1. How Texas Roadhouse Prints Suggested Tips
At Texas Roadhouse, diners receive a printed receipt slip at the conclusion of their meal. At the bottom of the bill, the POS printer prints suggested tip calculations—typically for 15%, 18%, and 20%.
Because the receipt software bases these amounts on the subtotal after local and state sales tax, diners pay roughly 1.5 to 2.5 percentage points more than they intend. On a $60 ribeye meal, the 20% suggestion charges on $65+, adding unearned tip on tax revenue.
2. Roadhouse To-Go Curbside Pickup Tipping Norms
Texas Roadhouse operates a dedicated "To-Go" curbside staging area where employees pack warm rolls, fresh butter, peanuts, and steak dinners into customer vehicles.
Tipping etiquette for Roadhouse To-Go is distinct from dine-in table service: tipping 18%–20% is not required. Leaving $2.00 to $5.00 (or roughly 10%) for the dedicated curbside loader who brings your order out in all weather conditions is considered generous and customary.
3. Texas Roadhouse Pre-Tax Reference Matrix
Verify your tip using exact pre-tax food and drink numbers:
- $30 Check: 15% = $4.50 | 18% = $5.40 | 20% = $6.00
- $60 Check (2 Steaks): 15% = $9.00 | 18% = $10.80 | 20% = $12.00
- $90 Check: 15% = $13.50 | 18% = $16.20 | 20% = $18.00
- $120 Check (Family Dinner): 15% = $18.00 | 18% = $21.60 | 20% = $24.00