Outback launching first U.S. fast-casual concept, Aussie Grill, at International Plaza

Calling all Blokes and Sheilas, later this month, the International Plaza will once again make news. After recently opening the Texas-transplant, Whiskey Cake, the luxury mall will open a fast-casual, spin-off of the hometown hero, Outback Steakhouse called Aussie Grill.

Aussie Grill by Outback will be taking over the vacant spot left by Johnny Rockets at the food court, and besides serving American fare under Australian slang, the successful chain from the restaurant conglomerate, Bloomin’ Brands Inc., will sell sandwiches, burgers and express versions of its classics over the counter, we presume based on international pictures.

Aussie grill to open first U.S. location at Tampa mall

“We will open some locations in the Tampa market to monitor and fine-tune the concept as needed,” Bloomin’ spokeswoman Elizabeth Watts said in a public statement.

Aussie Grill has two spots already running in Hong Kong and in Saudi Arabia. The move to the International Plaza represents a differentiated approach by the brand to reach customers in readily more convenient ways.

“Aussie Grill by Outback was developed primarily for international growth,” Watts continued. “The fast-casual service model allows franchisees to operate in a smaller footprint, with lower investment while still serving high-quality food.”

Bloomin’ Brands has Tampa roots

Founded here in Tampa in 1988, Outback Steakhouse is looking to test out a new concept on its hometown peeps, are you excited to try it? Tell us in the comments below.

Aussie Grill is arriving in the food court at International Plaza later this month.