By Ashley Kaufman

My husband shot me an envious look when I announced that I would be attending the Outback Steakhouse Meet the Media night to check out the restaurant’s new menu. As a recovering vegetarian, I was excited about the opportunity to cultivate my taste for meat beyond my usual choice of filet mignon. Outback’s new menu debuts a selection of entrees and appetizers for under $15 to appeal to value-conscious steak lovers.

bloomin'onion $6.25

I skimped on lunch the day of the event so I was ready to feast when I arrived at Outback’s Dilworth location on East Boulevard. The Dilworth restaurant, as I learned during my visit, is the oldest Outback location in North and South Carolina. The host staff welcomed me warmly upon entering the Australian-themed restaurant, reminding me of my very first stint in food service at another steakhouse chain. Gathered in a corner of the restaurant, I found the media event attendees devouring tempting dishes. A server first offered me a sample of the refreshing Mango Crush cocktail with Absolut Vodka that will debut on the menu in May.

Crab Stuffed Shrimp $4.95

I joined Raeshika Jones and Samantha Badger, the fabulous producers of FOX News Rising, at their table. The morning show duo filled me in on our tasting duties – just sit back and enjoy. The feast began immediately with generous samples of Outback favorites and new menu items. The Classic Wedge Salad is always a great starter, topped with savory blue cheese and bacon. And of course, a trip to Outback wouldn’t be complete without the legendary Bloomin’ Onion, served with a spicy dipping sauce. Luckily, just a few Bloom pieces were on my plate as given the chance I could have polished off the whole onion. I finally sampled my favorite of the appetizer offerings - the tasty Crab Stuffed Shrimp with lump crab meat and lemon-butter sauce.

The spirits flowed as servers stopped by our table frequently to offer more exotic cocktail samplings including a Blueberry Martini with Stoli Blueberi Vodka, Top Shelf Margarita with Petron Tequila and Mai Tai flavored with huckleberry juice. The wine options reflected the restaurant’s “Down-Under” roots with a choice of Australia’s Lindemans Chardonnay and Greg Norman Estates Cabernet/Merlot. I chose a glass of Chardonnay to complement my upcoming entrée course.

6oz. Sirloin Steak $9.95 Classic Roasted Filet Wedge Salad $12.95

I felt like I was in an upscale eating competition as the dishes continued to arrive. The Shrimp En Fuego is a great entrée choice for seafood lovers, crispy shrimp with a burst of tomato in a spicy, cream sauce. The Savory Pepper Mill Steak arrived next, delectable slices of New York Strip steak encrusted in cracked black pepper with brandy cream sauce and paired with golden potato wedges. The Pork Tenderloin dish offered a flavorful twist with a sweet zesty glaze, accompanied by garlic mashed potatoes and fresh veggies. The Filet Tenderloin is an ideal choice for filet aficionados like me, paired on the menu with the Crab Stuffed Shrimp. And last but not least, we were offered the Outback Special, a seared cut of sirloin seasoned with distinctive spices. After sampling Outback’s many steak choices, I discovered that the New York Strip is now one of my favorites.

We were totally pampered by the attentive and personable Outback staff who quickly responded to every request. The management team checked in at our table often, including Dilworth restaurant proprietor Kris Lewis. Kris shared his story of becoming an owner after starting out his career with Outback 14 years ago as a bus boy. Mary Perez, Senior Marketing Specialist for North and South Carolina, let us in on the inspiration for Outback’s latest recession-friendly culinary offerings, “the new menu was launched to return to Outback’s original roots as an affordable neighborhood restaurant that entices our guests with unique and delicious flavors.”

Finally, dessert arrived with a choice of Nutter Butter Peanut Butter Pie and Classic Cheesecake. As I

Sampler Trio Nutter Butter® Peanut Butter Pie and Classic Cheesecake. 7.95

 adore any combination of peanut butter and chocolate, I chose the Nutter Butter Pie – creamy peanut butter pie drizzled with chocolate sauce - without hesitation. Of course, I should have been stuffed by this point but I polished off the entire piece. For those who want to sample several sweet treats, the new menu offers the Sweet Adventure Sampler which includes cheesecake, Nutter Butter Pie and the chocolate lover favorite, Chocolate Thunder From Down Under.

My Outback experience was tasty and enjoyable - I look forward to coming back with my husband to order the Savory Pepper Mill Steak and of course the Nutter Butter Pie. The restaurant has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere that is ideal for a casual date or a special night out with the kids. With steakhouses abound in Charlotte, Outback is a great spot for a laid back dining experience that will satisfy both your appetite and your wallet. Check out Outback’s Charlotte area locations including Dilworth, University, Huntersville and Pineville.

Atmosphere: 3

Service: 4 1/2

Drinks: 3 1/2

Appetizers: 3 1/2

Entrée: 4

Dessert: 4

Overall Rating: 3 1/2