[chopstick]

OK, went to Outback and had dinner/late lunch there yesterday.

I ordered the Hickory Burger, and my friend ordered a bowl of Clam Chowder. We shared the Seared Ahi Tuna, Darling Point Crab Cakes, and Shrimp on the Barbie. My friend also had the Chocolate Thunder from Down Under. We decided against the Cheese Fries as it would be a bit too much food.

I noticed that daryn has a good point - the mugs did seem a little smaller than I remembered them, and I had 3 refills of my water with lime. There was a lot of ice in the mug, though.

The server did not attempt to sit with us, nor would he have really been able to, as we ran the seat block technology.

The Hickory Burger description on the menu there did not mention mayo, so I just ordered it. It came out with mayo on it, and I asked for a new top bun, which the server took care of pretty fast. He also apologized for it not being listed on the menu, and made a few comments about "corporate" screwing things up. Fair enough, no harm done.

I was not really impressed with the Seared Ahi Tuna, which was what I was most looking forward to. It wasn't bad, and perhaps I am unfairly comparing it to places that specialize in similar cuisine. I almost certainly was, initially. It was a little more on the cooked side than the seared, and it was sliced thin enough to remind me of carpaccio. I didn't mind that, but it wasn't what I expected. The wasabi "sauce" was decent, I did not try the ginger.

I should not have believed the hype about Outback burgers. I went in expecting something fantastic and was disappointed. The quality was fine, it was a good burger, and I enjoyed it. My expectation bar was just set a little too high, I think.

The Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie were excellent as usual.

I was not that impressed with the Darling Point Crab Cakes. They reminded me more of crab croquettes than crab cakes.


Overall, I enjoyed the experience and thought that it was a decent return on investment.

I have photos of the appetizers if interested. I think the only one worth looking at is the Seared Ahi Tuna, though.