Wilmington’s Ruth’s Chris Steak House is on the move later this month.
 
The restaurant’s opening on the third floor of the River Place building in downtown Wilmington is slated for Jan. 24.
 
The relocation to the mixed-use building on Grace Street is close to its previous location inside Hotel Ballast, a spot the restaurant has operated from for more than a decade.
 
“We are very excited about this move. It’s going to allow our customers a new experience, easier access and beautiful views,” said Steve De Castro, owner of Ruth’s Chris’ Wilmington location.
 
He said the new location features views of the Cape Fear River as a new pergola and outdoor firepits. At 7,016 square feet for inside dining, the restaurant can seat 175 indoors and will include private areas that can hold 50 or 30 and 80 outdoors. Also new are temperature-controlled wine racks.
 
 “Our menu will not really change,” DeCastro pointed out. “Yes, we may offer some new appetizers and desserts at some point, but our menu items will stay the same and offer what makes this restaurant special already.”
 
To address downtown parking, the restaurant will offer valet parking.
 
DeCastro goes way back with Ruth’s Chris restaurant. Being with the company since 1985, he says he is proud of the food that is served and the services offered at his nine Ruth’s Chris operations. De Castro worked with the restaurant’s founder, Ruth Fertel. In 1965, Fertel purchased a small steakhouse in Louisiana and turned it into a business that today spans the globe.
 
“We are the largest brand of fine dining restaurants in the world,” DeCastro said. “We offer the best of beef and seafood, and the new restaurant is going to be absolutely gorgeous.”