Think carefully before grabbing a baseball cap for dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. The restaurant’s owner, Darden Restaurants, is tightening the dress code. They want diners to dress nicely, which includes a ban on hats at the table.
Darden operates over 162 locations worldwide and emphasizes a “business casual” vibe. If you’re spotted wearing a hat, you may be asked to either take it off or move to the bar.
Hats aren’t the only issue. The restaurant also disapproves of gym clothes, pool attire, tank tops, and anything with offensive graphics or language. Revealing outfits and exposed undergarments are also on the blacklist.
Interestingly, another of Darden’s eateries, The Capital Grille, doesn’t have a hat ban. However, it still maintains a refined atmosphere, prohibiting athletic shorts, sports bras, and any clothing that’s too revealing.
This dress code shift comes during a time of growth for Darden, which manages more than 2,100 restaurants and employs around 200,000 people. While Ruth’s Chris focuses on a formal dining experience, Olive Garden is trying something different. They recently introduced a “Lighter Portions” menu that offers smaller, more affordable dishes for around $12.99 to $13.99. This menu is popular among customers, with increased perceptions of affordability leading to more repeat visits.
CEO Rick Cardenas shared that diners who order from this new menu feel it offers better value. He noted a double-digit rise in positive views about affordability among these guests.
In a world where dining experiences can vary widely, Darden’s modern adjustments reflect changing consumer expectations. So, if you’re planning a visit to Ruth’s Chris, remember: formal attire is the name of the game. Leave the cap at home.
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