The Crystal Coast Blog

Posted by Bobby Carroll on April 16th, 2008

Come Early to Avoid the Rush

For those who have never visited Emerald Isle and the Southern Outer Banks, if you’re planning a trip to the Crystal Coast you must make it a point to dine at RuckeRJohns in Emerald Isle in the Emerald Plantation Shopping Center. Those who come to Emerald Isle know you must arrive early to avoid a lengthy wait (high season Friday & Saturday supper wait times can exceed 1.5 hours).

Meal Was More Like Sunday Dinner with the Family

On this particular occasion (supper – Thursday 4/11/08), the wife and I noticed most of the patrons were locals and the festive atmosphere seemed more like Sunday dinner at Grandma’s with affectionate greetings happening all around. It speaks volumes when past employees and with their families show up and the manager greets them as if it were a family reunion.

Excellent Service – Succulent Shrimp

Our waitress Crystal Miller was so attentive without being obnoxious. After taking our order and she promptly returned with our beverages. The manager stopped by to introduce himself. Manager Mark Buckwalter admired my digital SLR camera and we had a nice conversation about the natural beauty all around the Crystal Coast. Soon our orders arrived. I had the “Spicy Shrimp” as my entree’ and the wife had the Chef salad. Ok – I know, your wondering why I haven’t mentioned those wonderful world-famous RuckeRJohns hot croissants with drizzled honey? Yes! Everyone loves those delectable hot croissants that are more dessert than carbohydrate. If for no other reason – you must go for the croissants!

The Best is Saved for Last!

We scarfed down our food as if it were our last meal with our waitress Crystal never missing a beat. The moment my tea glass hit half full, there she was back again with another glass. Girl – you Rock! We both cleaned our plates as if Mom were there to make sure we had left no morsel behind. Then Mark brought out this beautiful desert tray tempting us with all manner of sweet treats. Based on his recommendation, we shared the Blueberry cobbler cheese cake. It hit the (sweet) spot! Not to heavy and a perfect ending to our RuckeRJohns meal.

Unbiased Opinion – Your Crystal Coast Blog Review Assurance

Just so you know, Mark offered to comp our dessert but we paid for it anyway. Why, because you deserve to read unbiased opinions based on food we pay for not comped meals. It’s your assurance you can count on the Crystal Coast Blog to offer fair and balanced reviews without compensation.