15 Ordering Mistakes Everybody Makes At Texas Roadhouse

Texas Roadhouse—with its mouthwatering steaks, irresistible rolls, and lively, boot-scootin’ vibe—has earned its place as a favorite stop for hungry folks across America.

But even the most seasoned regulars can fall into a few ordering traps. Trust me, I’ve been there: skipping the sleeper-hit appetizers, underestimating the portion sizes, or filling up on those free peanuts (they will sneak up on you).

And don’t even get me started on missing out on those perfectly seasoned sides. Whether you’re a first-timer or a die-hard fan, there’s always room to level up your order. So grab a napkin—we’re diving into the most common Texas Roadhouse menu mistakes and how to eat like a pro!

1. Skipping the Legendary Rolls

Fresh-baked heaven arrives at your table within minutes of sitting down. Many first-timers don’t realize these fluffy, warm cinnamon-butter slathered delights are complimentary and unlimited!

I once embarrassingly tried to order them as a side dish. The server just smiled and brought another basket. These rolls are practically their own food group at Texas Roadhouse.

Pro tip: Don’t fill up exclusively on rolls before your meal arrives. Though tempting, pace yourself – or ask for a few to take home for tomorrow’s breakfast. They reheat surprisingly well in the toaster oven.

2. Overlooking the Early Dine Menu

Wallet-friendly feasts await those who plan their visit strategically! The Early Dine menu offers smaller portions of their popular entrées at reduced prices, but only Monday through Thursday before 6 PM.

During my college days, this menu saved my budget countless times. You get the same quality food, just slightly smaller portions – which is plenty for most appetites.

Many customers walk right past this special menu section, assuming it’s only for seniors. Don’t make this mistake! Anyone can order from it, and it includes a side and those irresistible rolls, making it one of the best dining deals around.

3. Ignoring Steak Temperature Instructions

Steak perfection depends on clear communication! Texas Roadhouse takes doneness seriously, but many customers don’t specify their preference clearly, leading to disappointment when their meat arrives.

My brother once ordered his ribeye “kind of pink but not bloody” instead of simply saying “medium.” The confused server had to ask several follow-up questions. Texas Roadhouse actually displays a temperature guide right on their menu showing what each level looks like.

Know the basics: rare (cool red center), medium-rare (warm red center), medium (pink center), medium-well (slightly pink), and well-done (no pink). Your taste buds will thank you for being specific.

4. Missing Out on Free Peanuts

Crunchy, salty treasures await in those wooden barrels! Some newbies don’t realize they can grab peanuts anytime. I’ve watched confused first-timers stare longingly at others cracking shells while waiting for someone to bring them some.

During my first visit, I sat peanut-less for 20 minutes before my friend enlightened me. The self-serve peanut barrels are scattered throughout the restaurant for a reason – they’re yours for the taking!

Remember though, the shells go on the floor (yes, really – it’s tradition). Just be considerate about allergies and don’t go overboard before your meal. Nothing ruins a good steak like being stuffed with peanuts.

5. Ordering a Plain Baked Potato

Spud enthusiasts, listen up! The loaded baked potato at Texas Roadhouse isn’t just any side dish – it’s practically a meal itself. Yet countless diners opt for the plain version out of habit.

Last summer, I watched my aunt request “no toppings” on her potato. When she glimpsed my loaded version – a mountain of sour cream, cheese, bacon, and butter – her eyes widened with regret.

The beauty of their system is you can customize exactly what goes on top. Want cheese but no bacon? Just butter? Half the usual sour cream? Simply tell your server. They’re happy to accommodate, and there’s no upcharge for the fully loaded experience!

6. Forgetting to Specify Sides

Automatic default sides might not match your cravings! Most entrées come with two sides, but if you don’t specify, you’ll get their standard offerings. I learned this lesson when silently hoping for sweet potato and ending up with regular mashed.

Their side selection is impressive – from seasoned rice to fresh vegetables. My personal favorite is the sweet potato with marshmallows and caramel sauce, which transforms a simple side into a borderline dessert experience.

Some locations even offer seasonal sides not listed on the regular menu. Ask your server what’s available that day. Remember that certain premium sides like loaded sweet potatoes might carry a small upcharge, but they’re usually worth the extra dollar.

7. Not Customizing Your Steak

Flavor boosters await the savvy orderer! Many Texas Roadhouse regulars don’t realize steaks can be customized beyond just temperature. The mushroom and onion topping transformed my standard sirloin into something extraordinary last month.

Available additions include mushrooms, onions, cheese, and even shrimp. My brother-in-law swears by the “Oscar Style” – topped with shrimp, asparagus, and béarnaise sauce – which isn’t always on the menu but can be requested.

You can also request special seasonings or butter toppings. Some locations offer a blue cheese crust that melts perfectly over a hot steak. These upgrades usually cost a few dollars extra but elevate your meal from good to memorable.

8. Passing on the Specialty Margaritas

Frosty, tangy concoctions often get overlooked by beer drinkers! Their margaritas aren’t just an afterthought – they’re crafted with fresh ingredients and come in flavors beyond the standard lime.

During girls’ night last spring, I almost ordered my usual beer until spotting their Hurricane Margarita. That blue-raspberry swirled creation completely changed my Texas Roadhouse beverage game. Their Sangria Margarita offers a wine-meets-tequila experience that’s surprisingly sophisticated.

Many locations run margarita specials on certain weekdays. Some even offer flights so you can sample multiple flavors. If you’re driving, their virgin versions deliver the same flavor experience without the alcohol, something many customers don’t think to ask about.

9. Underestimating Appetizer Portions

Starter shock is real at this steakhouse! Their appetizers could feed a small village, yet I’ve witnessed countless tables order multiple starters plus full entrées, only to end up with enough leftovers to last a week.

The Tater Skins alone could satisfy two hungry adults as a meal. During my cousin’s birthday dinner, our table of four ordered three appetizers and barely touched our main courses.

If you’re dining with just one other person, consider sharing a single appetizer or skipping them entirely in favor of those free rolls. For larger groups, one appetizer per 3-4 people is usually plenty. The Rattlesnake Bites (jalapeño-cheese fritters) offer big flavor in a slightly more manageable portion.

10. Ordering Steak Well-Done

Flavor sacrifice happens at higher temperatures! While everyone has preferences, ordering premium cuts well-done might not showcase what makes Texas Roadhouse steaks special. Their meat quality deserves better treatment.

My dad stubbornly ordered well-done sirloins for years until a server gently suggested trying medium-well instead. The difference in juiciness and flavor converted him instantly. Texas Roadhouse ages and hand-cuts their steaks daily, investing considerable care into each piece.

If you’re concerned about food safety, know that modern beef standards make medium and medium-well temperatures perfectly safe. Of course, if well-done is truly your preference, that’s valid too – just consider trying their marinated options which retain moisture better at higher temperatures.

11. Missing the Call-Ahead Seating Option

Wait time wizardry exists but remains underutilized! Texas Roadhouse doesn’t take traditional reservations, leading many to endure lengthy waits, especially on weekends. Smart diners use their call-ahead seating system instead.

Last Valentine’s Day, I watched couples stand grumpily in the packed lobby while my date and I walked right in. We had called an hour before arriving to add our names to the wait list remotely.

Simply phone the restaurant before leaving home, and they’ll add you to the queue. You’ll still wait the same amount of time overall, but you can do most of that waiting at home rather than standing in a crowded entrance. Just be sure to arrive within the timeframe they give you, or you might lose your spot.

12. Ignoring the Lunch Menu

Midday meal deals fly under the radar! Texas Roadhouse offers lunch combos and specials that can save you significant money, but they’re only available until 4 PM on weekdays. Many customers don’t even realize a lunch menu exists.

During a work lunch last month, I ordered a 6 oz. sirloin lunch special with two sides for nearly half the dinner price. My colleague paid almost double for essentially the same meal from the dinner menu because she didn’t flip to the lunch section.

The portions are slightly smaller than dinner sizes, but still plenty filling. You’ll find simplified versions of their popular entrées, quick combos, and hearty sandwiches. Perfect for getting your Texas Roadhouse fix without the evening prices or portion sizes that guarantee a food coma.

13. Skipping the Made-From-Scratch Sides

Generic side selection squanders prime eating opportunities! While fries are fine, they don’t showcase what makes Texas Roadhouse special. Their scratch-made sides deserve the spotlight they rarely get from habitual orderers.

The seasoned rice pilaf completely changed my side dish hierarchy when I tried it on a whim. Their homemade applesauce contains cinnamon chunks that remind me of my grandmother’s recipe, yet most tables around me stick to standard potatoes.

Green beans aren’t usually exciting, but theirs are simmered with bacon and onions. Even their house salad comes with freshly made croutons. Ask your server which sides are made in-house daily – these rotating specialties often include seasonal vegetables or regional favorites that demonstrate the kitchen’s true capabilities.

14. Forgetting to Save Room for Dessert

Sweet finale FOMO strikes many overstuffed diners! Their dessert menu isn’t extensive, but what they do offer deserves attention. The Big Ol’ Brownie could satisfy four normal appetites, yet many never experience it.

After my first Texas Roadhouse meal, I waved off dessert, completely stuffed from steak and sides. As we left, I spotted a mountainous brownie passing by, crowned with ice cream and dripping with chocolate sauce. My dessert regret was immense.

Consider sharing an entrée or taking half home to ensure dessert capacity. Their Granny’s Apple Classic with cinnamon apples and vanilla ice cream tastes like state fair prize-winning pie. The desserts aren’t fancy or pretentious – just well-executed comfort sweets that perfectly cap off their hearty meals.

15. Not Ordering Ribs on Monday

Weekly specials knowledge separates rookies from regulars! Monday is unofficially “Rib Day” at many Texas Roadhouse locations, with discounted prices on their fall-off-the-bone beauties. Yet most Monday diners stick to standard steak orders.

I stumbled upon this deal accidentally last summer. My server mentioned the Monday special as I was about to order my usual sirloin. The full rack of ribs was several dollars cheaper than normal, and absolutely delicious.

Different locations run various weekday specials – some offer discounted chicken on Wednesdays or early-week steak deals. These aren’t always advertised prominently. Always ask “Any specials today?” when seated. These rotating deals can save you money while introducing you to menu items you might not typically consider.