What Ruby's Diner offers for breakfast and brunch
Ruby's Diner is a casual restaurant chain that serves breakfast and brunch items during morning and midday hours. The menu typically includes eggs prepared multiple ways, pancakes, waffles, hash browns, bacon, sausage, and toast. Most locations also serve lunch items alongside breakfast fare, so you can order a burger or sandwich if you prefer something beyond traditional breakfast food.
The restaurant operates as a sit-down diner with table service. You order from a server, and food arrives cooked to order rather than from a counter line. Pricing is moderate — breakfast plates generally cost between $8 and $15 depending on what you order and which location you visit, as prices vary by region.
Hours vary by location. Most Ruby's Diner restaurants open between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. and serve breakfast through late morning or early afternoon. Some locations stay open for lunch service as well. You can check your nearest location's specific hours on their website or by calling ahead.
Key Takeaways
- Ruby's Diner serves traditional breakfast items like eggs, pancakes, waffles, and meat sides at moderate prices in a sit-down setting.
- Most locations open early in the morning and serve breakfast through late morning or midday, though hours vary by restaurant.
- You order from a server and food is cooked fresh rather than pre-made, which means wait times during busy periods can be longer.
- Many Ruby's Diner locations also serve lunch items, so you have options beyond breakfast if you prefer sandwiches or other midday fare.
Finding a Ruby's Diner location near you
Ruby's Diner operates multiple locations across different states. The easiest way to find one is to visit the main website and use their location finder tool, which shows addresses, phone numbers, and hours for each restaurant. You can search by city or zip code.
If you do not have internet access, you can call directory information or search online maps using "Ruby's Diner" plus your city name. Google Maps and Apple Maps both show restaurant locations, hours, and customer reviews. Calling ahead is useful if you want to confirm current hours or ask about wait times during peak breakfast hours.
What to expect when you arrive
Ruby's Diner operates like a traditional sit-down restaurant. You walk in, a host or hostess seats you at a table, and a server brings you a menu and takes your order. During busy weekend mornings, there may be a wait — sometimes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how crowded the location is.
The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly. Most locations have booths and tables, and the decor typically reflects a classic diner style. You can bring children, and high chairs are usually available. Service is table service only — you do not order at a counter.
Payment happens at the end of your meal. Most locations take cash and credit cards. You can pay at your table or at a register near the exit. Tipping is customary for table service, typically 15 to 20 percent of your bill.
Menu items and dietary considerations
The core breakfast menu includes standard diner fare: scrambled, fried, or over-straightforward eggs; pancakes; waffles; French toast; hash browns; bacon; sausage; and toast with butter and jam. Most locations also offer omelets with various fillings like cheese, ham, peppers, and onions. Sides like fruit, home fries, and biscuits are available.
If you have dietary restrictions, call ahead to ask what options are available. Many diners can accommodate requests like egg-white omelets, whole wheat toast, or modifications to standard dishes. However, not all locations have the same menu or the same ability to customize, so confirming by phone before you go is helpful.
Beverages typically include coffee, tea, juice, and soft drinks. Some locations offer smoothies or specialty coffee drinks, though this varies. Water is free.
Pricing and payment options
Breakfast plates at Ruby's Diner generally range from $8 to $15 per entree, depending on what you order and your location. Eggs with sides cost less than specialty items like omelets or pancakes with multiple toppings. Beverages add $2 to $4 to your bill. Children's meals, where available, are typically $6 to $10.
Most locations accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Many also take cash. Some newer locations may offer mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay, but this is not universal — ask when you arrive or call ahead if you want to confirm payment methods.
Tax is added to your bill at checkout. The amount depends on your state and local tax rates. Tipping is separate and added by you on top of the total.
Busy times and how to avoid long waits
Ruby's Diner locations are busiest on weekend mornings, typically between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Weekday mornings are usually less crowded, especially before 8 a.m. If you prefer shorter waits, going on a weekday or arriving early on a weekend works best.
Some locations take phone reservations or have a waitlist system you can join by calling ahead. This does not may provide a table when ready, but it can reduce your wait time. Ask your nearest location whether they hold reservations for breakfast service.
If you arrive during a busy time and there is a wait, the host or hostess will give you an estimate of how long it will take. You can wait in the restaurant or, at some locations, leave your phone number and return when they call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ruby's Diner take reservations for breakfast?
Some locations accept phone reservations or maintain a waitlist, but not all do. Call your nearest Ruby's Diner to ask whether they hold tables for breakfast service. If they do not take reservations, arriving early or on a weekday morning will reduce your wait time.
Can I bring my own food or drinks into Ruby's Diner?
Most restaurants do not allow outside food or beverages. Ruby's Diner locations typically follow this policy, though you can ask when you call or arrive. Some locations may make exceptions for medical reasons or special circumstances if you ask the manager.
What if I have a food allergy?
Tell your server about your allergy when you order. Inform them of exactly what you cannot eat. The server will communicate this to the kitchen. However, cross-contamination is always a risk in a shared cooking space, so if you have a severe allergy, call ahead to discuss your needs with a manager before you visit.
Does Ruby's Diner have a kids menu?
Most locations offer children's meals with smaller portions and lower prices than adult entrees. These typically include eggs, pancakes, or other breakfast items. Call your location to confirm what is available, as menus can vary.
Can I order takeout for breakfast?
Many Ruby's Diner locations offer takeout service. Call ahead to place an order, and they will have it ready when you arrive. Takeout times are usually shorter than dine-in wait times, especially during busy weekend mornings. Ask about their takeout policy when you call.