Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse: Newest Jewel Shines Downtown

“We feel our team has outdone themselves delivering on our vision for an updated, one-of-a-kind gem that will leave guests feeling transported to a completely different place, but one that is still uniquely Cincinnati,” says Founder Jeff Ruby.
Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse: Newest Jewel Shines Downtown
Written by Lindsey Himmler
Photography provided by Ross Van Pelt, RVP Photography

Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment has been a cultural landmark in Cincinnati for over 41 years. Now the newest, most luxurious Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse is open downtown, next to Fountain Square in the newly converted Foundry.

The Foundry is a new mixed development by 3CDC, and Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse is the perfect fit as its premier restaurant.

The new restaurant was designed with an eye toward Art Deco opulence but with a Jeff Ruby’s touch. That means you’ll see plenty of nods toward Cincinnati, from menu callouts to private room themes.

Before you walk inside, a replica of the iconic Wall Street bull greets you. The seven-foot-tall sculpture is made of 2,000 pounds of solid bronze and sets the tone for an unforgettable evening.

Inside, the art deco vestibule resembles the luxury Pullman train from Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express.”

In the lobby, guests can visit the sushi bar, with seafood created by sushi chefs against a subway tile wall and white marble.

Inside, the ambiance is luxurious, with bold colors and rich textures. After stepping down into a 2,200-square foot lounge, you’ll spot the 25-foot-long  mural of Cincinnati’s skyline painted by  Frank Stanton in the style of Art Deco icon Tamara de Lempicka. Lempicka is the inspiration behind the name of Jeff  Ruby’s new event space opening this  summer at their former location on Walnut Street. 

On an elevated stage sits a magnificent Steinway Baby Grand piano from 1865 that is gold-plated bronze and Mother of Pearl. It’s the perfect setting for enjoying  live entertainment. Antique chandeliers and stained glass add a historic feel. 

In the main dining room, 1920s posters and antique mirrors fit the plush ruby red walls. If wine is on your menu, the twin glassed wine cellars display 4,000 bottles spanning over 50 feet.

It wouldn’t be a Jeff Ruby restaurant without private dining; you’ll find each room unique. The Legacy Room is a tribute to 17 notable Cincinnatians. The entire entry came from James Gamble’s 1865 home, and his portrait hangs on the mahogany wall along with his partner, William Procter. With room for 12, you’ll also be inspired to make your mark  on Cincinnati.

The Jeff Ruby Room seats 18 and was designed in honor of the man himself. The walls are made of actual cigar tobacco leaves and Marmorino plaster. The gold leaf ceiling shines  down on a lit onyx floor. The antique chandeliers are from the 1920s, and the room is full of  Ruby’s personal memorabilia. 

The Gatsby Room is perfect for you if you love the flapper era. Seating 48, it’s perfect for a private gathering and includes crystal chandeliers, velvet drapes and an 1885 antique Italian white Carrara marble mantel.  

If you’re looking for a room for 10, the Speakeasy room will quench your thirst. Bottles are stored behind industrial cages, and the walls are made from bourbon barrels! An antique wooden table is from 1890 and so is the  door.  

“We feel our team has outdone themselves delivering on our vision for an updated, one-of a-kind gem that will leave guests feeling trans ported to a completely different place, but one  that is still uniquely Cincinnati,” says Founder  Jeff Ruby. 

The Jeff Ruby experience is all about offering a one-of-a-kind fine dining performance. You’ll find the same attention to detail and  theatricality in its award-winning food as the  luxurious decor. From U.S.D.A. Prime steaks  to fresh seafood, there are plenty of classics and new favorites to enjoy.  

It all adds up to a dinner experience that’s unlike any other.

Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse is located at 505 Vine St., Cincinnati, Ohio 45202. You can make a reservation through the website jeffruby.com or call  513-784-1200.

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