Jocelyn came to visit Aaron and me! After picking her up from the airport in Kansas City, we headed to a nearby Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse because we wanted something good and it was unquestionably worth it. I had read their annual report a few years ago and wanted to experience the food for myself. I have never bought any shares but at least I understand the company better.
The thing that made me happiest is that 1.) it’s not the type of place you’re going to run into a lot of so-called aspirationals (the type of people who spend money but don’t have any, are up to their eyes in credit card debt, have leased cars, drink expensive vodka, and treat people of more modest means like crap in a bizarre attempt to make themselves feel better or wealthier) but rather more where you’re going to be sitting next to other business owners or professionals; I would much rather be in a place frequented by professors, teachers, lawyers, doctors, and managers who are passionate about their work and don’t eat at a restaurant for a display of social class. I don’t like glitz, I like quality. I would be completely comfortable bringing a stack of 10K filings and plowing my way through them over dinner by myself some night.
At just over $200 including tax and tip, it was a fantastic use of money. We all were (highly) satisfied and it was a pleasure paying the bill. That is the type of experience you want in a service industry. None of us drank any alcohol, which I understand normally inflates the bill considerably. Again, I just don’t like the taste.
Here are some of the scenes from dinner …
Dinner started with a fresh salad featuring a balsamic vinaigrette, blue cheese, walnuts, and roasted onions. It was fantastic.
I had a New York (or Kansas City?) Strip with blue cheese, while Jocelyn and Aaron both had filet mignon. I, personally, find it too tender (as Jocelyn put it, there is something primal in my steak eating habits - I want something tougher). We had fresh garlic mashed potatoes, mushrooms, and steamed broccoli to go with dinner as side dishes.
Here are some more pictures … (more…)
