PORTLAND, OR – A beloved Portland institution is making its much-anticipated return. RingSide Steakhouse, the city’s oldest steakhouse, will reopen its doors on Monday, August 4, nearly four months after a kitchen fire forced the iconic restaurant to temporarily close.
The reopening will coincide with the restaurant’s popular weekly prime rib night, offering loyal patrons a familiar and comforting return to tradition.
Fire Forced Closure in April
The fire broke out on Saturday, April 5, originating from behind a stove in RingSide’s kitchen at 2165 W. Burnside Street. While firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze quickly, the combined impact of smoke, flames, and water caused significant damage, forcing the decades-old restaurant to shut its doors for repairs.
Despite the fire’s severity, co-owner Craig Peterson told The Oregonian in April that the restaurant’s main dining area, known for its dark wood finishes and signature red leather booths, remained largely unharmed. After damage assessments by mitigation experts, the team moved swiftly to begin restoration.
A Timeless Return
In a press release announcing the reopening, the restaurant assured guests that while behind-the-scenes repairs have taken place, the dining experience will remain as warm, familiar, and timeless as ever.
For many Portlanders, RingSide is more than just a steakhouse. It has served generations with its tuxedo-clad waiters, handcrafted cocktails at the sunken bar, and legendary onion rings — all set in an ambiance that feels frozen in time, in the best way possible.
Historical Legacy
Although it may not predate Portland legends like Huber’s, Jake’s Famous Crawfish, or Dan & Louis Oyster Bar, RingSide holds its own as one of the city’s oldest continually operating restaurants. Its history stretches back to the final years of World War II, and its charm has endured for nearly 80 years.
Locals have long praised the establishment for delivering not just fine cuts of beef and an impressive wine list, but a full dining experience rooted in consistency and care.
Fast Track to Reopening
Compared to similar incidents, RingSide’s return comes fairly quickly. For instance, Ox, an Argentine steakhouse in Northeast Portland, also bounced back in about three months after a fire. On the other hand, Fuller’s Coffee Shop downtown needed closer to nine months to reopen after suffering fire damage.
The relatively swift turnaround has been credited to early mitigation efforts, community support, and a dedicated team working behind the scenes to restore the venue to its former glory.
Looking Ahead
As the calendar flips to August, excitement is building among longtime patrons and Portland food lovers. The reopening of RingSide not only signals the return of a cherished dining experience but also underscores the resilience of one of the city’s culinary cornerstones.
Reservations are expected to fill quickly, especially for the reopening night. For Portlanders craving a classic cut of steak, a side of onion rings, and an evening of nostalgic charm — RingSide’s comeback is a welcome return.
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