Our family has dined at the Ruby Tuesday in our neighborhood several times. It's been on our gluten-free "radar" for a while, based on things I'd discovered in my research. They don't yet have a gluten-free menu, per se, but Corporate Headquarters had emailed me a list of items on the menu that don't contain gluten. The list was pretty limited, and many of the entrees had to be tailored so much (leaving off sauces, substituting sides) that the choices haven't been the greatest. That said, they've always been eager to please and our son is always happy with a steak, hamburger or chicken with baked potato and veggies.
On a recent trip there, however, we were thrilled to hear they have a new manual, updated monthly, that lists all allergens (including gluten) in their menu items. The manager was also much more knowledgeable about issues surrounding safe preparation of gluten-free meals, something that was somewhat hit-or-miss in the past. Needless to say, this made us a lot more comfortable.
Our son ordered the Chicken Fresco, without the lemon-butter sauce (still good with the splash of balsamic vinaigrette and some sliced tomatoes on top) and substituted the mashed potatoes (NOT gluten-free) with a baked potato. I had a taste, of course, and it was delicious.
Hopefully the next step will be the addition of a true gluten-free menu. It is also worth mentioning that this is NOT the Ruby Tuesday you remember from the 90's! You''ll no longer find the bar-fare and mediocre family-dining options. They've revamped their menu -- and their decor -- with a great range of updated and healthier choices (of course, they still have the great burgers!). It's a nice, more upscale atmosphere but a place where you can still get a really good value, no matter what you decide to order.
