What We Know About Applebee’s Closures in 2026
Applebee’s closures have been in the news throughout 2026, and the headlines can make it sound like the whole chain is shutting down. It is not. Here is what has actually been reported:
- Planned closures: media reports say Dine Brands planned to close about 20 to 35 Applebee’s restaurants in 2026, a small share of a system with well over a thousand U.S. locations.
- Company figures: Dine Brands’ second-quarter 2026 results reported 13 openings and 30 closures across Applebee’s and IHOP combined, including dual-brand openings. (*Combined figures for both brands.)
- No public list: Dine Brands has declined to publish a list of closing locations. Closures usually become public through local news or a sign on the door.
- Long-time locations: some closures in 2026 were restaurants that had been open for 30 years or more, including a Cedar Rapids, Iowa location that closed on September 29, 2026.
Why Are Some Applebee’s Restaurants Closing?
Applebee’s leadership has described closures as a normal part of running a mature national chain. The reasons that come up most often:
- Rising costs: franchisees have pointed to higher food, labor, fuel and utility costs.
- Older buildings and leases: when a lease ends on an aging restaurant, owners sometimes close instead of renovating.
- Dual-brand strategy: Dine Brands is converting or opening locations that run Applebee’s and IHOP under one roof, and some single-brand restaurants close as part of that shift.
How to Check If Your Applebee’s Is Closed
- Search your city in our Applebee’s restaurant locator or in the Applebee’s app. Closed locations are removed quickly.
- Check Google Maps for “permanently closed” and for recent reviews.
- Call the restaurant. If the number is disconnected, it has very likely closed.
- Search “Applebee’s [your city] closing” for local news coverage.
Got a gift card for a location that closed? Applebee’s gift cards work at other participating restaurants and online; see our gift card guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Applebee’s closing?
No. Applebee’s as a brand is not closing. Dine Brands is closing a limited number of underperforming restaurants in 2026, reportedly 20 to 35, while opening new dual-brand Applebee’s and IHOP locations.
Is Applebee’s going bankrupt?
No. Applebee’s and its parent company, Dine Brands Global, have not filed for bankruptcy. Some individual franchise owners have had financial trouble, which can lead to local closures.
Which Applebee’s are closing in 2026?
Dine Brands does not publish a list. Closures are usually reported by local news. To check a specific restaurant, use the Applebee’s locator, Google Maps or call the location.
Are all Applebee’s closing?
No. The vast majority of Applebee’s restaurants remain open, and new dual-brand locations are opening. Closures affect a small share of the chain.
Final Take
Applebee’s is shrinking at the edges, not disappearing. If your favorite location is still listed in the app and answers the phone, it is open. We update this page as Dine Brands reports new numbers. While you are here, check Applebee’s hours and the latest Applebee’s deals before your next visit.
Sources: Dine Brands Q2 2026 results (SEC filing) · TheStreet: Applebee's plans closures in 2026
