When it comes to restaurants, Florissant has it covered.

We have some great local places that many would consider community gems; we have some restaurants that aren't exactly mom-and-pop but are unique to the area; and we certainly—for better or for worse—have plenty of chains lining our main streets.

But what we don't have is a consistent food critic to tell us what's good and what's not. 

That's where you come in.

We could throw some money at a professional food critic, but that's not exactly what Patch is all about. We'd much rather know the opinion of the fine folks that eat there day-in and day-out.

It's your community. You eat the food. You tell us if it passes the mark.

That's why we are introducing The Friday Food Critic column, where each week we will put a different restaurant on the chopping block. You tell us how you feel about it, what dishes are good, who has the best drink specials and so forth.

This week's restaurant is Ruiz Mexican Restaurant, a Mexican restaurant that prides itself on serving the authentic taste of Hispanic food.

To review and rate Ruiz Mexican Restaurant, simply click on their name (or THIS LINK). You'll be directed toward their community listing in our places directory, where you can rate them on a five-star system or write a personal review.