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RingSide Steakhouse reveals reopening date after months-long closure

Ringside Steakhouse Sets Reopening Date, Ushering in a New Era for Portland's Iconic Dining Landmark

Portland, Oregon – In a much-anticipated announcement that has food enthusiasts and loyal patrons buzzing with excitement, Ringside Steakhouse, the venerable institution that has defined fine dining in the Rose City for over eight decades, has revealed its official reopening date. After a prolonged closure prompted by a devastating fire in 2022, the beloved steakhouse is set to welcome guests back through its doors on October 15, 2023. This reopening marks not just a return to business as usual but a revitalized chapter for one of Portland's most storied culinary establishments, blending its rich heritage with modern enhancements designed to elevate the dining experience.

Founded in 1944 by boxer-turned-restaurateur Nat Schnabel, Ringside Steakhouse quickly became a cornerstone of Portland's dining scene. Its name, inspired by Schnabel's prizefighting days, evoked the raw energy of the ring while delivering a knockout punch of flavor through its prime cuts of beef and impeccable service. Over the years, the restaurant has hosted celebrities, politicians, and everyday Portlanders alike, earning a reputation for its dimly lit, clubby atmosphere adorned with boxing memorabilia and walls that whisper tales of bygone eras. From Frank Sinatra to local legends, Ringside has been more than a restaurant—it's a cultural touchstone, a place where deals were sealed over martinis and memories were forged over perfectly seared steaks.

The closure came as a shock to the community when a fire ravaged the Uptown location on West Burnside Street in early 2022. The blaze, which started in the kitchen, caused extensive damage to the interior, forcing the owners to shutter operations indefinitely. For months, speculation swirled about the fate of this iconic spot. Would it rise from the ashes, or would it join the ranks of Portland's lost culinary gems? The Peterson family, who have owned and operated Ringside since the 1970s, remained steadfast in their commitment to rebuild. "This isn't just a business for us; it's our family's legacy," said Craig Peterson, one of the current owners, in a recent interview. "We've poured our hearts into restoring Ringside while honoring what made it special in the first place."

The renovation process has been nothing short of meticulous, spanning over a year and involving a team of architects, designers, and craftsmen dedicated to preserving the steakhouse's timeless charm. The exterior, with its signature neon sign proclaiming "Ringside" in bold letters, has been faithfully restored, ensuring that passersby on Burnside will once again be greeted by that familiar glow. Inside, the layout retains its intimate booths and cozy corners, but with subtle updates to improve flow and accessibility. Dark wood paneling, leather banquettes, and vintage boxing posters have been refurbished or recreated, maintaining the old-school ambiance that transports diners back to the mid-20th century.

However, the rebirth of Ringside isn't about clinging solely to the past. The owners have introduced thoughtful modern touches to appeal to contemporary palates and sensibilities. Enhanced ventilation systems and energy-efficient lighting nod to sustainability efforts, aligning with Portland's eco-conscious ethos. The bar area has been expanded slightly to accommodate more guests for happy hours, featuring an updated cocktail menu that builds on classics like the perfect Manhattan while incorporating local spirits from distilleries such as House Spirits and Clear Creek. "We're excited to blend tradition with innovation," Peterson explained. "Our core remains the same—exceptional steaks and service—but we're adding elements that reflect how dining has evolved."

At the heart of Ringside's allure has always been its menu, and the reopening promises to deliver on that front with both familiar favorites and fresh twists. The star of the show, of course, is the steak selection. Sourced from premium suppliers like Painted Hills Natural Beef and Snake River Farms, the menu features dry-aged ribeyes, filets mignons, and porterhouses grilled to perfection over an open flame. Signature dishes such as the onion rings—crispy, golden towers that have been a menu staple since the beginning—will make their triumphant return, alongside classics like the Caesar salad prepared tableside and the creamy spinach au gratin. For those seeking something new, the kitchen team, led by Executive Chef Beau Carr, has introduced seasonal specials that highlight Oregon's bounty. Think pan-seared scallops with foraged mushrooms or a Wagyu beef tartare infused with truffle oil and local herbs.

Carr, who has been with Ringside for over a decade, emphasized the importance of quality ingredients in an era of farm-to-table dining. "We've always prided ourselves on sourcing the best, but now we're doubling down on partnerships with local farmers and producers," he said. "Expect dishes that celebrate the Pacific Northwest, like a grilled king salmon with hazelnut gremolata or a vegetarian mushroom risotto that even carnivores will love." The wine list, curated by sommelier Sarah Thompson, boasts an impressive collection of over 500 bottles, with a focus on Willamette Valley pinots and robust California cabs to pair with those hearty steaks. Dessert options remain indulgent, from the legendary crème brûlée to a new chocolate lava cake with house-made ice cream.

Beyond the food and ambiance, the reopening underscores Ringside's role in the broader Portland community. The steakhouse has long been a hub for charitable events, business gatherings, and family celebrations. During the closure, the Petersons kept the spirit alive through pop-up events and collaborations with other local eateries, but nothing compares to the real thing. "We've missed our regulars terribly," Peterson admitted. "Ringside is more than a place to eat; it's where people connect." The restaurant's return is expected to boost the local economy, creating jobs for servers, bartenders, and kitchen staff, many of whom are returning from the pre-fire team.

As the October 15 date approaches, anticipation is building. Reservations are already filling up fast via the restaurant's website and OpenTable, with special reopening events planned, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a prix-fixe menu showcasing the best of old and new. For those who can't snag a table right away, the adjacent Ringside Fish House, which remained open during the renovations, offers a taste of the brand's quality seafood offerings.

In a city known for its innovative food scene—from food carts to fusion eateries—Ringside Steakhouse stands as a testament to enduring classics. Its reopening isn't just about serving steaks; it's about reigniting a flame that has warmed Portland's heart for generations. As one longtime patron put it, "Ringside isn't coming back—it's evolving, and I can't wait to raise a glass to that." Whether you're a first-timer or a fixture at the bar, the revived Ringside promises an experience that's as timeless as it is tantalizing, proving that some legends only get better with time.

This announcement comes at a pivotal moment for Portland's restaurant industry, which has faced challenges from the pandemic, rising costs, and shifting consumer habits. Yet, establishments like Ringside demonstrate resilience and the power of tradition. The Petersons have invested significantly in the rebuild, estimated in the millions, but they view it as an investment in the community's fabric. "We're not just reopening a restaurant; we're reopening a piece of Portland's soul," Peterson said.

Looking ahead, the team has plans to expand their offerings, potentially including cooking classes, wine tastings, and even a line of branded merchandise like steak knives and rubs. There's talk of collaborating with local breweries for beer-pairing dinners, further embedding Ringside in the city's vibrant craft beverage scene. For now, though, the focus is on that first night back— the sizzle of steaks on the grill, the clink of glasses, and the warm hum of conversation filling the air.

In an age where dining trends come and go, Ringside Steakhouse's story is one of perseverance. From its boxing-ring roots to its phoenix-like rise from the fire, it embodies the spirit of Portland: innovative yet rooted in history. As the doors swing open on October 15, expect a celebration that honors the past while toasting to the future. If the aroma of charred beef and the promise of impeccable hospitality are any indication, Ringside is poised to reclaim its throne as the king of Portland steakhouses.

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[ https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/ringside-steakhouse-reveals-reopening-date-235000063.html ]