You know that stretch of North Scottsdale Road where everything feels a little too polished? Sometimes you just want a steak without the white tablecloth or the $200 price tag. Honestly, that’s why the Outback Steakhouse North Scottsdale location near the Promenade has such a death grip on the local dining scene. It’s consistent. It’s loud. It’s exactly what you expect, which is weirdly rare in a city obsessed with the "next big thing."
North Scottsdale is picky. People here have a million options, from high-end sushi to flashy Italian spots. Yet, on a Tuesday night, you’ll still see the parking lot at 7000 E Mayo Blvd packed. Why? Because the Bloomin' Onion is a gravitational force. It’s one of those places where you can show up in golf gear or a hoodie and nobody gives you a second look.
The Vibe at the Mayo Blvd Location
Location matters. This specific Outback is tucked right near the intersection of the Loop 101 and Scottsdale Road. It serves a weirdly diverse crowd. You’ve got the office workers from the nearby corporate parks grabbing a quick lunch, families from the Grayhawk neighborhoods, and tourists who are tired of paying resort prices for a burger.
It isn't just about the food. It's the familiarity.
Walking in, you get that dark wood, Aussie-themed decor that hasn't changed much in decades. Some call it dated. I call it nostalgic. It feels grounded. While other restaurants in the 85255 zip code try to out-design each other with neon signs and velvet booths, Outback stays in its lane. The service is usually snappy, though weekend wait times can get pretty annoying if you don't use the app to join the waitlist ahead of time. Seriously, do not just walk in at 6:30 PM on a Friday and expect a miracle.
What Actually Wins on the Menu
Let’s talk about the food without the marketing fluff. We all know the Bloomin’ Onion is the star. It’s a 1,900-calorie salt bomb, and it’s glorious. But if you’re actually eating a meal, the Victoria’s Fillet is usually the safest bet for quality.
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The Center-Cut Sirloin is the workhorse. It’s lean, seasoned with that specific bold spice rub, and usually cooked correctly. If they overcook it, they’re usually pretty cool about swapping it out without making it a whole thing.
Don’t sleep on the bread. That brown bread with the salted butter? It’s addictive. Most people fill up on it before the salad even arrives. It's a rookie mistake, but we all do it.
The Kookaburra Wings are actually better than most dedicated wing spots in North Scottsdale. They have a distinct breading that’s different from your standard Buffalo wing. Get them "medium" unless you really want to test your stomach lining.
Alice Springs Chicken. It's a classic for a reason. Honey mustard, bacon, mushrooms, and melted cheese on a chicken breast. It’s heavy, sure, but it hits the spot when you aren't feeling a steak.
Why Locals Choose This Over "Fancier" Options
Scottsdale has a reputation for being "snobby." That’s only half true. While there are plenty of spots where you go to be seen, Outback Steakhouse North Scottsdale is where you go to actually eat. It’s a relief. You don't have to worry about a valet or a dress code.
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There’s also the price-to-value ratio. In an era where a burger at a boutique bistro costs $26, getting a full steak dinner with two sides for roughly the same price feels like a win. Plus, their rewards program—Aussie Rewards—actually pays off if you’re a frequent flyer. You get 5% back on your meals, which adds up if you're bringing a family of four.
Dealing With the Crowds
The North Scottsdale location is busy. Like, really busy. Because it’s right by the Fairmont Princess and several other major hotels, you get a lot of out-of-towners.
If you want a quiet experience, go at 4:00 PM. It sounds like an "early bird special" move, but it’s the only way to guarantee a booth without a 40-minute wait. The bar area is also a solid pivot. If the host tells you the wait is an hour, check the high-tops in the bar. Usually, you can snag one and get full service there. It's faster, and the bartenders at this location are generally pretty veteran—they know how to handle a rush.
A Note on Takeout and Delivery
Ever since 2020, their Curbside Takeaway has been dialed in. They have dedicated spots on the side of the building. You check in on the app, and someone usually jogs out with your bag within five minutes. It’s way better than using third-party delivery apps that upcharge you $4 per item and deliver cold fries. If you're living in the North Scottsdale area, just drive over and pick it up yourself. Your fries will actually be crispy.
Common Misconceptions About Outback
People think it’s "fake" Australian. Well, yeah. It started in Tampa, Florida. It’s about as Australian as a Taco Bell is Mexican. But nobody is going there for an authentic cultural exchange. They’re going for the seasoned flour and the steamed broccoli.
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Another myth? That the meat is low quality. While it’s not USDA Prime like you’d find at Mastro’s or Dominick’s down the street, it’s high-quality Choice beef. They aged it for 21 days. For the price point, you’re getting a very solid cut of meat that’s been seasoned within an inch of its life.
Navigating the Mayo Blvd Area
If you're making a night of it, there's plenty around. You've got the Cine Capri movie theater right there. A lot of people do the "dinner and a movie" thing, which is a classic for a reason.
Parking can be a nightmare during the holidays because of the nearby shopping. If the main lot is full, don't keep circling like a vulture. Head further back toward the shopping complex interior; it’s a short walk and saves you the headache of fighting for a spot near the front door.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
To get the most out of your trip to the Outback Steakhouse North Scottsdale, follow these specific steps:
- Download the App First: Join the waitlist before you even leave your house. It’s the only way to avoid the lobby crush.
- Order the "Great Barrier" Specials: They often have seasonal seafood toppers for the steaks. The lobster tail add-on is surprisingly decent for a chain.
- Ask for "Light Seasoning": If you’re watching your sodium, ask them to go easy on the bold seasoning. They tend to be heavy-handed, and the steak is good enough to stand on its own.
- Check for Military/First Responder Discounts: They are one of the few places in North Scottsdale that consistently offers 10% off for service members. Bring your ID.
- Avoid the "Rush Hour": 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM is the danger zone. If you can't go early, go after 8:00 PM when the dinner rush starts to taper off.