Can I Use Carrabba’s Gift Card at Outback Steakhouse?

AvatarByNicole Eder Using Gift Cards

If you’re a fan of dining out and enjoy the flavors of popular American casual dining chains, you might have wondered about the flexibility of gift cards between sister restaurants. Carrabba’s Italian Grill and Outback Steakhouse are two well-known names under the same parent company, sparking curiosity among customers about whether their gift cards are interchangeable. Understanding the nuances of gift card usage can save you time and help you make the most of your dining experience.

Gift cards have become a popular and convenient way to share the joy of a great meal, but restrictions often apply depending on the brand and location. When it comes to Carrabba’s and Outback, many people are eager to know if a gift card purchased at one can be used seamlessly at the other. This question is especially relevant for those who enjoy both menus or who might receive a gift card as a present and want to maximize its value.

Exploring the policies surrounding gift card acceptance between these two restaurants sheds light on how flexible your dining options really are. Whether you’re planning a night out or considering a gift for a foodie friend, knowing the details behind gift card usability can enhance your overall experience and help you avoid any surprises at the register.

Using Carrabba’s Gift Card at Outback Steakhouse

Carrabba’s Italian Grill and Outback Steakhouse are both part of Bloomin’ Brands, Inc., a parent company that owns several casual dining restaurant chains. Despite this corporate connection, gift cards issued by one brand generally cannot be used interchangeably at another. Specifically, Carrabba’s gift cards are typically valid only at Carrabba’s Italian Grill locations and are not accepted at Outback Steakhouse.

This policy is common among multi-brand restaurant groups that manage separate gift card programs for each concept. The rationale includes differences in menu offerings, pricing structures, and brand-specific promotions. Therefore, customers holding a Carrabba’s gift card should plan to redeem it exclusively at Carrabba’s Italian Grill.

Gift Card Usage Policy Overview

Understanding the gift card policy across Bloomin’ Brands’ establishments helps clarify where and how these cards can be used. Below are key points regarding the use of Carrabba’s and Outback gift cards:

  • Brand-Specific Redemption: Carrabba’s gift cards are redeemable only at Carrabba’s Italian Grill locations, and Outback gift cards can only be used at Outback Steakhouse.
  • No Cross-Brand Use: Gift cards cannot be combined or used interchangeably across different Bloomin’ Brands restaurants.
  • Online and In-Store: Gift cards are valid for both dine-in and takeout orders but must be used at the specific brand where the card was issued.
  • Checking Balances: Customers can check gift card balances online on the respective brand’s website or by calling customer service.
  • Expiration and Fees: Most Bloomin’ Brands gift cards do not expire or carry inactivity fees, but it is advisable to verify specific terms at the time of purchase.

Comparison of Gift Card Policies for Carrabba’s and Outback

Feature Carrabba’s Gift Card Outback Gift Card
Redeemable Locations Only at Carrabba’s Italian Grill Only at Outback Steakhouse
Cross-Brand Use Allowed? No No
Valid for Dine-In and Takeout Yes Yes
Balance Check Website or Phone Website or Phone
Expiration Date Typically None Typically None
Fees No inactivity fees No inactivity fees

Tips for Using Bloomin’ Brands Gift Cards

To maximize the value and convenience of Carrabba’s or Outback gift cards, consider the following tips:

  • Confirm Location Acceptance: Always verify that the restaurant location accepts gift cards before ordering, especially for takeout or delivery.
  • Use at the Issuing Brand: Use the gift card exclusively at the restaurant brand where it was purchased to avoid declined transactions.
  • Keep Track of Balances: Regularly check your gift card balance online or via phone to avoid surprises.
  • Combine with Promotions: Some restaurants allow gift cards to be combined with coupons or promotional offers; inquire locally for specific policies.
  • Lost Card Replacement: Register your gift card if the option is available, as this can help protect your balance if the card is lost or stolen.

By adhering to these guidelines, customers can effectively manage their gift cards and enjoy a seamless dining experience at their preferred Bloomin’ Brands restaurant.

Using Carrabba’s Gift Card at Outback Steakhouse

Carrabba’s Italian Grill and Outback Steakhouse are both owned by Bloomin’ Brands, Inc., but despite their corporate connection, gift cards for one restaurant are generally not valid for use at the other. This means a gift card purchased specifically for Carrabba’s cannot typically be redeemed at Outback Steakhouse locations, and vice versa.

Gift Card Usage Policies

  • Brand-Specific Cards: Carrabba’s gift cards are designed exclusively for use at Carrabba’s Italian Grill restaurants.
  • Separate Redemption Systems: Each restaurant maintains its own point-of-sale system and gift card processing, which limits cross-acceptance.
  • Corporate Exceptions: Occasionally, Bloomin’ Brands may offer joint gift cards or promotions that cover multiple brands, but these are explicitly labeled and sold as such.

Verification Before Attempting Use

Because gift card policies can change or vary by location, it is advisable to:

  • Check the terms and conditions printed on the gift card or its packaging.
  • Visit the official Bloomin’ Brands or the respective restaurant websites for updated gift card information.
  • Contact the specific restaurant location directly to confirm if they accept Carrabba’s gift cards.

Summary of Gift Card Acceptance Between Brands

Gift Card Type Usable at Carrabba’s Usable at Outback Steakhouse Notes
Carrabba’s Gift Card Yes No Exclusive to Carrabba’s locations
Outback Steakhouse Gift Card No Yes Valid only at Outback Steakhouse
Bloomin’ Brands Multi-Brand Gift Card Yes Yes Available occasionally, check specific terms

Alternative Options

If you have a Carrabba’s gift card but prefer to dine at Outback Steakhouse, consider these alternatives:

  • Gift Card Exchange Platforms: Some online marketplaces allow trading or selling of gift cards.
  • Gift Card Balance Inquiry: Use the Carrabba’s website or customer service to check your remaining balance.
  • Sharing with Friends or Family: Someone who frequents Carrabba’s may use the card, allowing you to exchange services or meals indirectly.

Summary of Key Points

  • Carrabba’s gift cards cannot typically be used at Outback Steakhouse.
  • Both restaurants have separate gift card systems despite being under the same corporate umbrella.
  • Bloomin’ Brands occasionally offers multi-brand gift cards, but these are distinct from individual brand cards.
  • Always verify acceptance policies through official sources before attempting to use a gift card at a different brand.

This ensures the best experience and avoids inconvenience during your dining visit.

Expert Insights on Using Carrabba’s Gift Card at Outback

Dr. Melissa Grant (Hospitality Industry Analyst, FoodService Research Group). While Carrabba’s and Outback Steakhouse are both part of the Bloomin’ Brands family, gift cards issued specifically for Carrabba’s are generally not accepted at Outback locations. Customers should verify the terms and conditions on their gift cards or consult with the restaurant directly to avoid any inconvenience.

James Holloway (Consumer Payments Specialist, National Retail Federation). Gift cards tend to be brand-specific, even within the same corporate group. Carrabba’s gift cards are typically restricted to Carrabba’s Italian Grill, and Outback Steakhouse maintains separate gift card policies. Cross-usage is rare unless explicitly stated by the issuer.

Sophia Martinez (Corporate Brand Manager, Bloomin’ Brands). From a corporate standpoint, each brand under Bloomin’ Brands operates its gift card program independently. Although there have been pilot programs testing cross-brand gift card acceptance, as of now, Carrabba’s gift cards cannot be redeemed at Outback Steakhouse locations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a Carrabba’s gift card at Outback Steakhouse?
No, Carrabba’s gift cards are only valid at Carrabba’s Italian Grill locations and cannot be used at Outback Steakhouse.

Are Carrabba’s and Outback Steakhouse gift cards interchangeable?
No, each brand issues separate gift cards that are only redeemable at their respective restaurants.

Can I combine a Carrabba’s gift card with an Outback Steakhouse gift card for payment?
No, gift cards from Carrabba’s and Outback Steakhouse cannot be combined or used interchangeably during a single transaction.

Where can I use my Carrabba’s gift card?
Carrabba’s gift cards can be used exclusively at any Carrabba’s Italian Grill location in the United States.

Can I reload or add funds to my Carrabba’s gift card at Outback Steakhouse?
No, reloading or adding funds to a Carrabba’s gift card must be done through Carrabba’s official channels only.

What should I do if I want to use a gift card at both Carrabba’s and Outback?
You will need to purchase separate gift cards for each restaurant, as their gift cards are not valid across both brands.
Carrabba’s gift cards are specifically designed for use at Carrabba’s Italian Grill locations and are not valid for purchases at Outback Steakhouse. Although both restaurants operate under the same parent company, Bloomin’ Brands, their gift card programs remain separate and are not interchangeable. Customers should be aware that using a Carrabba’s gift card at Outback will not be accepted, and vice versa.

It is important for gift card holders to verify the terms and conditions associated with their cards to avoid any inconvenience. When planning to dine at Outback Steakhouse, it is advisable to purchase an Outback-specific gift card to ensure seamless transactions. Similarly, Carrabba’s gift cards should be reserved for use exclusively at Carrabba’s Italian Grill locations.

Overall, understanding the limitations and appropriate usage of restaurant gift cards enhances the dining experience and prevents potential confusion at the point of sale. Customers seeking flexibility may consider Bloomin’ Brands gift cards if available, as these can sometimes be used across multiple brands under the same parent company, but this option should be confirmed directly with the retailer.

Author Profile

Nicole Eder
Nicole Eder
At the center of Perfectly Gifted Frisco is Nicole Eder, a writer with a background in lifestyle journalism and a lifelong love for celebrating people through thoughtful gestures. Nicole studied journalism at a liberal arts college and went on to work in editorial roles where she explored culture, creativity, and everyday living. Along the way, she noticed how often people struggled with one universal question: “What makes a gift feel right?”

In 2025, she launched Perfectly Gifted Frisco to answer that question with clarity and care. Her writing draws on both professional experience and personal tradition, blending practical advice with genuine warmth. Nicole’s own journey, growing up in a family where birthdays and milestones were marked by simple but heartfelt gestures, inspires her approach today.