With rising food prices putting pressure on household budgets, dining out has become more of a luxury for many families. As a result, deals like Disney’s “kids eat free” continue to attract attention.
However, loss-leader offers—products sold below cost to draw customers—can be risky for restaurants. For example, in 2024, Red Lobster launched an endless shrimp promotion priced at $20 to attract budget-conscious diners recovering from the pandemic. Although the promotion aimed to boost sales, it failed to save the chain from financial trouble. Red Lobster closed dozens of locations and eventually filed for bankruptcy. While the shrimp deal wasn’t the sole cause, it likely sped up the decline.
Despite such challenges, some restaurants are trying to revive in-person dining by reintroducing popular meal deals thought to be a thing of the past.
One of the notable examples is Applebee’s.
Applebee’s Brings Back Beloved All-You-Can-Eat Deal
Applebee’s recently announced the return of its popular “All You Can Eat” offer for a limited time. For $15.99, diners can enjoy unlimited servings of Riblets, Double Crunch Shrimp, and Chicken Tenders, along with endless bowls of fries and cole slaw.
The deal features generous portions at an affordable price. Diners can mix and match proteins—chicken, pork, or shrimp—coated in one of Applebee’s signature sauces. Sauce options include honey BBQ, honey dijon mustard, buttermilk ranch, blue cheese, hot honey glaze, and fan favorites like classic buffalo and spicy honey mustard.
“Every combination is a win,” said Reid Leslie, Applebee’s Vice President of Marketing.
Customers can also add a “dirty soda,” topped with cream, whipped cream, and a cherry, for just $1 extra.
This return signals Applebee’s effort to provide value and bring customers back to their tables amid changing dining habits and tighter budgets.
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