When will the new Outback Steakhouse restaurant open in O’Fallon? Here’s what we know

There’s been some online chatter from area residents about the Outback Steakhouse in O’Fallon.

Many are wondering when the new eatery will open its doors. (Those Bloomin’ Onions have been missed.)

Well, I have a little info on that.

I spoke to Community Development Director Justin Randall, who said that the construction of the restaurant is pretty much done.

He said the restaurant, located at 1102 Central Park Drive, is working on staffing at this time.

Randall also said the last he heard, Outback is looking at a late February/early March opening.

I sent an inquiry to media relations at Bloomin’ Brands, Inc., which owns Outback, asking for additional info regarding an opening date. I haven’t heard back yet. I’ll let you know if I learn anything new.

The area’s been without an Outback Steakhouse since a location at 4390 N. Illinois St. in Swansea was damaged by fire in April 2021.

That location, which opened in early 1995, did not reopen, and the building was demolished.

The nearest Outback in South County at 5240 S. Lindbergh in Sappington, Missouri.

About Outback Steakhouse

Outback Steakhouse was established in the 1980s by friends Chris Sullivan, Robert Basham, Tim Gannon and Trudy Cooper, according to the restaurant’s website.

Veterans of the hospitality industry, they wanted to open a restaurant with a casual atmosphere offering quality food and service.

To make it stand out, they opted for an Australian theme and opened the first Outback Steakhouse in Tampa, Florida, in 1988.

In addition to Outback Steakhouse, Bloomin’ Brands, Inc. also owns Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.

For more info about Outback Steakhouse, visit outback.com.