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SatApr 27

National Prime Rib Day – April 27, 2024

This April 27, on National Prime Rib Day, we’re headed to our favorite steakhouse. Also known as “standing rib roast,” prime rib is a tender, flavorful cut of roast from the rib section of the steer – just one of the eight prime cuts of beef. While it can be traditionally paired with potatoes, stuffing, and vegetables to make a “Sunday Roast,” there are many unique flavors and recipes to cook up prime rib with. It’s a juicy celebration and one we’re all for.

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

1942
What Happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas

The first prime rib made its way to Las Vegas in 1942, at The Last Frontier restaurant for only $1.50!

1927
Formal Meat Standards

Though the US drew up new meat cutting standards in 1918, they were formalized in 1927.

1850s
A Cut Above

As meat butchering standards improved and more people were able to eat meat at home, prime rib became a very popular cut.

1820 - 1840
Foggy Origins

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

Are there any good deals on National Prime Rib Day?

Yes! Many restaurants, including BJ’s Restaurant, Harold Seltzer’s Steakhouse, Clyde’s Prime Rib Restaurant and Bar, and more offer fun specials on the favorite.

Are there other National meat-related days?

May 28 is National Hamburger Day, March 9 is National Meatball Day, and December 30 is National Bacon Day. Meat lovers, rejoice!

Where is National Prime Rib Day observed?

Throughout the United States. 

How to Celebrate National Prime Rib Day

  1. 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

  2. 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.

  3. 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

  1. 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.

  2. Satisfying Meal

    A 6oz prime rib is 42g protein, 0 carbs, 36g fat, and a whopping 500 calories overall!

  3. 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.

  4. 6 Ribs Long

    A standard prime rib cut is from the 6th through 12th ribs of the cow.

  5. 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

  1. 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!

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

National Prime Rib Day dates

YearDateDay
2024April 27Saturday
2025April 27Sunday
2026April 27Monday
2027April 27Tuesday
2028April 27Thursday

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