The Daily Feed

Ray’s The Steaks at East River Opens March 1

Photo courtesy of
‘Ray’s Hell Burger’
courtesy of ‘roboppy’

Michael Landrum is nothing if not controversial. In the kitchen, he’s a tour de force, as a manager, he’d make Gordon Ramsey weep. But, his restaurant empire continues to grow, and so do his revenues. Landrum’s latest is Ray’s the Steaks at East River in Northeast, which opens March 1, and adds 45 new local jobs to the District. This is Landrum’s first foray into the District as owner, with two restaurants in Virginia and one in Silver Spring, and he’s got plans for a couple more Virginia eateries before 2010 is done.

Say what you like about the man (and there’s plenty of criticism that would be perfectly legitimate), his success is good for DC’s palate.

Ray’s: The Steaks at East River
3905 Dix St. NE,
Washington, DC 20019

Essential DC, Food and Drink, News, The Daily Feed

Ray’s the Steaks at East River Asks for Liquor License

Photo courtesy of
‘Ray’s Hell Burger’
courtesy of ‘roboppy’

DC Public records show that restaurateur Michael Landrum has officially applied for an Alcohol License for Ray’s the Steaks at East River. The license says Ray’s the Steaks at East River will be, “New high quality and full-service community and family oriented restaurant serving grilled steaks and traditional entrees. Occupancy Load is 85 and Sidewalk Café with 40 seats.” An indicative move on the part of Landrum who has been attempting to open the restaurant for a while now, and has had to push back opening East River since the original prediction of April 2008.

Located in East River, many believe East River to be a bold move on Landrum’s part, especially since Ward 7 is severely lacking in sit-down options. The only option now for sit-down in Ward 7 is a Denny’s. The location is cited as right off of Benning Road at Dix Street, at what looks to be easy walking distance from the Minnesota Avenue Metro Station.

Landrum has been quoted in the past as saying, “The more I looked into the neighborhood, the more I talked to people, the more excited I have gotten about the great prospect and hope there.” We Love DC author Shannon has reported on East River in the past as being the next big redevelopment location in DC, and a Ray’s the Steaks is a great way to start.