The present invention relates to a Lactuca sativa seed designated 81-97 RZ, which exhibits a combination of traits including resistance against downy mildew (Bremia lactucae) races B1:1 to B1:28 and CA-I to CA-VIII, resistance against currant-lettuce aphid (Nasonovia ribisnigri) biotype Nr:0, resistance against Lettuce Mosaic Virus (LMV), moderate anthocyanin concentration in the mature leaves, and a non-heading plant habit of the Batavia type. The present invention also relates to a Lactuca sativa plant produced by growing the 81-97 RZ seed. The invention further relates to methods for producing the lettuce cultivar, represented by lettuce variety 81-97 RZ.
