Valle's Steak House

Defunct American steakhouse chain

Valle's Steak House Logo

Valle's Steak House was a chain of restaurants that operated in the United States, primarily in the Northeast, from the 1930s until the early 1990s. Known for its large portions and family-friendly atmosphere, Valle's was a popular dining destination for many years.

History

Valle's Steak House was founded by Donald Valle in 1933 in Portland, Maine. The original restaurant was a small, family-run operation that quickly gained a reputation for its quality steaks and generous portions. As the business grew, Valle's expanded into a chain, opening locations throughout the Northeast.

Valle's Match Book Cover

By the 1960s, Valle's had become a well-known name in the restaurant industry, with locations in Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut, and other states. The chain was particularly famous for its "steak and lobster" dinners, which were offered at a competitive price.

Expansion and Popularity

During its peak, Valle's Steak House operated over 30 locations. The restaurants were known for their distinctive architecture, often featuring large dining rooms and a classic steakhouse ambiance. Valle's was a popular choice for family gatherings, business dinners, and special occasions.

Valle's Steak House in Portland, ME

The chain's success was largely due to its commitment to quality and customer service. Valle's sourced high-quality beef and seafood, and the menu offered a wide variety of options to cater to different tastes. The restaurants also featured a full bar and a selection of desserts.

Decline and Closure

Despite its popularity, Valle's Steak House began to face challenges in the 1980s. Increased competition from other restaurant chains, rising operational costs, and changing consumer preferences contributed to a decline in business. The chain struggled to adapt to the evolving market, and by the early 1990s, most locations had closed.

Valle's Steak House

The last Valle's Steak House closed in 1991, marking the end of an era for the once-thriving chain. Although the restaurants are no longer in operation, Valle's remains a fond memory for many who dined there.

Legacy

Valle's Steak House is remembered for its role in popularizing the steakhouse dining experience in the United States. The chain's emphasis on quality and value set a standard for other restaurants to follow. Many former employees and patrons recall Valle's as a place of camaraderie and celebration.

Kittery, Maine

Today, Valle's Steak House is often cited as an example of a successful family-run business that grew into a regional powerhouse. Its story is a testament to the impact that a single restaurant can have on a community and an industry.

Related pages

• Steakhouse
• List of defunct restaurants of the United States
• Portland, Maine