12 Texas Roadhouse Menu Hacks You Absolutely Need To Know
I’ve been a Texas Roadhouse regular for years, and let me tell you, there’s more to this steakhouse than meets the eye.
Beyond those famous rolls and hand-cut steaks lies a world of secret menu options and ordering tricks that can transform your dining experience.
After countless visits (and maybe a few extra pounds gained), I’ve compiled these game-changing hacks that every Texas Roadhouse fan should know.
1. Take Home Those Heavenly Rolls
Last week, I discovered the ultimate leftover breakfast – Texas Roadhouse rolls with cinnamon butter. You can actually request a dozen of these warm, fluffy delights to-go!
Most servers will happily box them up for free or a minimal charge. The rolls stay surprisingly soft even the next day, especially if you warm them for 10 seconds in the microwave.
My family fights over these rolls like they’re made of gold. Pro tip: ask for extra cinnamon butter too – that sweet, creamy spread is practically worth its weight in diamonds.
2. Level Up Your Potato Game
Potatoes transformed my Texas Roadhouse experience completely. The restaurant’s little-known secret? You can upgrade any regular potato side to the loaded version without paying extra!
Simply mention this hack when ordering, and your plain spud gets decked out with melty cheese, crispy bacon bits, and a dollop of sour cream. I accidentally discovered this when chatting with my server about potato preferences.
The loaded mashed potatoes are particularly life-changing – creamy potatoes topped with all those goodies creates a side dish that sometimes outshines my main course!
3. Adults Can Order Kid Meals Too
My wallet thanks me every time I use this hack! Texas Roadhouse kids’ meals are surprisingly generous and perfect when I’m not starving but still want that signature flavor.
While dining in, there might be age restrictions, but for takeout orders, nobody’s checking IDs. These mini-meals come with quality protein, sides, and even a roll with that heavenly cinnamon butter.
Yesterday I grabbed a kids’ sirloin to-go for lunch, and it was the perfect portion. The best part? I saved almost $10 compared to an adult entrée while still enjoying that famous Texas Roadhouse taste.
4. Half-Rack Attack Saves Cash
Rib lovers rejoice! I nearly fell off my chair when my server told me this secret. Texas Roadhouse will serve half-portions of their fall-off-the-bone ribs even though they’re not listed on the regular menu.
Just ask for a half-slab instead of the full dinner. You’ll still get that smoky, tender meat with your choice of sides, but at a more wallet-friendly price point.
My stomach can’t always handle a full rack anyway, and I hate wasting food. This hack gives me the perfect portion while saving around $5-7, depending on location.
5. Create Your Own Surf & Turf
My birthday dinner revelation changed everything! You can add a skewer of succulent grilled shrimp to ANY entrée for just a few extra dollars.
This DIY surf-and-turf approach lets you enjoy seafood without committing to a full seafood dish. The shrimp are perfectly seasoned, grilled just right, and complement everything from filet mignon to chicken critters.
For someone who constantly battles food indecision like me, this hack is pure genius. I now get my protein fix and satisfy my seafood craving in one meal without breaking the bank on a premium combination plate.
6. Skip the Wait with One Phone Call
Friday nights at Texas Roadhouse used to mean an hour-long wait until I learned this game-changer. Their call-ahead seating system lets you add your name to the waiting list before you even leave home!
Unlike formal reservations, this doesn’t guarantee an exact time, but it dramatically cuts your wait. My family’s record was walking straight to our table on a packed Saturday night after calling 45 minutes earlier.
The hostess simply takes your name and party size over the phone. Just remember to check in at the hostess stand when you arrive so they know you’re present.
7. Early Bird Specials Save Serious Dough
My wallet does a happy dance whenever I take advantage of the Early Dine special. Monday through Thursday before 6 p.m., Texas Roadhouse offers select entrées at significantly discounted prices – often under $11!
These aren’t skimpy portions either. You get full-sized entrées like sirloin steak, grilled chicken, or country fried chicken, complete with two sides and those amazing rolls.
Last month, I treated my parents to dinner and saved nearly $20 compared to our usual bill. For families or anyone on a budget, this hack transforms an occasional splurge into an affordable weeknight dinner option.
8. Pittsburgh Style: The Secret Steak Preparation
Steak enthusiasts, prepare to have your minds blown! Requesting your steak “Pittsburgh Style” unlocks a preparation method that isn’t on any menu.
This technique creates a heavily charred, almost blackened exterior while maintaining a rare, juicy center. The contrast between the crusty outside and tender inside creates a flavor explosion that’s unlike any standard preparation.
I discovered this hack from an old-timer at the bar who’d been ordering his ribeyes this way for years. Not every cook knows this method, but most Texas Roadhouse chefs will happily accommodate when you specify Pittsburgh Style.
9. The Legendary Roadkill Plate Stretches Your Dollar
Don’t let the name fool you! The “Roadkill” is actually a chopped steak smothered with mushrooms, onions, and melted cheese – and it’s one of the tastiest bargains on the menu.
My college roommate and I would split this hefty plate, adding a side salad and a loaded potato. The combination fed both of us for under $20 total, which was miraculous for our student budgets.
The savory flavors of this dish rival much pricier options. Plus, that blanket of sautéed mushrooms and onions with gooey cheese makes this humble chopped steak feel like a gourmet experience.
10. Double Salad Strategy for Healthier Dining
Green-loving friends, I’ve found your Texas Roadhouse solution! Most people don’t realize you can substitute both standard sides for salads without paying extra.
This hack transformed my dining experience after my doctor suggested cutting back on carbs. Now I enjoy my protein with double the vegetables, making my meal significantly healthier while still getting that steakhouse satisfaction.
The house salad comes with fresh greens, tomatoes, eggs, and croutons. Ask for dressing on the side to control calories even further. This simple switch keeps me from feeling stuffed and sluggish after my Texas Roadhouse visits.
11. Free Peanuts Make Perfect Road Snacks
My road trip game changed forever when a friendly server let me in on this gem. Those complimentary peanuts aren’t just for munching while you wait for your table!
Texas Roadhouse will happily provide a to-go bag of peanuts if you ask on your way out. I grab some every time I visit before a long drive – they’re the perfect protein-packed snack that keeps me alert on the highway.
The servers usually fill a small paper bag with enough peanuts to last several hours. Just remember to bring a spare empty cup for the shells unless you want your car looking like the restaurant floor!
12. Military Members Score Special Savings
My brother-in-law, an Army veteran, introduced me to this money-saving hack. Many Texas Roadhouse locations offer special discounts to active-duty military personnel and veterans.
The discount varies by location – sometimes it’s 10% off, other times it’s special menu pricing. Some restaurants even host dedicated Military Mondays with exclusive deals.
Always call ahead to confirm what your local restaurant offers. Military ID is typically required, and the deals are especially generous around Veterans Day and Memorial Day. It’s the restaurant’s way of saying “thank you for your service” while helping military families stretch their dining dollars.