School has started and I don’t know about you, but this mom needs a happy hour! Well, let’s be real, regardless of the time of year, I need one!
One of my preferred places to go for happy hour or date night is Ratio! This restaurant is located in the Northeast Columbia area in Elgin. While it’s not downtown or in the Vista, I find that this has some perks.
For one, there is plenty of parking. Also, while busy, I’ve never had to wait for a table. They have outdoor as well as indoor seating, but you will usually find me at the bar. There are happy hour specials that start at 4 pm. Reservations are available indoors and outdoors, but walk-ins are always accepted.
Ratio has a variety of tapas that are a Peruvian twist on classic cuisine. Executive Chef and Owner, Javier Uriarte, focuses on seasonal ingredients for his dishes. For example, the ceviche is a market fish ceviche and is always delicious.
The menu is always changing slightly based on season, and there’s usually always a different empanada flavor every time I visit. For example, I’ve had the chorizo empanada (which I also ordered in bulk for Thanksgiving) as well as the chicken pot pie empanada!
Try one of their Alfajores (a Latin American cookie-like confection) for dessert, or ask about dessert specials, especially their homemade gelato!
Also seasonal are the cocktails, which are delicious. Or they have a variety of wine and beers as well. You can also ask about their Pisco Cocktail menu. Grant McCloskey, the Bar/Beverage manager, is super nice and will make you a drink based on what you like if you can’t decide what you’re in the mood for that day. One of my favorite after-dinner drinks is their “You’re Indah Club” espresso martini that has local Indah Espresso infused in vodka. Ratio also hosts various cocktail and dinner events. I attended the Spritz dinner and it was amazing!
Basically, I love everything I’ve had at Ratio, and it’s definitely a favorite place of mine.
You’ll find Ratio at:
566 Spears Creek Church Road
Elgin, SC 29045, Suite 104
Wednesday – Saturday 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Follow them on their Instagram and Facebook for updates and delicious food pictures!
