For over eight years, my family and I have been Texas Roadhouse regulars, eating there almost every other week. As a mom of three in Austin, I’ve built friendships with servers and bartenders who have let me in on some incredible insider secrets about the Texas Roadhouse secret menu yes, it exists, and it’s a total game changer!
I remember the exact moment I discovered my first secret menu item. It was a chilly Friday night in November 2016 at the Round Rock location. Our favorite server, Jake, leaned in after taking our usual order and whispered, “Want to try something not on the menu?” That night, I had my first taste of a secret-loaded sweet potato, and it completely changed how my family dines at Texas Roadhouse.
The Secret Appetizers and Sides You Need to Try
Not everything worth ordering is on the menu! Here are some off menu Texas Roadhouse dishes that I’ve learned about over the years:
Buffalo-Style Rattlesnake Bites
- Regular Rattlesnake Bites, but tossed in buffalo sauce before serving.
- Slightly spicier and packed with extra flavor.
- Personal rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Loaded Sweet Potato
- Topped with marshmallows, caramel drizzle, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
- Originally suggested by a server at the Cedar Park location.
- My daughter Emma refuses to order anything else now!
Texas Cheese Fries (Full Portion)
- They’re listed as an appetizer, but if you ask, you can get a larger plate.
- Perfect for sharing with the whole table.
Hidden Steak Preparations You Won’t Find on the Menu
Even though Texas Roadhouse is known for their steaks, did you know there are secret ways to upgrade them? Here are my top picks:
Extra Juicy Ribeye
- Order it “extra marbled” for more fat and flavor.
- A bartender at the Brodie Lane location told me about this trick.
Blackened Prime Rib
- Available in some locations if you request it specially seasoned and seared.
- They’ll use their blackening spice mix if the kitchen isn’t too busy.
“Roadhouse Style” Steak
- Ask for your steak “smothered” with mushrooms, onions, AND brown gravy.
- Not advertised, but totally delicious.
Secret Drink Modifications Beyond Margaritas
Sure, the margaritas are legendary, but there are even better options if you know what to ask for.
Texas Peach Tea
- A mix of sweet tea, peach schnapps, and a splash of lemonade.
- Not on the menu, but any bartender can make it.
The “Ultimate” Frozen Margarita
- A blend of all their frozen margarita flavors in one glass.
- A bit of a sugar overload, but so worth it!
Off-Menu Dessert Hacks and Customizations
Cinnamon Butter Ice Cream
- Ask for a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with their famous cinnamon butter.
- It’s like a deconstructed cinnamon roll in a bowl!
Brownie S’mores Style
- Order a brownie and ask for toasted marshmallows on top.
- Some locations will even torch the marshmallows tableside.
Texas Roadhouse Secret Menu vs. Regular Menu: Price Comparisons
| Secret Item | Regular Alternative | Price Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Buffalo-Style Rattlesnake Bites | Regular Rattlesnake Bites | +$1.50 |
| Loaded Sweet Potato | Plain Sweet Potato | +$2.00 |
| “Roadhouse Style” Steak | Regular Steak | +$3.00 |
| Cinnamon Butter Ice Cream | Plain Ice Cream | No Extra Charge |
Tips for Successfully Ordering Secret Menu Items
- Ask Nicely:Not all servers are familiar with these hacks, so be polite.
- Know the Timing:Custom requests are more likely to be honored on slower weeknights than busy weekends.
- Be Specific: If a server seems unsure, explain exactly what you want based on past orders.
- Get to Know the Staff: Friendly regulars get the best service (and the best secrets)!
FAQ: Texas Roadhouse Secret Menu
1. Does Texas Roadhouse actually have a secret menu?
While there’s no official secret menu, many locations will make off-menu dishes if you ask the right way.
2. Can I order blackened prime rib at every Texas Roadhouse?
Not every location offers it, but some will do it if they have the right seasoning mix.
3. What’s the best secret drink to order?
Texas Peach Tea it’s refreshing, sweet, and not something most people know about!
4. Are secret menu items more expensive?
Some customizations come with a small upcharge, but many are the same price as regular items.
5. What’s the best day to order secret menu items?
Weeknights (Monday to Thursday) are best since the kitchen isn’t as overwhelmed.
Next time you visit Texas Roadhouse, try ordering one of these hidden gems and let me know what you think! Have you discovered a secret menu item I missed? Drop a comment below and share your insider knowledge! 🍖🔥
