Outback Steakhouse — Restaurant in Laurel

I don’t often write reviews, but after dining at Outback Steakhouse recently, I felt compelled to share my experience, especially after the exceptional service provided by FiFi, the manager. From the moment I walked in, it was clear that FiFi’s leadership sets the tone for everything that happens in this restaurant.

As a guest, the atmosphere was welcoming and warm, but what truly made my visit special was FiFi’s presence. Despite being busy, FiFi took the time to personally greet guests and ensure everything was running smoothly. Their energy was infectious, and it was evident that they genuinely care about the guest experience, as well as the well-being of their team.

Throughout my meal, I noticed FiFi checking in with staff, offering encouragement, and ensuring that every detail was just right. It’s not often you see a manager so hands-on and engaged with both guests and employees, but FiFi made it clear that great service comes from a place of leadership that values and respects everyone. FiFi wasn’t just overseeing things—they were actively creating an environment of excellence, and it showed in the impeccable service I received.

The food itself was, of course, delicious—Outback never disappoints on that front—but it was FiFi’s exceptional leadership and dedication that made the evening feel memorable. There’s something truly special about dining in a place where the manager is clearly invested in creating an experience that feels personal, welcoming, and above all, sincere.

I watched FiFi engage with guests, making sure everyone had what they needed and offering thoughtful suggestions on menu items. Their genuine interest in making sure every diner was happy was unlike anything I’ve experienced before. You could feel that FiFi’s passion for hospitality extends beyond just running a restaurant—it’s about creating lasting, positive memories for guests.

I left Outback Steakhouse that evening feeling like I had experienced something more than just a meal—I felt like I had been part of something special, and that’s a reflection of FiFi’s exceptional leadership. If you’re lucky enough to dine here and have FiFi overseeing things, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.

FiFi has set a new standard for what outstanding leadership looks like in the restaurant industry. Thank you, FiFi, for making our night at Outback...

Update: Tony reached out to us and helped us with the situation. I appreciate the information and solutions provided as well as how quickly he had responded. Although the experience turned us off from the restaurant, Tony handled the situation as best as he could and I hope giving it a couple months, we can return for a better experience.

Original post: My friends and I decided to have a moms night out at your restaurant and it started off lovely. Unfortunately it went down very fast, we ordered quickly hoping to make good time, we received our salads and the one app we ordered about an hour after ordering and it took another 30-40 minutes to even get our silverware. One person ordered a dr. Pepper and it was never brought over. Finally, our food arrives… with no sauces so we couldn’t even eat yet. Once the bill came they charged us $13 for three beverages (only one drink ordered, never received). We spoke to a manager who said “I’m new, and server is new” said he would comp a dessert for us and add our discount for military. The check disappears, for about thirty minutes. It was then our waitress came back finally, our cups had been empty for most of the visit, asking if we had paid. I finally went up front to get the manager again and he just kept stating that the bar was busy (we were in the dining area not bar) and that he had to help them but will now handle our bill. It was excuse after excuse, all over a horrible experience. They also tried to charge us for the supposed free dessert which, you guessed it, we didn’t receive. Oh and also Cam was...

1 Star - Food/Service (Updated)

Went for lunch. Ordered the French Onion Sirloin entree. (See pictures.) This is what ridiculous looks like. In the pic, the metal cup (typically used for condiments), contained the soup. (Yesss!) The pic shows exactly how it came. No joke. They called it a 'mini' soup. Whaa...? The soup/sauce wasn't even filled to the top. The salad dressing cup (side-by-side in pic) had more in it. My friends and I were a bit speechless. I could NOT even believe they were serious. (They were. I did not even get a spoon. But then why would I need one?!)

Additionally, I asked for mashed potatoes. Technically, I guess, it was mashed--into a contained that gave it the dome shape. NO DAIRY OF ANY KIND was involved in making it. The sirloin was a bit tough, and everything tasted like it had no-to-little seasoning. My sister-friend ordered the same dish. She did not even finish it. I barely ate mine and got it boxed figuring I would 'fix it' at home. Not sure if I will even bother. Lastly, our waiter was very average. Think her name was Toni. She did not: come by much, ask us how our meal was, and/or whether we wanted anything else (i.e. dessert etc.). Forgot to bring things we requested. My friend ordered a drink that never came. Only positive in this whole experience--and reason for the rating--the bread was good.

Unsurprisingly, I will not be back. (Two thumbs down)

UPDATE: I have recently seen posted pics of the referred soup. Nothing came in the sized container we received. It makes our experience all the...