Outback Steakhouse
Anecdotes & Analysis
A chain started in Florida by an expatriate Orleanian, the Outback creates a clever Australian smokescreen of atmosphere and menu copy to obscure the fact that this is the Nineties equivalent of Bonanza. The steaks are ordinary and inexpensive (although the somewhat peppery marinade they use adds a little interest). But something here makes diners--particularly younger ones--willing to wait for tables here when vastly better steakhouses are near at hand. There are a few surprises: the rack of lamb, for example, is excellent. Recently, the Outback added a short list of USDA prime steaks at a substantial premium to its menu, but these are nothing to get really worked up about.
Backstory
A chain started in Florida by an expatriate Orleanian, the Outback creates a clever Australian smokescreen of atmosphere and menu copy to obscure the fact that this is the Nineties equivalent of Bonanza. The steaks are ordinary and inexpensive (although the somewhat peppery marinade they use adds a little interest). But something here makes diners--particularly younger ones--willing to wait for tables here when vastly better steakhouses are near at hand. There are a few surprises: the rack of lamb, for example, is excellent. Recently, the Outback added a short list of USDA prime steaks at a substantial premium to its menu, but these are nothing to get really worked up about.
Dining Room
74
Most Interesting Dishes
Walkabout soup (creamy onion). Filet mignon. Rack of lamb.
Bonus Ratings
1
Attitude
78
Value