In a city where food trends come and go, few restaurants can boast a legacy that spans generations. Yet RingSide Steakhouse, nestled in Portland’s Nob Hill neighborhood, has done just that. Since opening its doors in 1944, this family-owned institution has remained a beacon of old-school charm and culinary excellence. For more than 80 years, it has delivered the kind of steakhouse experience that could rival anything found in Texas.
A Legacy of Flavor
Housed in a distinctive brick building on West Burnside, RingSide has cultivated a reputation that blends tradition with refinement. Its longevity is no accident — the restaurant’s focus on quality, consistency, and service has made it a go-to for locals and visitors alike.
Many diners begin their evening with the house’s legendary onion rings, a signature appetizer that has become synonymous with the RingSide name. But the menu extends far beyond this iconic dish, offering inventive starters like tamarind-glazed pork belly with spiced carrot purée and miso-glazed octopus finished with coconut red curry and fried sweet potato. Seafood lovers gravitate toward the chili-lime Dungeness crab cakes, which strike a perfect balance of zest and crunch.
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The Star of the Show: Steak
Of course, the centerpiece of RingSide’s menu is the steak. Each cut — from the bone-in ribeye to the center-cut New York strip and the 8-ounce Prime filet mignon — is aged for a minimum of four weeks, ensuring robust flavor and tenderness.
On Mondays, the restaurant offers a special three-course prime rib dinner complete with horseradish and Yorkshire pudding, a nod to classic steakhouse tradition. Midweek diners can also enjoy a filet mignon with mashed potatoes during early and late dining hours, proving that excellence doesn’t have to be reserved for special occasions.
Beyond Beef
RingSide also celebrates the bounty of the Pacific Northwest with a menu that highlights local lamb, fresh seafood, and even crispy fried chicken. Sides are designed for sharing and often become stars in their own right. Favorites include the indulgent lobster mashed potatoes and the rich bourbon creamed corn with smoked garlic and pickled Fresno pepper.
Every dish is crafted with an attention to detail that turns a meal into an event, creating an experience that extends beyond the main course.
Service and Atmosphere
RingSide pairs its culinary prowess with a dining room steeped in vintage charm. Servers in tuxedos deliver attentive, polished service that elevates each visit, whether guests arrive for a milestone celebration or simply to enjoy a great steak.
The restaurant’s 10,000-bottle wine cellar is another cornerstone of its reputation. Curated with both international and regional selections, the list has earned Wine Spectator’s “Best of Award of Excellence” for over 20 consecutive years. From bold cabernets to Oregon pinots, the pairings ensure that every bite finds its perfect sip.
Recognition and Tradition
Over the decades, RingSide has earned national recognition, including honors from Distinguished Restaurants of North America. Yet despite its acclaim, the restaurant remains rooted in Portland’s identity — a place where locals feel just as welcome as out-of-town visitors.
The atmosphere strikes a rare balance of warmth and sophistication. With its vintage aesthetic, curated cocktails like the Three Dots and a Wink, and timeless menu, RingSide offers more than just a meal — it provides a sense of occasion.
Plan Your Visit
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Location: 2165 W. Burnside, Portland, Oregon
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Hours:
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Monday–Thursday: 4:30 p.m.–9 p.m.
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Friday: 4:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m.
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Saturday: 4 p.m.–9:30 p.m.
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Sunday: 4 p.m.–9 p.m.
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Reservations are recommended, and more details can be found on the RingSide Steakhouse website.
A Timeless Portland Classic
In an ever-evolving dining scene, RingSide Steakhouse stands as proof that tradition and quality never go out of style. With its perfectly aged steaks, inventive sides, polished service, and deep ties to the community, it remains a cornerstone of Portland’s culinary landscape.
For anyone seeking an experience that blends history, flavor, and a true sense of occasion, RingSide is the Oregon steakhouse that can proudly stand shoulder to shoulder with the best of Texas.
