A CULINARY LEGEND
Long ago, Ruth Fertel’s audacious vision and recipe for triumph set the stage for an extraordinary tale of one of the globe’s most renowned steak houses.
The History of Ruth's Chris
From Humble Beginnings
In 1965, amidst an era where women faced numerous barriers, the remarkable Ruth Fertel established Ruth’s Chris in New Orleans. Defying societal norms, Ruth embarked on a daring venture, courageously mortgaging her home to acquire a modest establishment known as Chris Steak House. Pioneering the path, Ruth unveiled the inaugural franchise in 1977, and today, we proudly serve exceptional steaks across over 100 locations in 21 countries. Join us right here in Edmonton, Alberta, as we continue Ruth’s legacy of culinary excellence.
Why Is It Called Ruth's Chris?
A Worldwide Brand
In a fateful turn of events in 1976, a devastating kitchen fire engulfed Chris Steak House, leaving Ruth with no choice but to start anew. Determined to overcome the setback, Ruth swiftly secured another venue, only to discover that she could no longer use the cherished original name. With time ticking away, Ruth’s ingenuity took center stage as she improvised, boldly adding her own name to the sign, giving birth to the iconic and unforgettable legend known as “Ruth’s Chris Steak House.
MEET RUTH FERTEL
The First Lady of Steak
As a resilient single mother raising two boys, Ruth fearlessly immersed herself in the world of restaurants, mastering the craft and overcoming numerous obstacles. Along the way, she revolutionized the concept of hospitality. Starting with a modest 60-seat steak house, she constructed a thriving enterprise that now reaches across continents. Yet, amidst her extraordinary journey, Ruth never wavered from her original recipe for triumph: delivering impeccable steaks, exuding genuine warmth in hospitality, and creating an atmosphere of perpetual enjoyment.