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- Food & Beverage
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- CookingFood
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- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every April 27
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National Prime Rib Day celebrates the tender, succulent standing rib roast every April 27. This iconic cut, known for its rich flavor and impressive presentation, is a favorite for special occasions and gourmet meals. Join fellow foodies in a culinary tribute by visiting a steakhouse, trying a new recipe, or sharing your prime rib creations.
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History of National Prime Rib Day
Though we can’t say for sure where and how prime rib was first cooked up, we know that by the time of the Industrial Revolution, it was emerging in Australia, the United States, the UK, and Canada. Prime rib is a cut of the ribs of the cow, typically between the 6th and 12th rib, and is considered one of the most classic and delicious cuts of beef.
In the UK particularly, prime rib took off in the late 1800s as families made it the centerpiece of their “Sunday Roast.” This popular dinner practice put prime rib in the center of the dinner table, though it was more commonly known as “standing rib roast” due to the fact that it was cooked upright. Sunday Roast was commonly served up with mashed potatoes, stuffing, Yorkshire pudding, and vegetables. Today, this is still known as a very traditional way to prepare prime rib and is definitely well-loved by meat-eaters.
Some restaurants have dedicated their identity to the iconic cut of meat and are known worldwide for their mastery in cooking it. For example, the House of Prime Rib in San Francisco, CA ages their corn-fed beef for three weeks before cooking it. Peter Luger in New York City has been serving up delectable prime rib since 1887, and Taylor’s Steakhouse in Los Angeles is also well-known for its prime rib. Even some national chains, like Lawry’s Prime Rib, have achieved great fame for their culinary artistry with the meat cut!
Chances are, you’ve had prime rib at Christmas or during the holidays, on your birthday, or to celebrate some other anniversary or big event. Prime rib remains a traditional holiday and special event food, as it doesn’t come cheap these days and is one of the juiciest and most tender cuts of meat. Historically, people have always loved to treat themselves to the flavorful dish – whether it’s in the form of a Sunday Roast to bring the family together, a birthday celebration, or the showstopper of a Christmas feast!
National Prime Rib Day timeline
The first prime rib made its way to Las Vegas in 1942, at The Last Frontier restaurant for only $1.50!
Though the US drew up new meat cutting standards in 1918, they were formalized in 1927.
As meat butchering standards improved and more people were able to eat meat at home, prime rib became a very popular cut.
Though it is unclear how prime rib originated, it came into existence around the Industrial Revolution in the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the US.
National Prime Rib Day FAQs
When is National Prime Rib Day?
In 2027, National Prime Rib Day is celebrated on Tuesday, April 27. Mark your calendars for a mid-week culinary indulgence featuring the tender standing rib roast.
How popular is prime rib in the US?
The appeal of prime rib continues to be strong among American diners, who value its rich flavor and tender texture. Data from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association indicates that beef remains a staple, with prime rib often highlighted as a top choice for celebratory meals and gourmet dining experiences.
What is the difference between prime rib and ribeye?
The distinction between prime rib and ribeye lies primarily in their preparation and presentation. Prime rib, or standing rib roast, is usually a large, bone-in roast cooked whole, ideal for feeding a crowd and known for its succulent, slow-cooked tenderness. A ribeye is a steak cut from the same muscle, often boneless, and is prized for its marbling and rich flavor when cooked quickly over high heat.
Is prime rib actually 'prime' grade beef?
The ‘prime’ in ‘prime rib’ denotes its origin from the primal rib section of the animal, a term that predates the USDA grading system. Therefore, a prime rib can be any USDA grade—Prime, Choice, or Select—though the highest quality prime ribs are often from USDA Prime beef, known for its abundant marbling.
How to Celebrate National Prime Rib Day
Get cookin'
While some claim the superior prime rib roast can only come from a steakhouse, others know cooking at home can be just as tasty - and far more fun. Get creative with your seasonings or keep it traditional with sides of Yorkshire pudding, vegetables, mashed potatoes, and stuffing
Head to a steakhouse
Many national chain restaurants and local favorite run specials on prime rib on this very special day! Head out to your favorite steakhouse and order prime rib to celebrate.
Take to social media
When you’ve prepared that uniquely spectacular cut of meat at home and with your own recipe, you’re proud. It’s so beautiful you could cry. Post a picture on your foodie Instagram account and give a little love to the hashtag #PrimeRibDay!
5 Facts About Prime Ribs That Will Blow Your Mind
A Stand-Up Cut of Beef
Prime rib roast is also referred to as “standing roast” due to the fact that it is actually roasted upright.
Satisfying Meal
A 6oz prime rib is 42g protein, 0 carbs, 36g fat, and a whopping 500 calories overall!
Marbled Beauty
Much of the tenderness, juiciness, and flavor that makes the cut of meat so famous comes from the generous amount of marbled fat in the cut.
6 Ribs Long
A standard prime rib cut is from the 6th through 12th ribs of the cow.
Good Fat
If you’re buying prime rib, chefs will advise you to ask the butcher to leave the fat cap on the prime rib - it’s responsible for much of the flavor!
Why We Love National Prime Rib Day
It’s classic
Since its inception as the key component of Sunday Roast, prime rib has had a special place in every meat-lovers heart. One of the eight primal cuts of beef, its fattiness endows it with great flavor and juiciness. Additionally, the muscles around the ribs aren’t heavily used, which only adds to its tenderness and quality. There’s no question why it’s a well-loved classic!
It’s the perfect cut for a holiday or dinner party
A Holiday staple, a birthday request, an anniversary treat… prime rib can do it all. Plus, it can be a large enough cut to feed all the people at your holiday party or celebration! Since it’s naturally so juicy and tender, it’s sure to be a fan favorite no matter how it’s prepared.
It can be made in many different ways
Of course, the classic, no-fuss ways to cook up prime rib are always fantastic, but the cut of meat is so superior that it shines in a variety of flavors. You can give your prime rib a spice crust, pair it with horseradish cream, season with rosemary, or even make mini prime ribs with little Yorkshire puddings! Hunting around for a new recipe might lead you to a new favorite way to have prime rib.
