You know the feeling. You’re driving down John R. Rice Blvd in Murfreesboro, and the parking lot at Texas Roadhouse looks like a sold-out concert. It doesn't matter if it’s a random Tuesday or a Friday night.
People in Rutherford County just love this place.
Honestly, I used to wonder why. It’s a chain, right? But after spending enough time in those booths, you realize it’s less about being a "chain" and more about the specific way this location runs. It’s loud. It’s chaotic. The rolls are basically a legal addiction.
The Murfreesboro Vibe
Located at 116 John R. Rice Blvd, this Texas Roadhouse sits right in a sweet spot near the Old Fort Parkway shopping hubs. If you're coming from MTSU or just finished a Target run, it's the inevitable destination.
Most people don't know that the managing partner here, Morgan Holder, has been a member of the local Chamber of Commerce since 2017. That matters. It’s why you’ll see local high school teams celebrating here or notice the staff actually seems to know the regulars.
It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a community hub.
The Survival Guide for the Wait
If you show up at 6:00 PM on a Saturday without a plan, God bless you. You’re looking at a 60 to 90-minute wait, easy.
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Don't just wing it. Use the Texas Roadhouse app to join the Waitlist before you even leave your house. It’s not a reservation—they don't do those—but it puts your name in the queue while you're still sitting on your couch. By the time you find a parking spot and walk past the motorcycles lined up out front, your table is usually almost ready.
What to Actually Order (Beyond the Rolls)
We have to talk about the bread. Those Fresh-Baked Rolls with honey cinnamon butter are the reason diets go to die in Murfreesboro. They bring them out hot, and yes, you can ask for more. But save room.
The 6 oz. Sirloin is the best-seller for a reason. It’s USDA Choice beef, hand-cut in a 34-degree cooler right there in the building. No frozen mystery meat. If you’re feeling like a local legend, go for the 23 oz. Porterhouse T-Bone. It’s a monster.
- Rattlesnake Bites: Diced jalapeños and jack cheese, fried up. They have a kick.
- The Ribs: They call them "fall-off-the-bone," and for once, the marketing isn't lying.
- Road Kill: Don't let the name scare you. It’s a chopped steak smothered in sautéed onions, mushrooms, and jack cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food when you’ve had a long week.
Saving Money Without Looking Cheap
Murfreesboro isn't getting any cheaper, but you can still eat like a king here if you're smart.
The Early Dine special is the "pro move." If you get there between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM (Monday through Thursday), a bunch of the best entrees—like the 6 oz. sirloin or the BBQ chicken—are significantly cheaper, often around $10.99 to $12.99.
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Also, Wild West Wednesday is a thing. They usually have specials on the 8 oz. Sirloin or certain appetizers.
Military and Veterans
This location is big on honoring the military. They offer a 10% discount for active duty and veterans year-round. Every year on Veterans Day, they do the free meal voucher thing, which is a massive event in Murfreesboro given our proximity to various military communities.
The Little Things That Matter
Ever noticed the murals? Every Texas Roadhouse has murals that are unique to the local area. In Murfreesboro, the decor leans into that Tennessee spirit.
And then there's the line dancing. Every hour or so, the music cranks up, and the servers break into a choreographed dance. It’s polarizing. Some people love the energy; others just want their baked potato. But it’s part of the "Legendary Service" brand they've built.
It's loud. It's meant to be. If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic candlelit dinner where you can hear a pin drop, this is absolutely the wrong place.
Go to the Alley on Main for that.
But if you want a cold beer (the Duke Margarita is the way to go) and a steak that tastes better than it should for twenty bucks, you end up here.
How to Get There and When to Go
The hours are a bit specific, so don't show up for lunch on a Tuesday and expect the doors to be open.
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- Monday - Thursday: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday - Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
If you want the shortest wait times, Sunday at 2:00 PM or Monday at 4:00 PM are your best bets. Avoid the 6:30 PM rush unless you really enjoy standing in a crowded lobby smelling everyone else's dinner.
Practical Steps for Your Visit
- Download the App: Honestly, just do it. Joining the waitlist remotely is the only way to keep your sanity on weekends.
- Join the VIP Club: Sign up on their website. They usually send a coupon for a Free Appetizer (Cactus Blossom or Fried Pickles) within 48 hours.
- Check the Meat Display: When you walk in, there’s a glass case with the steaks. You can actually point to the specific one you want them to cook. It’s a cool touch that most people ignore.
- Order a "Loaded" Side: Don't just get a plain baked potato. For a small upcharge, get it loaded with cheese, bacon, and sour cream. It’s a meal in itself.
Whether you're a local or just passing through Murfreesboro, the Texas Roadhouse on John R. Rice Blvd remains a staple for a reason. It's consistent, it's high-energy, and those rolls are worth the parking lot battle.