Where to go: Texas Roadhouse
Address: 14758 Greyhound Plaza, Westfield
What to get: 8 oz. USDA choice sirloin
Price: $12.99
Anna’s take: Typically, I stay away from chain restaurants when writing this column because I am a big proponent of local, small businesses – restaurants included. However, Texas Roadhouse opened just off U.S. 31 north of 146th Street in Westfield in December 2018, and it’s been all the hype, so I thought I’d give it a try.
My verdict is Texas Roadhouse offers decent steak for an excellent price. The free cinnamon-butter rolls are a plus, and there’s something for everyone on the menu. To start, I tried the Cactus Blossom ($5.99), golden-fried, crunchy, onion-y goodness served with a Cajun horseradish sauce for dipping. The onion is split in a blossom shape, hence the name. This was a good price for a huge appetizer, and there’s plenty to share.
For the steak, I ordered the 8 oz. USDA choice sirloin and added shrimp because I’m a fanatic for anything seafood. I order my steak medium-rare. Anything more done than that takes away the flavor in my opinion, and I paired it with steak fries.
Texas Roadhouse actually sent staff from locations from across the U.S. to the Westfield location during its first few days of operation to ensure a smooth, easy opening while new staff members received training. Having worked in restaurants prior to my career in journalism, I thought this was a nice touch and showed effort on corporate’s end.
Suggested pairings: Generally, I only order margaritas when I’m eating Mexican food, but don’t skip Texas Roadhouse’s original margarita on the rocks. It’s served in a glass the size of a cauldron and is made with three tequilas, a housemade sweet and sour, orange juice and agave nectar.
