Outback Steakhouse

Reviews

• LW

  Laura Willis

  May 11, 2026
  5.0
  We were transported to an earlier time in the best way possible during our Outback experience about two weeks ago when we came for dinner on a Friday evening around 7pm. It felt like the early 2000s, economy booming, families, singles, and couples alike were excited to be out, the atmosphere vibrant, restaurant busy yet had an organizational flow. Something felt different, and it was incredible to witness and be a part of. From the start, my husband and I were greeted warmly and genuinely by several host staff. A kind young woman held open the front door as we entered. Then, a young man brought us to an adorable booth meant for two right away, no wait time.. he pointed out the seasonal features and promotions on a separate menu. Off the bat, we were so impressed. This is also one of the nicest looking interiors of an Outback I’ve ever seen. It’s very spacious with ample seating, an attractive looking bar, the acoustics are awesome with very tall ceilings.. sounds don’t echo or overwhelm, it was perfect. Leslie was our incredible, knowledgeable, fun, attentive server. She knew exactly when to come over, she asked great questions, and was really on top of everything. Our drinks came out quickly from the bartender themselves, appetizers were hot and just as delicious as I always remembered those classics to be. We tried the trio which consisted of the fried onions, Aussie cheese fries (my fav), and cheese sticks! I enjoyed a dirty martini and my husband tried out their featured smoked old-fashioned which came out with a fancy cloche with smoke billowing out. Both were incredible. I had a red wine with my surf and turf dinner, which was also spectacular. The filet was outstanding. My husband’s steak was also perfectly done and his shrimp were delightfully coconut battered and crunchy. We had to compliment Leslie mid-meal to let her know what a tremendous experience we’ve been having and how it felt like we were living back in a simpler time where the servers weren’t rushing tables off and the team steps up to help in every way like buss or greet tables: an art that I feel has been lost in the service industry. But this Outback has it dialed-in to a science. Leslie was thrilled to hear our positive feedback and she asked if the restaurant’s Proprietor, Victor, could stop by our table & chat about it. We were ecstatic to share everything we mentioned to Leslie with him. Victor said everything we were sharing is extremely validating given the franchise has gone back to classic work standards and even old grills for cooking. None of this was by accident and he was elated to hear we took notice. We raved even more how we could literally feel and taste the difference. I recommend this specific Outback to anyone! It was great for our date night, but there were also so many age ranges, families, singles, diverse ethnicities, friend groups getting together on this particular Friday night. This Outback chain location felt more fine dining in the greeting, service, management, flow and atmosphere than some of the new trendy restaurants downtown we’ve been to recently. We felt wanted and important and cared for from start to finish. Come here for the original Outback favorites you know and love, or try something different and exciting! For those who haven’t been to this location in a while, come back & give them another go since all these incredible “changes” have been implemented. I’d like to note we balled out on this dinner, but prices remain fair and reasonable. It can be as elevated or laid back as you’d like the experience to be. Thank you to the entire Downers Grove Outback team once more for the best night out we’ve had in a long time. A special shout out to Leslie and Victor again. See you soon!
• JZ

  John Zaharis

  May 10, 2026
  5.0
  The take-away and bartending staff were awesome! They helped us figure out exactly what we wanted and were super friendly even though the restaurant was extremely busy. Order was correct and food tasted great.
• NB

  Natasha Baldwin

  May 8, 2026
  5.0
  Our server was awesome. I can't remember his name, but middle aged black man with glasses. If you ever visit ask to be seated in his area!
• ND

  Nicole Dillingham

  Apr 29, 2026
  5.0
  I LOVE OUTBACK!!!! Went for my granddaughter 5th B'day because she likes the chicken tenders 😅. 3 stars for the food, not because of taste thats always on point, so e of the food was hot, just warm. If I'm waiting 20 or 30mins for the food please make sure it's hot. Other than that OUTBACK is great
• RC

  Rita Coon

  Apr 28, 2026
  5.0
  Wonderful restaurant! The staff was friendly and considerate, intuitively perceived our needs and made the birthday celebration we had very special. The food was delicious, too. Their online menu has great photos of their food and they do not disappoint. Highly recommend!

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