According to The Sun , Outback Steakhouse is set to revamp its menu, aiming to simplify offerings in a bid to boost traffic and reverse recent declines. The decision follows a dip in earnings over recent months and a series of closures for the casual dining chain. Outback Steakhouse is part of Bloomin’ Brands, the parent company of other restaurant chains like Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill, and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse.
During Bloomin’ Brands’ Q3 earnings call, CEO Mike Spanos highlighted the challenges facing Outback Steakhouse and the broader casual dining industry. He outlined plans to reinvigorate the restaurant by scaling down its menu, with a focus on delivering quality and consistency.
“We need to create a great meal and a great value in a fun, casual environment—that’s central to our brand,” Spanos explained. “For me, operational excellence means consistency, which involves simplifying our offerings to focus on what we do best.”
The CEO emphasized that a streamlined menu would improve the dining experience, making it easier for both guests and Outback’s team members. This approach is centered on Outback’s “Aussie spirit,” focusing on core items like steak and seafood.
Financial Picture and Restaurant Closures
The menu revamp comes as Outback Steakhouse faces financial challenges. Spanos noted that the chain has struggled with sustained traffic growth and has seen declines in same-store sales. Outback Steakhouse’s Q3 revenue came in at $1 billion, a 4% drop compared to last year, with factors like challenging industry trends and recent hurricanes affecting performance.
Spanos also mentioned that the company had previously announced closures for underperforming locations, with 41 restaurants targeted earlier this year. Most of these locations were older properties, some with leases dating back to the ’90s and early 2000s, according to former CEO David Deno. As a result, Outback Steakhouse exited Hawaii and New Hampshire entirely, and closures affected locations in states like Iowa, Ohio, Michigan, Florida, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. Sister chains Bonefish Grill and Carrabba’s Italian Grill also saw closures in New Jersey, Virginia, and New York.
Looking to attract diners back to the Aussie-themed chain, Outback hopes its refined focus on core offerings will deliver a better guest experience and drive renewed growth.
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