A new dining concept, Ruby Lou’s, has opened its doors in Walnut Creek, offering an innovative blend of upscale dining and family-friendly activities. The establishment, which features a unique cocktail bar and playful snacks, aims to create an engaging atmosphere for both children and adults.
The vision behind Ruby Lou’s comes from Megan Abraham Benshalom, a seasoned mixologist with over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. After serving as the general manager of the upscale View Lounge in the San Francisco Marriott Marquis, Benshalom sought to establish a space where families could gather and enjoy themselves. The restaurant is named after her four-year-old daughter, Ruby Lou, who inspired Benshalom to pursue this venture after she felt she had missed significant moments in her daughter’s life due to work commitments.
Benshalom recalls a particularly memorable third birthday celebration for Ruby Lou at Skipolini’s, a family-oriented pizzeria that closed in May 2023. The closure prompted Benshalom to create a new venue that could host children’s parties while also offering a sophisticated experience for adults. “What I’m creating for Walnut Creek is an experience for multiple generations,” she stated.
A Whimsical Atmosphere for All Ages
Upon entering Ruby Lou’s, guests are greeted by a vibrant and whimsical decor. The bar features stools shaped like Oreo cookies and ice cream cones, while lollipops dangle from the ceiling. The design is infused with shades of pink, purple, and cotton candy blue, reminiscent of Roald Dahl‘s “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.” Benshalom describes the venue as an “immersive floral candy garden,” where imagination thrives.
The menu reflects Benshalom’s expertise as a high-end mixologist, featuring a selection of signature cocktails alongside local beers and wines. Food offerings include gourmet twists on classic dishes, such as nachos made from homemade potato chips topped with slow-braised short ribs, and Wagyu beef hot dogs served on pretzel buns. For younger guests, an ice cream bar offers a range of flavors, including huckleberry and birthday cake, with the option to indulge in the “yolo” sundae, which features a scoop of each flavor.
To enhance the family-friendly experience, Ruby Lou’s includes interactive games. Children can enjoy claw arcade games or classic board games like Candy Land, integrated into the tables, while adults can engage with giant games of KerPlunk, promoting social interaction away from their devices.
Unique Experiences Await
Benshalom has personally curated the decorations, furniture, and art, often collaborating with her daughter, ensuring a personal touch throughout the space. “Family by day, fabulous by night,” is how she characterizes the experience Ruby Lou’s aims to provide.
The venue is currently open for private parties and will soon welcome the public. Operating hours are set for 16:00 to 22:00 from Wednesday to Friday and 12:00 to 22:00 on weekends. Ruby Lou’s is located at 1501 N. Broadway in Walnut Creek, with plans to become a staple in the community.
For those interested in a unique dining experience that invites creativity and connection, Ruby Lou’s promises to deliver a memorable outing for families and adults alike. Further details and updates can be found on their Instagram page @rubylouswalnutcreek.
