Outback Steakhouse Altoona: Menu, Hours, And Location

Planning a meal at the local steakhouse doesn't have to involve guesswork. If you're heading out for dinner in central Pennsylvania, knowing what to expect from the Outback Steakhouse in Altoona helps you skip the wait and pick the right dishes. Located at 100 Sheraton Drive, this popular spot serves up classic Australian-themed American steakhouse fare, from signature center-cut sirloins to the iconic Bloomin' Onion. Whether you're looking for operating hours, lunch specials, or popular menu items, here's a clear breakdown of everything you need for your next visit.

Location Details and Operating Hours

Finding the restaurant is straightforward, as it sits right off Sheraton Drive near major local routes. Operating hours remain fairly consistent throughout the week, though weekend evenings draw larger crowds.

• Address: 100 Sheraton Drive, Altoona, PA 16601
• Phone Number: (814) 941-0555
• Monday through Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
• Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Because Friday and Saturday nights get busy around peak dining hours between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM, calling ahead or joining the online waitlist via the Outback Steakhouse Official Website can save you a significant wait.

Popular Menu Highlights and House Specialties

The menu features a mix of seasoned steaks, chicken, seafood, and hearty appetizers. If you haven't visited in a while, understanding the staple dishes makes ordering easier.

Signature Starters

• Bloomin' Onion: A legendary hand-carved colossal onion that's cooked golden brown and served with spicy signature bloom sauce.
• Aussie Cheese Fries: Seasoned fries topped with melted Monterey Jack, cheddar, and chopped bacon, served with house-made ranch dressing.
• Gold Coast Coconut Shrimp: Jumbo shrimp dipped in batter, rolled in coconut, fried golden, and paired with creole marmalade.

Prime Steaks and Entrees

• Victoria's Filet Mignon: A thick-cut, tender cut that is seasoned and seared to order.
• Outback Center-Cut Sirloin: A lean, hearty, and flavorful cut seasoned on a hot grill.
• Alice Springs Chicken: Grilled chicken breast topped with sautéed mushrooms, crisp bacon, melted Monterey Jack and cheddar, and honey mustard sauce.

Lunch Specials and Midday Dining

If you're visiting before mid-afternoon, the lunch menu runs Monday through Friday until 4:00 PM. These options feature smaller portions at lower price points and typically include a choice of a freshly made steakhouse side.

• Alice Springs Chicken Quesadilla: Stuffed with grilled chicken, mushrooms, bacon, and cheeses.
• Aussie Steak Sammie: Seared sirloin slices with aged cheddar, grilled onions, tomato, arugula, and tomato aioli on a toasted baguette.
• The Half-Pound Outbacker Burger: Served with pickles, lettuce, onion, tomato, and your choice of cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting

A smooth dining experience comes down to avoiding a few common pitfalls that catch first-time visitors off guard.

• Showing up empty-handed on holidays: Major holidays like Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, and Thanksgiving bring massive crowds. Always check holiday hours and secure reservations or curbside pickup well in advance.
• Ignoring the call-ahead seating: Walking in blind on a Friday night at 7:00 PM usually means a 45-minute wait. Use their digital check-in tools before you leave the house.
• Overlooking lunch availability: If you want lunch pricing or specific midday combo items, make sure you arrive prior to the 4:00 PM cutoff on weekdays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Altoona location offer curbside take-away?

Yes, curbside take-away is available. You can place an order online through the official website or call the restaurant directly at (814) 941-0555 to pick up your food without leaving your car.

Are there options for dietary restrictions or food allergies?

The restaurant provides gluten-friendly options and can modify certain dishes upon request. Inform your server about any allergies so the kitchen can take proper precautions.

Is parking available on-site?

A dedicated parking lot surrounds the building at the Sheraton Drive location, offering plenty of free parking spaces for diners.

Do they accept reservations?

While traditional reservations are limited, you can join the waitlist online before arriving to minimize your wait time at the door.