Perhaps it's the suburban clientele that makes it so, but Ruth's Chris in Pikesville has a calmer air than its downtown sibling. Dark wood paneling, crisp linens, stained glass and gleaming brass are enveloped in the warmth. Fat cats and glad-handing salesmen are less the norm than quieter foursomes of business people and extended families out for a meal. Add to this professional service and it's just the right atmosphere for digging into one of the chain's signature cuts of U.S. Prime Midwestern beef, whether a beauteous New York strip, a handsome hunk of prime rib done just the way you like it, or the over-the-top porterhouse for two. Jumbo lump crab cakes or New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp certainly wouldn't hurt to start. But remember: Portions are huge, so plan on sharing those à la carte mashed potatoes or mammoth steamed asparagus drizzled with hollandaise. Enjoy the Sizzle, Swizzle, & Swirl happy hour on the large patio or bar.
