TLDR
A nostalgic, budget-friendly American staple offering reliable comfort food, late-night drink specials, and consistent, no-fuss dining.
Details
Known for offering a reliable and budget-friendly American dining experience, this establishment provides a consistent, nostalgic menu that often serves as a go-to for those seeking convenience [2]. While some critics argue that the food quality is basic or inferior compared to more authentic local alternatives [2], many patrons value the affordability of their drinks and late-night appetizer specials [2]. Furthermore, the Times Square location is often noted for functioning as a high-visibility marketing and branding tool rather than focusing solely on traditional profitability [2].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on classic American comfort foods like boneless wings, burgers, and pasta [2]. Customers frequently recommend the half-priced appetizers, strong drink specials, and nostalgic favorites like the Triple Chocolate Meltdown [2]. Some diners have expressed disappointment with items like fries, though overall sentiment remains balanced for those not seeking gourmet culinary experiences [2].
Highlights / Recommended
"Popular menu choices include the half-priced appetizers, boneless wings, and the Triple Chocolate Meltdown dessert [2]."
Customer Sentiment
Customer feedback is sharply divided between those who appreciate the chain's predictability and value, and critics who dismiss it as offering basic, low-quality fare [2]. Despite the criticism, many locals and tourists alike continue to patronize the establishments for affordable group dining and happy hour deals [2].
Caveats
The chain is frequently criticized by food enthusiasts who view it as an uninspired, basic option compared to the wide variety of authentic cuisine available in the city [2].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About APPLEBEE'S
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user enjoys Applebee's for its late-night half-priced appetizers and happy hour deals, noting it's an affordable meal option outside of Times Square."
NeutralFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user defines the clientele as tourists (people not from NYC)."
NeutralFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user finds the continued existence of Applebee's in NYC to be a 'f eaking mystery'."
NegativeFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This commenter makes a joke about the pronunciation of Applebee's and states 'no one' eats there."
NegativeFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user explains that Applebee's offers an affordable 'going out' experience for those on a budget or needing a break from cooking, contrasting it with more upscale options."
NeutralFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user states that more people eat at Applebee's than at trendy Instagram spots."
NeutralFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user simply states they eat at Applebee's often and find it great."
PositiveFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user used to enjoy the 'gross deliciousness' of junk food at the Astoria Applebee's and visited the Times Square location out of curiosity."
NeutralFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This commenter admits the wings at the Times Square Applebee's are good, recalling a positive experience before a Knicks game."
PositiveFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user asks if anyone has tried the chicken wonton tacos at Applebee's."
NeutralFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This commenter expresses affection for Applebee's."
PositiveFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This commenter suggests the Times Square Applebee's location sees business from people pre-gaming for Broadway shows."
NeutralFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user recounts a date where their Colombian partner suggested Applebee's, finding contentment in the familiar and affordable meal."
NeutralFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This commenter emphatically states that it's always tourists who eat at Applebee's."
NeutralFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user agrees with the previous point, contrasting kids in Mexico eating avocado and kids in Korea eating kimchi with kids in the US eating chicken tenders."
NeutralFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user refers to Applebee's as 'Crapplebees'."
NegativeFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user explains that Americans visit chains like Applebee's for security and predictability, especially tourists overwhelmed by NYC's intensity, finding it a safe and affordable respite."
NeutralFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user agrees that the original post's question about who eats at Applebee's is well-posed."
NeutralFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This commenter, who grew up in NYC, notes that working-class New Yorkers frequent places like the Jamaica, Queens Applebee's."
NeutralFrom post: Who Tf Eats At Applebees
"This user notes that half-off appetizers are still a great deal."
Neutral