Outback Steakhouse may be a popular dining spot, but my visits have revealed some dishes that just don’t live up to the hype. From appetizers to desserts, certain menu items can be underwhelming, whether due to excessive grease, inconsistent quality, or disappointing portion sizes.
To help you avoid a lackluster meal, I’ve put together a list of dishes that might not be worth your order. Keep this guide handy before your next visit—you might just save your palate and your wallet!
1. The Bloomin’ Onion
Though tempting, the Bloomin’ Onion is a calorie bomb. Its greasiness is overwhelming, often leaving a heavy feeling. If you’re looking for a lighter start, this isn’t it. Consisting mainly of fried batter, the dish lacks substance.
Having tried it once, I found it to be more style than substance. However, for onion lovers, it may still hold some appeal. Personally, I’d recommend sharing it if you must indulge. Otherwise, consider starting with something fresher.
2. Ribeye Steak
If you crave a juicy steak, the ribeye at Outback may not satisfy. Cooked inconsistently, it often comes over or underdone. Occasionally, the seasoning feels bland, masking the meat’s natural flavors. However, if you prefer a more robust taste, adding side sauces might help.
Though it’s a classic choice, I believe there are better options on their menu. Hence, exploring other cuts might be worth considering for steak enthusiasts wanting a memorable meal.
3. Alice Springs Chicken
Alice Springs Chicken might sound appealing, yet it underwhelms. How the flavors blend can be confusing, lacking harmony. With layers of ingredients, it feels heavy rather than delightful. Furthermore, the sauce can be overly sweet, clashing with the bacon.
If you’re seeking a balanced dish, this one may disappoint. However, sharing it could lessen the burden. Additionally, opting for a simpler chicken dish might provide a more satisfying and straightforward experience.
4. Porterhouse Steak
Where flavor is vital, the Porterhouse can fall short. Often inconsistent, it may arrive tough or chewy, detracting from the dining pleasure. For those who favor tenderness, this might not be the best choice.
Although it’s visually appealing, the taste doesn’t always match. To savor a steak, I’d suggest trying something else. Furthermore, pairing it with a robust wine might help, but the inconsistency remains a potential drawback for diners seeking quality.
5. Surf & Turf
Surf & Turf sounds luxurious, yet it can be hit or miss. The combination sometimes lacks cohesion, with seafood overcooked and steak underwhelming. However, the presentation is usually inviting, offering a feast for the eyes.
If you’re a fan of the concept, it might still entice. Despite this, ordering the components separately could enhance the meal’s quality. Personally, I’ve found better balance in other menu items, which provide a more harmonious taste experience.
6. Aussie Fries
However popular, Aussie Fries are not without flaws. Greasy and over-salted, they might leave you thirsty. As a side, they often overshadow the main dish. While some may enjoy the savory overload, I found them overwhelming.
If you seek a lighter option, consider swapping them for a salad. Although it pairs well with burgers, moderation is key. Hence, sharing with friends can mitigate the heaviness. Making thoughtful side choices could enhance the overall meal experience.
7. Lobster Tail
If seafood is your preference, consider alternatives to the Lobster Tail. Sometimes, it’s rubbery or lacking in freshness. Though appealing visually, the taste often disappoints. Where freshness is crucial, this dish may not deliver.
However, seasoning can hide some flaws, yet it’s not guaranteed. For seafood lovers, exploring other offerings might be more satisfying. Hence, opting for grilled shrimp or fish could provide a better taste. It’s worth considering these options for a fresher experience.
8. Chocolate Thunder from Down Under
Chocolate Thunder from Down Under is indeed a dessert spectacle, yet it can overwhelm. The richness is intense, perhaps too much after a heavy meal. However, for chocolate enthusiasts, it offers a moment of indulgence. If sharing, it can be manageable and enjoyable.
Despite its allure, considering lighter dessert options could be wise. Sometimes it’s best reserved for special occasions. Hence, entertaining a simpler sweet finish might complement the dining experience more suitably.
9. Steakhouse Salad
Steakhouse Salad might seem healthy, but often lacks excitement. Occasionally, the greens are wilted, and the steak strips are overdone. If freshness is your focus, this salad may disappoint. However, with the right dressing, it can be somewhat saved.
While it’s a safer choice for calorie-conscious diners, exploring more vibrant salads could be rewarding. Personally, I’ve experienced fresher and more flavorful options elsewhere. Hence, considering alternative salads could enhance the dining adventure.
10. Outbacker Burger
Outbacker Burger might promise satisfaction, yet it occasionally underdelivers. Sometimes overcooked, the patty can be dry. However, additional condiments might enhance it. If you crave juiciness, exploring other burgers could be beneficial.
Although classic, it lacks the wow factor some seek. For burger aficionados, venturing into other options might yield better results. Customizing with unique toppings has improved my experience. Hence, creativity in choice might lead to a more fulfilling burger endeavor.
11. Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie
Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie sounds delightful, but can be inconsistent. Occasionally overcooked, the texture becomes rubbery. If perfection is what you seek, this might disappoint. However, when done right, the flavors shine. Still, considering alternative seafood might be wise.
I’ve had mixed experiences, leading me to explore other menu offerings. Thus, if you’re adventurous, trying different seafood might enhance your meal. It’s worth exploring the menu for a seafood delight that satisfies.
12. Caesar Salad
Caesar Salad, though a classic, sometimes lacks flair. The dressing can be heavy, overpowering the greens. Occasionally the croutons are stale, detracting from the texture. If you desire freshness, this might not be it. However, adding a twist with extra toppings could improve it.
For salad lovers, exploring other options might prove rewarding. Personally, I’ve found more vibrant and refreshing salads elsewhere. Hence, diversifying your salad choice might lead to a more satisfying dining experience.
13. Kookaburra Wings
Kookaburra Wings can be a hit or miss, often too spicy or greasy. If you prefer mild flavors, beware. However, the dipping sauce can balance some of the heat. For wing lovers, sharing might ease the spice overload. Personally, I’ve found some wings underwhelming.
Still, for those adventurous with heat, it remains an option. Exploring other appetizers can offer variety. Hence, if you’re open to trying new things, a different start might spice up your outing.
14. Victoria’s Filet Mignon
Victoria’s Filet Mignon is marketed as a high-end steak option, but it often falls short of expectations. Despite being a tender cut, it can sometimes arrive overcooked, lacking the rich juiciness that makes a filet truly exceptional.
The seasoning is also hit-or-miss, leaving some bites underwhelming. For a steakhouse that prides itself on quality beef, this dish doesn’t always deliver the premium experience diners expect.
15. Toowoomba Pasta
Toowoomba Pasta, a creamy, seafood-infused dish, struggles with consistency. The sauce can be overly thick and heavy, making it feel more like a sodium-packed gut bomb than a balanced entrée.
Additionally, the shrimp topping is often rubbery or lacking in fresh seafood flavor, turning what could be a satisfying comfort meal into a disappointing choice. Those looking for a well-executed pasta dish might want to explore other options.