Steak HouseRestaurantTake Out RestaurantAmerican RestaurantAustralian RestaurantBar & GrillGluten-Free RestaurantBar
Outback Steakhouse, the home of juicy steaks, spirited drinks and Aussie hospitality. Find our location in Lakeland on the corner of Sleepy Hill Road and 98 North in front of the Lakeland Square Mall.
Many customers reported issues with food quality, including tough steaks, cold meals, and bland flavors.
Service Issues
Several reviews highlighted slow service, unprofessional staff behavior, and lack of responsiveness to customer complaints.
Cleanliness
Multiple customers noted unsanitary conditions, including dirty tables and silverware, which negatively impacted their dining experience.
Positive Staff Experiences
Despite the issues, some customers praised specific staff members for their excellent service and attentiveness.
Inconsistent Experiences
While some patrons had great experiences, others reported significant disappointments, indicating a lack of consistency in service and food quality.
RP
Richard and Patty
Nov 16, 2025
3.0
My wife and I dinned at this location over the weekend. Our server was amazing. He did a great job; wish I could remember his name. He is the only reason I gave 3 stars. Our food was cold, and my steak was undercooked. The manager was standing nearby (Middle Aged Black Woman) I tried to get her attention and even made eye contact. she never acknowledged me. She walked into the kitchen then returned to the dining room a few minutes later, sat at a table eating and video chatting with someone laughing and carrying on. We asked our server for boxes and left. It's a shame to have talented server like him and management that doesn't care.
JO
Joshua Odom
Nov 11, 2025
3.0
Derek the bartender was amazing and did everything he could to ensure that my Veteran’s Day was spectacular, including getting my daughter one of the koala ducks. However, due to the poor planning by management, he was forced to be one of the THREE servers in the building. The service was incredibly slow. Again, no part due to Derek, but wholly due to the management.
SC
Sheri Cross
Nov 10, 2025
5.0
Went her with a friend for birthday get together. Seated quickly. Wait staff were friendly and helpful.
Food was good temperature except plate of onion petals was cold. Steak was cooked correctly and tasted great.
DS
Dee Streb
Nov 9, 2025
1.0
I ordered a Ribeye steak dinner with baked patatoe and salad to go. The steak was OK, the patatoe was so over cooked (old) it was brown on the inside and the salad was wilted to the point that about a quarter was thrown away. Considering that the salad was much smaller than expected after having to pick out the wilted parts there wasn't much left.
If I had been a dine-in customer I would have returned the meal, it was that bad. I am not a person that sends food back for a minor problem but this was so bad that I will not be getting any more take out meals from N 98 Lakeland Outback.
I don't know if it is just a take out problem or if the quality of the food has just gone down over all but when I spend $35 plus tip for a meal I don't expect to have throw over half of it in the trash.
RO
Rebecca Ortiz
Oct 30, 2025
2.0
Have not been to this Outback in quite some time, but was shocked at the difference since the last time we went. Staff seemed very uninterested in the customers. We waited about 5 minutes after we were sat before a server came to the table. We then waited almost an hour for our food. Ordered a steak medium well but it was bloody in the middle, more like medium/medium rare and it was very tough/hard to chew. My husband got the chicken and rib combo. His chicken was placed over the ribs and it seemed like they poured the bbq sauce over both and the ribs only ended up with sauce over 1/4 of them. His entire meal was also cold. We spent over $140 for 6 people and only ate about half our food which was a shame. I left feedback on the Outback website 6 days ago and never heard anything back. We will not be returning here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outback Steakhouse
Where can I find information on gluten-free menu items?
We can recommend several items on our menu specifically for gluten intolerance. Please [click here](https://www.outback.com/nutrition/gluten\-free) to view our gluten\-free menu
Where can I earn dine rewards?
Visit Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill and Fleming's Prime Steakhouse \& Wine Bar participating locations.
Where can I download the NEW Outback App?
Our App has been upgraded with a new look and exciting features! It's the fastest, mobile way to enjoy our bold flavors thru curbside takeaway \& delivery. Get it on Google Play or download on the AppStore – [Learn More](https://www.outback.com/app?useCache=false/)
How do I find out more information about being an Outbacker?
We're always looking for dedicated, fun\-loving people to help make our restaurant a success! For more information [click here](http://bit.ly/39L8aoI3112).
What are the opening hours of Outback Steakhouse in Lakeland?
Outback Steakhouse in Lakeland is open Monday to Thursday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Does Outback Steakhouse offer gluten-free menu options?
Yes, Outback Steakhouse offers gluten-free menu items. You can view them on their gluten-free menu page.
What dining services does Outback Steakhouse provide?
Is there a happy hour at Outback Steakhouse in Lakeland?
Yes, happy hour is offered daily from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
What payment methods are accepted at Outback Steakhouse?
They accept American Express, Android Pay, Apple Pay, cash, MasterCard, and Visa.
What is the dress code at Outback Steakhouse?
The dress code is casual.
Where is Outback Steakhouse located in Lakeland?
It is located at 4208 North Road 98, Lakeland, FL 33809, on the corner of Sleepy Hill Road and 98 North, in front of the Lakeland Square Mall.
What nearby places can I visit before or after dining at Outback Steakhouse?
Nearby you can visit the Cinemax Theatre for a movie, Village Plaza Dental Designs if you have dental needs, or shop at Barnes & Noble Booksellers for books and comics.
Are there other dining options close to Outback Steakhouse?
Yes, nearby dining options include TGI Fridays, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Cicis Lakeland buffet, and Chick-fil-A for fast food.
What nearby services or shops are available near Outback Steakhouse?
Near Outback Steakhouse, you can visit Tips & Toes Nail Salon for beauty services, Chase Bank for financial needs, and Party City for party supplies.