Ruby’s eatery officially opened its doors recently, marking another culinary milestone for Islamabad. Owned by singer Yasir Jaswal, this European-style restaurant showcases his mother's name and brings a contemporary yet classic touch to the dining experience. The eatery, located on the cozy streets of F-8, aims to entice food lovers with its blend of traditional and modern flavors.
The interior of Ruby's is fashioned with elegance, featuring small patios and modern pendant lights, enhanced by Chesterfield upholstery and marbled effects. Sunlight seeps through large glass doors, illuminating the restaurant's subtle European ambiance. This attention to design sets it apart from other eateries, presenting both comfort and style.
The culinary expertise at Ruby's is attributed to chef Ayesha Mehboob, who has accumulated over ten years of experience across various Karachi restaurants including Ginsoy and Movenpick. Together with Jaswal, she curates the menu with distinct Italian influences, offering dishes such as pastas, risottos, and Ruby’s signature sandwich.
Jaswal describes his vision: “I wanted a small and simple menu...” He explains his approach to cuisine, where he plans to alter the menu every three to four months, mixing popular items with fresh innovations to keep diners intrigued.
During one recent visit, patrons faced decisions between soups, finally opting for the Roasted Tomato Soup and Broccoli Walnut Soup. The Roasted Tomato Soup showcased culinary artistry, topped with pesto and croutons, but some found it overly thick. Priced at Rs1,195, it stirred the appetite for the next course.
Accompanying the soup were Lemon Butter Honey Prawns, priced at Rs1,495. These prawns are characterized by their light and flavorful essence, ethereally drizzled with honey and Thai chili. Chef Mehboob notes the difference between Islamabad and Karachi, commenting, "Islamabad palettes prefer rather bland food..." This suggests the importance of nuanced flavors catering to local tastes.
Subsequent orders included Fish and Chips and Ruby’s Sandwich, each item reflecting careful sourcing and preparation. The cod fish was freshly imported, batter-fried, and served with ample lemon, priced at Rs2,645. Meanwhile, the sandwich boasted grilled chicken with homemade cranberry jam on a soft bun. Here too, the nuances of local preferences challenged the chefs' creativity: "Most of the items we use...we are buying from vendors who are registered importers," stated Jaswal, emphasizing their commitment to quality ingredients.
For dessert, the team shared Sticky Date Pudding, lavishly drizzled with butterscotch—proving to be the evening’s highlight. Patrons enjoyed its moist texture, rekindling fond memories of traditional desserts. On the drink menu, espresso and cappuccinos complemented the sweet finish, arranged alongside treats like brownies and banana bread.
Jaswal's venture aims to bridge Islamabad's traditionally conservative palate with daring new flavors. Observing culinary developments from nearby cities, Ruby’s seeks to be more than just another restaurant; it is poised to introduce contemporary European flavors to Pakistan’s capital. This fresh addition promises to invigorate Islamabad’s dining scene, as long as the dedicated team behind it continues to curate experiences with care and attention.