This morning, Prince of Petworth reported a rumor that a Ray's Hell Burger would be opening in the City Vista development at the intersection of 5th and K Streets NW. DCist checked in with Ray's owner Michael Landrum this morning, who merely said that the report was "premature." He told us that the process for opening a restaurant can be a years-long one, and that sometimes the public expectation for a quick opening makes things even more complicated. more ›

Ray's the Steaks at East River opened its doors in Ward 7 to much fanfare earlier this month. Part of Michael Landrum's local Ray's brand, the new location has quickly taken on the weight of being more than just a restaurant. Race, socioeconomics, neighborhood revitalization, jobs, unemployment, and access are among the weighty themes woven into the fabric of discussion of the nascent restaurant. more ›

Update: Washington City Paper's Tim Carman followed up with Ray's Owner Michael Landrum, who told Carman that there are no plans to open a Hell Burger in Adams Morgan. He chalks up the chatter to his business relationship with property owner Wilma Roumel, who he is assisting with modernizing the space. However, he is not ruling out a location there in the future. more ›

In Arlington, Michael Landrum continues to build on his bovine consumption empire (Ray's the Steaks, Ray's the Classics) with tonight's opening of Ray's Hell-Burgers. Although the shop's official name is Ray's Butcher Burgers, the "hell" is more appropriate with their 10 oz., char-grilled, prime beef burger. A bevy of toppings are available, too, including: sauteed mushrooms, grilled red onions, sauteed peppers, charred jalapenos, beefsteak tomatoes, roasted garlic, and dill or bread and butter pickle chips. Specialty cheeses will also be available. (Stinky epoisse!) more ›

Fried Chicken Frenzy Returns Fried chicken fanatics have something to get excited about. Both Colorado Kitchen and Ray's the Classics have restored their famous versions of the dish. Everyone lamented when Gillian Clark pulled her chicken from the menu a few years ago. But now, she is hosting burgers and fried chicken nights on December 11 and January 8 (the second Tuesday of the month). Apparently her chicken is so good that she told... more ›

First of all, this is another suburban restaurant review, so let’s just get that out of the way. Second, yes, we went to the steakhouse and got the chicken. Third, this is a time of upheaval for Ray's the Classics, so we can’t make any promises. Executive chef Michael Hartzer left after New Year's Eve to do his own thing (though we presume that, of course, had absolutely nothing to do with much beloved owner Michael Landrum). We also read about an unfortunate staff walkout the day after we dined there. Hmm. more ›

It appears as if the rumors are true. Months of speculation, faux closings, and exasperation are near their end. Ray's the Steaks is looking for staff to fill the positions at the new (and presumably more congenial) location in Silver Spring dubbed "Ray's the Classics." No joke! Our friend Craig told us. more ›

Let us tell you, it's a real pain to be popular. You'd be amazed at how many propositions we get from attractive suitors and the sheer number of Vicky Seeks panties thrown at us on a daily basis. Just look at our comment section: an unmitigated outpouring of love and adoration. We take solace that we're not alone in our suffering, however. Ray's the Steaks in Clarendon Rosslyn has the same affliction. The similarities end... more ›