30 Facts About Outback Steakhouse

The Origins of Outback Steakhouse

Outback Steakhouse has become a beloved dining spot for many. Let's explore some fascinating facts about this popular restaurant chain.

1. Outback Steakhouse was founded in 1988 in Tampa, Florida, by Bob Basham, Chris T. Sullivan, Trudy Cooper, and Tim Gannon. They aimed to create a casual dining experience with an Australian theme.

2. The founders chose the Australian theme because they believed it would evoke a sense of adventure and fun, even though none of them had ever visited Australia.

3. Despite its Australian theme, Outback Steakhouse serves American cuisine, focusing on steaks, seafood, and other hearty dishes.

Signature Dishes and Menu Items

Outback Steakhouse is known for its unique and flavorful menu items. Here are some interesting facts about their signature dishes.

4. The Bloomin' Onion, one of Outback's most famous appetizers, was created by Tim Gannon. It consists of a large onion cut to resemble a flower, battered, and deep-fried.

5. The Bloomin' Onion has become so popular that it has its own day. National Bloomin' Onion Day is celebrated on March 20th.

6. Outback's steaks are seasoned with a proprietary blend of 17 spices, giving them a unique and savory flavor.

7. The restaurant offers a variety of steak cuts, including the Victoria's Filet Mignon, Outback Center-Cut Sirloin, and Ribeye.

8. Outback Steakhouse also offers a range of seafood dishes, such as the Grilled Salmon, Lobster Tails, and Gold Coast Coconut Shrimp.

Expansion and Global Presence

Outback Steakhouse has grown significantly since its inception. Let's look at some facts about its expansion and global presence.

9. Outback Steakhouse has over 1,000 locations worldwide, with restaurants in 23 countries, including the United States, Canada, Brazil, and South Korea.

10. The first international Outback Steakhouse opened in Canada in 1996, followed by locations in South Korea and Brazil.

11. In Brazil, Outback Steakhouse has become one of the most popular casual dining chains, with over 100 locations across the country.

Unique Features and Practices

Outback Steakhouse has some unique features and practices that set it apart from other restaurant chains. Here are a few interesting facts.

12. Outback Steakhouse uses a wood-fire grill to cook many of its dishes, giving them a distinct smoky flavor.

13. The restaurant chain is known for its generous portions, ensuring that customers leave satisfied.

14. Outback Steakhouse has a "No Rules, Just Right" philosophy, which means they are flexible with menu modifications and special requests.

15. The restaurant offers a gluten-free menu, catering to customers with dietary restrictions.

16. Outback Steakhouse has a loyalty program called Dine Rewards, which allows customers to earn points and receive discounts on future visits.

Community Involvement and Charity

Outback Steakhouse is committed to giving back to the community. Here are some facts about their charitable efforts.

17. Outback Steakhouse supports Operation Homefront, a nonprofit organization that provides assistance to military families.

18. The restaurant chain has donated millions of dollars to various charities and community organizations over the years.

19. Outback Steakhouse hosts an annual charity event called the Outback Bowl, a college football game that raises funds for local charities.

20. The restaurant also participates in the No Kid Hungry campaign, which aims to end childhood hunger in the United States.

Fun and Quirky Facts

Outback Steakhouse has some fun and quirky facts that might surprise you. Let's take a look at a few.

21. The restaurant's mascot is a koala named "Ozzie," who appears in various marketing materials and promotions.

22. Outback Steakhouse has a secret menu item called the "Aussie Cheese Fries," which consists of fries topped with melted cheese and bacon.

23. The restaurant chain has been featured in several movies and TV shows, including "The Office" and "The Simpsons."

24. Outback Steakhouse once held the Guinness World Record for the largest Bloomin' Onion, which weighed over 1,000 pounds.

Awards and Recognition

Outback Steakhouse has received numerous awards and recognition for its food and service. Here are some notable achievements.

25. The restaurant has been named "Best Steakhouse" by various publications, including Consumer Reports and Nation's Restaurant News.

26. Outback Steakhouse has won the "People's Choice Award" for favorite casual dining restaurant multiple times.

27. The restaurant's Bloomin' Onion has been recognized as one of the best appetizers in the country by several food critics and publications.

28. Outback Steakhouse has been praised for its commitment to customer service, earning high marks in customer satisfaction surveys.

Sustainability and Environmental Efforts

Outback Steakhouse is also committed to sustainability and environmental efforts. Here are some facts about their initiatives.

29. The restaurant chain has implemented energy-efficient lighting and equipment in many of its locations to reduce energy consumption.

30. Outback Steakhouse sources its seafood from sustainable fisheries, ensuring that their seafood dishes are environmentally friendly.

The Final Bite

Outback Steakhouse isn’t just about steaks. It’s a blend of Australian charm, unique flavors, and memorable experiences. From their Bloomin’ Onion to the Aussie Cheese Fries, each dish tells a story. The founders' vision of bringing a taste of the Outback to America has clearly succeeded. Their commitment to quality, community, and innovation keeps diners coming back. Whether you’re a fan of their signature dishes or just love the laid-back vibe, Outback offers something special. Next time you visit, you’ll appreciate the little details that make it stand out. So, gather your friends, head to Outback, and enjoy a meal that’s more than just food—it’s an experience. Cheers to great food, good times, and the spirit of the Outback!