Ray's The Steaks

"Ray’s the Steaks, an affordable and unfussy restaurant that gained a cult following in D.C., closed earlier this month after a 17-year run. Previous offshoots in Southeast and Silver Spring had closed or been sold years ago." - Gabe Hiatt

"One of the D.C. area’s most-loved hanger steaks will soon be hung out to dry. Ray’s the Steaks, the Arlington institution that gained a loyal following over the past two decades by cultivating a reputation as the workingman’s steakhouse, will shut down on June 15, Washingtonian reports. Over that time, Landrum courted customers who wanted straightforward steakhouse food free of mark-ups and sycophantic servers. Ray’s gained popularity for “butcher cuts” — like a $22 hanger steak — that promised to deliver flavor but sacrifice tenderness. Jumbo lump crab bisque full of sherry and a wedge salad with horseradish running amok in the blue cheese dressing were two other popular orders at the original Ray’s near Court House." - Gabe Hiatt

"It’s a wonder there’s room on any table for actual entrees given all the freebies Ray’s sends customers. The parade of goodies includes spiced cashews, olive oil-brushed foccacia, mashed potatoes, and creamed spinach. And no evening its complete with a few bites of the house “tiger butter” — striped squares of peanut butter fudge." - Tim Ebner