Texas Roadhouse and The Cheesecake Factory are both famous for big portions, but they are very different restaurants. One is a focused, budget-friendly steakhouse; the other has one of the longest menus in casual dining.
The Menus
Texas Roadhouse keeps it focused: hand-cut steaks, ribs, chicken, a few seafood dishes, big sides and a handful of desserts. The Cheesecake Factory is known for a huge menu of around 250 dishes, pasta, salads, burgers, Asian dishes, steaks and dozens of cheesecakes.
| Texas Roadhouse | The Cheesecake Factory | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Steak and ribs at a good price | Groups who all want something different |
| Menu size | About 190 items incl. drinks | Around 250 dishes plus cheesecakes |
| Typical spend | About $20 to $30 per person | Usually higher per person |
| Free bread | Rolls with cinnamon butter | Brown bread and sourdough |
| Desserts | A few, like the $8.99 cheesecake | Dozens of cheesecakes |
Price
Texas Roadhouse is usually the cheaper night out. A 6oz sirloin dinner with two sides costs about $14.49, and most diners spend about $20 to $30 including tax and tip, see Texas Roadhouse cost per person. The Cheesecake Factory's larger plates and long drink list usually make the bill higher.
Portions
Both serve big portions. At Texas Roadhouse the rolls and two sides fill you up; at The Cheesecake Factory many entrées are big enough for two meals.
Dessert
This one is easy: if dessert is the main event, The Cheesecake Factory wins. Texas Roadhouse keeps a short list, the Strawberry Cheesecake, Granny's Apple Classic and the Big Ol' Brownie, about $8.99 each. See the dessert menu.
Which Should You Choose?
- Steak craving, tight budget or kids along: Texas Roadhouse.
- Big group with different tastes, or a dessert night: The Cheesecake Factory.
Lighter Choices
At Texas Roadhouse, the Grilled Salmon, Herb Crusted Chicken (260 calories) and the 6oz sirloin with steamed vegetables keep a meal lighter. Use our nutrition calculator to add up your plate.
Kids and Families
Texas Roadhouse has a simple kids menu from about $7.49 and a noisy, relaxed room that suits young children. The Cheesecake Factory also has a kids menu, but the longer menu and higher prices make it more of a special-occasion choice for families.
