You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Bellmore Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. This week we head to Hempstead Turnpike in East Meadow!
Texas Roadhouse: In 2009, the western-themed restaurant opened its doors to nearby East Meadow, bringing a bit of southern hospitality to Long Island.
The grand opening attracted diners from every corner of Nassau and Suffolk, and still, two years later, patrons can expect a bit of a wait during dinner hours.
Although it may be one of the most common things in a restaurant, the complimentary rolls at Texas Roadhouse are a must-try, mainly because of the honey-cinnamon butter that sits on the side.
When looking for a meal starter from the actual menu, the combo appetizer ($9.99) is your best bet, especially if you are dining with more than two people. Chicken critters, tater skins and rattlesnake bites (diced jalapenos and jack cheese lightly fried) are served with your choice of three sauces. The baby blossom hand battered onion ($3.99) is another beginner and is certainly generous enough to split.
Though most known for its steak, Texas Roadhouse's dinner options are very diverse, and even include a full kids menu.
The bone-in rib eye steak (20 ounce, $19.99) is the largest steak on the menu and is one of the restaurant's most popular items. The USDA choice sirloin is another common order and comes in different sizes to accommodate all (6, 8, 11 and 16 ounce). Each steak can be cooked to your preference and can be smothered in sautéed mushrooms, sautéed onions and gravy or cheese for an extra $1.99.
For those looking to try something different, test out the portobello mushroom chicken ($10.99), a juicy dish marinated and topped with signature sauce, jack cheese and fresh Parmesan. Grilled salmon ($13.29) is the perfect plate for any seafood lover, serving up a moist and tender dish smothered in lemon-pepper butter. Other dinner choices include racks of ribs, healthy salads, burgers and pulled pork.
2571 Hempstead Tpke , East Meadow , NY 11554 | 516-520-7427
Hours: Monday - Friday, 4 p.m. - 11 p.m.; Saturday - Sunday, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Price: $$
