Unearth The Voyage
California diners love Outback Steakhouse for its bold flavors, hearty portions, and that unmistakable Aussie vibe. From sizzling steaks to legendary appetizers, certain menu items have earned cult status among Golden State regulars. Whether you’re planning your first visit or you’re a seasoned fan looking to try something new, these crowd-pleasers are the orders Californians keep coming back for.
1. The Original Bloomin’ Onion®
There’s a reason this hand-carved, deep-fried masterpiece appears on nearly every table at California Outback locations like Burbank. The super colossal onion is transformed into a golden, crispy flower that weighs in at 1,900 calories—making it a true indulgence. Served alongside the signature spicy Bloom sauce, it’s been the restaurant’s calling card since day one.
Californians treat this appetizer as a pre-steak ritual, a sharable starter that sets the tone for the entire meal. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and tender onion layers inside keeps people ordering it year after year. It’s not just food; it’s an experience.
Here’s a smart move: share it with your table and save plenty of room for your main course. The Bloomin’ Onion is rich and filling, so pacing yourself ensures you can enjoy everything else on your plate. Regulars know this trick well.
2. Alice Springs Chicken®
Not everyone walks into Outback craving red meat, and that’s where this signature dish shines brightest. Grilled chicken breast comes loaded with sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon strips, melted Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses, plus a drizzle of honey-mustard that ties everything together. At 910 calories, it’s hearty without being over-the-top.
Across California—from San Diego to Sacramento—this entrée consistently ranks as the go-to non-steak option. The combination of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors creates a balanced plate that appeals to a wide range of tastes. It’s comfort food done right, with enough complexity to keep each bite interesting.
Many regulars have a secret: they ask for extra honey-mustard on the side. That tangy-sweet sauce is the perfect complement to the rich toppings, and a little extra never hurts. Don’t hesitate to make that request—it’s a popular move among those in the know.
3. Kookaburra Wings®
Game night in California often means one thing: a platter of these wings tossed in Outback’s proprietary spice blend. You can dial the heat up or down with mild, medium, or hot options, making them perfect for groups with different spice tolerances. The appetizer portion clocks in at 1,740 calories, but you can also order them as an entrée or party platter for larger gatherings.
What makes these wings a California staple? They deliver big, bold flavor without being overly complicated. The seasoning is distinctive enough to stand out from typical buffalo wings, yet approachable enough for everyone at the table. Blue cheese dressing and celery sticks come standard, adding cool, crisp contrast to the spice.
Regulars recommend customizing the heat level to match your group’s preferences. Start with medium if you’re unsure—you can always kick it up next time. These wings have become a reliable favorite for celebrations, sports gatherings, and casual dinners alike.
4. Bone-In Ribeye* (18 oz.)
When Californians visit Outback specifically for steak, this is often the cut they choose. The 18-ounce bone-in ribeye boasts extra marbling that translates to rich, buttery flavor in every bite. Listed at 1,070 calories and served with two sides of your choice, it’s a complete meal that satisfies serious steak lovers from Bakersfield to the Bay Area.
The bone adds an extra dimension of flavor and helps the meat stay juicy during cooking. This isn’t a timid portion—it’s a statement piece designed for those who came to indulge. California menus consistently feature this cut, and pricing reflects its premium quality.
Want to elevate the experience even further? Look for surf-and-turf options that pair this ribeye with shrimp or lobster. Many locations offer these combinations, letting you enjoy the best of land and sea on one plate. It’s a move that turns dinner into a celebration.
5. Chocolate Thunder from Down Under®
Finishing a meal at Outback without considering this dessert feels incomplete to many California regulars. An extra-generous pecan brownie forms the foundation, topped with vanilla ice cream, warm chocolate sauce, chocolate shavings, and a crown of whipped cream. At 800 calories and containing nuts, it’s a decadent way to end your dining experience.
The contrast between warm brownie and cold ice cream creates a textural experience that keeps forks moving around the table. This dessert appears on menus at every California location, making it a reliable option no matter where you’re dining. It’s become as iconic as the Bloomin’ Onion, representing Outback’s commitment to generous portions and bold flavors.
Smart diners plan to split this one. The richness and size make it perfect for sharing between two or even three people. You’ll still get that satisfying sweet finish without feeling overstuffed, leaving you happy rather than uncomfortable as you leave the restaurant.
