Ruski's Tavern

Location: 212 Danforth Street, Portland, ME 04102-3725


Price: $

So, Ruski's is one of those strange little whole in the walls that not many people know about. The first time I went to Ruski's was nothing short of an eye opening experience. See, where I am from, the only bar that serves alcohol and breakfast at the same time is a little dump called Judy's. Judy's bar is located on state street in Bangor Maine. The ghetto. In high school I worked at the subway directly across the street from Judy's where would numerous biker dudes with no teeth get into fights at 9 in the morning because they had a "few" drinks with breakfast. We would then watch them get arrested. Ruski's isn't quite like that. Located just out side of Old Port it is a quint little bar with just a little attention.

To me, drinking this early in the morning seemed like such a "white trash" thing to do. Then, I moved to Portland, started working at the Hospital and completely understood why there were so many Doctor's and nurses drinking at Ruski's at 7 on the morning. Ruski's is very small and only holds about 20 people. On any given morning you will see a group sitting in the corner wearing scrubs drinking a beer.

My favorite part of Ruski's are the mimosas.

Champagne and Orange Juice... you really really can't go wrong.

I hear they also have Bloody Mary's that are to die for and very strong. I have never tried one though. On top of that they are only $4.25.

The first time we visited Ruski's was a morning after drinking more than the average person should in the Old Port. It turns out that this worked out perfectly because they have a breakfast called "hangover easy". This is a huge greasy breakfast that is the perfect answer to any hangover. The breakfast includes 2 eggs, hash browns, home fries, and toast. Served with Coffee or Water. The greasiness is perfect for a hang over in the morning. The reason I do enjoy this breakfast is because it's big.

Breakfast is my favorite meal to go out and eat, but it has to be filling!

Go to Ruski's! Have a pancake and a beer!