Review: Back to Ringside Steakhouse

Ringside-seakhouse-table

In the early 90's, I had my first dinner at Ringside, yet I remember the night like it was yesterday. It was a cool, crisp winter evening. I wanted to impress a date, and knowing nothing about the Portland food scene, was told it would be a safe bet. … [Read more...]

52 Fords, Fallout Shelters and the Steakhouse Review Summary

steak

Note: Prices for all steakhouses and the scores reflecting the revamped Ringside Steakhouse were updated in August 2011. There are times I just can't help myself. I could just write a boring summary of the steakhouse project, even inserted some … [Read more...]

Review: Morton’s The Steakhouse

mortons

I hadn’t been to Morton’s in at least eight years when I pulled up to the valet a few weeks ago. The last time my experience had been pretty good. On this warm Thursday evening, I was expecting a meal that would be close to the quality of El … [Read more...]

Review: El Gaucho

Private Dining Room

To many, El Gaucho epitomizes what a steakhouse should be. It feels sophisticated. The atmosphere is formal, the lighting dim and romantic, and lots of dark wood provides a backdrop to tinkling stemware and white linens. Live jazz wafts from the … [Read more...]

Review: Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse

meat

Ruth’s Chris is the largest steakhouse chain in the United States. As such, it was the first major restaurant of that type to give the Portland institution Ringside Steakhouse any real competition. After it opened, I used to go now and then to … [Read more...]

The Steakhouse Showdown!

steak

A friend called me a few weeks ago. "My boss is coming into town, and I need to take him to a steakhouse. Which one is the best?" I paused and thought about it. I really had no idea. I've heard good things about several, but as a dedicated gourmand, … [Read more...]