Quick Answer

Yes, Texas Roadhouse hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. With 600+ country-western themed steakhouse locations nationwide, starting wages of $14–$18/ hour plus tips for servers (total earnings $22–$40/ hour), a legendary training program with free steaks during onboarding, and a fun, high-energy work culture, Texas Roadhouse provides accessible opportunities for individuals rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

About Texas Roadhouse

Founded in 1993, Texas Roadhouse operates over 600 restaurants across the U.S., employing more than 75,000 team members. Known for its hand-cut steaks, fall-off-the-bone ribs, made-from-scratch sides, and signature fresh-baked bread with cinnamon butter, it’s a lively, country-western themed steakhouse that values energy, hospitality, and fun.

For job seekers with criminal records, Texas Roadhouse offers multiple points of accessibility:

• Constant hiring needs due to high-volume operations.

• A fun, people-first culture that values personality over background.

• Free steak meals during training to help new hires learn the menu.

• Strong tipping potential for servers due to high guest traffic.

• A case-by-case evaluation process focused on attitude and effort.

Texas Roadhouse Hiring Policy

Texas Roadhouse evaluates each applicant individually rather than applying blanket restrictions. The company values enthusiasm, reliability, and energy in a fast-paced steakhouse environment.

Approach:

• Case-by-case consideration

• Focus on attitude, energy, and customer interaction

• Local manager discretion for hiring decisions

• Consideration of rehabilitation and time since conviction

Factors Considered:

• Nature and timing of conviction

• Job relevance and customer contact

• Work ethic and performance potential

• Personality and team fit

• References or recommendations

Available Jobs

Server

($2.13–$5/ hour + tips = total $22–$40/ hour)

Serves food and beverages, engages guests in a lively atmosphere, and provides high-energy service.

Host/Hostess

($12–$16/ hour)

Greets guests, manages the waitlist, and maintains a welcoming dining environment.

Busser

($12–$15/ hour + tip-out = total $16–$22/ hour)

Clears tables, resets seating areas, and supports the service team during peak times.

Line Cook

($15–$22/ hour)

Prepares steaks, ribs, and sides on the grill line with precision and consistency.

Prep Cook

($14–$19/ hour)

Prepares ingredients, sauces, and made-from-scratch menu items before service.

Dishwasher

($13–$18/ hour)

Handles cleaning and kitchen support; ideal behind-the-scenes role for entry-level hires.

Meat Cutter

($16–$23/ hour)

Cuts and portions steaks to company standards; specialized training provided.

Bartender

($2.13–$5/ hour + tips = total $26–$42/ hour)

Mixes drinks, serves guests, and manages high-volume bar operations.

Shift Manager

($19–$27/ hour)

Supervises service, staffing, and guest satisfaction during operating hours.

Managing Partner

($31–$48/ hour equivalent, $65,000–$100,000+/ year)

Oversees restaurant performance and shares in profits through ownership incentives.

Career Path Example: Dishwasher → Line Cook → Shift Manager → Managing Partner (profit-sharing opportunities available).

Background Check

Texas Roadhouse conducts a background check with a 7-year lookback period. All convictions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, typically within 5–7 business days. Pre-employment drug testing is required for most positions.

Application Tips

1. Show enthusiasm and energy – Texas Roadhouse values a fun, outgoing personality during interviews.

   
   

2. Emphasize fast-paced experience – Highlight any busy restaurant or kitchen work you’ve done before.

   
   

3. Target dinner shifts – These are the busiest times and offer the highest earning potential for servers.

   
   

4. Apply to multiple locations – Submitting applications to 5–10 nearby restaurants increases your chances.

   
   

5. Mention teamwork and positivity – The culture is all about working hard and having fun.

   
   

6. Apply in person – Visiting during slow hours (2–4 p.m.) can help you make a personal impression.

   
   

7. Highlight reliability – Punctuality and consistency are key for restaurant roles.

   
   

8. Use your energy as an asset – Texas Roadhouse values people who bring a spark to the team.

   
   

9. Mention any grill or kitchen experience – Especially useful for cook or meat cutter positions.

   
   

10. Stay positive and patient – Hiring may take a week, but follow-ups show initiative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Texas Roadhouse automatically reject applicants with felonies?

No. The company uses a case-by-case evaluation focused on personality, reliability, and fit.

What are the easiest jobs to get with a record?

Dishwasher and Prep Cook roles are the most accessible, often serving as a great entry point.

How much can a server earn?

Servers typically earn $22–$40/ hour, including tips from high-volume dinner service.

Do they offer free food during training?

Yes. Trainees receive complimentary steak meals to learn the menu firsthand.

Can I apply while on probation or parole?

Yes, if local management approves and conditions allow consistent scheduling.

Is drug testing required?

Yes, most locations require pre-employment drug screening.

Can employees with records become managers?

Yes. Texas Roadhouse frequently promotes from within, including to management and ownership-track roles.

What’s the work environment like?

Energetic, friendly, and fast-paced with country music and team line-dancing events.

Do I have to dance as a server?

No, but showing enthusiasm for the fun atmosphere helps you stand out.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• Outback Steakhouse – 700+ locations; casual steakhouse; case-by-case hiring.

• LongHorn Steakhouse – 560+ locations; part of Darden; known for strong corporate support.

• Logan’s Roadhouse – 100+ locations; roadhouse-style dining; accessible for kitchen roles.

• Chili’s Grill & Bar – 1,200+ locations; upbeat casual dining; promotes from within.

Final Thoughts

Texas Roadhouse provides accessible restaurant employment for people rebuilding after incarceration.

With a supportive, energetic environment, strong tips, free meal training, and promotion opportunities up to Managing Partner ($65k–$100k+), it’s one of the most inclusive and rewarding steakhouse employers in the U.S.

For the next step, apply directly at TexasRoadhouse.com/careers to find openings near you.