepared with bacon and honey butter. Request them roasted plainly without the bacon or butter.
- Cremini Mushrooms: Pan-roasted mushrooms are a flavorful, low-carb choice. Request them cooked with minimal oil and no heavy sauces.
Comparison Table: Diet-Friendly vs. Indulgent Options
| Menu Item Type | Diet-Friendly Choice | Indulgent Alternative | Health Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appetizer | Shrimp Cocktail | Calamari (Lightly Fried) | The shrimp cocktail is lean protein, while fried calamari is high in carbs and fat. |
| Entrée | Petite Filet (8oz) | Cowboy Ribeye (22oz) | The Petite Filet is a much smaller, leaner cut of beef with fewer calories and less fat. |
| Side Dish | Fresh Steamed Broccoli | Sweet Potato Casserole | Fresh broccoli is a clean, low-calorie vegetable, while the casserole is loaded with sugar and butter. |
| Preparation | Broiled, less butter | Sizzling butter, rich sauces | Asking for less butter significantly reduces calories and fat without sacrificing flavor. |
Conclusion: Enjoying Ruth's Chris on Your Terms
Dining out while on a diet doesn't have to be a source of stress or limitation. By focusing on smart choices like lean proteins, fresh vegetables, and mindful preparation requests, you can enjoy the full, high-end experience at Ruth's Chris. The menu is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary needs, and a little forethought can make a significant difference in your dining outcome. You can savor the fine flavors and quality without compromising your health goals. A little planning goes a long way, ensuring a delicious and guilt-free evening. For additional healthy dining tips and information, you can always check the restaurant's own blog for ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make my steak healthier at Ruth's Chris?
To make your steak healthier, choose a lean cut like the Petite Filet, ask for it to be broiled with less or no butter, and have it seasoned simply with salt and pepper.
Are there any low-carb sides at Ruth's Chris?
Yes, excellent low-carb side options include fresh steamed broccoli, plain grilled asparagus, and cremini mushrooms.
What is a good seafood option at Ruth's Chris when on a diet?
The Salmon Fillet is a great choice, as it is high in protein and omega-3s. Request it broiled with lemon and minimal butter for a healthier preparation.
Can I still have a salad at Ruth's Chris on a diet?
Yes, order a simple house salad or a Caesar salad without croutons and with dressing on the side. This allows you to control the portion of dressing and enjoy a fresh start.
What should I avoid when eating at Ruth's Chris on a diet?
Avoid creamy sauces, fried appetizers like calamari or spicy shrimp, carb-heavy sides such as mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole, and any rich, buttery preparations.
Is the Stuffed Chicken Breast a good option?
The Stuffed Chicken Breast can be modified to be healthier. Request it without the garlic-herb cheese stuffing or lemon butter to reduce calories.
What is the best dessert option for a diet at Ruth's Chris?
For dessert, the best choice is often fresh berries, if available, or simply a coffee. Skip the high-calorie cheesecakes and sundaes.
