The Real Parents’ Guide to the Texas Roadhouse Kids Menu (2025)

If you’re anything like me, dinner with kids is never just “dinner.” It’s a juggling act of picky eaters, hungry tummies that can’t wait more than 10 minutes, and the eternal question: Will they actually eat what I order for them?

That’s why I keep Texas Roadhouse on my short list of family dining spots. Sure, the steaks are what they’re famous for, but the Texas Roadhouse kids menu has been a game-changer for us. My kids (ages 7 and 4) both leave full and happy, which is saying something. My youngest basically survives on mac and cheese and applesauce, while my oldest wants to eat like a “grown-up.”

And let me tell you, few things warm my heart more than seeing my daughter’s eyes light up when the server brings her “Lil’ Dillo Steak Bites.” She feels like she’s eating just like Dad with his ribeye, only her portion is perfect for her age.

What’s on the Texas Roadhouse Kids Menu?

The Texas Roadhouse children menu is for kids 12 and under, and honestly, it’s one of the better ones I’ve seen at a sit-down restaurant. It isn’t just nuggets and fries (though yes, they’ve got those too). Here’s a rundown of what you’ll typically find:

• Mini-Cheeseburgers (Sliders): Two small burgers that come in handy when your child insists on “eating what Dad eats.” My son loves holding one in each hand like he’s conquered dinner.

• Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders: Crispy and golden. These are my 4-year-old’s safe zone, she’ll dip them in ranch and suddenly, dinner is a success.

• Lil’ Dillo Steak Bites: Bite-sized sirloin pieces. My 7-year-old beams with pride when she gets these because she feels “grown-up.”

• Grilled Chicken: For those looking for something lighter. Honestly, I appreciate this because not every night needs to end in fried food overload.

• Mac & Cheese: Kraft-style comfort food. Perfect when your toddler insists, “I only want noodles.”

• Hot Dog: The simple, classic option. We’ve used this on meltdown night, so it’s the safe, no-argument choice.

Each kids meal includes a side and a drink. Sides range from applesauce and fresh veggies to fries and mashed potatoes. Drinks usually include milk, juice, or soda.

Kids Menu Prices: What You’ll Actually Pay

I know price matters because dining out with a family of four can get expensive fast. Luckily, kids meals at Texas Roadhouse are reasonably priced.

Here’s what I’ve paid at our local Texas Roadhouse in Dallas:

Considering each comes with a side and drink, it’s a pretty good deal. Compare that to some fast-casual chains where a kids meal (that doesn’t even include a drink) costs the same.

Nutrition and Health Considerations

Let’s be real, Texas Roadhouse isn’t a “light dinner” kind of place. But the children’s food options give parents some wiggle room:

• If you want healthier, grilled chicken with applesauce is a solid choice.

• If you’re okay with comfort food, chicken tenders and fries will never fail.

• My personal hack: I often swap fries for veggies or mashed potatoes, just to balance things out.

One thing I like is that the children’s portions are reasonable. My kids finish their meals here without tons of waste. At some restaurants, I feel like the kids’ menu plates could feed an NFL player, and half the food ends up boxed and forgotten in the fridge.

Dining with Kids at Texas Roadhouse: What It’s Really Like

Okay, let’s talk logistics, because if you’re a parent, you know the details matter:

• Wait Time: On weekends, we usually wait about 15 to 20 minutes for a table. But here’s the saving grace, those complimentary peanuts and rolls keep everyone busy. My kids will happily snack on the rolls (and yes, we always ask for extra cinnamon butter).

• Atmosphere: It’s lively, sometimes loud, and honestly, that’s a blessing when you’ve got kids. A tantrum blends right into the background noise.

• Entertainment: They hand out coloring sheets and crayons (and yes, the crayons are actually decent quality, not those waxy, barely-marking ones).

• Speed of Service: Kids meals usually come out quickly. Our server once told me they prioritize kids’ orders, and based on my visits, I believe it.

The one downside? The booths can feel cramped if you’ve got car seats or booster seats in play. We’ve learned to ask for a corner booth where there’s more wiggle room.

Tips for Parents Dining at Texas Roadhouse

After a few trips, I’ve figured out some parent hacks that make our visits smoother:

1. Ask about kids’ specials. Some locations have a “kids eat free” night, ours does it on Tuesdays.

2. Bring wet wipes. Between peanut shells, rolls, and cinnamon butter, sticky fingers are guaranteed.

3. Order kids’ meals early. If your kids are starving, ask the server to put in their meals as soon as you sit down.

4. Share sides. My kids sometimes trade applesauce for fries, which saves arguments.

5. Plan around the rolls. Seriously, don’t over-order. Those rolls are filling enough to be a meal.

Texas Roadhouse vs. Other Family Restaurants

I’ve taken my kids to plenty of family-friendly restaurants, Chili’s, Applebee’s, Red Robin, you name it. Here’s how Texas Roadhouse stacks up:

• Better Variety: Where else can a kid order steak bites?

• Affordable: Prices are on par, but the portions feel more generous.

• Kid-Friendly Atmosphere: It’s loud, fun, and casual. No one cares if your toddler spills milk.

• Rolls and Peanuts: This alone beats out other restaurants. Keeping kids occupied while waiting is priceless.

If I had to be picky, Chili’s sometimes has more “trendy” kids options (like quesadillas or pasta), but my kids prefer the straightforward choices at Texas Roadhouse.

FAQs About the Texas Roadhouse Kids Menu

1. What age is the kids menu for?

It’s designed for kids 12 and under.

2. Do kids meals include drinks?

Yes, milk, juice, or a soft drink is usually included.

3. Are there healthy kids options?

Yes! Grilled chicken and applesauce or veggies are lighter choices.

4. Can adults order from the kids menu?

Technically, it’s reserved for kids. Some locations are strict about this.

5. How much are kids meals at Texas Roadhouse?

Most range between $5.49 to $7.99, depending on the entrée.

6. Is Texas Roadhouse a good family dining option?

Absolutely. Between the menu, the atmosphere, and the price point, it’s one of the most reliable spots for family dining.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the Texas Roadhouse kids menu has saved me from more than a few dinner disasters. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and parent-friendly in ways that matter: fast service, filling meals, and a fun atmosphere.

Yes, it can get a little crowded and noisy, but honestly, that’s part of the charm. Watching my kids munch on steak bites while we all pass around those irresistible rolls? That’s a family memory I’ll take over cooking at home any night.

👉 Next read suggestion: If you’re planning family meals on a budget, check out our guide to the best coupon codes across the U.S.