Ruby Tuesday in Commack

Goodbye Ruby Tuesday – at least the old Ruby Tuesday. The national chain, known mainly for burgers, wings, ribs and quesadillas, has undergone a major makeover, trading its "hodgepodge lodge" decor for more sophisticated surroundings (check out the photo, above). This month, the chain launched an upgraded menu with a new emphasis on seafood, along with a roster of  "prime" burgers that augments its regular list. There's also a new Sunday brunch.

Ever the skeptic when it comes to places such as this, I had to try the food for myself.  I was amazed by a highly seasoned jumbo lump crab cake, described – quite accurately –  as “almost all crab and nearly no cake.”  True, it cost $10.99 for a single crab cake,  but as I see it, quality and authenticity merits an extra few dollars.

Less compelling was the restaurant’s “New Orleans seafood” combination (spicy broiled tilapia topped with sauteed shrimp and Parmesan cream sauce) for $15.99, which I thought OK but unremarkable. A savory “ultimate chicken” sandwich – grilled boneless breast topped with havarti cheese, bacon, avocado, lettuce and tomato – came on a  toasted “pretzel roll” (pretzel dough, roll shape).

As mid-price casual chain restaurants go, this one is moving up the ranks, although not yet  at the level of such top contenders as Cheesecake Factory, Grand Lux Café and California Pizza Kitchen.

This Ruby Tuesday is at 6330 Jericho Turnpike in Commack,
631-864-6603