When you think of Ruth’s Chris Steak House, you might immediately recall its reputation for premium steaks and upscale dining. However, the name itself has an intriguing story behind it, one that reflects resilience, innovation, and a dedication to quality.
Ruth’s Chris is more than just a brand; it’s a legacy shaped by its founder’s vision and the challenges faced along the way. Understanding how the restaurant got its distinctive name offers insight into the chain’s history and the unique circumstances that led to its creation.
Over the years, Ruth’s Chris has become synonymous with fine dining, but its name carries a blend of personal identity and business necessity. The tale behind the name involves a woman named Ruth and a steakhouse called Chris, both of which were integral to the brand’s evolution.
This story is a testament to how names can embody not only a business but also the spirit and determination behind it.
The Origins of Chris Steak House
Before the renowned Ruth’s Chris Steak House, there was the original Chris Steak House. This establishment laid the groundwork for what was to come and introduced a style of cooking that would become iconic.
The original Chris Steak House opened its doors in New Orleans in 1927. It quickly earned a reputation for serving some of the city’s best steaks, focusing on quality cuts and a unique method of broiling that set it apart.
The restaurant’s name was simply “Chris,” named after its founder, Chris Matulich.
Chris Steak House became a beloved local institution, known for its inviting atmosphere and consistent quality. It was a place where locals and visitors alike could enjoy hearty steaks, and it helped shape the steakhouse culture in the region.
- Founded in 1927 by Chris Matulich
- Located originally in New Orleans
- Famous for broiled steaks and classic American fare
- Built a loyal customer base over several decades
“Chris Steak House was more than a restaurant; it was a community staple where tradition and quality met.” – Local historian
Who Was Ruth Fertel? The Woman Behind the Name
Ruth Fertel’s story is central to understanding how Ruth’s Chris got its name. Her journey from a determined entrepreneur to a restaurateur is inspiring and full of grit.
Ruth Fertel was a single mother and a businesswoman who purchased Chris Steak House in 1965. At the time, she was looking for a way to support her family and decided to invest in the struggling steakhouse.
Despite having no prior experience in the restaurant business, Ruth was determined to make it work.
Her commitment to quality and customer satisfaction quickly transformed the restaurant. Ruth’s hands-on approach and willingness to learn helped her turn the business into a success, and her name became synonymous with excellent service and great steaks.
- Purchased Chris Steak House in 1965
- First female owner of a major steakhouse chain
- Focused on quality, consistency, and customer experience
- Expanded the business despite early challenges
“Ruth was a trailblazer who proved that passion and hard work can reshape an entire industry.”
The Fire That Changed Everything
A pivotal moment for Chris Steak House—and ultimately Ruth’s Chris—came with a devastating fire. This event forced Ruth Fertel to make difficult decisions that would alter the restaurant’s future.
In 1976, the original Chris Steak House location was severely damaged by a fire. Faced with the loss of her restaurant, Ruth decided to relocate rather than close her business.
She found a new building just a few blocks away from the original site, but this move came with a significant complication.
The terms of the sale of Chris Steak House included a clause that prevented Ruth from using the name “Chris Steak House” at any other location. This legal restriction meant that she had to rename her relocated restaurant if she wanted to continue operating.
- Fire destroyed the original Chris Steak House in 1976
- Relocated to a new building nearby
- Legal restriction prevented reuse of “Chris Steak House” name
- Necessitated a new brand identity
The Naming Challenge
With the inability to use the original name, Ruth needed a fresh yet recognizable brand. She decided to keep part of the original name to maintain customer loyalty and add her own identity to the restaurant.
The solution was simple yet effective: Ruth’s Chris Steak House.
This name combined her first name, “Ruth,” with the original “Chris” to create a unique brand that honored the past while embracing a new future. The name was unusual, but it stuck, and it became an iconic symbol of the restaurant’s quality and heritage.
“Naming the restaurant Ruth’s Chris was a strategic move that blended legacy with innovation.”
Brand Evolution and Growth
Once Ruth Fertel rebranded the steakhouse, the business began a journey of expansion and national recognition. The new name quickly became well-known in the restaurant industry.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House focused on delivering a consistent dining experience, emphasizing their signature method of serving steaks sizzling on 500-degree plates. This unique presentation became a hallmark of the brand.
Over time, the company expanded beyond New Orleans, opening locations across the United States and eventually internationally. The name Ruth’s Chris became synonymous with luxury steak dining, a reputation built on quality and customer experience.
- National expansion began in the 1980s
- Maintained signature broiling and serving style
- Franchise model helped rapid growth
- International presence established in the 2000s
| Year | Event | Impact |
| 1965 | Ruth Fertel purchases Chris Steak House | New ownership, renewed focus on quality |
| 1976 | Fire destroys original location | Relocation and rebranding to Ruth’s Chris |
| 1984 | First franchise opened | Start of national and international growth |
The Significance of the Name Today
Today, Ruth’s Chris Steak House stands as a symbol of fine dining in the steakhouse world. The name itself tells a story of perseverance and identity, making it more than just a label on a menu.
The combination of “Ruth’s” and “Chris” honors both the original founder and the woman who saved and transformed the business. It serves as a reminder of the restaurant’s roots and the determination that made it successful.
Customers worldwide recognize the name not just for the food but for the legacy and narrative it carries. This connection between name and story is a powerful aspect of Ruth’s Chris’s brand.
- Represents a legacy of quality and resilience
- Connects past and present owners
- Enhances brand loyalty and recognition
- Symbolizes a unique chapter in American dining history
“A name is more than just words; it’s a story, a history, and a promise.”
How Names Shape Brand Identity
The story of Ruth’s Chris highlights a broader truth about business names: they are critical to brand identity and customer perception. The right name can forge emotional connections and establish trust.
Ruth’s decision to merge her name with Chris’s was both practical and strategic. It preserved the heritage customers loved while signaling new leadership and vision.
Such a name change can be risky but also rewarding when done thoughtfully.
Businesses often face challenges when changing names, but Ruth’s Chris shows how a well-chosen name can become an asset rather than a liability.
- Names carry emotional and historical weight
- Can influence customer loyalty and brand trust
- Reflects company values and vision
- Must be carefully chosen during rebranding
Related Readings
For those interested in how names impact identity, Do Name Changes Affect Your Identity? Find Out Here offers great insights.
Additionally, exploring How Does It Cost to Change Your Name? Full Guide can shed light on the practical aspects of changing names.
If you want to understand the significance of place names, check out How Did San Antonio Get Its Name? Uncover the History.
The Legacy of Ruth Fertel
Ruth Fertel’s impact on the restaurant industry extends beyond just a name. She was a pioneer who broke barriers and built a lasting brand.
Her story is one of courage, determination, and innovation. She took a risk buying a steakhouse with no prior experience and turned it into a thriving national brand.
Her leadership and vision are integral to the Ruth’s Chris identity.
Ruth’s legacy continues through the company culture and the high standards maintained at every restaurant. The name Ruth’s Chris is a tribute to her incredible journey and the enduring success she created.
- First female owner of a major steakhouse chain
- Expanded business despite challenges
- Set standards for quality and service
- Inspired future generations of entrepreneurs
“Ruth Fertel’s name is forever etched in the history of American dining.”
Understanding the Importance of a Name Change in Business
Ruth’s Chris story is a classic example of how a name change can be a turning point for a business. It shows both the challenges and opportunities that come with such a transition.
Changing a business name involves legal, marketing, and emotional considerations, but it can also signal growth and new directions. Ruth’s example demonstrates that with the right strategy, a name change can preserve legacy while opening doors to new possibilities.
For entrepreneurs and business owners contemplating similar changes, understanding the impact of a name is crucial. It’s a decision that shapes public perception and long-term success.
- Legal constraints may necessitate a name change
- New names can refresh or rebrand a business
- Maintaining elements of the original name can ease transitions
- Effective communication of the change is essential
Key Differences in Branding Before and After Name Change
| Aspect | Chris Steak House | Ruth’s Chris Steak House |
| Name Recognition | Local and regional | National and international |
| Brand Identity | Traditional steakhouse | Premium, upscale dining |
| Ownership | Founder Chris Matulich | Ruth Fertel and successors |
| Business Growth | Limited to New Orleans | Expanded globally |
Reflecting on the story of Ruth’s Chris, it’s clear that a name carries weight far beyond words. The journey from Chris Steak House to Ruth’s Chris encapsulates themes of resilience, identity, and innovation.
The legacy of Ruth Fertel and the original Chris Steak House founder live on in every sizzling plate served today.
For those fascinated by the power of names and their histories, exploring stories like How Did Phoenix Get Its Name? Uncover the Fascinating Story offers equally compelling insights.
Names are more than labels—they are narratives that connect us to places, people, and ideas.
