Applebee’s Lunch Menu: Best Deals, Prices & Must-Try Items
I still remember walking into Applebee’s one afternoon feeling really hungry. I wanted a quick lunch that tasted good and did not cost too much.
But the menu felt confusing.
There were so many choices. I could not tell which lunch deals were available or which meals were actually worth the price. It took longer than it should have.
A lot of people feel the same way.
You want something filling and affordable. You do not want to waste money or spend too much time looking through the menu.
That is why I created this simple guide.
The Applebee’s lunch menu includes burgers, chicken meals, salads, pasta, sandwiches, and lunch combo deals. Most lunch items cost under $15. Lunch usually starts at 11:00 AM at many locations. If you also want to explore the full Applebee’s menu, including dinner items, appetizers, desserts, and drinks, make sure to check the main menu guide as well.
You can eat inside the restaurant, order takeout, or get delivery.
In this guide, I will show you the popular lunch items, updated prices, and the meals that give the best value.
I have tried many items at Applebee’s over the years, so I will also share what is worth ordering.
Let’s get started.
What Is on the Applebee’s Lunch Menu?
Applebee’s lunch menu covers a wide range of food. You will find something no matter what you are craving.
Here are the main categories:
Burgers and Handhelds
Quesadilla Burger: A juicy burger inside a crispy quesadilla shell is one of the most popular items on the menu.
Clubhouse Grille: A classic sandwich with layers of meat, cheese, and vegetables.
Chicken Wonton Tacos: Crunchy, flavorful, and easy to eat. Great for a lighter lunch.
These items come with fries or a side of your choice.
Quesadilla Burger
$19.99 | 1580 cal
Clubhouse Grille
$17.99 | 1460 call
Chicken Wonton Tacos
$1499 | 590 cal
Chicken Dishes
Fiesta Lime Chicken: Grilled chicken with a zesty lime seasoning, a fan favorite.
Bourbon Street Chicken and Shrimp: Cajun-seasoned chicken and shrimp served with rice and vegetables. This is a top seller in 2026.
Chicken Tenders Platter: Simple, crispy, and satisfying. Great for kids, too.
Fiesta Lime Chicken
$20.99 | 1100 Cal
Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp
$24.99 | 800 Cal
Chicken Tenders Platter
$12.99 | 1,410 cal
Salads
Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad: Fresh greens with grilled chicken and creamy avocado make for a good lighter option.
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad: A classic that never goes out of style.
Caesar Side Salad
$7.49 | 220 cal
House Side Salad
$7.49 | 140 cal
Pasta
3 Cheese Chicken Cavatappi: Creamy pasta with three kinds of cheese. Comfort food at its best. The portion size is right for a midday meal.
NEW Chicken Parmesan Fettuccine
$23.99 | 1410 cal
Classic Blackened Shrimp Alfredo
$22.99 | 1320 cal
Bourbon Street Chicken & Andouille Sausage Penne
$23.99 | 1590 cal
Classic Broccoli Chicken Alfredo
$22.99 | 1410 cal
Four-Cheese Mac & Cheese with Honey Pepper Chicken Tenders
$23.99 | 1360 cal
Blackened Shrimp & Andouille Sausage Penne
$23.99 | 1470 cal
Three-Cheese Chicken Penne
$22.99 | 1350 cal
Breadsticks with Alfredo Sauce
$10.99 | 1510 cal
Bowls and Skillets
Tex-Mex Shrimp Bowl: Shrimp with cilantro rice, beans, and bold seasonings.
Hot Honey Glazed Chicken and Bacon Skillet: A newer item in 2026. Sweet, smoky, and served hot.
Irresist-A-Bowls: Hearty bowls designed as full meals. Filling and flavorful.
Tex-Mex Shrimp Bowl
$19.49 | 710 cal
Hot Honey Glazed Chicken and Bacon Skillet
$20.99 | 1100 Cal
Southwest Chicken Bowl
$19.49 | 830 cal
Applebee’s Lunch Specials and Deals
Applebee’s is popular for its budget-friendly meals and special offers. Many customers visit during lunch because the prices are lower and the portions are still filling.
The 2 for $20 Deal
The Applebee’s 2 for $20 deal is one of the most popular menu offers. It is a good option for two people who want a full meal at a lower price.
With this deal, you usually get:
One appetizer to share
Two full-size entrees
Some common appetizer choices include:
Boneless Wings: Tender chicken pieces coated in crispy breading and served with flavorful sauces
Mozzarella Sticks: Crunchy fried cheese sticks served hot with melted mozzarella inside
Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Smooth and cheesy dip served with crispy tortilla chips
Onion Rings: Thick onion slices with crunchy coating
This deal is a simple and affordable choice for lunch or dinner.
Lunch Combo Meals
Many Applebee’s restaurants also offer lunch combo meals at lower prices. These specials are available at selected locations and may change regularly.
Lunch combos often include:
A smaller entrée
One side item
Sometimes a drink
These meals are a good choice if you want something quick, tasty, and affordable during lunchtime.
Applebee’s Coupons and Promo Codes
Applebee’s also shares coupons and promo codes through its mobile app and email newsletter. Customers can sign up to receive special discounts, limited-time deals, and exclusive offers.
Deals may vary by season or location, so it is always a good idea to check your local Applebee’s restaurant for the latest lunch specials.
Applebee‘s Lunch Hours
Most Applebee’s restaurants start serving lunch at 11:00 AM.
Lunch specials are usually available until 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM, depending on location.
After that, the menu transitions to the dinner menu. Prices may go up slightly in the evening.
Key tip: Visit on a weekday to get the best lunch deals. Weekends can be busier, and some specials may not apply.
Healthy Lunch Options at Applebee’s
Applebee’s is not just burgers and fries. There are really healthy options on the menu.
Good choices for health-conscious diners:
Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad: High in protein, low in carbs
Fiesta Lime Chicken: Grilled, not fried
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad: Ask for light dressing on the side
Chicken Breast with Vegetables: A simple, clean option
Most salads and grilled items stay under 600 calories.
Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Options
Applebee’s menus are customizable. You can ask staff to modify most dishes.
However, Applebee’s uses shared kitchens. Cross-contact with allergens is possible. Always inform your server about any dietary restrictions before ordering.
The Applebee’s website has a full allergen guide. Use it to check before you visit.
Can You Order Applebee’s Lunch for Takeout or Delivery?
Yes. Applebee’s makes takeout and delivery easy.
You can order through:
The Applebee’s app
The Applebee’s website
Third-party apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats
Lunch items hold their quality well for about 20 to 30 minutes after pickup. If you are ordering delivery, try to eat it soon after it arrives.
Curbside To Go is a popular option. You order online, drive to the restaurant, and your food is brought to your car; there’s no need to go inside.
Applebee’s Lunch vs. Dinner: What Is the Difference?
Many people wonder if the lunch and dinner menus are the same.
Here is the answer: Most items overlap, but lunch comes with smaller portions and lower prices.
Some locations also offer lunch-only specials. These are dishes or combos not available at dinner. They are designed for quick, affordable midday meals.
If you want the best value, go during lunch hours. You get the same kitchen, the same quality, but at lower prices.
Applebee’s vs. Competitors: How Does It Compare?
Applebee’s is one of the most popular casual dining restaurants for affordable lunch meals and family deals. Compared to other restaurant chains, it offers a good balance of price, menu variety, and combo offers. While Denny’s is usually cheaper, Applebee’s provides more food choices and better appetizer deals. TGI Fridays often has higher prices with fewer lunch specials, while Chili’s remains Applebee’s biggest competitor because both restaurants offer similar casual dining experiences.
Applebee’s stands in the middle when it comes to pricing. Many customers choose it for its popular 2 for $20 deal, wide menu selection, and regular lunch specials.
| Restaurant | Avg. Lunch Price | Lunch Specials |
|---|---|---|
| Applebee’s | $9 – $16 | Yes |
| Chili’s | $10 – $17 | Yes |
| TGI Fridays | $11 – $18 | Limited |
| Denny’s | $8 – $13 | Yes |
Conclusion
I have been exploring restaurant menus and casual dining spots for years, and Applebee’s is one place I have visited many times. From quick solo lunches to group dinners and takeout orders, I have tried a wide range of menu items over time.
From my experience, Applebee’s works well for people who want affordable meals, good portion sizes, and plenty of variety. The menu stays consistent, the prices are reasonable, and the food is usually dependable, no matter which location you visit.
One of my favorite meals is the Bourbon Street Chicken and Shrimp. It is flavorful, filling, and served fresh and hot. When I want something lighter, I usually go for the Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad. Both meals are satisfying and worth trying.
If you are visiting Applebee’s for the first time, the 2 for $20 deal is a great place to start. It lets you share an appetizer and enjoy two full entrees at a budget-friendly price. Mozzarella Sticks are a popular starter and pair well with almost any meal choice.
Lunch hours are usually less crowded, service feels quicker, and more lunch specials are available during that time.
Applebee’s has remained popular for many years because it focuses on what everyday diners want: comfortable seating, familiar food, fair prices, and a relaxed dining experience. The current lunch menu continues to offer that same value and convenience people expect.