Ruby is a bit of a Shoreditch instituition. It runs two restaurants in the area, one on Charlotte Road, aimed more at lunchers and takeaways, and proper restaurant on Hoxton Square. They both specialise in home made, traditional Italian cooking, with a daily changing selection of pastas, meat and fish dishes - try the crab and leek tagliatelle if you ever have the chance. They also boast one of the best steak ciabatta sandwiches around.

The service is friendly and efficient, and the food is cooked to order, so it's always fresh and delicious. Prices are very reasonable, ranging from around £4.50 up to £12. The also serve a small selection of beers and wines, and some amazing desserts, including an incredible lemon tart.

Ruby is informal and relaxed, as you would expect from an Italian of this sort. It's also incredibly value for money. Their Charlotte Road outlet is only open during the week for breakfast and lunch, but the main restaurant is open seven days, for lunch and dinner. If you get a chance, pop downstairs for a cocktail at Happiness Forgets, another gem in the Shoreditch area.

Last reviewed on August 8th , 2014

 
 

Map

 

Hints and tips

  • Busy busy busy
    Their Charlotte Road branch gets very busy at lunch throughout the week, so be prepared to queue. It moves quickly enough, and somehow the organised chaos will also get you the right sandwich relatively quickly
  • Paying with plastic
    The main restaurant on Hoxton Square takes credit and debit cards, but Charlotte Road does not. The Hoxton branch has a similar menu, with some extras, but will also cost a little more.
  • Takeaway
    You can ask for anything to go, and the staff will happily box it up to keep for later. Handy!
  • Grab a seat outside
    If the weather is nice, they have about 5 tables outside, overlooking Hoxton Square. They fill up quickly, so grab one early.
  • Say hello
    The two restaurants are run by Lino and Afrim. They are always around, Lino in their main restaurant, and Afrim over at Charlotte Road. Don't be afraid to say hello.
 

Useful reviews

  • Nelson Carvalheiro (2014)
    Ruby of Shoreditch is all about a daily changing menu, fresh ingredients and a very natural approach to food as the joy of ones Life.
 

Comments

comments powered by Disqus
Ruby on Urbanspoon