The Ringside Restaurant Re-opens With New Imperial Walk-In Coolers And Freezers

A special meat-aging cooler, a fresh produce cooler, and a standard walk-in cooler, all from Imperial Manufacturing, demonstrate The Ringside’s commitment to fine, fresh, dining.

After 67 years in the same downtown Portland, Oregon location, the Ringside Restaurant moved for a complete remodel. The same fine staff and fine dining are still there, the restaurant spent about a year operating some 20 blocks away from the original location while the remodel was handled.

The Ringside now looks almost the same as before the remodel, but with a lighter feel and entirely refreshed on all surfaces. The old fireplace stills appears ready to topple to one side and the open beams are still dark and moody. But the kitchen is expanded and entirely new; there is seating for 40 next to temperature controlled wine cases in the new Barrel Room; additional cellar space holds another 10,000 bottles of wine; and there are entirely new walk-in coolers and freezers match the refresh.

The meat cooler is carefully controlled to maintain a specific temperature so the meat is carefully aged. An air curtain activates when the meat cooler door is opened so that there is minimal change in temperature or inside air to interrupt or speed the aging. The fresh produce cooler keeps humidity at a level that enhances flavor in the vegetable and fruits, avoiding the drying possible in a standard walk-in cooler.

The new standard walk-in cooler now holds product that is better maintained in less humid air than required for produce, reducing the chance of spoilage. The new walk-in freezer is very small. Having the meat aging walk-in, and both a standard and a produce cooler, keeps the need for frozen items at a minimum, which further matches the Ringside Restaurant recognition for fine dining.

The Peterson family has given new life to this venerable restaurant, which began life in 1944. Their attention to detail and interest in excellence will help The Ringside spend another 67 years as a Portland favorite.

Contact your Imperial Manufacturing representative to find out how purpose-focused walk-in coolers can help you manage your product and maintain the excellence you deliver.

See photos of The Ringside Restaurant dining rooms at pdx.eater.com