After having seen the heads up sign at Ray’s to the Third nearly three weeks ago, I was hoping to make it out on a weeknight to grab dinner.  Thanks to Wellta’s suggestion (and treat), I finally had the opportunity to indulge at Michael Landrum’s sixth casual establishment.

Next to Ray’s the Steaks, Ray’s to the Third is quite spacious and minimally decorated.  Recessed lights as well as  a baroque brown and beige color scheme gives the restaurant a classy vibe.  Yet, like all Ray’s maintains an inviting and casual atmosphere.  The menu as mentioned in the earlier post is a combination of all of Landrum’s restaurants scaled down for an ultra casual and affordable dining experience.

Upon gazing at the menu, I knew I had to have two things.  A good beer and fried chicken.  Having had a sip of a friend’s Hofbrau Oktoberfest beer at Standard, I was happy to see it on this menu.  Wellta inquired about a few of the beers and ultimately chose the Lucifer.  On a side note, the waiter won our trust when he stated Delirium Tremens is in a class of its own.  At one point we wanted to give the man high fives, but thought that would be kinda awkward.

Keeping my word according to the last post, I ordered one of the two fried chicken platters.  I was leaning towards the skillet fried chicken, but our waiter mentioned about the dry rub of the Hell Chicken entree along with spicy green piranha sauce.  With that stated, I was sold.  Wellta was in the mood for Ray’s mainstay protein and ended up with the Hanger Steak.  Following the protocol of all Ray’s restaurants, To The Third offers all inclusive meals.  The Hell chicken was accompanied by cole slaw and a dreamiest mac n’cheese I’ve had to date.  It was simple, comforting, but unforgettable.  Wellta’s Hanger Steak falls under the “Steak Frites” part of the menu so all steaks  naturally came with fries and a salad.

Both of our meals were extremely delicious, but if I could a la carte my next experience at Ray’s to the Third, I would want the mac n’cheese with the hangar steak.  And while my waist may not appreciate it, I can see myself becoming a weekly or bi-weekly regular.

Ray’s To The Third is located at:
1650 Wilson Blvd.
Arlington, VA 22201