Ruth Fertel, American businesswoman, founded Ruth's Chris Steak House (b. 1927)

Ruth Ann Udstad Fertel, born on February 5, 1927, and passing away on April 16, 2002, was an extraordinary figure in American culinary history. Hailing from Louisiana, she carved out an indelible legacy as a pioneering businesswoman, most famously known as the visionary founder of the internationally renowned Ruth's Chris Steak Houses. Her story is one of determination, an unwavering commitment to quality, and a testament to the power of a singular entrepreneurial spirit that transformed a modest New Orleans eatery into a global fine dining institution.

The Genesis of a Culinary Empire

Ruth Fertel's journey into the restaurant world was not initially her planned path. A divorced mother of two young sons, she was seeking a way to provide for her family. In 1965, with considerable courage and perhaps a touch of calculated risk, she mortgaged her home to purchase a small, established restaurant in New Orleans called "Chris Steak House." This acquisition marked the true beginning of what would become her life's work. She famously bought the restaurant for $22,000, and despite having no prior experience in the restaurant business, her innate business acumen and relentless work ethic quickly came to the fore.

For the next decade, Ruth meticulously ran Chris Steak House, often working 18-hour days, personally overseeing every aspect of the operation from the kitchen to the dining room. Her hands-on approach and dedication to serving only the finest prime beef, cooked to perfection and served sizzling in butter, quickly earned the restaurant a loyal following among New Orleanians who appreciated its consistency and quality. The restaurant’s reputation grew steadily under her astute leadership.

The Birth of "Ruth's Chris"

The distinctive name "Ruth's Chris Steak House" came about in 1976 under rather unexpected circumstances. A devastating fire forced Ruth to relocate her beloved Chris Steak House. However, her purchase agreement for the original Chris Steak House stipulated that she could not open another restaurant under that exact name at a different location. Ever resourceful, Ruth simply added her own first name to the existing one, creating "Ruth's Chris Steak House." This seemingly simple addition would become one of the most recognizable and enduring restaurant names in the world, embodying both her personal touch and the established legacy of the original establishment she had nurtured for over a decade.

Expanding the Sizzle and Building a Legacy

Under Ruth Fertel's guidance, the restaurant began its expansion, a move largely driven by her desire to help her employees achieve ownership and success. She embraced the concept of franchising, a decision that allowed her distinctive brand of fine dining to spread across the United States and eventually internationally. She insisted on strict adherence to her original standards of quality, ensuring that every Ruth's Chris Steak House maintained the high level of excellence that she had established in her original New Orleans location. This meant using only the highest quality USDA Prime beef, a very specific broiling method that seared steaks at 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, and serving them sizzling in butter on a 500-degree plate – signature elements that define the Ruth's Chris experience to this day.

Ruth Fertel was more than just a restaurateur; she was a trailblazer for women in business, particularly in a male-dominated industry. Her philosophy revolved around treating her employees like family, fostering a culture of mutual respect and hard work. She believed in continuous learning and always strived to improve, a principle she instilled throughout her growing organization. Her entrepreneurial journey, from a single restaurant to a global enterprise, stands as an inspiring example of vision, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

A Life Remembered

Ruth Ann Udstad Fertel passed away in 2002, leaving behind a profound legacy that extends far beyond the more than 100 restaurants bearing her name. She had not only built a successful business but had also created a beloved brand synonymous with premium steakhouse dining. Her impact on the culinary landscape, particularly in introducing fine dining to a broader audience through a consistent, high-quality experience, remains significant. She is remembered not just for her culinary achievements but also for her strong spirit, her dedication to her family, and her remarkable ability to overcome challenges and achieve extraordinary success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ruth's Chris Steak House known for?

Ruth's Chris Steak House is renowned for serving only USDA Prime beef, cooked in 1800-degree broilers, and served sizzling in butter on 500-degree plates, ensuring a flavorful and hot dining experience. They are also known for their classic steakhouse ambiance and exceptional service.

How did Ruth Fertel start the restaurant?

Ruth Fertel started by mortgaging her home in 1965 to purchase an existing restaurant in New Orleans called "Chris Steak House." She had no prior restaurant experience but quickly learned the business through hands-on management and a strong dedication to quality.

Why is it called "Ruth's Chris"?

The name "Ruth's Chris" originated in 1976. After a fire destroyed the original "Chris Steak House," Ruth Fertel had to relocate. Due to a clause in her purchase agreement prohibiting her from using the exact name "Chris Steak House" at a new location, she simply added her own first name, creating "Ruth's Chris Steak House."

When did Ruth Ann Udstad Fertel pass away?

Ruth Ann Udstad Fertel passed away on April 16, 2002, at the age of 75.

Was Ruth Fertel a chef?

While Ruth Fertel was not formally trained as a chef, she was an incredibly hands-on restaurateur. She learned the cooking techniques and operations of the kitchen intimately, ensuring that every dish met her exacting standards. Her expertise was more in business management and quality control within a culinary setting.