The debate between LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse has been a longstanding one, with both restaurants vying for the top spot in the steakhouse market. Both chains have their loyal followings, but which one truly comes out on top? In this article, we’ll delve into the history, menu offerings, pricing, and overall dining experience of both LongHorn and Outback to help you decide which steakhouse reigns supreme.
A Brief History of LongHorn and Outback
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of each restaurant, let’s take a brief look at their histories.
LongHorn Steakhouse
LongHorn Steakhouse was founded in 1981 by Brian and George McKerrow Jr. in Atlanta, Georgia. The first restaurant was called LongHorn Steaks Restaurant & Saloon, and it quickly gained popularity for its high-quality steaks and rustic, Western-themed decor. Over the years, LongHorn has expanded to over 500 locations across the United States and abroad.
Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse was founded in 1988 by Trudy Cooper, Chris T. Sullivan, Tim Gannon, and Bob Basham in Tampa, Florida. The first Outback restaurant was designed to resemble an Australian outback, complete with rustic decor and a menu featuring high-quality steaks and seafood. Today, Outback has over 1,000 locations worldwide.
Menu Offerings
Both LongHorn and Outback offer a wide range of menu items, but their focus is on high-quality steaks. Here’s a breakdown of their menu offerings:
LongHorn Steakhouse Menu
LongHorn’s menu features a variety of steaks, including:
- Renegade Sirloin: A 7-ounce sirloin steak topped with a spicy seasoning blend
- Outlaw Ribeye: A 23-ounce ribeye steak served with a side of au jus
- LongHorn Salmon: A 7-ounce salmon fillet served with a side of lemon butter
In addition to steaks, LongHorn also offers a variety of appetizers, salads, and entrees, including:
- Wild West Shrimp: Hand-breaded shrimp tossed in a spicy sauce
- House Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber
- Chicken Tenders: Tender and juicy chicken strips served with a side of honey mustard sauce
Outback Steakhouse Menu
Outback’s menu features a variety of steaks, including:
- Victoria’s Filet Mignon: A 6-ounce filet mignon served with a side of au jus
- Ribeye: A 16-ounce ribeye steak served with a side of au jus
- Grilled Chicken: A 6-ounce chicken breast served with a side of honey mustard sauce
In addition to steaks, Outback also offers a variety of appetizers, salads, and entrees, including:
- Bloomin’ Onion: A signature appetizer featuring a hand-breaded onion blossom
- House Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber
- Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie: Shrimp skewers served with a side of tangy BBQ sauce
Pricing
Pricing is an important factor to consider when choosing between LongHorn and Outback. Here’s a breakdown of their pricing:
LongHorn Steakhouse Pricing
LongHorn’s pricing varies depending on the location and menu item, but here are some approximate price ranges:
- Appetizers: $8-$12
- Salads: $8-$12
- Steaks: $15-$30
- Entrees: $12-$25
- Desserts: $6-$8
Outback Steakhouse Pricing
Outback’s pricing also varies depending on the location and menu item, but here are some approximate price ranges:
- Appetizers: $8-$14
- Salads: $8-$14
- Steaks: $18-$35
- Entrees: $15-$30
- Desserts: $7-$10
Dining Experience
The dining experience is a crucial aspect of any restaurant, and both LongHorn and Outback strive to provide a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere.
LongHorn Steakhouse Dining Experience
LongHorn’s dining experience is designed to resemble a rustic, Western-themed saloon. The decor features wooden accents, stone walls, and vintage Western decor. The service is typically friendly and attentive, with servers happy to answer questions and make recommendations.
Outback Steakhouse Dining Experience
Outback’s dining experience is designed to resemble an Australian outback, complete with rustic decor and a lively atmosphere. The service is typically friendly and attentive, with servers happy to answer questions and make recommendations.
Conclusion
So, which steakhouse reigns supreme? Ultimately, the decision between LongHorn and Outback comes down to personal preference. Both restaurants offer high-quality steaks and a welcoming atmosphere, but there are some key differences to consider.
If you’re looking for a more rustic, Western-themed dining experience, LongHorn may be the better choice. Their menu features a variety of steaks and entrees, and their pricing is generally more affordable.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more lively, Australian-themed dining experience, Outback may be the better choice. Their menu features a variety of steaks and entrees, and their signature Bloomin’ Onion appetizer is a must-try.
Regardless of which steakhouse you choose, you can’t go wrong. Both LongHorn and Outback offer a high-quality dining experience that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
| Restaurant | Menu Offerings | Pricing | Dining Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| LongHorn Steakhouse | Steaks, appetizers, salads, entrees | $15-$30 (steaks), $12-$25 (entrees) | Rustic, Western-themed decor, friendly service |
| Outback Steakhouse | Steaks, appetizers, salads, entrees | $18-$35 (steaks), $15-$30 (entrees) | Lively, Australian-themed decor, friendly service |
In conclusion, both LongHorn and Outback offer a high-quality dining experience that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. While there are some key differences between the two restaurants, ultimately the decision comes down to personal preference.
What are the main differences between LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse?
LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse are two popular steakhouse chains with distinct differences. One of the main differences lies in their menu offerings. LongHorn Steakhouse is known for its bold flavors and seasonings, offering a wide range of steak options, including their signature Renegade Sirloin and Flo’s Filet. In contrast, Outback Steakhouse is famous for its Australian-inspired menu, featuring dishes like the Bloomin’ Onion and Victoria’s Filet Mignon.
Another significant difference between the two steakhouses is their atmosphere. LongHorn Steakhouse has a more rustic, Western-themed decor, while Outback Steakhouse has a more casual, Australian-inspired ambiance. Additionally, LongHorn Steakhouse is known for its extensive lunch menu, which is not as prominent at Outback Steakhouse. Overall, the choice between LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse ultimately depends on personal preferences and what type of dining experience you’re looking for.
Which steakhouse offers a more extensive menu?
Both LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse offer a wide range of menu options, but Outback Steakhouse has a slightly more extensive menu. Outback Steakhouse features a variety of appetizers, including their famous Bloomin’ Onion, as well as a range of entrees, including steaks, seafood, and pasta dishes. They also offer a variety of sandwiches and salads, making it a great option for those looking for something other than steak.
In contrast, LongHorn Steakhouse has a more focused menu, with a emphasis on steaks and bold flavors. While they do offer some non-steak options, such as chicken and seafood, their menu is not as diverse as Outback Steakhouse. However, LongHorn Steakhouse is known for its high-quality steaks, and their menu is designed to showcase their expertise in this area.
Which steakhouse is more budget-friendly?
Both LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse offer competitive pricing, but LongHorn Steakhouse is generally considered to be more budget-friendly. LongHorn Steakhouse offers a range of steak options at various price points, including some more affordable options like their Renegade Sirloin. They also offer a variety of lunch specials and promotions, making it a great option for those looking for a affordable steakhouse experience.
In contrast, Outback Steakhouse tends to be slightly more expensive, especially when it comes to their higher-end steak options. However, they do offer some more affordable options, such as their lunch menu and specials. Ultimately, the choice between LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse will depend on your budget and what you’re looking for in a dining experience.
Which steakhouse has better steak options?
Both LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse are known for their high-quality steaks, but the better option ultimately depends on personal preference. LongHorn Steakhouse is famous for its bold flavors and seasonings, and their steaks are cooked to perfection. They offer a range of steak options, including their signature Renegade Sirloin and Flo’s Filet.
Outback Steakhouse, on the other hand, is known for its tender and juicy steaks, and they offer a range of options, including their signature Victoria’s Filet Mignon. They also offer a variety of steak toppings and sauces, making it easy to customize your steak to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse will depend on your personal preferences and what type of steak you’re in the mood for.
Which steakhouse has a better atmosphere?
The atmosphere at LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse is distinct and depends on personal preference. LongHorn Steakhouse has a more rustic, Western-themed decor, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is designed to resemble a classic Western saloon, complete with wooden accents and vintage decor.
In contrast, Outback Steakhouse has a more casual, Australian-inspired ambiance. The restaurant is designed to resemble a classic Australian pub, complete with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The decor features a mix of wood and stone accents, and the lighting is warm and inviting. Ultimately, the choice between LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse will depend on your personal preferences and what type of atmosphere you’re looking for.
Which steakhouse offers better customer service?
Both LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse are known for their excellent customer service, but the better option ultimately depends on personal experience. LongHorn Steakhouse is famous for its friendly and attentive staff, who are always happy to help with menu recommendations and other requests.
Outback Steakhouse also has a reputation for excellent customer service, with a focus on providing a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. The staff is friendly and attentive, and they’re always happy to help with menu recommendations and other requests. Ultimately, the choice between LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse will depend on your personal experience and what type of service you’re looking for.
Which steakhouse is more family-friendly?
Both LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse are family-friendly restaurants, but Outback Steakhouse is generally considered to be more welcoming to families. Outback Steakhouse has a more casual atmosphere, which makes it easier for families with young children to feel comfortable. They also offer a kids’ menu, which features a range of options that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
LongHorn Steakhouse is also family-friendly, but it has a slightly more formal atmosphere, which may not be as welcoming to families with young children. However, they do offer a kids’ menu, and the staff is always happy to help with menu recommendations and other requests. Ultimately, the choice between LongHorn Steakhouse and Outback Steakhouse will depend on your family’s preferences and what type of dining experience you’re looking for.