Ruby Tuesday Receiving A Makeover

By BILL ROGERS | Highlands Today
Published: December 16, 2007

SEBRING - It has been a long time - 35 years to be exact - since Ruby Tuesday has had a makeover.

The casual dining restaurant chain is in the midst of transforming more than 600 company-owned restaurants in the United States. The Sebring store, located on Sebring Parkway near U.S. 27, has been remodeled.

Mike Roder, vice president of operations for Ruby Tuesday, said the remodeling program "kind of evolved" following the introduction over the last 18 months of new menu choices emphasizing fresh and high-quality food.

Gone are the artifacts and memorabilia, the black-and-white checked tablecloths, the multi-colored buildings and the striped awnings.

The makeover includes new lighting, booths, chairs, tables, wallcovering, awnings, and signs, as well as glasses and plates.

"It is clean and more contemporary with soft earth tone colors," Roder said. "We're very excited about the change."

According to the company, the cost is approximately $100,000 per location for a total investment of approximately $65 to $75 million.

- Bill Rogers