Somehow we've managed to never make it to an Outback Steakhouse before, proximity and a slow night got us there this week. Really nice, comfortable and interesting decor, the waitstaff was very friendly and attentive, our waiter was enthusiastic and knowledgeable. The draft beer was a little pricy at $5.00 for what appeared to be slightly less than a pint of Fosters, but cold and promptly delievered. We tried a "bloomin' onion" because of the hype, they're HUGE, easily an appetizer for four, and to our palate perhaps the oil was a little tired. Interesting blend of spices when hot, but given to a slightly unpleasant aftertaste part way in, I wouldn't order again, it's worth waiting for onion rings to be in season at Burgerville. The entrees is where this restaurant shines, my partner in crime had the petit filet, a wonderful piece of steak cooked perfectly and presented with some excellent sides, I had the "chopped steak" which was a large hand formed patty cooked to order and presented over garlic mashed potatoes with a wonderful mushroom/wine sauce. Very, very tasty. The "creamy onion" soup was very good also. Overall a little pricy for drinks and sides, it's worth putting up with the beer prices to get to the entrees. Don't get the "bloomin' onion" unless you've got a big appetite or lots of help. I'll go again for the chopped steak and to try some of the other interesting looking appetizers.
Pros: Great entrees, interesting selection of menu items, good soup
Cons: Beer prices are pretty high for Vancouver, bloomin' onion was a little over fried
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