Have you ever wondered about the origins of a dining empire, a name synonymous with perfectly cooked steaks and a sophisticated ambiance? The story of Ruth's Chris Steak House is not just about exceptional food; it's a tale of resilience, reinvention, and the enduring power of a single woman's vision.
Ruth's Chris Steak House, a name now recognized across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with over 100 steakhouses, began its journey in 1965. Its roots, however, delve deeper than just a date on the calendar. The genesis of this culinary giant is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to transform adversity into opportunity. While the chain now boasts a significant presence and a well-defined brand identity, the story behind the name itself holds a fascinating twist.
Full Name | Ruth Fertel |
Born | January 26, 1927 |
Died | April 3, 2002 |
Nationality | American |
Education | Bachelor of Science, Tulane University |
Career | Founder of Ruth's Chris Steak House |
Known For | Transforming a struggling restaurant into a national chain; pioneering high-temperature broiling for steaks. |
Key Achievements | Creating a successful restaurant concept, building a recognizable brand, and providing opportunities for numerous employees. |
Legacy | A lasting impact on the fine dining industry, particularly in the steakhouse segment; a model of entrepreneurial spirit. |
Reference | Ruth's Chris Steak House Official Website |
The origins of Ruth's Chris Steak House began in New Orleans. In 1927, a restaurant named Chris Steak House was founded by Chris Matulich. The restaurant, while not a resounding success in its early years, managed to survive for 38 years, partly due to its location near the New Orleans Fairgrounds racetrack. The landscape changed dramatically when Ruth Fertel, a single mother of two and a lab technician at Tulane University, found herself struggling financially. Seeking a change, she encountered an advertisement in the newspaper that would alter the course of her life and the future of American dining: "For sale, Chris Steak House."
It's here that the story takes an intriguing turn. Ruth Fertel purchased the Chris Steak House, but fate, in the form of a fire, intervened. When she decided to expand and open other locations, the original establishment, the "Chris Steak House," burned down. This unfortunate event, however, sparked a pivotal decision. To maintain continuity and retain the goodwill she had already fostered, Ruth had to come up with a new name. The solution, a testament to her ingenuity and branding acumen, was simple yet powerful: Ruth's Chris Steak House. The apostrophe and possessive form not only linked her name to the restaurant but also subtly acknowledged its origins, while simultaneously branding the establishment under her name.
The year 1965 marked the beginning of Ruth's Chris Steak House. The restaurant quickly differentiated itself, carving a unique space in the restaurant world. The establishment, which began as a means for Ruth to secure a better life for herself and her children, rapidly evolved into a successful restaurant concept, later to become a national chain. The success wasn't accidental; it was a result of Ruth's dedication to quality, a keen understanding of the customer experience, and an unwavering commitment to her vision. The restaurant became the premier fine-dining steakhouse establishment in Winter Park, Florida, the city where the company's headquarters is currently located.
The commitment to quality is reflected in the selection of ingredients. At Ruth's Chris, the promise of premium ingredients is a cornerstone of the brand. The restaurant takes pride in serving only the highest quality USDA Prime beef, sourced from nationally recognized premium beef suppliers. This choice demonstrates an understanding of the importance of superior ingredients in delivering an exceptional dining experience.
The restaurant's iconic status has been the result of a combination of factors, which includes its ambiance and menu offerings. The restaurant is renowned for its upscale dining experience, with elegant decor and a refined atmosphere. The dress code typically calls for business casual or smart casual, reflecting the sophisticated dining experience Ruths Chris aims to provide.
The menu at Ruth's Chris is a testament to the steakhouse tradition. The chain is famous for its exceptional steaks, prepared with meticulous attention to detail. The chefs use a unique cooking method, broiling the steaks at an astounding 1800F. This method is critical to the chain's unique taste and texture. The extreme heat sears the outside of the steak, locking in the natural juices and creating a perfect crust, while the inside remains tender and juicy. Once cooked, the steaks are served on sizzling 500F plates, ensuring that the last bite is as hot and delicious as the first.
Ruth's Chris Steak House is about more than just the steaks. The restaurant has signature dishes that complement the steaks. The chain also offers private event rooms, which can be arranged in various configurations to support events of different scales, from birthday parties to training sessions. This focus on hospitality contributes to the allure of Ruth's Chris Steak House, making it a place for both special occasions and memorable everyday dining.
Over the years, the brand has undergone changes and adaptations to stay relevant in the market. On May 22, 2008, the company underwent rebranding and became part of Ruth's Hospitality Group after acquiring Mitchell's Fish Market. The headquarters are located in Winter Park, Florida. The brand has been consistent with the brand's core principles, while continuously adapting to meet the changing needs and preferences of its clientele. The restaurant has been featured on many occasions, including announcements about the opening of a new restaurant or promotions about its menu.
The story of Ruth's Chris Steak House is an inspiring account of perseverance and ingenuity. From humble beginnings to a national chain, the brand is a testament to the power of vision and the importance of consistency in delivering a superior dining experience. The story of Ruth Fertel and the iconic steakhouse is about more than just the food. Its a tale of a woman who transformed a simple venture into a lasting legacy in the world of fine dining. Its a story that began with a single ad, a burning building, and the unwavering resolve of a woman determined to build something extraordinary. It's a story that continues to be told, one perfectly cooked steak at a time.


