Ruski's Tavern — Restaurant in Portland

As described... neighborhood pub complete with 'the regulars' and the folks like me, blow-ins looking for authentic experiences. This corner tavern is a gym that oozes with local charm. I arrived a couple minutes after they had opened on Sunday morning. I was lucky to get a seat at the bar. I had my typical traditional breakfast of eggs benedict, home fries, crispy bacon, and coffee. The home fries arrived cold. But everything else was perfect and the lady behind the bar kept my coffee full. I like seeing the collection of first responder patches they have hanging above the bar. Those are my people. The three guys to my left all ahead, draft beers and a shot of whiskey. That seems to be the norm. Or at least it was for them. Because when I look down to my right, those guys all had the standard ten ounce glasses, there were 100% Titos. When one of these guys was getting a refill, the bartender asked if he needed a splash of orange juice, and he said, "No thanks. I'm gonna keep man-ing it up all day." The price for this breakfast was 1/3 less than most of the other breakfast places where i've ordered the same thing. They've also got a few tables and a couple of booths, and it's definitely a family, friendly kind of pub on a Sunday morning.

Great food, thoughtful service and locals who are willing to engage...

My husband and I stopped in for lunch after moving back home. For Portland,I expected that friendly and family like atmosphere I had grown up around in this area. We had never been to Ruski’s in the past, so we didn’t know whether you order at the bar or at the if they have servers. My husband decided that he would ask, and the lady rudely replied with, “you wait your turn.” (Which we know??? We just asked a simple question???) he responded with, “no worries, you’re all good!” And she just said, “No. I am not good.” Sounds like she needs serious help. She came and threw the menus in our faces, which is unbelievably unacceptable, so we decided to just leave and not bother. Instead of ruskis, I would highly recommend The Ugly Duckling right down the road! Service there is remarkable and the food is delicious. Or if you’re looking for a beer, drive 5 minutes to Bissell brothers and get a local Maine experience. Do not waste your money at this...

Ruski's is a small, no-frills neighborhood bar. Decor is hole-in-the-wall chic, the walls are covered with all manner of weird, funny, interesting things. The tap selection is not large but it always interesting with some good craft brews. Decent selection of bottled beer and wine as well. Food is tasty and very reasonably priced. The menu consists of apps, burgers, sandwiches, some comfort-food entrees, etc. as well as daily specials.

Ruski's is awesome and a welcome respite from the foodie atmosphere that is common in Portland. it's a great place to have a few beers, a bite, and hang out with friends. If you're looking for haute cuisine and craft cocktails this isn't the place (try Little Giant across the street instead). Be aware that the place is small, during peak times it can be packed and difficult...