As Americans grapple with rising grocery costs, Applebee's is leaning into affordability by bringing back its popular 'All You Can Eat' menu. The restaurant chain announced on Monday that customers can enjoy unlimited boneless wings, pork riblets, or Double Crunch Shrimp, all served with bottomless fries, for a flat rate of $15.99 per person. However, the deal is only available for dine-in customers during a limited time period.
Why Applebee's Is Offering the Deal
The move comes as the cost of living continues to climb across the United States. The Consumer Price Index, a key measure of inflation, rose by 0.6 percent in April, pushing the annual inflation rate to 3.8 percent. Specifically, grocery prices increased by 0.7 percent last month, while restaurant food prices saw a more modest 0.2 percent uptick. By offering an affordable all-you-can-eat option, Applebee's aims to attract budget-conscious diners who are feeling the pinch at the supermarket.
Other Chains Follow Suit
Applebee's is not alone in rolling out value-focused meal deals. Red Lobster recently revived its endless shrimp promotion, despite the offer having contributed to the chain's bankruptcy filing in 2024. CEO Damola Adamolekun stated, 'We're excited to bring it back, for a limited time, in a way that works for our business today and honors what made it special from the beginning.'
Chili's has also updated its '3 For Me' meal deal, adding the 'Big Crispy' and 'Spicy Big Crispy' chicken sandwiches to the $10.99 offering, which includes fries, endless chips and salsa, and unlimited soft drinks. Chief Marketing Officer George Felix commented, 'Over the past few years, we've exposed fast food shrinkflation by serving our massive burgers in the industry-leading $10.99 3 For Me meal for a value that can't be found in the drive-thru.'
Political Context
The economic strain on American households has become a political issue. When asked about the financial burden of the ongoing Iran war, former President Donald Trump remarked, 'I don't think about anybody. I think about one thing: We cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon,' dismissing concerns about Americans' financial situations.
