Texas Roadhouse
| Company type | Division |
|---|---|
| Industry | Casual dining, Steakhouse |
| Founded | February 17, 1993 in Clarksville, Indiana, United States |
| Founder | W. Kent Taylor |
| Headquarters | Louisville, Kentucky , United States |
Area served | United States (49 states), Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, UAE, Qatar, Philippines, Taiwan, Mexico, China, South Korea |
Key people | Jerry Morgan (CEO), Chris Monroe (CFO), Hernan Mujica (CIO), Gina Tobin (President), Chris Colson (General Counsel), Travis Doster (Chief Communication Officer) |
| Products | Steaks, ribs, chicken dishes, burgers, seafood, salads, appetizers, desserts, margaritas, beer |
Number of employees | 64,900 (2020) |
| Parent | Texas Roadhouse Inc. |
| Website | www |
Texas Roadhouse is a prominent American steakhouse chain that emphasizes steak offerings inspired by Texan and Southwestern culinary traditions. Operating as a division of Texas Roadhouse Inc—which also owns Bubba's 33 and Jaggers—the company is based in Louisville, Kentucky. By June 2024, it managed 655 establishments spanning 49 states in the U.S. as well as 11 international markets, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, UAE, Qatar, the Philippines, Taiwan, Mexico, China, and South Korea.
Established in 1993 by entrepreneur W. Kent Taylor, Texas Roadhouse has evolved into a leading entity within the casual dining steakhouse segment. Its menu features a variety of items such as steaks, ribs, chicken dishes, burgers, seafood selections, salads, appetizers, desserts, alongside beverages like margaritas and beer.
The executive leadership team comprises CEO Jerry Morgan, CFO Chris Monroe, CIO Hernan Mujica, President Gina Tobin, General Counsel Chris Colson, and Chief Communication Officer Travis Doster. In 2023, the company reported revenues of US$4.631 billion, marking substantial growth. Financial highlights include operating income of US$186.20 million and net income of US$186.12 million (as per 2017 figures), supported by total assets valued at US$1.33 billion and shareholders’ equity of US$839.08 million.
Texas Roadhouse’s core competitive strength is rooted in its unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality products and an exceptional customer experience tailored to casual dining steakhouse enthusiasts. Employing around 64,900 people as of 2020, the organization sustains broad global operations with subsidiaries facilitating its expansion objectives.
History
On February 17, 1993, Texas Roadhouse was launched in Clarksville, Indiana by Louisville-born entrepreneur W. Kent Taylor. Having gained experience in Colorado’s restaurant industry and managing Kentucky Fried Chicken outlets in Louisville, Taylor envisioned creating a steakhouse with a Colorado-inspired theme. With initial funding of $80,000 from former Kentucky Governor John Y. Brown Jr., Taylor first opened Buckhead Mountain Grill in 1991 but later divested his interest to concentrate on Texas Roadhouse.
After parting ways with Brown, Taylor obtained $300,000 from Dr. John Rhodes and associates to establish Texas Roadhouse. The inaugural restaurant debuted in Clarksville in 1993, followed by a second location in Gainesville, Florida the same year. Early expansion efforts encountered challenges as three outlets were closed due to unsuitable site choices. To foster growth, Taylor improved employee training programs, revamped restaurant design elements, and enhanced food quality by recruiting Jim Broyles as Director of Food and Beverages.
By 1999, the chain had expanded to 67 restaurants. The company went public in 2004 on Nasdaq under the symbol "TXRH," raising $159.3 million through its initial offering. Its international footprint began in 2011 with an outlet opening in Dubai. During the COVID-19 crisis, CEO Taylor exhibited strong leadership by donating his $800,000 salary and bonus to assist staff members.
Taylor died by suicide in March 2021 after suffering from tinnitus; Jerry Morgan was appointed CEO thereafter. Posthumously released was Taylor's memoir Made From Scratch: The Legendary Success Story of Texas Roadhouse, which chronicles his entrepreneurial path and business milestones.
In April 2025, Texas Roadhouse overtook Olive Garden to become the largest casual-dining chain within the United States—demonstrating its robust market presence and competitive positioning in the sector.
Operations and marketing
Texas Roadhouse operates under the guiding principle of delivering "Legendary Food, Legendary Service," with its mascot, Andy the armadillo, symbolizing the brand. The restaurant chain sets itself apart by incorporating entertainment elements, such as staff performing line dances throughout the evening. To promote employee motivation and enhance skills, the company organizes internal contests like "The Real Bar" for bartenders and an annual "Meat Hero Competition" aimed at meat cutters.
The organization actively engages in charitable efforts, supporting causes like Habitat for Humanity and Homes For Our Troops, which bolsters its commitment to corporate social responsibility. Additionally, Texas Roadhouse is a sponsor of a professional cycling team and plays a significant role in supporting the Special Olympics, highlighting its dedication to community engagement.
In 2002, Willie Nelson joined as an official partner and brand ambassador, endorsing the chain through various media channels and owning the restaurant located in South Austin, Texas. This collaboration has contributed to enhanced brand visibility and broader market reach.
Cuisine
Texas Roadhouse offers a menu centered on Texan and American fare, emphasizing steaks, ribs, chicken, and seafood. This selection caters to customers looking for substantial and casual dining experiences.
See also
- Aspen Creek Grill, a dining chain previously owned by Texas Roadhouse