Understanding the Texas Roadhouse "Gluten-Friendly" Policy
Texas Roadhouse, a popular steakhouse known for its lively atmosphere and fresh-baked rolls, addresses gluten-free needs with a 'gluten-friendly' menu rather than a strictly 'gluten-free' one. This distinction is critical for diners. According to the FDA, a 'gluten-free' label requires food to contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten, and strict protocols must be followed to avoid cross-contamination. Texas Roadhouse, however, explicitly states on its allergen guide that cross-contact with allergens can occur during the preparation process. This means that while the ingredients of certain dishes may be naturally gluten-free, the cooking environment itself is not, and airborne flour or shared surfaces present a risk, especially for those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivities.
Texas Roadhouse Gluten-Friendly Menu Options
Texas Roadhouse does provide a printed list of "Gluten-Friendly Suggestions" to assist diners. Navigating the menu with a gluten restriction involves being specific and often requesting modifications. Here's a breakdown of common options available:
- Entrees: Hand-cut steaks (except Prime Rib), grilled chicken, and ribs can be prepared without gluten-containing seasonings, marinades, or sauces. The pulled pork dinner is also an option without the bread.
- Burgers and Sandwiches: While the restaurant does not offer gluten-free buns, you can order any burger or chicken sandwich without the bun and fries. Opt for a side like a baked potato or salad instead.
- Salads: A house or dinner salad can be ordered without croutons and with a simple oil and vinegar dressing. Always double-check that no croutons were added during preparation, as customer reports indicate this has happened.
- Sides: Many sides are naturally gluten-friendly. Safe options include baked potatoes (plain), sweet potatoes (plain), green beans, corn, fresh vegetables, and applesauce. Mashed potatoes can be ordered without the brown or cream gravy.
- Drinks: Most soft drinks, wine, and spirits are generally gluten-free, but always confirm with your server about specialty cocktails or mixers, which can contain hidden gluten.
Potential for Cross-Contamination and What to Avoid
The primary concern for anyone with a serious gluten allergy at Texas Roadhouse is the high risk of cross-contamination. Their scratch-based kitchen, known for its busy, open environment, makes airborne flour and shared cooking surfaces a real danger.
- Fries: The french fries are cooked in shared fryers, making them unsafe for celiac diners.
- Rolls and Croutons: The signature fresh-baked rolls and croutons contain gluten and are a major source of contamination.
- Gravy and Sauces: The brown and cream gravies, as well as the peppercorn sauce, contain gluten.
- Prime Rib: The marinade for the Prime Rib is not gluten-friendly and should be avoided entirely.
- Seasoning: Several customers with celiac disease report reacting to the standard Texas Roadhouse steak seasoning, and advise asking for simple salt and pepper instead.
Comparison of Texas Roadhouse to Other Steakhouses
When dining with gluten restrictions, it can be helpful to compare options across different chains. This table provides a quick overview based on reported allergen protocols and menus.
| Feature | Texas Roadhouse | Outback Steakhouse | LongHorn Steakhouse |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allergen Menu | Provides a "gluten-friendly" list with warnings. | Has a dedicated, robust gluten-free menu. | Offers a comprehensive gluten-sensitive menu. |
| Cross-Contamination | High risk due to scratch kitchen and shared equipment. | Acknowledges risk but has stricter protocols. | Acknowledges risk; some items can be specially prepared. |
| Steaks | Hand-cut steaks (except Prime Rib) can be modified. | Several steak options available, often with more seasoning choices. | Various steaks available, with clear modification instructions. |
| Dessert | No guaranteed gluten-free dessert options. | Famous Chocolate Thunder from Down Under can be made gluten-free. | Limited or no confirmed gluten-free dessert options. |
| Fries | Not safe, shared fryers are used. | Safe, uses dedicated fryer. | Not safe, uses shared fryer. |
How to Order Safely at Texas Roadhouse
- Communicate Clearly: Inform your server immediately about your dietary restriction and emphasize the importance of avoiding cross-contamination. Say "I have a gluten allergy" or "celiac disease" to ensure it's taken seriously.
- Request Manager Involvement: Ask your server to speak with the Managing Partner. In some locations, this ensures better communication and oversight from the kitchen.
- Be Specific: Do not assume a dish is safe simply because it's on the "gluten-friendly" list. For example, explicitly ask for your steak to be seasoned only with salt and pepper, cooked on a clean surface or foil, and without any pre-made sauces or marinades.
- Order Unmodified Sides: Stick to plain baked or sweet potatoes, green beans, or corn. Avoid any side that requires modification beyond omitting a topping (e.g., fries, rice, mashed potatoes with gravy).
- Reconfirm Everything: When your meal arrives, briefly double-check with the server that all your specifications were followed. If anything looks amiss, speak up immediately.
Conclusion
While Texas Roadhouse does offer numerous menu items that can be modified to be "gluten-friendly," it is not a safe choice for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivities due to the high risk of cross-contamination. Their public acknowledgment of this risk is a crucial piece of information for diners. For those with milder sensitivities, careful communication and specific ordering can result in a delicious meal. However, celiac diners should exercise extreme caution or consider alternative restaurants with more rigorous allergen protocols, like Outback Steakhouse. Understanding the difference between 'gluten-friendly' and certified 'gluten-free' is key to making an informed and safe dining choice.
