Texas Roadhouse

Are you looking for good food in a fun atmosphere? If so, write down 2475 Barrett Creek Parkway, Marietta, Ga. Google Map it, and when you get close, follow the line of cars.

I took my wife and daughter to Texas Roadhouse this past Friday, after a long wait between paychecks, and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. We stepped in the door, and were greeted right away. Our timing was great, because we got to sit immediately.

Sometimes a glance around a dining room can tell you if you've made a good choice. A very eclectic group of patrons filled the western decor filled dining area. Kids, college students, young couples and even us older folk were present.

The hostess asked us if we'd like to pick out our steak, which could be seen lining the cooler window. We declined, not sure what we'd order. Krystal, our server, was quick to get us something to drink. I love their glasses ( a year ago, I bought four from them), and Krystal managed to never let them go dry.

To me, two things make a good waitress or waiter. One is the heart to serve. A good server can make me feel as though they are happy I am in their station. The second is a full glass of tea without me having to ask for it. Krystal satisfied both criteria, and never once disappeared into the black hole where servers everywhere seem to hide.

Mark Lupo, the Managing Partner, was obviously paying attention to everything going on in the building. He moved quickly from station to station, making sure that all was well. he's made some good hiring decisions, if he was looking for people who like to serve. All of the staff members seemed happy to be there. All of them sported a smile with the possible exception of the busboy, but he was hustling too much for me to see.

As we sat down, I watched the room and smelled the cooking steaks.

My family is sometimes boring, and Friday was no exception. We did not get an appetizer, but if you do, I recommend trying the Cactus Blossom, which I had tried on another visit. You should also ask for extra bread. Wonderful!

We all ordered the same cut of beef (sirloin), but mixed it up on the sides. We enjoyed conversation of the day, but our salad came quickly, and our dinner almost immediately thereafter. The table got quiet when the steaks arrived!

The room did not get quiet, though. Upbeat country music played overhead, and as soon as the Charlie Daniels song "The Devil Went Down to Georgia" came on, the staff lined up to line dance, and even invited a young boy to join in, which he did happily. This is a signature event in this restaurant, and a definite crowd-pleaser.

Okay. The bottom line is this: for less than $60, my family of three got 30+ ounces of good tasting steak, tea glasses that would not go dry, and fun entertainment in an atmosphere that made us feel as though we were in a room full of friends. You tell me if I should go back.