Texas Roadhouse Opening This Weekend, But Not For You

The Texas Roadhouse in Poughkeepsie is opening this weekend, but the public won't be allowed inside until 4pm on Monday.

The newest restaurant in Poughkeepsie was buzzing with excitement on Tuesday as employees were training in the kitchen, servers were running through the menu and landscaping crews were putting the finishing touches on the parking areas.

Peter Plourde, the managing partner of Texas Roadhouse, explained to us that over 125 people were working hard to get the restaurant ready for customers on October 31. That's right, Texas Roadhouse will be opening their doors to the public on Halloween.

But first it's a dress rehearsal of sorts this weekend, as friends and family members will serve as practice customers during a special "soft opening." Invited guests will put the kitchen and waitstaff through real-life dinner services on Saturday and Sunday.

Instead of paying for these practice meals, diners will be asked to donate to two local charities. On Saturday all proceeds will go to Grace Smith House and on Sunday the Childrens' Home of Poughkeepsie will receive donations.

Plourde says that giving back to the community is a big part of what the Texas Roadhouse does. More events throughout the year are already being planned to benefit the community and help out the business' neighbors.

Our fearless reporters will be at the soft opening this weekend, so be sure to check back for a sneak preview of the new Texas Roadhouse in Poughkeepsie before it officially opens next week.