How To Use Texas Roadhouse's Call-Ahead Reservation System

If it's true that everything is bigger in Texas, Texas Roadhouse fully exemplifies the state's "bigger is better" philosophy. One glance at this steakhouse's expansive menu illustrates that patrons must come hungry (or be prepared to take home several boxes full of leftovers). Along with the great selection, the chain also stands out when it comes to quality. Considering that each Texas Roadhouse location features its very own butcher, and insists on having its bread rolls prepared fresh, Texas Roadhouse lives by its mantra.

Based on these high standards, it's easy to see why Texas Roadhouse is such a popular establishment among diners. In fact, the chain is so popular that extended wait times for tables are pretty common. While it can depend on the time and day you visit — as weekends and evenings tend to be busiest at the restaurant — wait times of 30 to 45 minutes are pretty standard.

In some cases, patrons find themselves waiting an hour or more, which is no doubt frustrating when all you want to do is fill your face with steak and appetizers. Fortunately, Texas Roadhouse understands this frustration, which is why the steakhouse chain offers a call-ahead option to make wait times a little more manageable.

At many restaurants, guests can call ahead to reserve a table. While Texas Roadhouse doesn't accept reservations in the traditional sense, the chain does offer an innovative way to cut back on the wait when you have a hankering for steak. If you're on your way to the restaurant, you can call ahead and request to be placed on a waitlist. Simply provide your name and the number of guests in your party, and the host will make note of it.

You can also head to the Texas Roadhouse website and join the waitlist for your preferred location online. The online form will ask for your first and last name, email address, phone number, and the size of your party. You can even specify that you need special accommodation, such as a highchair or wheelchair access. 

Keep in mind that parties larger than six require you to call the restaurant directly to ensure they have enough room for your group. Now that you've decreased your wait time, you can enjoy a variety of tasty menu items at a much faster pace.

Among the many other steaks on offer at Texas Roadhouse, the bone-in ribeye is the perfect choice for diners with appetites the size of Texas. The 20-ounce steak, cooked to perfection and seasoned just right, comes with the option of two sides. In addition to selections like healthy salads and sautéed onions, you can really make a feast of the meal by ordering the iconic baked potato. Along with butter, you can also have your potato adorned with sour cream and crunchy bacon bits.

Of course, no steakhouse excursion would be complete without a delicious appetizer. In this case, you can't go wrong with the Cactus Blossom. Perhaps the best thing about this fried onion is the batter that covers it, which consists of flour, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and other tasty ingredients. The Cactus Blossom is also served with a special dipping sauce featuring mayonnaise, horseradish, chili sauce, and sour cream. 

As well, if you're looking for something a little healthier, take heart. Texas Roadhouse also offers grilled shrimp and chicken, which don't skimp on the flavor, even though they're much lighter when it comes to calories.