oChef » Ruby – Seattle

Ruby - Seattle

Bar & Pub Ruby in Seattle
Photo from Ruby
How do the guests rate it?
Ruby at a glance
Seattle Greenwood
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 27 of the guests
#112 out of 858 places to eat in Seattle
#15 Bar & Pub out of 78 in Seattle
Excellent
8.5 out of 10
8.4
Food
8.9
Service
8.8
Ambience
4.1
Value
214

Reviews

88.8%

Satisfaction

Often praised
  • Excellent Service
  • Great Cocktails
Frequently criticized
  • Pricey Appetizers
  • Small Space

The restaurant Ruby, a popular Bar & Pub in Seattle’s vibrant Greenwood neighborhood, invites you to discover its charm. You’ll find a welcoming spot where you can unwind and enjoy a cozy atmosphere.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a casual get-together, this establishment offers a comfortable setting. With a focus on quality food and drinks, it’s a perfect destination for a relaxed experience in the city.

Overview: Introducting Ruby

Ruby offers a delightful experience, often praised for its excellent cocktails and attentive service. Guests frequently commend the welcoming vibe, making it feel like a true neighborhood gem.

It’s a spot where you can expect a pleasant atmosphere and well-crafted drinks. While generally well-received, some guests have noted concerns regarding the price of certain appetizers.

The intimate bar size can also lead to a crowded feel, and the music volume occasionally draws comments.

Excellent
8.5 out of 10
214

Reviews

88.8%

Satisfaction

16

negative

8

neutral

190

positive

Ruby earns a strong overall rating of 8.5, with customer satisfaction at a solid 88.8%. This positive sentiment is largely driven by its excellent Service (8.9), which guests consistently praise.

The Ambience (8.8) also stands out, creating a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by a good Food (8.4) offering. These insights come from 214 customer observations, with 190 positive and only 16 negative.

While most aspects shine, Value (4.1) presents a more mixed picture. Some find the pricing for certain items, particularly appetizers, to be on the higher side.

Despite this, the overall experience remains highly regarded, suggesting that the quality of Service, Food, and Ambience often outweighs these cost considerations for many patrons.

What people like
  • Excellent Service
  • Great Cocktails
  • Cozy Atmosphere
What people don't like
  • Pricey Appetizers
  • Small Space
  • Loud Music

Ruby is a strong contender for those seeking a vibrant bar experience with exceptional drinks and attentive staff. With a recommendation score of 8.5, it clearly resonates with many patrons looking for a cozy and engaging spot.

If you prioritize top-tier service and a lively atmosphere over budget-friendly small bites, Ruby is certainly worth a visit. Just be mindful of its intimate size, especially during peak hours, and be prepared for a potentially higher tab on food.

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Verdict: Our expert take on Ruby

Food (8.4 out of 10)

mentioned by 93% of the guests

When it comes to the food and drink scene here, things are looking pretty fantastic! With a solid score of 8.4 and an excellent customer satisfaction rating of 90%, its clear guests are loving whats on offer. Out of 70 total remarks, a whopping 63 rave about the delicious cocktails, creative drinks, and yummy bar foods, including quality small bites and wings.

However, not every sip and snack hits the mark. A small handful of 3 less enthusiastic comments mentioned some drinks were disgusting in flavor, and the food, described as basic bar food or what can go in the air fryer, didnt always impress. It seems theres a slight inconsistency in the culinary offerings.

8.4 Food

70

Reviews

90%

Satisfaction

3

negative

4

neutral

63

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Creative, delicious cocktails
  • Quality, crafted drinks
  • Tasty bar bites
What people don't like
  • Inconsistent drink quality
  • Basic bar food

Often praised

  • cocktails
  • drinks
  • wings
  • Fernet
  • Food
  • French 75
  • Garden Party
  • Jamaican Fog
  • bar bites
  • bar food

Frequently criticized

  • drinks
  • Food

If youre seeking a spot primarily for expertly crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere, youre in for a treat. While the bar bites are generally well-received, dont expect gourmet dining; the food is more for casual snacking. Its definitely worth a visit for the drinks alone!

Service (8.9 out of 10)

mentioned by 91% of the guests

When it comes to service, this spot truly shines! With an excellent score of 8.9 and customer satisfaction soaring at 90.5%, its clear guests are loving their experience. Based on 57 positive opinions out of 63 total, people consistently praise the friendly bartender, owner, and staff for their hospitality, kindness, and attentive nature, often highlighting their knowledgeable skills.

Youll feel welcome as soon as you walk in! However, its not entirely without a hitch, as 6 negative opinions point out. A few guests encountered a bartender who was described as "sassy" or "not very welcoming, " and there were some issues regarding the outside food policy, with staff "pressuring" guests or telling them they werent allowed to bring their own food.

8.9 Service

63

Reviews

90%

Satisfaction

6

negative

0

neutral

57

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Friendly staff
  • Attentive service
  • Great hospitality
What people don't like
  • Sassy bartender
  • Outside food policy

Often praised

  • service
  • bartender
  • bartenders
  • staff
  • owner
  • Service
  • attentive
  • hospitality
  • Ricky
  • Sexy Ricky

Frequently criticized

  • bartender
  • outside food
  • service

If youre looking for a place where youll be treated well, the service here is definitely a highlight. While there might be an occasional hiccup with a particular bartender or a strict outside food rule, the overwhelming sentiment is that the staff are fantastic and make for a great visit. Go for the excellent hospitality!

Ambience (8.8 out of 10)

mentioned by 93% of the guests

The ambience here truly shines with a good score of 8.8 and an excellent customer satisfaction of 91.9%! Guests consistently rave about the inviting feel, with 68 positive remarks highlighting its speakeasy vibe, pup decor, and intimate space. Many consider it a hidden gem with comfy seats, perfect for a lively yet low-key evening, making it a fantastic date spot or neighborhood hangout.

However, a few of the 74 comments noted minor drawbacks. While generally loved, some found the music a little bit too loud at times, and a couple mentioned an odd atmosphere upon entering. The bar size was also a point of contention for those hoping to visit with larger groups, describing it as teeny tiny.

8.8 Ambience

74

Reviews

91%

Satisfaction

3

negative

3

neutral

68

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Cozy intimate space
  • Unique pup decor
  • Speakeasy vibe
What people don't like
  • Small bar size
  • Loud music sometimes

Often praised

  • atmosphere
  • bar
  • Atmosphere
  • music
  • place
  • vibe
  • decor
  • neighborhood gem
  • vibes
  • Fun place

Frequently criticized

  • atmosphere
  • bar size
  • music

If you're seeking a cozy, intimate spot with a unique speakeasy vibe for a date or a small group, this place is absolutely worth checking out. Just be mindful that its charmingly small size might not suit larger gatherings, and the music can occasionally be a bit loud.

Value (4.1 out of 10)

mentioned by 14% of the guests

When it comes to value, there's a silver lining, especially if you catch their unadvertised happy hour, where you can snag some amazing quality drinks. While the overall score for value sits at an average 4.1, and customer satisfaction is a rather poor 28.6%, a couple of comments out of 7 total remarks did appreciate the happy hour and Price per person for certain items. However, the general sentiment leans towards disappointment, with 4 out of 7 observations pointing to issues.

Many felt the appetizers were over priced for what you received, and even a simple pretzel was deemed a ridiculous price. This stark contrast between the positive drink value and the high cost of food items suggests a mixed bag, needing work on overall pricing.

4.1 Value

7

Reviews

28%

Satisfaction

4

negative

1

neutral

2

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Great happy hour
  • Quality drinks value
What people don't like
  • Appetizers too pricey
  • Pretzel price ridiculous
  • Overall food expensive

Often praised

  • Price per person
  • happy hour

Frequently criticized

  • appetizers
  • drinks
  • pretzel
  • price

If you're looking for quality drinks during happy hour, this spot might be worth a visit. However, be prepared for potentially high prices on food, especially appetizers, which could make your overall bill feel a bit steep.

How are the prices at Ruby?

On average, you’ll spend around 30 per person – from 27 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $21–$30 category. For a Bar & Pub, that’s mid-range, maybe slightly above.

Most prices cluster nicely around this average, with the majority of guests spending in the 11 – 30 $ range. There are a few higher-end options available too, for those looking for something a bit more premium.

Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 27 reviews.

How this restaurant’s value for money stacks up against similar spots in Seattle.

Overall, we think the pricing feels fair for a Bar & Pub in this range. It offers a solid mid-range experience without breaking the bank, with some flexibility for those who want to spend a little more.

Customer Reviews: what people think about Ruby

Price per Person
  • $81–$90
Visit Type
  • Casual Outing
Group Type
  • Friends
Group Size
  • Couple
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Noise Level
  • Moderate
Kasey A.
Review date: 11/23/2025
2
Expensive Drinks and Unwelcoming Service
I initially liked the vibe at the start; it felt quaint. However, it did fill up quickly. My friend and I ordered a total of 5 drinks and spent over $70, which felt quite expensive. One of the bartenders was pressuring me to order a drink when I was unsure what I wanted. When I briefly stepped out to the store across the street for a snack, and my friend continued to purchase another drink, I returned to find the other bartender laughing at my Poptarts and handing us plates. Shortly after, the first bartender, who had been pressuring me, became serious and informed me that outside food is not allowed. Given that the cheapest item on the menu was an $8 pretzel, which I found to be a ridiculous price, I felt this policy was unreasonable as I needed something to eat. Overall, I don't think my friend or I will be returning.
  • vibe7
  • drinks2
  • bartender2
  • outside food1
Visit Type
  • Casual Outing
Group Type
  • Friends
Group Size
  • Small Group
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Meal Type
  • Dinner
Bianca S.
Review date: 11/23/2025
3
Bold Statement Over Pop Tarts
We actually really liked this place and spent over $70 here. The appetizers were super pricey for what they were, so my friend started eating a box of pop tarts. One of the bartenders actually came over and handed us plates! I then ordered another drink and another bartender came over and told us we were not allowed to be eating any outside food and “to remember for next time. ” I just thought it was a pretty bold thing to say to people who had been enjoying their time and purchasing multiple drinks over the span of the night. Like… its a pop tart… really? I won’t be returning due to this. I’m sure there are more laidback bars in the area!
  • drinks7
  • appetizers2
  • outside food2
  • bartender2
Price per Person
  • $11–$20
Visit Type
  • Casual Outing
Group Type
  • Friends
Group Size
  • Small Group
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Wait Time
  • Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
  • Moderate
Eric S.
Review date: 11/04/2025
9
Great Neighborhood Bar with Fun Decor
My experience at this great little neighborhood bar was fantastic! I loved the decor, which featured framed photos of patrons' dogs and cats in dog costumes. The bar staff were incredibly friendly, and the drinks were great. It's a place with a moderate noise level, perfect for a casual outing with friends.
  • decor9
  • bar staff10
  • drinks9
Price per Person
  • $11–$20
Visit Type
  • Food Exploration
Group Type
  • Couple
Group Size
  • Couple
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Wait Time
  • Immediate (0–5 min.)
Alex T.
Review date: 08/07/2025
9
Delicious Cocktails and Happy Hour Surprise!
My experience at this restaurant was great! I enjoyed the delicious cocktails, especially the pretty tasty old fashioned and gin martini. I was pleasantly surprised to find a happy hour that wasn't heavily advertised. The atmosphere was rated a 5, and the service was also a 5. I loved the cute dogs on the wall – what's not to love?
  • cocktails9
  • happy hour8
  • old fashioned8
Price per Person
  • $21–$30
Visit Type
  • Tourist Experience
Group Type
  • Couple
Group Size
  • Couple
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Wait Time
  • Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
  • Loud
Jeremy Y.
Review date: 07/20/2025
9
Awesome Cocktails and High Energy
My experience at Ruby was intimate and high energy, filled with impressive cocktails. It was an awesome stop during our time through the neighborhood, and I'd for sure come back!
  • cocktails9
  • atmosphere5
  • service5

What Ruby offers

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Amenities

  • Restroom

Offerings

  • Food at bar
  • Hard liquor
  • Food
  • Wine
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Alcohol

Dining options

  • Table service
  • Seating

Service Options

  • Outdoor seating
  • Dine-in

Parking

  • Usually plenty of parking

Atmosphere

  • Romantic
  • Cozy
  • Casual
  • Trendy

FAQs

What kind of atmosphere can you expect at Ruby?
At Ruby, you can expect a delightful blend of atmospheres. You’ll find it romantic and cozy, perfect for intimate evenings. It also maintains a casual and trendy vibe, suitable for various occasions. You’ll experience a welcoming environment for a relaxed night out or a stylish gathering in Greenwood.
Ruby offers convenient dining and service options for you. You can enjoy your meal and drinks with table service and comfortable seating indoors. Outdoor seating is also available for those who prefer the fresh air. You’ll find a flexible and enjoyable experience, whether you choose to dine inside or out.
Ruby receives a strong overall score of 8.5, with high marks for its Service (8.9), Ambience (8.8), and Food (8.4). Value (4.1) is noted as an area for consideration.
Guests frequently praise the fantastic service and talented bartenders who craft awesome cocktails. The welcoming vibe and cozy atmosphere are also consistently highlighted.
Some customers find the appetizers to be pricey and the bar size can feel small and crowded. Occasionally, the music volume is also mentioned as being a bit too loud.
Loading map…
Location
135 NW 85th St #4, 98117 Seattle
Opening hours
Monday – Sunday
4:00 PM – 12:00 AM