Additional Coverage:
- I ordered the same meal at Texas Roadhouse and Outback Steakhouse. The winning chain had lower prices and better bread. (businessinsider.com)
A recent dining comparison between Texas Roadhouse and Outback Steakhouse reveals some surprising differences between these two popular casual steakhouses. While many people often lump them together as similar mid-tier American steakhouse chains, a firsthand experience suggests otherwise.
The reviewer visited both restaurants on the same Friday evening at nearby locations in a Chicago suburb, ordering nearly identical meals: mozzarella sticks to start, a 6-ounce sirloin steak with sides of mac and cheese and mashed potatoes, and a brownie for dessert.
From the moment they arrived, Texas Roadhouse stood out with its lively atmosphere. The restaurant was bustling early in the evening, featuring Southern-themed decor, country music, and even an hourly line dance performed by staff. Complimentary warm rolls accompanied by cinnamon honey butter were a highlight, praised for their soft, buttery texture and well-balanced flavor.
Outback Steakhouse, by contrast, was noticeably quieter with a more muted Australian theme. Its complimentary bread-a darker, dense brown bread with a cult following-did not impress as much, described as dry and bland with underwhelming butter.
When it came to appetizers, Outback’s fried mozzarella “Boomerangs” offered more cheese and a spicy kick from their signature Bloomin’ Onion seasoning, although they cost a dollar more than Texas Roadhouse’s lighter, less cheesy mozzarella twists. The latter’s appetizer was decent but felt a bit skimpy on cheese.
Entrée presentation also differed. Texas Roadhouse served its steak and sides in simple dishes reminiscent of a campus dining hall, including plastic containers for sour cream and gravy.
Despite this, the 6-ounce sirloin was well-seasoned and cooked to medium as requested, with mashed potatoes that were creamy and flavorful. The mac and cheese, however, was disappointing with a soupy texture and muted cheddar taste.
Outback’s steak was thicker, juicier, and tenderer, though it lacked seasoning and needed additional condiments. Its mashed potatoes were less flavorful, and the mac and cheese emerged as a standout, featuring twirly noodles, rich cheese sauce, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. However, this side came with a steep upcharge, making the meal notably more expensive.
Dessert rounds reinforced the contrast. Texas Roadhouse’s “Big Ol’ Brownie” was praised for its classic texture and came with ice cream and chocolate sauce, though the portion was large enough to share. Outback’s “Chocolate Thunder from Down Under,” despite its impressive presentation and toppings, was criticized for a gummy, overly moist texture and a price tag over $11, making it the least favorite item sampled.
In terms of cost, the Texas Roadhouse meal totaled about $47 with tip, while Outback’s came to nearly $56. Both felt pricey for casual dining, especially considering the large portions, which raised questions about value when leftovers might suffer in quality.
Ultimately, the reviewer favored Texas Roadhouse for its welcoming atmosphere, exceptional rolls, seasoning, and overall experience. Outback’s mac and cheese and thicker steak were highlights, but the higher price and less engaging ambiance made it less appealing as a repeat choice.
While neither chain would prompt a special trip, Texas Roadhouse offered a full dining experience that went beyond just the food, making it the preferred option for this particular comparison.