Ruby’s Diner In Rancho Mirage Closes Its Doors

The empty Ruby’s Diner along Hwy 111 took a lot of people by surprise.

“This was just our own little place,” said Mary Henry. “We had an employee discount there. They gave us 10% off on everything we bought, and they had the best beignets.”

She said none of the workers mentioned anything wrong to her. But, one of the servers spoke to the Chamber of Commerce.

“They were saddened,” said Communications Director Darren Zetena. “They’re looking for other opportunities at this point.”

This is the second restaurant in a month to shut down in Rancho Mirage. The Marie Callendar’s restaurant closed without warning, too.

“I think we’re seeing some shaking out within some of these corporate chains as they struggle with economic times,” said Curt Watts, the city’s Economic Development Director.

The Chamber of Commerce didn’t think location played a role in the closings. The Coachella Valley’s unique economy might have contributed.

“Restaurants have small margins,” said Zetena. “With that, you have to take into consideration that the economy in the Coachella Valley is cyclical. It’s seasonal.”

Zetena also said if a business is doing good, people are going to go there regardless of where it’s located.

No word yet if anyone is interested in taking over Ruby’s place.

But, other things in the city seem to be looking up. According to Watts, the hotel revenue tax is up 6% compared to last year. The city’s sales tax is up 5%.