Outback Steakhouse has launched lunch nationwide, with a selection of 70 combination meals that start at $6.99, the Tampa-based operator said Monday.
The chain has expanded lunch into 70 percent of its 988 U.S. locations.
“Our customers want fast, high quality, affordable and delicious mid-day meal options, so now Outback restaurants will offer lunch at last,” Outback Steakhouse president Jeff Smith said in a statement. “We’re excited to offer a tremendous variety of bold, fresh lunch options in addition to all of our Outback favorites.”
Outback has gradually increased the number of its restaurants that offer lunch over the years. It started the nationwide rollout now that most units offer the daypart.
The company said lunch could add $1 billion in sales if it can achieve the 10-percent market share it has at dinner.
Outback’s lunch menu includes a full selection of steaks, as well as 70 combos including a Ribeye Melt sandwich, featuring ribeye topped with grilled onions, bacon and Cheddar cheese with garlic aioli. There are also Aussie Tacos with a choice of steak, chicken or fish. Lunch service starts at 11 a.m.
The company also offers online ordering for pickup and curbside to-go orders, as well as click-through seating enabling customers to get on a waiting list before they arrive at the restaurant.
Outback is one of a number of casual-dining chains looking to improve its revenue by boosting lunch business. Last week, Buffalo Wild Wings introduced its B-Dubs Fast Break Lunch program, which has a specific menu and service strategy to get customers in and out in less than 40 minutes.
Such efforts come as casual-dining chains look to reclaim business they lost at lunch to high-growth fast-casual chains like Panera Bread and Chipotle Mexican Grill.
Contact Jonathan Maze at [email protected].
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