East Kilbride’s newest hospitality destination, Ruby’s, has recruited executive chef Damiano Vitti, previously of The Ivy Glasgow.
Vitto brings experience from some of Europe’s most respected kitchens – including Michelin-starred restaurants in Italy – to Ruby’s, leading the preparation of the venue’s new Spring/Summer menus.
Introducing a ‘lighter, brighter and more seasonal’ food offering across breakfast, lunch and all-day dining, Vitti’s hire marks an ‘exciting next step’ for the venue, which was opened late in 2025 by operator Struan Barclay and his business partner, former Crystal Palace and Scotland footballer James McArthur.
Launching next week, the menus are said to reflect Vitti’s ‘international influence and refined approach to flavour’, while retaining the accessible style that Ruby’s has sought to establish over its opening months.
Vitti said: “This menu is about simplicity, quality ingredients and bold, fresh flavours. We’ve taken inspiration from across Europe and beyond to create dishes that feel vibrant and modern, while still being accessible and enjoyable for our guests.
“At Ruby’s, we want to offer something for everyone, whether that’s a relaxed breakfast, a quick lunch or an evening meal with friends – but always with the same attention to detail and care on every plate.”
Vitti trained at the Gambero Rosso in Italy before refining his skills in some of the country’s most respected kitchens, including the two-Michelin-starred Il Duomo and the one-Michelin-starred Pascucci al Porticciolo.
After relocating to Scotland in 2010, he progressed into a number of senior roles, including head chef positions with Marriott International, before going on to lead the kitchen at The Ivy Glasgow.
New additions to the all-day menu include lemon & garlic hummus with cumin-spiced chickpeas, chilli-pickled shallots, lemon miso butter, toasted sesame seeds, coriander and flatbread, alongside pan-fried seabass with chorizo, pea and onion white wine cream, and crispy potatoes.
Other highlights include seafood linguine and encocado fish curry with coconut and lime, market fish, fresh chilli and rice.
Alongside these new dishes, a selection of Ruby’s guest favourites will remain, including slow cooked Tuscan beef, spiced chicken rigatoni and gambas pil pil.
Co-owner James McArthur said: “From the beginning, our ambition for Ruby’s has been to create a venue that offers great food, a friendly atmosphere and something genuinely exciting for East Kilbride. Bringing Damiano on board is a huge part of that vision.
“His experience, creativity and passion for quality really stood out to us, and this new menu is the first taste of what he will bring to Ruby’s. We’re incredibly excited for guests to experience it and look forward to welcoming both locals and those from further afield through the doors.”
