Exactly two years after our disastrous anniversary dinner at the then newly opened Ruth's Chris, we decided to give them another chance - mainly because we have always loved that space and the view of the river, which is especially pretty with all the holiday lights.

I am happy to report we had a much better experience this time. The service was excellent (as it was before, given the circumstances). Our server was pleasant, professional and well versed on the menu, and the service was attentive and efficient. The food was well prepared and up to our expectations (unlike before). And we got there early enough to get a booth with a view of the river, although they seemed a little reluctant to seat us there.

We shared a "Ruth's Chop" salad, which I would describe as an interesting gourmet cole slaw, and it was excellent. The Mrs. braved the filet and lobster tail again, and this time it was perfectly prepared and very satisfying. I got the "Cowboy Ribeye," which was as good a steak as I've had at any restaurant in Knoxville. We shared sides of potatoes au gratin (really good but probably a little rich for this meal) and asparagus with hollandaise sauce (it was OK, but not the thin delicate asparagus I usually like which I guess is out of season). It was a lot of food and we couldn't finish it all, so we'll probably have steak and eggs for brunch.

The prices are still expensive ($200+ with a bottle of sparkling wine and tip) but we're happy that we can once again visit one of our favorite spots on the river from time to time. And you can get out for a lot less if you select judiciously from the menu and/or share (and skip the special occasion wine).

Tip for other seniors like us: the Early Bird Special is that you can get a good table and properly prepared food. We had originally made a reservation for 6:30, but decided to go early and changed it to 5:30. Glad we did. It was about 1/3 full when we got there, so we got a good table and the service wasn't rushed. By the time we left a little after 7PM it was getting pretty packed.