OUTBACK Ebinaten

When the Outback steakhouse in the old Granberry Mall in Minami Machida closed down ~2017 for the rebuilding of the outlet complex and station, even though I didn't frequent Machida that often, I felt the loss. Not long after that, I discovered the Ebina location, in building #6 of the Vinawalk sho...pping complex. I've visited a couple times per year since. Overall, food is so-so, with occasional hits and misses. But then again, if you're on the way to Outback, you're not looking for gourmet but rather a decent steak at a decent price. The menu has recently been cut back, for example, thousand island dressing is no longer available for your salad. And portion sizes appear to have been reduced. Plus a new two hour table limit has been implemented. Perhaps these are management's responses to the recent sales tax increase brought to us by the ruling Liberal Democratic party. I'd have preferred a different approach, one focused on better service and higher quality. The venue is about what you'd expect from any Outback location in terms of layout and decor. It features a fairly good size sports bar in the middle of the restaurant. There's plenty of parking and for those coming by rail or bus it's about a 5-7 minute walk from the platform / stop. The restaurant is on the ground floor and is easily accessible. Proximity to US military bases in the area means there are likely to be several non-Japanese patrons. The hardest thing to swallow is not the food but the staff service. At best, it's inconsistent; at worst, downright rude. On my most recent trip, having made a reservation, I was told on being seated that there was a two hour limit at the table (none of this was communicated at the time I made the reservation). Worse, once seated and the clock ticking, no one came to take my order for at least 10 minutes. It's an interesting strategy--maybe more pressure and less communication will be positive for management. It's a fairly new tactic, one I hadn't heard in previous visits. Maybe the new approach will work for them, but I'm not a fan. Management could do so much better by educating and training service staff. I wish I could be more positive. With improvements in service quality and staff manners, this place could really be something. All in all, it's not the worst place I've ever been, but it's average and if my recent visit is any indicator, this location is in decline. If you're expecting Japanese politeness and manners from the service staff and typical Japanese quality in the food prep and presentation, you'll likely be disappointed. However if you can see past the lousy service, it's not horrible. It could be decent as a mid-priced place to go with social acquaintances or perhaps work colleagues, maybe also fo inexpensive eats with a family group. But impossible to recommend as a place to impress, i.e., for a date or important meeting. I recommend making reservations, especially on weekends as it tends to fill quickly and can be a long wait for walk-ins. Hope this helps!

Visited January 2020

The best steak house in Japan. Having been going twice a year for the past 5years the outback never disappoints friendly staff and exceptional food In a very convenient location.traveling alone on times it's a place you can have a meal drink and not feel out of place.love the place.

Visited December 2018

Uncharacteristically bad service by Japanese standards. If you don’t speak Japanese you might not know it, but the wait staff needs much more training on how to behave. Last order is one hour before closing, and they really mean it—not only the kitchen closes, but forget about a refill on the very e...xpensive soft drinks as well. I understand the kitchen closing for food, but for a refill as well? And yet this practice is emblematic of the service as a whole. Try a real Japanese steakhouse for better quality food and service.

Visited August 2019

This is an awesome place for celebrating birthday! My favorite back ribs & spicy chicken! Loving the nachos & steak! 😘 and they have a non stop serving of bread as long as you requested for it! Very polite and bubbly servers. Gonna come back again next time.

Visited October 2017

If you craving a good steak this Outback is as good in the USA. Sometimes a bit of a wait. Also, usually there is someone that can speak English. Enjoy!

Visited October 2017