You know that feeling when you're driving down Prince Street and the smell of sizzling butter hits you before you even see the sign? That's basically the calling card for Ruth’s Chris Steak House Alexandria Virginia. It sits right in the heart of Old Town, tucked into that gorgeous, colonial-style brick architecture that makes this part of Northern Virginia feel like a time capsule. Honestly, if you’ve lived in the DMV for more than five minutes, you’ve probably had a celebratory dinner here or at least walked past it while dodging tourists on their way to the waterfront.
But here’s the thing. Old Town isn't exactly lacking in high-end dining. You’ve got Oak Steakhouse just up the road and Thompson Italian nearby. So, why does Ruth’s Chris stay packed? It’s not just the 500-degree plates, though those are definitely a vibe. It’s about the consistency. In a world where restaurants open and close faster than you can check your TikTok feed, there’s something weirdly comforting about knowing exactly how your filet is going to taste.
What the Locals Actually Order at Ruth’s Chris Steak House Alexandria Virginia
Most people walk in and go straight for the Ribeye. It’s the classic move. But if you want to eat like someone who actually spends their Friday nights in Old Town, you have to look at the chops. The Lamb Chops are underrated here. They’re served with fresh mint, and they have that same sizzling butter finish that makes the steaks famous.
The Alexandria location specifically has this refined, almost clubby atmosphere that feels a bit more intimate than the massive flagship spots you find in bigger cities. It feels like a neighborhood joint, albeit a very expensive one. The bar area is where the real magic happens. If you’re not looking to drop $200 on a full sit-down dinner, the "Sizzle, Swizzle, Swirl" happy hour is basically the best-kept secret in the city. You can get a Prime Burger or the Steak Sandwich for a fraction of the cost of a formal entree.
Let's talk about the potatoes for a second. The Potatoes Au Gratin are basically a religious experience. They use a mix of three cheeses and a cream sauce that is so thick it probably has its own zip code. It’s decadent. It’s heavy. It’s exactly what you want when you’re ignoring your fitness tracker for a night.
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The "Sizzling Plate" Science and Why It Matters
You've heard the sound. That aggressive hiss as the server walks toward your table. That isn't just for show. Ruth Fertel, the founder, actually patented the specialized broilers that they still use today. They cook the meat at roughly 1800 degrees Fahrenheit.
When that steak hits your table on a plate heated to 500 degrees, it’s finishing the cooking process right in front of you. This is why most regulars at Ruth’s Chris Steak House Alexandria Virginia will tell you to order your steak one temperature lower than you usually do. If you like a true Medium, ask for Medium-Rare. The residual heat on the plate will carry it over the finish line by the time you're halfway through the meal.
Navigating the Wine List Without Looking Lost
The wine cellar in the Alexandria branch is pretty impressive. They lean heavy on California Cabernets, which makes sense given the menu. If you’re looking for a specific recommendation that won’t break the bank but still holds up to a heavy New York Strip, look for the Stag's Leap or a solid Duckhorn. The sommeliers here are surprisingly chill. They don’t look down on you if you aren't an expert; they actually seem to enjoy helping you find something that fits your palate and your budget.
The Realities of Parking in Old Town
Let’s be real: parking in Alexandria is a nightmare. If you try to find a spot on the street on a Saturday night, you’re going to spend forty minutes circling the block and end up three miles away.
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Don’t do that.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House Alexandria Virginia offers valet, and honestly, it’s worth every penny. Just pull up to the front on Prince Street and let them handle it. It saves you the stress of parallel parking your SUV into a spot meant for a Vespa. Plus, it makes the whole experience feel a lot more "Old Town Elite," which is part of the fun of eating here anyway.
Private Dining and the Power Lunch Scene
Because this location is so close to D.C., you see a lot of "power lunches" happening. It’s a favorite for lobbyists and local business owners. They have private rooms that are named after local historical figures or landmarks, which adds to that Virginia charm. If you’re planning a rehearsal dinner or a corporate event, these rooms are great because they offer a level of privacy you just don't get in the main dining room. The acoustic design is actually decent too; you aren't shouting over the table next to you.
Common Misconceptions About the Menu
One thing people get wrong is thinking it’s only about the beef. The seafood is actually legit. The Chilean Sea Bass is cooked in a ginger ale reduction—sounds weird, tastes incredible. And the stuffed chicken breast? It’s filled with garlic herb cheese and topped with lemon butter. It’s the "I don't want steak tonight" hero of the menu.
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Also, the bread. People forget the bread. It’s warm, crusty, and served with whipped butter that actually spreads easily. Don't fill up on it, but definitely have a slice.
Making the Most of Your Visit
If you’re heading to Ruth’s Chris Steak House Alexandria Virginia, you need a strategy. This isn't a "fast casual" spot. You’re paying for the experience, so lean into it.
- Book early: Especially during the holidays or graduation season (looking at you, Marymount and Georgetown grads), this place fills up weeks in advance.
- Check the dress code: While they aren't going to kick you out for wearing nice jeans, most people here are in "business casual" or better. You'll feel more comfortable if you're slightly dressed up.
- The Side Dish Rule: The portions are massive. One side of creamed spinach or lobster mac and cheese is plenty for two or even three people. Don't over-order on the sides unless you want enough leftovers to feed a small army.
The real draw of this specific Alexandria location is the staff. Many of the servers have been there for years. They know the regulars by name and they know exactly how they like their martinis. That kind of institutional knowledge is rare in the hospitality industry these days, and it's a huge part of why the restaurant remains a staple of the Alexandria dining scene.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Visit
To ensure you have the best possible experience at the Alexandria location, start by securing a reservation via OpenTable at least 48 hours in advance, particularly for weekend slots between 6:30 PM and 8:30 PM. When you arrive, utilize the valet service on Prince Street to avoid the inevitable Old Town parking struggle. For the best value, arrive 30 minutes before your reservation to grab a drink at the bar during the "Sizzle, Swizzle, Swirl" window. When ordering your steak, remember the 500-degree plate rule: request one level of doneness below your usual preference to account for the carry-over cooking that happens at the table. If you're celebrating a specific milestone, mention it during the booking process; the staff is known for adding small, thoughtful touches like personalized table confetti or a complimentary dessert to mark the occasion.