How do you get a stomach cramping food coma, but still rate a restaurant 4 stars? Well, when you have ribs this good, you don’t mind paying the price afterward. Nestled in Suffern, New York, Ravi is an American restaurant whose mix of exotic and comfort food menu offerings belie its sleepy Rockland County surroundings. True to its “Continental Cuisine” tagline, Ravi may have a healthy offering of steak and chops, but they aren’t lacking for some really tempting pasta, seafood and chicken dishes as well. (And speaking to my bloated coma experience, I shouldn’t have stocked up on all the hot doughy bread and beer to ruin my entree; more on that later.)
The color scheme at Ravi’s is rich and warm chocolate browns, deep dark woods offset with sunburst white table linens and warm oranges. It’s really inviting and offers a very modern, swank decor…with some swank prices to go with it. The decor fools you into believing you’ve just stepped into a Flatiron district eatery, but when you step back outside, you’re still in Rockland.
Still, who says Manhattan should have the monopoly on fine eateries? For appetizers, the chili lime ribs were exceptional. Swimming in a tangy and smoky bath of barbecue marinade, the meat was so tender it melted on my tongue like an acid tab. Turned on by this starter, I went full steam ahead and got the Ravi Rack. Along with the crispy french fries and a side of chunky, buttery vegetables, that xylophone display of meat psychologically undid me. Sublime to taste and savor, I couldn’t finish the full rack and had it wrapped up to go.
Before I turned it into a meat lover’s night, I did take note of the other tempting dishes. Some other menu items that gave my tongue a stiffy: Lobster Mac N Cheese, Black Jack NY Strip, Pan-seared Tilapia, Long Island Duck, Scallops and Polenta. The menu varies according to season, with entrees ranging in price from $17 to $29. My friend reported that her pan roasted double cut pork chop topped with gorgonzola was excellent.
Ravi’s calling card is its variety. It has a little of everything and from what I could see and taste, the kitchen doesn’t overreach and prepares everything well. Nonetheless, go for those milestone moments, like Nana’s 80th or the last phase of your gender reassignment surgery. If the surroundings don’t make you feel you’re there for a special occasion, then the prices sure will. Side note: Waitstaff was professional and competent; no complaints here. And the wine list was decent.
As for me, I pride myself on my eating prowess (I once ate a whole pizza pie just because I was horny), so I made sure to clean up my leftover ribs the following morning. Yes, I finished my ribs for breakfast. Ain’t no one takin’ me down.