Could a single advertisement in a newspaper truly change the course of culinary history? The answer, in the case of Ruth Fertel and Ruth's Chris Steak House, is a resounding yes. The story of this iconic brand is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and the enduring appeal of a perfectly cooked steak.
Ruth's Chris Steak House, a name now synonymous with fine dining and succulent cuts of meat, wasn't born overnight. The journey began in 1965, when Ruth Fertel, a divorced mother of two working as a lab technician in New Orleans, Louisiana, stumbled upon an advertisement that would change her life and the future of steak lovers worldwide. The ad, a simple invitation to purchase "Chris Steak House," was the first step in a remarkable transformation. From its humble beginnings in the Big Easy, the restaurant has expanded to a global presence, boasting over 150 locations across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and the legacy continues to grow. The roots of the restaurant, however, stretch even further back. The genesis of the chain can be traced to 1927 when Chris Matulich first opened "Chris Steak House" at 1100 North Broad Street in New Orleans, a place where the foundation for Ruth's success was laid.
| Bio Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ruth Fertel |
| Born | Circa 1927 (Estimated) |
| Died | 2002 (Age 75) |
| Occupation | Founder, Ruth's Chris Steak House |
| Education | Lab Technician (at Tulane University) |
| Key Accomplishments | Founded and Built Ruth's Chris Steak House into a globally recognized brand. Pioneered the concept of using a high-temperature broiler and serving steaks on sizzling plates. |
| Family | Divorced mother of two |
| Origin of the Name | Originally "Chris Steak House," Ruth added her name when forced to relocate after a fire, legally unable to use the original name at the new location. |
In a culinary landscape dominated by male restaurateurs, Ruth Fertel was a true pioneer. Armed with determination and a keen business sense, she purchased the Chris Steak House, embarking on a journey that would reshape the steakhouse industry. The initial restaurant, located in New Orleans, became the crucible where the now-famous Ruth's Chris experience was forged. Fertel implemented her vision, focusing on quality ingredients, impeccable service, and a memorable dining experience. Her dedication to excellence quickly transformed the restaurant into a local favorite. She was driven by something beyond simply operating a restaurant, her dedication changed the world.
The origin of the name itself is a fascinating piece of the puzzle. In 1976, a fire forced Ruth to relocate her business. Due to legal complications, she was no longer able to use the original name of the restaurant. Faced with a critical decision, Ruth, ever the pragmatist, made an inspired choice: she added her own name to the sign, creating "Ruth's Chris Steak House." This simple act of branding genius not only honored her but also cemented the restaurant's identity in the minds of its patrons, building a level of recognizability for the brand.
The concept of Ruth's Chris Steak House, from its inception, was built on a foundation of quality and consistency. The restaurant became known for its use of USDA prime beef, expertly prepared and cooked to perfection using high-temperature broilers. The signature sizzling plates, a hallmark of the Ruth's Chris experience, ensured that each steak arrived at the table at its optimal temperature, adding to the sensory experience. This commitment to quality extended to every aspect of the dining experience, from the warm hospitality to the attentive service. The restaurants welcome steak enthusiasts at more than 150 restaurants worldwide.
The evolution of Ruth's Chris Steak House is also a story of adaptation and strategic thinking. After Fertel's death in 2002, the brand continued to expand. This expansion included rebranding in 2008, when the company became part of Ruth's Hospitality Group. This strategic move allowed Ruth's Chris to broaden its portfolio and further solidify its position in the market. The acquisition of Mitchell's Fish Market, around the same time, was another key element that expanded its offerings and appeal.
Ruth's Chris Steak House wasn't just a restaurant; it was a symbol of aspiration and hard work. Fertel's journey from lab technician to the founder of a global brand is an inspiring story, showing the resilience of the human spirit. She demonstrated to the world that nothing could stop her. The legacy of Ruth Fertel lives on, and the brand has evolved to serve steak enthusiasts at more than 150 restaurants worldwide. The establishment remains one of the most revered names in steak since Ruth Fertel opened its first restaurant in 1965.
The company currently operates in locations across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and the brand's appeal is undeniable. Today, Ruth's Chris Steak House welcomes steak enthusiasts at more than 150 restaurants worldwide. They offer an unforgettable meal and experience for steak lovers. And as for the financial barrier? There's good news: Happy hour offers a meal and drink that is designed to provide a wonderful experience without breaking the bank. Ruth's Chris continues to innovate, always seeking ways to enhance the dining experience for its guests. From its humble beginnings in the 1960s to its current position as a global leader in the steakhouse industry, the name remains associated with over 150 locations worldwide.
The brand's unwavering commitment to its core values has contributed significantly to its continued success. Ruth's Chris Steak House began in 1965 with the same recipe for success that was created by its founder: Perfect steaks, warm hospitality, and good times that never stop rolling. The company ensures that the steak experience remains consistent across all locations. They offer various seafood items among their entree complements that can be added to any specialty cut or signature steak. This is their way of giving guests a taste of this classic combination made with signature ruth's chris usda prime beef and fresh seafood. The restaurant has created a legacy that will continue for years to come, from its humble beginnings with a single restaurant in new orleans, louisiana in 1965 to its current position as the global steakhouse leader.
The story of Ruths Chris Steak House began in 1927, when Chris Matulich opened up a restaurant called Chris Steak House on broad street in new orleans, and now the company is a worldwide franchise. The history of ruth's chris steak house stretches back nearly 100 years. The progenitor of the modern chain was established in 1927 in new orleans by a man named chris matulich, for whom the chain isin partknown today. The restaurant offers the finest steaks, the best service, and a level of hospitality that has made ruths chris one of the most revered names in steak since ruth fertel opened our first restaurant in 1965.
The history of ruth's chris steak house, founded by ruth fertel in 1965 and now winter park's premier fine dining steakhouse establishment!
