Rikki's Pizza and Pasta

The Paycheck family is evidence of the fact that family ties run strong in this town.  In addition to owning and operating Ryan's Station, Rikki's is also owned by the Paycheck family.  Rikki's and Ryan's Station are namesakes, both named after the two brothers, thus creating the brother restaurants.  Located just south of 10th Ave South on ninth street, Rikki's is a modest establishment that has much to offer.

The restaurant has a very modern, sophisticated look to it.  The interior is painted in dark rich tones, the dim lighting complimenting the colors nicely.  Each table has its own lamp that descends from the geometrically designed ceiling which helps to enhance the restaurant's size.  Rikki's seems to be a believer in the "less is more" theory when it comes to decorations, minimal landscape artwork and flowered wreaths being the only interior decorations.  The soft music playing in the background helps to diminish the chatter amongst the other diners while simultaneously adding to the overall classy feel of the restaurant.

The hostess greets you upon entry so there is no wait time, asking your seating preference as she takes you back.  Once seated, Chris, the friendliest waiter yet since I began these reviews and the only one to make introductions, brought water to the table.  He was incredibly patient while the menu was analyzed, and offered his honest opinions on dishes, helping to achieve a satisfactory decision on the meal.

Reflecting the name of the establishment, the menu at Rikki's is that of predominately pizza and pastas.  Unique to Rikki's is the Greek Ziti (ziti with Sicilian pesto, red onions, roasted bell peppers, Kalamata olives, and green beans with white wine and a garlic-herb butter topped with feta cheese) for $11.95, as well as the Angry Lobster Linguine (lobster, pancetta, caramelized onions, asparagus, roasted garlic and linguine in a spicy white wine tomato sauce) for $14.95.  In contrast to its brother restaurant, Rikki's has options available for those who are seeking a healthy meal out.  A fresh veggie pizza topped with tomato sauce and herbs, broccoli, mushrooms, red onions, roasted red and yellow bell peppers, Roma tomatoes and Mozzarella cheese, would be a satisfactory, guilt-free option.  Rikki's also offers a Greek Pi (Sicilian pesto, black olives, red onions, diced tomatoes, pepperonchinis, topped with Mozzarella and feta cheeses with an oregano and balsamic drizzle) is advertised at $12.95.  Other vegetarian options are marked throughout the menu.  Also offered are salads and sandwiches, similar to those found at Rikki's brother establishment, Ryan's Station.  Sandwiches range in value from $7.95 to $8.50 while salads are anywhere from $8 to $10.

To start, Chris suggested the Baked Lobster and Mascarpone Dip for $9.75.  Served with sliced foccaccia bread, this dip was absolutely delicious.  Bubbling upon arrival, the creamy dip was so rich and flavorful, you almost want to skip the foccaccia bread altogether and eat the dip with a spoon.  Not wanting to leave any amount behind, you may even be tempted to lick the bowl.  Were it not for the main course, you would be sad to finish this amazing appetizer.

Luckily, the Spaghetti Squash Saute is equally pleasing.  Although priced at $12.95, the price is fair for the amount and quality of the meal.  Sauteed with broccoli, green beans, carrots, green onions, diced tomatoes, roasted garlic in a garlic-herb butter and topped with Parmesan cheese, the spaghetti squash saute looks identical to a plate of yellow spaghetti.  The squash has an almost sweet, buttery taste to it, giving it its unique flavor.  The temperature of the food was perfect, allowing you to enjoy your meal from the moment it is placed before you.

In lieu of a dessert menu, Rikki's offers a dessert tray.  This unique idea gives you the option to see your dessert before you place your order.  You can view all dessert options, and choose the one that looks the most tempting.  The dessert tray is a great tactic and useful tool for the diner.  A simple picture in a dessert menu would not have done the Chocolate Toffee Mousse Cheesecake justice.  Presented on a plate of chocolate drizzle, this cheesecake is so rich and creamy, the taste is identical to a chocolate truffle.  A ribbon of toffee is weaved throughout the slice, adding a subtle but welcomed contrast in flavor.

Unfortunately all good things must come to an end, but you know it was an enjoyable experience when you are somewhat reluctant to leave.  The staff at Rikki's makes you feel so welcomed and right at home.  A great place for families to venture for a special night out, Rikki's is also suitable for couples looking for a nice, quiet environment to enjoy each other's company in.

Like its brother, Rikki's also offers a party room.  Doubling in size, Rikki's party room has the ability to offer personalized service for up to 50 people.  This room is also available by reservation, and can be reserved by calling 406-761-8052.  The next time you are looking for a venue to host an event or just a relaxing night out consider Rikki's, you will not be disappointed with the experience.