Applebee's vs Outback Steakhouse: Menu Prices Compared (2026)
The short answer
Applebee's is the cheaper of the two. Of the 4 directly comparable items we could match across both menus, Applebee's is cheaper on 3 of them, by an average of $1.37 per item.
Make Applebee's and Outback Steakhouse at Home
Whichever of the two wins on price, cooking the favorites at home beats both. These are the sauces, mixes and kitchen tools that get closest to the real thing.
Deals Worth Knowing at Both
Applebee's
- The 2 for $25 menu — an appetizer plus two entrees — is roughly $10 below ordering the same three items separately and covers most of the popular dishes.
- The $9.99 weekday lunch combo pairs a half sandwich or salad with soup or fries and is the cheapest sit-down lunch at any national casual chain.
- Applebee's runs $1 and $5 cocktail promotions several times a year; the Dollarita in particular is the cheapest drink at any chain restaurant.
Outback Steakhouse
- The 6 oz. Center-Cut Sirloin with two sides at about $17 is the cheapest complete steak dinner at any national steakhouse chain.
- Outback regularly runs an Aussie 3-Course deal — soup or salad, an entrée and a dessert — for around $20 to $25.
- Dine Rewards gives 50% off your fourth visit after three qualifying visits within six months.
Applebee's vs Outback Steakhouse — FAQ
Is Applebee's cheaper than Outback Steakhouse in 2026?
Applebee's is cheaper on most matched items — 3 of 4. Across the whole menu Applebee's is the lower-priced of the two, at $15.49 for a typical item against $15.99 at Outback Steakhouse.
What is the price difference between Applebee's and Outback Steakhouse?
On matched items the average difference is $1.37, or about 15% overall. Applebee's averages $14.56 across 42 priced items; Outback Steakhouse averages $17.05 across 38.
Which has the cheaper entry price, Applebee's or Outback Steakhouse?
Applebee's starts at $1.00 (Dollarita (limited promotion)) and Outback Steakhouse at $3.79 (Fountain Soda).
Are these prices the same at every location?
No. Both chains let franchise owners set prices, so figures move by a dollar or more between markets and run highest at airport, stadium and highway locations. Treat these as the typical U.S. price, not a quote.