You’re staring at your closet, wondering if those dark-wash jeans are going to get you a side-eye from the hostess or, worse, a seat right next to the kitchen door. We’ve all been there. You want the sizzling butter and that 500-degree plate, but you don’t necessarily want to dust off the three-piece suit you haven’t worn since your cousin’s wedding in 2022.
So, is there a dress code at Ruth's Chris? Honestly, it’s not as stuffy as you might think, but there are some "hard nos" that could genuinely ruin your night if you show up unprepared.
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Ruth’s Chris Steak House officially lists their vibe as Business Casual. But in 2026, "business casual" is a moving target. To some, it’s a blazer and loafers; to others, it’s a polo and "the nice sneakers." Let’s break down what actually happens when you walk through those heavy front doors.
The Official Rulebook (And the Loopholes)
The restaurant is pretty clear on the basics. They want to keep a certain atmosphere—think dim lighting, white tablecloths, and the sound of serious people making serious deals. Because of that, they do have a list of forbidden items for the main dining room.
If you’re planning on sitting in the dining room, leave these in the car:
- Gym wear and sweatpants. Basically, if you could run a 5K in it, don't wear it to eat a Ribeye.
- Tank tops. This mostly applies to the guys. Keep the shoulders covered.
- Exposed undergarments. If your boxers or bra straps are the star of the show, they’ll probably ask you to adjust.
- Offensive graphics. Anything with vulgar language or "edgy" imagery is a quick way to get turned away.
- Cut-off shorts. Traditional hemmed shorts are often okay in the summer, but the "Daisy Duke" look is a no-go.
The Great Hat Debate
This is the one that trips people up the most. Ruth’s Chris has a thing about hats. If you’re wearing a ball cap, a beanie, or even a Stetson, the host is almost certainly going to ask you to remove it before you’re seated in the dining room.
But here’s the kicker: if you absolutely refuse to part with your lucky Raiders cap, they won't kick you out into the street. They’ll usually offer you a seat in the bar or lounge area. The bar is the "wild west" of Ruth's Chris. You’ll see jerseys, hats, and much more casual attire there.
Can You Wear Jeans to Ruth's Chris?
Short answer: Yes. Longer answer: Make them "nice" jeans. You’ll see plenty of guys in dark denim, a button-down shirt, and leather boots or dress shoes. It’s a classic look that fits the room perfectly. What you want to avoid are the jeans with massive holes, frayed hems, or the ones you used for gardening last weekend.
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Honestly, the "jeans and a blazer" combo is basically the unofficial uniform of the Ruth’s Chris regular. It says, "I have money for a $70 steak, but I’m also here to relax."
Style Tips for Women
For the ladies, the spectrum is huge. You’ll see everything from full-on cocktail dresses (especially on Friday and Saturday nights) to simple leggings paired with a long, high-end sweater and boots.
- Safe bets: A jumpsuit, a midi skirt, or even tailored trousers with a nice blouse.
- The "Discovery" Factor: If you’re heading there for a date, leaning slightly more toward "Smart Casual" is the move. Think "polished" rather than "corporate."
One thing to keep in mind is the temperature. These steakhouses are notorious for cranking the AC to offset the heat from those sizzling plates. Even if it’s 90 degrees outside, bring a shawl or a light jacket. You'll thank me when you aren't shivering over your lobster tail.
Regional Vibes Matter
Ruth’s Chris has over 150 locations, and the "strictness" of the dress code definitely shifts depending on where you are.
If you’re at the Ruth’s Chris in New Orleans (the mothership), you might see a more eclectic mix. People there treat dining like an event. However, if you’re at a location in a beach town or a suburban shopping center, the staff is usually a lot more relaxed about polo shirts and loafers.
That said, if you’re heading to a high-profile spot like Manhattan or Beverly Hills, people tend to dress up a bit more. You won't be kicked out for being "too casual" as long as you follow the basic rules, but you might feel a little underdressed if everyone else is in suits.
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The "Vibe" Check: Why Do They Even Care?
Look, Ruth’s Chris isn't trying to be elitist. They’re protecting an investment. When someone spends $200 on a dinner for two, they’re paying for the environment just as much as the USDA Prime beef.
If the person at the next table is wearing a "Suns Out, Guns Out" tank top and a backwards hat, it kind of breaks the magic of the "sizzling steak" experience. Most of the staff just wants to ensure that the dining room stays family-friendly and professional.
What to Do if You’re Underdressed
Maybe you’re on a road trip and didn’t pack a collared shirt. Maybe you’re just really into your hoodie today.
- Ask for the bar. Most Ruth’s Chris locations have a gorgeous bar area with full menu service. It’s often more fun anyway—quicker service and a livelier atmosphere.
- Call ahead. If you’re worried about your shoes or your shirt, just call the hostess. They deal with this ten times a day. "Hey, I’m coming in with a group but I’m in clean sneakers, is that cool?" They’ll give you the straight answer for that specific location.
- Layer up. If you have a jacket in the car, throw it on over your T-shirt. A blazer hides a multitude of "casual" sins.
Your Pre-Dinner Checklist
Before you head out, do a quick mirror check. If you can answer "no" to these three questions, you’re golden for a night at Ruth's Chris:
- Are there any holes in my clothes that weren't put there by a designer?
- Is my shirt sleeveless (and I'm a man)?
- Does my clothing have a word on it that would make my grandmother blush?
If you’re clear on those, go enjoy that steak. Grab a side of the creamed spinach while you're at it—it’s legendary for a reason.
Next Step: Check your specific location's website or Google Maps photos. The "Photos" section on Google is a goldmine for seeing what real people are wearing at that exact branch so you can match the local vibe perfectly.