"Food was good, but could have been better. If this is one of the best restaurants in Worcester, then the rest of the city joints needs to step up their game. For going to a concert at the Palladium, this is definitely good enough, but get there early to avoid ordering from a depleted menu."
Dined on 5/15/2013
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"Food was good, nice menu. Drinks were good also. There was live music the night we were there. The place is just very loud, even though it was not packed. It was very hard to hear."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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"It was a Tuesday night and there were two other tables with people and a few people at the bar. The decor is very interesting and I had high hopes for the food. However, service was slow (very slow considering there weren't any other customers). The food was average."
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: romantic
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"Exquisite food at a fair price for the top quality. However, the casual, slightly funky bistro atmosphere is at odds with the superb output of the kitchen."
Dined on 04/17/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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"Beautiful restaurant. It had so much potential to be the romantic night out my husband and I wanted if it hadn't been so loud! It's hard to enjoy each other's company when you're yelling to be heard. Not to mention there was someone seated next to us yelling colorful language at his friends. None of them fit the ambiance the restaurant was going for. The service was friendly, but incredibly slow. The food was delicious despite being slightly overcooked. I could see myself having fun there if we were going out for drinks with friends. And overall it was enjoyable despite the things noted. I just wouldn't return for a romantic dinner."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene
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"Loved Ritual! Six of us ladies met for dinner before seeing a show at the Hanover. Service was great, food was delicious. I had the chicken marsala which was awesome & others ordered the beef tenderloin tips & they loved it. Only thing I didn't care for was our seating. With six people I felt too close to the service area. I would have preferred sitting closer to the window section but do understand they were busy (however reservations were made well in advance for that night). Next time I'll request to sit in a better location. My reccomendation is to try it for couples & friends, leave the kids home with the sitter..."
Dined on 04/12/2013
2012
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"We had a reservation (through open table), and our table was not ready. The hostess was nice enough to ask us if we would mind having a round of drinks at the bar, compliments of the restaurant. After about 20 minutes, our table was ready. The food was phenomenal, the menu is ecclectic and does not disappoint. However, the service was incredibly slow. Our waitress, who was also the hostess was super nice, but again, the service was slow, and many tables around us were noticeably frustrated."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot
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"Horrible service, showed up on time for our reservation was seated and forgotten about for more than 20 minutes! Hostess came over 25 minutes later to see if we wanted water? We NEVER GOT A WAITRESS and the hostess was serving us whenever she could get around to it! Strange that the tables on either side of us had waitress for the tables, At one point in the night I had to hold my drink glass above my head ( for about 5 minutes...) Before I had some random waitress get annoyed and get my drink for me!!!
Please keep in mind my bill was almost $300 and the service was better at Burger King"
Dined on 04/13/2013
2013
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"Who knew! Three of us were very pleasantly surprised to run across this gem a hop, skip and a jump down from Mechanics Hall. The menu was chock full of foodies' delights. It was impressive to learn that all meals are prepared fresh, "even the soups," according to our fabulous waiter. The beet and chevre salad was simple but great. The mussels appetizer was steamed in a well balanced broth. The salmon entree was moist, moist, moist! I can't wait to come back and try every single pizza - they all sound mouthwatering. You can't leave there without ordering the bread pudding made from croissants. Yum! Well done, Ritual!"
Dined on 04/06/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion, hot spot
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"While The Noise Level Was Very High Towards The End Of Our Dinner, The Atmosphere Of The Place Was Great For A Date Or Special Occasion If You Don't Mind The Volume. After Making Reservations We Still Had A Considerable Wait Due To A Seating Issue, But Management Quickly Attempted To Make Up For This By Comping Our Appetizer. Some Of The Menu Items Lacked Appropriate Descriptions,Bu After Everything I'd Give Ritual A 7 Out Of 10 In The Worcester Restaurant Market."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, hot spot
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"Fantastic unusual menu from appetizers through desserts. Service a little slow.Could be my new favorite spot! Coffee was old and had to be replaced. Food worth ANY aggravation."
Dined on 04/02/2013
2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, romantic, special occasion
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"We had 6:30 resv and this place was hopping, in fact packed. It appears that this is basically a large bar that decided to put some tables in and start serving food. The room was occupied by a huge central bar and had some seating at the left side. That night, they had a private party on the right side of the bar that was ove 40 people and all the dining tables were full and most of the bar stools. The place was very, very loud. We had to scream at the hostess to tell her our name and scream at each other and the waitress to order. Things cleared out around 7:15. Great lamb lollipops, my colleague had the scallops with ravioli & devoured it. I had the bacon wrapped maple pork tenderloin. Delicious food. Be prepared for the volume"
Dined on 03/27/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, late-night find, hot spot
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"Food was excellent. Beet salad was delicious, steak and cheese app was extremely tasty and beef tenderloin dish was amazing! Lots of different choices than other restaurants. A must try and a great recommendation for others!"
Dined on 03/27/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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"Ritual was recommended to us by friends about a year ago. We had it in the back of our minds to try it but there are so many great restaurants in Worcester, we didn't feel that we needed another to add to our "rotation". I am so glad we went last weekend. The inside had a cool vibe-lots of dark wood and red accents. I love to try new dishes and Ritual has some truly uniqe dishes. Great menu. I tried the stuffed dates and really enjoyed the sweet and salty combination. My husband had the lollipop lamb chops and enjoyed them. Chili was spicy and full of meat and beans-yum. Poseidon soup was truly memorable. Tenderloin and pork main dishes and desserts were excellent. Great location on main st. Can't wait to go back! Don't hesitate."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, hot spot
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"The food was good and the décor was interesting in a good way. One of the big detractions to the place was that in the center of the restaurant were these large screen TVs showing sports. This totally killed the atmosphere of the place. If I wanted this I would go to a sports pub where the food and drinks are cheaper as is the atmosphere. We probably will not go back."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies
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"I've been there for lunch before and had a wonderful time. I took my boyfriend to Ritual for dinner and it was awful. The group at the table next to us was deliberately screaming. None of the servicers or managers asked them to quiet down because they were disturbing other guests. A couple near us asked to move because the group was to loud. The service was painfully slow. It took us nearly 30 minutes to get our drinks. Another 45 to get our food. I ordered salmon for $22 and portion size was very tiny. I was still hungry when I left. My boyfriend ordered pizza for a much better price and that was delicious. I would go there again for lunch because dinner is too pricey and waiters can't handle a dinner crowd."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2013
Special Features: great for lunch
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"The combinations sounded odd, but chocolate covered bacon worked all the tastebuds and a generous portion too! The chocolate lava cake that you dipped the duck entree in was right on the mark as well. The rack of lamb was cooked to perfection and the nutty crust was just right. There were so many items on the menu that made our mouths water, that we are already planning a return visit--and we don't repeat often."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem
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"We visited Ritual for the first time last Friday for dinner before a concert. We were really pleased. The food was very good indeed--as good as any I can think of in Worcester. The chef here clearly knows food and presents classy dishes with good ingredients. The swordfish was obviously very fresh. The ambiance was pleasant, the location central. Ritual is a very welcome addition to the restaurant scene. We will go again!"
Dined on 03/08/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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"Service started off strong, but weakended a bit as dinner went on. The food - two tuna dishes, both rare, were OK but bit cool, evidence that they had sat after coming of the grill.
This said, we like the place, the food, and the atmosphere and will be back."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2007
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"My initial thought walking into Ritual was that someone created a restauraunt around a bar. Low lighting, decent decor and music at the right level. We had a energetic waiter and it appeared the staff enjoys working there. Found the portion of the food to be disappointing for the price.I may go back but there are other restauraunts in the area to enjoy that provide a larger serving size at the price point that they are offering."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2008
Special Features: late-night find
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"Ritual has become a ritual for us! We have been there now over 10 times, and each time, we leave very full and very pleased! The large list of apps is nice to have, either to share some different things, or to get a few as a meal. I definitely recommend the stuffed dates; they have manchego and bacon, drizzle with balsamic. The chocolate covered bacon is divine, thick, hand cut crispy bacon, about half dipped in chocolate and covered in crushed pistachios. There are plenty of other things as well that don't have bacon (why would you want any of that?) Entrees that we've had have been very consistent. The filet and the pork tenderloin are our favorites, but there are pasta, seafood and other dishes as well. Enjoy, but don't take our table!"
Dined on 02/28/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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"Loved it......Have been several times with different friends and no one has been disappointed....Do not let the fact that it is on a main street be a hindrance...I have always found free and not to far away parking...."
Dined on 02/28/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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"LOVED our experience at Ritual. The food was amazing - I had the scallops with lobster ravioli in a truffle brown butter reduction. My boyfriend had the chicken, bacon and broccoli alfredo. We shared crab cakes as an app - they were delicious. Our drinks were great too - he had a couple of old fashioned's and I had the lychee martini. Service was great, atmosphere was hip but comfortable. Great energy. Highly recommended!"
Dined on 02/16/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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"Great selection of interesting but still approachable dishes in a very 'un-Worcester' environment. Nice choice of beer, wine and specialty drinks. Fun, energetic vibe that was made all the better by our outstanding server, Mark."
Dined on 02/22/2013
2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot
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"Our waiter Mark was great! He provided excellent service, great recommendations (it was our first time to Ritual) and kept us laughing through our whole dinner!"
Dined on 02/22/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, hot spot
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"I was disappointed at having to wait 50 minutes to be seated after having had reservations for 2 weeks. I also ended up with the wrong meal, it was tasty but not what I would have chosen. They did offer to make me a new meal but I did not want my spouse to not enjoy there meal while I waited. The overangcious wait staff then proceeded to clear away my spouse's dinner while I was sti eating and I found that a little awkward. If they had asked if he was all set, he would have kindly said not yet so I wasn't still eating alone! The bar was nice but I'm not sure if I will give it another try."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, late-night find
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"This is my second visit. I think the food is out of this world. The menu has changed slightly since the last time I visited, and the new offerings are equally delectable. The bruschetta was the best I have had in a long time.I had the beef tenderloin (cooked to perfection), served with crunchy and flavorful young asparagus and mashed potato that had been crusted and fried--exquisite! My companion had pork medallions with gnocchi: perfectly cooked and a treat for the palate. Despite the noise, I would go back again (maybe earlier in the evening when it is less crowded). Our waitress was busy with many tables, so I guess I'll excuse her forgetfulness and mix-ups, and I will definitely return for the food!"
Dined on 02/19/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies
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"Overall decent experience. Food was delicious & waiter was great. However, service from bar staff was a bit lacking. Had a reservation & still needed to wait about 25min to be seated. Didn't mind this figuring we'd just grab a drink at the bar. Bartender took our order but never made our drinks & proceeded to serve other customers after us. It truly appeared like she completely forgot, even though we were standing right in front of her the whole time. After some time passed, another bartender noticed we were still waiting and re-took our order. By this time our table was ready so we grabbed our drink and sat down. Took the entire time we waited to actually get a drink, which was frustrating. Otherwise, the rest was positive."
Dined on 02/15/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot
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"Food was outstanding! Would highly recommend trying the bacon covered in chocolate! Server was knowledgeable about menu and helpful. Had to wait a bit for a table to become available despite booking but it was a very busy night. Would go again"
Dined on 02/15/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups
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"We need more restaurants like this in downtown Worcester near the Hanover Theater. Good food, good atmosphere, good service. Overall a great experience. We were there on a Thursday night (Valentine's Day). The menu is creative and our waiter made great recommendations. I would definitely go back."
Dined on 02/14/2013
2012
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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"Food was excellent, especially the filet and the bacon wrapped pork tenderloin. Service was very good, everyone was very friendly and accommodating. Decor and lighting are nice, and romantic. Only downside is that the tall chairs at the high tables were uncomfortable."
Dined on 02/14/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies
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"Our server Mark was very friendly. We were going to a show after dinner so he made sure our order was handled in a timely manner. Great food and service!!"
Dined on 02/02/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups
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"We were seated right away. The decor was disapointing. The bar looks like it was some high school kids shop project. Very loud, can't anybody look into acoustics? Our server took our drink order, drinks were OK. Tried the lobster bisque, nothing special, I've had better. The chocolate covered bacon was interesting and creative, best part of the dinner. My wife had the sliced beef tenderloin, tasty but a small portion, not a good quality of beef. I had the stuffed tuna. I was told it was a seared tuna steak that was stuffed, I asked for it rare. It arrived unrecognizable, cooked well done. I had to ask for clean silver. At reservation said it was wife's B-day. They couldn't bring a cupcake w/ a candle? Valets took forever to get my car."
Dined on 02/01/2013
2005
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"My wife and I came here on a Saturday night out without the kids. Arrived late on our reservation but were seated immediately. Appetisers, entrees, and dessert were all excellent. I highly recommend Ritual to anyone looking for a fun/romantic night out."
Dined on 01/26/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, late-night find, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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