Applebee's vs Outback Steakhouse
Everyday value against a premium-leaning steakhouse — compared for 2026.
Short answer:Outback is the pick for a steak-forward night a notch above casual — bigger cuts, the Bloomin' Onion, a steadier dining-room feel. Applebee's is the pick for everyday value: entry steak at $15.49, the 2 for $25 bundle, and weekday happy hour that Outback does not run nationally.
Side by Side
| Category | Applebee's | Outback | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry steak | 6 oz Top Sirloin $15.49, two sides | Sirloin typically high teens | Applebee's |
| Premium cuts | Limited beyond sirloin | Ribeye, filet, porterhouse, prime rib | Outback |
| Signature item | Riblets, Bourbon Street skillets | Bloomin' Onion | Taste call |
| 2-person deal | 2 for $25 year-round | Rotating promos only | Applebee's |
| Happy hour | Mon–Fri half-price apps + drinks | No national program | Applebee's |
| Loyalty | Applebee's rewards + birthday treat | Dine Rewards across Bloomin' Brands | Outback (multi-chain) |
| Menu breadth | 115+ items, 15 categories | Steak-led with seafood and ribs | Applebee's |
| Price positioning | Everyday casual | Casual-plus, a few dollars higher | Budget: Applebee's |
When Outback Wins
Choose Outback when the occasion calls for a proper steak dinner without white-tablecloth prices: better cut selection, the shareable Bloomin' Onion to start, and Dine Rewards if you also eat at Carrabba's or Bonefish Grill. Expect the bill to land a few dollars per person above Applebee's.
When Applebee's Wins
Choose Applebee's for weeknight value and mixed tables. Beyond the entry-price steak, there are 10 burgers from $12.49, 14 appetizers from $9.49 that go half-price at happy hour, kids meals from $6.99, and late-night specials. Two people eating from the 2 for $25 menu will almost always spend less than the same dinner at Outback.
Price Reality Check
Applebee's figures come from our tracked menu data and its official menu; Outback figures are typical ranges from its published menus, which vary by market. Both chains price locally — for Applebee's, see how prices differ by state and confirm with your local restaurant.
Applebee's vs Outback FAQ
Is Applebee's cheaper than Outback Steakhouse?
Generally yes. Applebee's entry steak is $15.49 (6 oz Top Sirloin with two sides) and burgers start at $12.49, while Outback's sirloins typically start in the high teens and most entrees sit a few dollars above Applebee's equivalents. Outback positions itself a half-step more premium; Applebee's leans on bundles like 2 for $25.
Does Outback have a deal like Applebee's 2 for $25?
Outback runs rotating promotions (like Aussie 3-Course deals) and localized offers, but not a standing two-person bundle. Applebee's 2 for $25 is year-round: one appetizer plus two qualifying entrees. If you plan dinners around a predictable deal, Applebee's is easier.
What does Outback have that Applebee's doesn't?
The Bloomin' Onion, a broader premium steak lineup (ribeye, filet, porterhouse), and the Dine Rewards loyalty program shared with other Bloomin' Brands chains. Applebee's counters with its own rewards program, a bigger everyday-value menu, and a genuine weekday happy hour.
Which has the better bar, Applebee's or Outback?
Both have full bars, but Applebee's is the one with a national happy-hour rhythm — half-price appetizers and drink specials Monday to Friday at most locations, with signature cocktails from $7.99. Outback's bar pricing is steadier and varies by location.
Applebee's prices are from this guide's tracked menu data, verified against the official Applebee's menu. Outback details reflect its publicly listed menu and programs at outback.com and are stated as typical ranges. Found something outdated? Tell us.