I hadn't been to an Outback in at least three years. Not because I have anything against Australia, just because I hadn't ever been 'wowed' - and because we live in a fantastic foodie city. Knowing the tab was on someone else made coming back a no brainer.
Side note - I have always ordered a large Fosters when I go to Outback... and every time I'm reminded why I never drink it anywhere else.
We got the appetizer trio - the ahi tuna / coconut shrimp / avocado & crab tower - and it was really REALLY good. Like all three components - spot on. I thought we were headed for greatness.
It was at that moment that I realized our server was more concerned with his appearance and phone than taking care of his tables. At least five different times our glasses were empty / we needed something and he was nowhere to be found.
I got the prime rib and asked for the creamy horseradish - when it arrived, and it was raw / fresh horseradish I didn't really make a fuss. However, my girlfriend's mom insisted that I ask for the creamy.... so we did.
Ten minutes later, he came back, plopped it on the table and said "we were out - so I had to make some". This plopping of items on the table became entertaining because it continued for the rest of the meal.
BTW - the prime rib with horseradish cream was really good... matter of fact, everyone enjoyed their meal that night with the exception of the service. Goes to show that excellent food isn't enough to get some of us to come back!