I'm sure that, by now, many of you have made it out to Texas Roadhouse. The company just opened up a Findlay location this past month, and last night we dined there for the second time since they dipped their toes in the shark tank of restaurants that occupy our fair town. We had a fairly similar experience to the first time we went, which was approximately three weeks ago. Known for their "fun-filled atmosphere" and the quality of their food, they are a peanut-shell-on-the-floor, random-western-kitsch-on-the-walls, rootin', tootin' steakhouse. But, I digress.
First of all, if you don't already know, you should take advantage of their "Call-Ahead" seating system. Not a reservation, but simply putting your name in the wait-line ahead of time, it's a must; wait time for a Friday or Saturday night between 6pm and 8pm varies between 45 minutes and two hours...insane, isn't it? We have noticed both nights we were there, however, that by 8:15pm or 8:30pm the line had disappeared and people were able to get seated almost immediately. So, if you can stave off your hunger until later, you won't be forced to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with a mass of peanut-crunching strangers.
On the way to being seated, the hostess grabbed a fresh basket of hot dinner rolls for our table, which is a clever idea- it ensures customers get the freshest rolls possible and gives us something to munch on while we wait for our server to arrive. Already on the table were bread plates, rolled silverware (they use cloth napkins, by the way...fancy schmancy!) and a bucket of peanuts in-the-shell, presumably also to stave off our hunger while we wait for our food.
Our waitress was quick to arrive and take our drink order, which also arrived fairly quickly considering how packed the restaurant was. From what we could tell, there are a virtual army of waiters and waitresses on staff, and it also looks like management roams the floor helping out whenever and wherever they can lend a hand. All in all, the speed of service has been excellent on both visits; we'll have to see if they can keep it up!
Our first course was their "Baby Blossom," the smaller version of their "Cactus Blossom." Basically, it is a floral-cut onion, batter dipped and deep fried. While we found the cajun-horseradish sauce they serve with it a bit spicy, the onion is definitely crispier and tastier than Outback's "Bloomin' Onion." Also, coming in at only $3.99 for the Baby Blossom, it's the perfect appetizer for two. We were just able to finish it before the waitress arrived with the next course.
She delivered our salads, which were an elective selection with our entrees. We also ordered the enormous House Salads on our last visit, and enjoyed them thoroughly. Consisting of fresh iceberg lettuce, tomato, eggs, and homemade croutons, Texas Roadhouse's salads are far heartier than most. On this trip, we actually decided to save ours for brunch today (in fact, it is what I just had before writing this) to save room for the main course. And what else would that be, at a real Texas steakhouse, but delicious steak?
We both ordered the 10-ounce "Fort Worth Ribeye," which is actually the smallest size they offer. Also available in 12-ounce and 16-ounce versions-that's a full pound of meat, people- the wonderfully seasoned and cooked-to-perfection meat just melts in your mouth. Of course, if you don't like such a fatty steak they also offer four sizes of sirloin, three sizes of Prime Rib or New York Strip each, two sizes of Filet, and a humongous, 18-ounce Porterhouse. In other words, this place is steak-lovers' Heaven.
I better get off the subject of steak, or I might not finish this review...so, moving right along. Now, some people don't give side dishes any credit. Focusing on the main dish, quite often they get forgotten or even left unfinished. I, on the other hand, feel that side dishes can make or break a meal. I take them seriously, and, knowing how to properly prepare most all of them them myself, have little patience for those kitchens which seem to treat them like second-string players. So, for my second side dish, I was pleasantly surprised by the fresh vegetables. Steamed to perfection, they were hot, but still crisp. I know; not everyone likes vegetables. But, with the state of America's issues with weight, maybe more people should give them a try.
We didn't order a dessert, nor do I think we could have finished one if we had. However, for those of you who like that sort of thing there isn't really much selection; just Apple Pie, Cheesecake, and a Brownie with hot fudge and ice cream. I'm guessing they realize that, after the huge servings they give people of everything else, not many people would want dessert.
After all was said and done, for two people we were able to have a hearty dinner (and a few heartier alcoholic beverages) for less than $45.00. Not too bad and, like I mentioned before, we still had salads to take home for brunch today. Our overall experience was good, and I think yours will be too if you decide to head on over to Texas Roadhouse. Just don't forget to either show up after 8pm or call an hour ahead of time, or you may be so upset with the wait that it ruins your dining experience.
Texas Roadhouse is located at 1111 Trenton Ave. in Findlay, by the new Wal-Mart and right behind Bob Evans and Max & Erma's. The Call-Ahead number is: 419-420-7427 and their hours, full menu, and other information can be located on their website.
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2 comments:
This place rocks! The food is awesome, the beers are cheap and huge, and it's my new favorite place to go out!
I didn't like Texas Roadhouse. I ordered the grilled bbq chicken, with fries. The portion was lacking. It was expensive, and VERY LOUD. I had to shout to talk to my Father and sister. I understand that "everything is louder in Texas," but I've been to Texas, and it was not that loud haha. I probably won't go back to this place.
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