6 Outback Steakhouse Orders Arizonans Regret & 6 That Actually Works Wonders
Living in the relentless Arizona heat, there are few things more satisfying than escaping the sun and indulging in a hearty meal at Outback Steakhouse.
As a long-time desert dweller and self-proclaimed steak enthusiast, I’ve experienced the full range of highs and lows this Aussie-themed chain has to offer. From sizzling steaks to ice-cold drinks, I’ve braved countless 100-degree days in search of the perfect Outback experience.
Whether you’re a fellow local looking for dining tips or a visitor seeking relief from the sun, I’ve compiled the ultimate guide to navigating the Outback menu for maximum flavor and comfort.
1. The Infamous Bloomin’ Onion Disappointment
Last summer, my family ordered the iconic Bloomin’ Onion, expecting that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside experience.
What arrived was a soggy mess that fell apart faster than my hiking plans in July! Many Arizonans report similar letdowns with this labor-intensive appetizer.
The preparation complexity often leads to inconsistent results – sometimes overcooked, sometimes undercooked, rarely just right. For $10+, you’re gambling on quality that varies wildly between locations and kitchen staff. Save your appetite and dollars for something more reliable on the menu.
2. Sydney ‘Shroomin Sadness
Remember that time I splurged on Sydney ‘Shrooms thinking I’d get a generous portion of mushroom goodness? My wallet cried while my stomach remained half-empty!
These deep-fried mushrooms come with a hefty price tag that doesn’t match the quantity or quality. The batter often overwhelms the actual mushroom flavor, leaving you with what essentially tastes like fried dough balls.
Fellow desert dwellers consistently rank this appetizer as overpriced and underwhelming. When the mercury’s rising outside, you want satisfaction guaranteed – these mushrooms simply don’t deliver.
3. Prime Rib Predicament
Caught in a monsoon downpour last August, I ducked into Outback craving their Prime Rib. Despite ordering it medium-well, what arrived looked practically raw in the center!
The server insisted it was properly cooked, but my appetite vanished faster than rain in the desert. The slow-roasted method Outback uses creates this deceptive appearance problem.
Many Arizonans report sending back their prime rib multiple times, only to give up and order something else. For $25+, this gamble rarely pays off. Skip this confusing cut and opt for something with more consistent preparation standards.
4. Mac & Cheese Mirage
Picture this: 110° outside, you’re dreaming of creamy, comforting mac & cheese. Then Outback’s Steakhouse Mac & Cheese arrives – a watery disappointment with overcooked noodles swimming in runny cheese sauce!
My nephew actually asked if they’d forgotten to finish cooking it. The consistency resembles soup more than the rich, decadent side dish promised on the menu. Many Arizonans report the same experience across multiple locations.
For a state that knows how to handle heat, we expect our comfort foods to deliver proper satisfaction. This side dish consistently fails to live up to expectations and leaves diners wishing they’d chosen literally any other option.
5. Aussie Cobb Salad Letdown
During my health-conscious phase last spring, I ordered the Aussie Cobb Salad expecting a robust meal. My heart sank when the server delivered what looked like iceberg lettuce with a few sparse toppings scattered about.
Missing was the creamy avocado that makes a Cobb truly satisfying. The bacon bits seemed more like an afterthought than a feature. Several friends have shared similar experiences at locations across Phoenix and Tucson.
When you’re trying to eat lighter in our desert climate, a good salad should still deliver on flavor and substance. This one leaves you checking the menu description again, wondering if they forgot half the ingredients.
6. Tasmanian Chili Trauma
My taste buds still haven’t forgiven me for ordering the Tasmanian Chili during last year’s rare cold snap. The overwhelming spiciness wasn’t the pleasant kind that builds gradually – it was an immediate assault that masked any other flavors!
Floating in this lava-like concoction were fatty steak pieces that added nothing but chewy disappointment. Even my friend who loves spicy food couldn’t finish it.
Arizona has plenty of authentic Southwestern chili options that balance heat with flavor complexity. This Outback offering fails to understand that distinction, creating a one-dimensional dish that’s more about punishment than pleasure.
7. Bone-In Ribeye Brilliance
Celebrating my promotion last month, I treated myself to the Bone-In Ribeye – and wow, what a revelation! The marbling created a buttery texture that practically melted on contact with my tongue. Unlike other menu items, this cut consistently delivers exceptional quality across all Arizona locations.
The bone imparts extra flavor during cooking, resulting in a juicy, tender steak that needs minimal seasoning to shine.
Even during the busiest Saturday night rush, the kitchen staff seems to take extra care with this premium cut. For special occasions when you want guaranteed satisfaction, this “king of steaks” lives up to its royal reputation every single time.
8. Kookaburra Wings Wonder
Game day in Phoenix. 45 minutes until kickoff. The server recommended Kookaburra Wings, and they arrived just in time to become our new pre-game tradition!
Unlike typical buffalo wings, these feature a lighter fry and a unique butter-based sauce that creates an addictive flavor profile. The meat practically falls off the bone, eliminating that awkward public wing-eating struggle.
My friends initially questioned my choice (wings at a steakhouse?), but were quickly converted after the first bite. For hot Arizona afternoons when you want something substantial but not too heavy, these wings strike the perfect balance between satisfying and refreshing.
9. Honey-Wheat Bread Heaven
Free bread shouldn’t be this good! Every Arizona visit begins with this complimentary honey-wheat loaf that somehow tastes even better in our dry desert climate. Served warm with whipped butter, the slightly sweet crust gives way to a pillowy interior that’s impossible to resist.
I’ve watched the most disciplined diners abandon their carb-counting ways when this bread hits the table. Pro tip from a local: ask for extra to take home!
They’ll usually oblige, and it makes fantastic French toast the next morning. This humble bread basket staple consistently outshines many of the pricier menu items and keeps desert dwellers coming back regardless of what else they order.
10. Loaded Mashed Potato Magic
During last December’s family reunion, my cousin from Michigan couldn’t stop raving about these potatoes! “We don’t get stuff this good back home,” she insisted between enthusiastic bites. The creamy mashed potatoes come generously topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon bits, and fresh chives.
Unlike other sides that feel like afterthoughts, these potatoes could honestly be a meal themselves. Consistency is key in restaurant chains, and these loaded spuds deliver reliable deliciousness across every Arizona location I’ve visited.
When the summer temperatures soar, this comfort food side provides the perfect balance to Outback’s protein-heavy mains.
11. Chocolate Thunder From Down Under Delight
My birthday tradition for five years running? This magnificent chocolate creation that makes everyone at neighboring tables stare with envy!
A warm pecan brownie serves as the foundation for vanilla ice cream, rich chocolate sauce, chocolate shavings, and a cloud of whipped cream. The temperature contrast between warm brownie and cold ice cream creates a sensory experience that’s especially welcome after a day in the Arizona sun.
Sweet tooths across the Grand Canyon State consistently rank this as the chain’s best dessert. The portion size is perfect for sharing, though I’ve been known to polish one off solo after a particularly challenging work week!
12. Thunder and Lightning Triumph
Following a grueling hike through Sedona’s red rocks last month, my friends and I rewarded ourselves with this upgraded chocolate dessert.
Our exhaustion vanished with the first heavenly bite! Think of it as Chocolate Thunder’s sophisticated cousin – all the chocolatey goodness plus fresh strawberries that add a bright, fruity contrast. The additional chocolate elements create textural complexity that keeps each bite interesting.
Arizona’s fruit grows exceptionally sweet due to our intense sunshine, making the local strawberry garnish particularly delicious here. For those moments when you want to celebrate surviving another scorching summer day, this dessert transforms an ordinary evening into something special.