Ruth’s Chris Steak House at Pier 5 hit on a brilliant idea when it took over the outdoor deck once occupied by Pizzazz Tuscan Grille. The upscale restaurant is now able to provide treasured waterfront real estate to its diners. The setting at The Waterfront Deck (711 Eastern Ave., adjacent to the Pier 5 Hotel, 410-230-0033) is sophisticated with a sleek, black bar, comfy orange couches, silver-colored chairs and tables, and a canopy of umbrellas. Open daily in the evenings, you can enjoy a full dinner there.
But go between 4 and 6:30 p.m. to savor happy-hour prices, including an array of appetizers for $7 each—from slices of seared ahi tuna with ginger and wasabi and a grilled tenderloin skewer to spicy fried lobster nuggets over a salad of cucumbers and red peppers. The portions are generous — and the harbor view outstanding. Bonus: If there’s a concert at Pier Six Pavilion, you’re in listening range.
