Ruby's Oyster Bar & Bistro is a brilliant gem in downtown Rye. It is at once chic, casual and comfortable. It charms guests with its varied menu, friendly and professional service, and its lively ambience. Ruby's stylish décor showcases an authentic zinc bar from Paris, beaded chandeliers and ruby red drapes. From its coffered ceiling and tasseled sconces town to its marble mosaic floor, no precious stone has been left unturned by owners Lisa McKiernan, Jan Fabry, Jim Sullivan and Billy Kulhanek.

This 125-seat restaurant invites its clientele to utilize its glorious space any way they see fit, whether going out for a romantic dinner, a business lunch, an office party or just a fun night out. Guests may dine by the loft style floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Purchase Street or at banquettes in a private corner. Some opt to eat at a table overlooking the goings on the kitchen, while others sup at the bar. It is the community table for 18, however, that is the focal point of the front dining room. Here, guests may hobnob with fellow diners or reserve the entire table for lunch or dinner.

Ruby's also offers a private room upstairs. Parties from 10-35 may be wined and dined in this attractive, secluded wine room. Whether it be a business lunch/dinner, a rehearsal dinner, a shower or just girls night out, this room fits the bill.

Ruby's menu makes the bistro shine. Executive chef Greg McDowell offers outstanding appetizers, lighter fare, salads and exquisite entrées. Selections from the raw bar include double and triple tiered trays of lobster, oysters, shrimp, mussels and clams. Seafood "by the piece" features the freshest oysters all year round... Wellfleet, Malpaque, Snow Creek, Blue Point, Belon, Kumamoto, Quilcene, Penn Cove and the list goes on.

Accented with French fare, some menu favorites include peppercorn pate, French onion soup, three-cheese fondue, seared foie gras with caramelized apples, niscoise salad with ahi tuna and steak frites. Patrons also rave about the pan fried oysters with champagne butter, a smoked duck and gouda quesadilla and the grilled chicken cordon bleu on a baguette.

Guests may choose from a vast array of standout entrées. Among them: Sesame crusted tuna with maple ginger glaze; pan roasted salmon with dill crème fraiche; steak au poivre; pan seared duck breast with truffle mashed potatoes; seafood bouillabaisse with roasted tomatoes, leeks and potatoes; sautéed calves liver and wild mushroom ravioli with crabmeat.

Ruby's also offers a delicious Sunday brunch with standouts such as: Eggs benedict with filet mignon; lobster, asparagus and brie cheese omelet; French toast with fruit chutney; lobster club sandwich and many other wonderfull choices. The best part of all may be that every Sunday brunch Ruby's tremendous wine list is offered at half price.

Ruby's wine list is also a big attraction. With over 200 wines from around the world to choose from, there is something for every palate.

Ruby's desserts never disappoint. A rich crème brulee, a delectable warm apple nut cake with ice cream and a luscious chocolate molten cake are just some popular choices.

Dessert wines, ports, cordials, brandies and a wide selection of single malt scotches are also available.