Review: Little Ruby’s NYC
It was another rainy day in the Big Apple, and I was scheduled to review a popular eatery called Little Ruby’s NYC in the West Village. As I tussled through the storm, a wave of nostalgia came flooding back to me. I was born in this city, and before I moved to LA, I lived in the West Village in the 90s. Situated in the heart of Sheridan Square, at the corner of 4th Street and 7th Avenue, Little Ruby’s has a unique triangular shape.
Review Little Ruby’s NY
Brought to us by Australian Hospitality company, Wish You Were Here Group, Little Ruby’s cafe portion of the restaurant is surrounded by glass. The inside dining room begins at the entrance (the tip of the triangle) then widens utilizing its unusual shape. The rain did not deter the cheery atmosphere in the restaurant. However, I could see how sun streaming through the windows would make for a really special dining experience. Steps led down to another room with a large bar where I spotted more customers laughing and enjoying cocktails.
Wine & Tea
I was meeting up with writer/photographer Kelsey Sheppard. She had arrived already and already had her lights set up. She was ready to go. Kelsey ordered a Lavender Matcha Latte, while I chose a Tooth & Nail 2022, Cabernet Sauvignon (Paso Robles, California). The lively red exhibited notes of plum and dark fruit. It was a fruit forward delightful wine with a hint of chocolate as well as a tinge of vanilla.
I stole a sip of Kelsey’s Lavender matcha latte which was so delicate and toasty. Kelsey loved it…describing the flavor as grassy, with light floral accents. “The pops of lavender buds on top further enhanced the lingering lavender. It was a sublime drink for the drizzly day…so warm and comforting.”
We started with the Crispy Brussel Sprouts (herb relish, quinoa, ginger lemon dressing). This was exceptional. The lemon and ginger dressing mingled with the charbroiled coating of the delicious brussel sprouts. The quinoa added an ever so slight texture taking it up a notch.
Then our next dish arrived at the table. The Crispy Grains Bowl was fantastic and brought us a multitude of tastes with a vibrant mouthfeel. Featuring freekeh, farro, avo, baby kale, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, snap peas, feta cheese, red wine and vinaigrette, the variety of textures was marvelous. This was an exceptional combo of leafy veggie goodness as well as chewy farro with crunchy freekeh.
Little Ruby’s NYC Pastas
For our entrees we decided on two pastas. The Shrimp Pasta (grilled shrimp, spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, arugula, lemon, cream, crushed red pepper, breadcrumbs) was delicious. Kelsey and I both agreed this dish was both creamy yet light. The slight nuance of lemon was perhaps responsible for this. There was also a welcome addition of spice that was just right. This unique combo turned out to be incredible with the perfectly cooked shrimp.
Finally, the Spicy Vodka Pasta (canestri, vodka sauce, parmesan, basil, chives) commanded attention with its bold flavor. It had a flamboyant spicy zest that took a minute to hit my tastebuds. The velvety pink cream sauce clung to the al dente canestri and danced on my tongue. It was fantastic.
I saved my last sip of wine for my final bite of the spicy pasta which made for a stimulating finish. Alas we were just too full for dessert, and we had quite a bit of food to take home as well. What an amazing meal! Off we went to brave the storm, armed with delicious leftovers into the night. Be sure to pop by any of the Little Ruby’s locations (Soho, West Village, East Village, Murray Hill). You won’t be disappointed. Visit the website for more info about a LIttle Ruby’s near you. https://www.rubyscafe.com
CLICK HERE to read the Dudleys review by Kelsey Sheppard, also owned by Wish You Were Here Group.
