A popular internet site calls it, “The steakhouse everyone in your state is talking about.” Madison Magazine labeled it a “local’s delight.” Business Insider cut to the chase and said it’s quite simply, “The best steakhouse in Mississippi.” These and additional accolades and high customer rankings describe Ely’s Restaurant and Bar, a fixture in Ridgeland’s Olde Towne District for 10 years.
It may seem an unlikely spot for a white-tablecloth restaurant known for its high-quality steaks and seafood to be located near tuxedo and bridal shops, among others, just a few feet from the railroad tracks. Yet, Ely’s Restaurant has been holding court on Jackson Street for a decade and appears to be doing just fine with its eclectic mix of neighboring stores.
Owned by Richard Shapley, whose last name creates an image of delicious food in upscale surroundings, the restaurant overlooking historic Jackson Street from its second-floor perch is a perfect accompaniment to the innovative dishes for which Ely's is known.
In fact, Shapley, a third generation restaurant and food establishment owner, feels the location works to his advantage. “Being able to look out and view the night lights of Ridgeland as diners enjoy a memorable meal is part of the entire package we offer guests,” he said.
Named after Shapley’s grandfather, Elias (Ely) Shapley of Greenville, Ely’s Restaurant and Bar opened in 2008 with an emphasis on top quality menu selections and service. The spacious restaurant offers a comfortable yet elegant atmosphere in which to enjoy a quiet dinner for two, celebrations with family and friends, or important meetings with colleagues or clients.
Ely's has become a favorite nighttime dining spot due to its convenient location and consistency in providing the meal diners have come to expect: prime cuts of steak and fresh seafood cooked in an imaginative way.
In addition to its convenient location and comfortable seating, Shapley offers a diverse selection of appetizers, salads, steaks, seafood, side dishes, and desserts.
When it comes to appetizers, none is closer to Shapley’s heart or heritage than Ely’s Baked Kibbeh ($9), a Lebanese family recipe composed of ground beef, bulgur wheat, pine nuts, and spices.
Another house specialty is Eggplant Ely ($14), delectable layers of fried eggplant mixed with lump crab meat and topped with a lemon cream sauce.
Additional appetizers include barbecued shrimp and grits ($12), crab cakes ($16.50), artichoke heart quarters ($9.50), crawfish and shrimp dip ($10), and crab bisque ($5 cup or $9 bowl).
All entrees came with a house or tabouli salad, but those who want to solely dine on the lighter side can choose from a variety of interesting dishes.
These include the tabouli ($4.50), a healthy Lebanese bulgar wheat salad with green onions, tomatoes, spices, olive oil, and lemon juice; warm spinach ($7.50), wedge ($8), and steak ($20).
When it comes to seafood, Ely’s menu doesn’t disappoint. An interesting collection of blackened yellowfin tuna ($28), grilled blackfish ($27.50), sweet chili glazed salmon ($25), grouper pecan ($28), shrimp Alfredo angel hair ($24), New England scallops ($32), and stuffed flounder filled with crab meat dressing and a spicy lemon cream topping ($28) offer something for every taste.
However, for many customers, the steaks are the primary draw. Ely’s is perhaps most well known for its bone-in filet, offered at market price. The 12- to 14-ounce specialty cut is seared to perfection and is a veritable masterpiece on a plate. If desired, steaks can be topped with a delectable array of sautéed shrimp, crab meat, scallops, sautéed mushrooms, or blue cheese crust.
Other popular steak entrees are the center cut filet ($34-$45), Filet Louisiane ($42-$53), tenderloin tips ($23), ribeye ($43), and New York strip ($44). Steaks come in varying sizes, from eight ounce-filet to a plate-filling 20-ounce ribeye.
Sides that sound almost as good as the steaks include gorgonzola-asiago mac and cheese, mashed potatoes topped with sautéed onions, creamed spinach parmesan au gratin, sautéed mushrooms, steak fries, angel hair and Alfredo, peppered cheese grits, steamed broccoli, and roasted asparagus. Prices for a la carte sides are in the $6 to $8 range.
When it’s time for dessert, Ely’s doesn’t disappoint. Selections include key lime pie, chocolate cashew pie, bread pudding with bourbon sauce, chocolate mousse with a hint of Irish cream, sea salt caramel cheesecake, and vanilla ice cream.
Ely’s boasts an extensive wine and champagne list, along with a specialty cocktail menu. “Bar Bites,” small dishes of some of Ely’s favorite appetizers and entrees, are available in the bar. Ely’s even has one private dining room that seats 26 comfortably.
Parking is located behind the building location at 115 W. Jackson Street, Suite E. A private elevator is available to transport guests upstairs to the restaurant.
Ely’s is located at 115 West Jackson Street, Suite 2E (upstairs) in Ridgeland. Hours of operation are 4 to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and until 9:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Customers may book reservations online at www.elysrestaurant.com or by calling 601-605-6359.