It all starts with Ruth
Decades ago, Ruth Fertel’s bold vision and recipe for success laid the foundation for one of the world’s most legendary steak houses.
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Our Story - Ruth's Chris Steak House
from humble beginnings
Our Story
A Brief History
“In 1965, a time when most women couldn’t even apply for a bank card without their husband’s signature, our founder Ruth Fertel risked it all and mortgaged her home to buy a small steak house in New Orleans. As a single mom with two boys, Ruth taught herself the restaurant business, endured countless challenges and, in the process, redefined hospitality.
Founded in New Orleans in 1965
First Franchise Opened in 1977
Serving 21 Countries Today
Our Name
Why “Ruth’s Chris”?
“When a kitchen fire destroyed Chris Steak House in 1976, Ruth was forced to relocate her business, but the Chris Steak House name wasn’t allowed to come along. Short on time, Ruth improvised, adding her own name to the sign. That made it “Ruth’s Chris Steak house” and our legendary name was born.
Meet Ruth
Known as the First Lady of Steak, Ruth Fertel was something special. From a 60-seat steak house, she built a business that spans the globe, but never lost sight of her original recipe for success: perfect steak, warm hospitality and good times that never stop rolling.