This coming spring, Aussie Grill by Outback is making its debut at 1426 W. Brandon Blvd., the former address of Wow! That's Fresh in Brandon. The fast-casual restaurant is an offshoot of Outback Steakhouse's parent company, Bloomin' Brands.
The menu is stacked with handhelds like specialty burgers including the Bacon Bomb (pictured) made with bacon onion jam, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, house-made pickles, and aioli. There's also a serious selection of sandos like braised brisket, crispy sriracha chicken and the Jammin' Chicken Sandwich made with grilled chicken, cheddar cheese, bacon onion jam, pickled jalapeños, lettuce, tomato, and aioli. Just a heads up, the Impossible Burger is only available at the Lutz location.
There's also a lineup of large plates including ribs, sirloin, and chicken tenders and a grilled chicken breast, melted cheese, crispy bacon, caramelized onions and choice of side. You can opt for a classic Aussie Salad or snag the apple arugula salad made with arugula, apples, carrots, cucumbers, house-made pickles, pumpkin seeds, and tomatoes tossed in Italian dressing and with your choice of crispy shrimp, grilled or crispy chicken. If you want a little side snack, there are Aussie Pedals (think deconstructed Bloomin' Onion), cheese fries and Cajun shrimp. The kid's menu offers chicken tenders or a cheeseburger served with fries. Room for dessert? Guests can choose from ice cream sundaes, Ghirardelli double dark chocolate brownies, or chocolate chip pecan cookies.
According to Tampa Bay Business Journal, the latest location will host a drive-thru for customers on-the-go or who aren't quite ready to dine indoors.
Aussie Grill's website outlines a handful of locations around Tampa Bay including Wesley Chapel/Lutz, South Tampa, Riverview, as well as in the food courts of International Plaza and Westfield Brandon Mall. Needless to say, if you're itching to sample the menu, you won't have to travel far. More details to come on the forthcoming Brandon location as construction continues and the official opening date is announced.
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This article appears in Dec 24-30, 2020.