Have you ever dreamed of getting a short stack of fluffy pancakes with your Bourbon Street Steak? Your odd fantasy is soon to become a reality. Applebee's Grill and Bar and IHOP are joining forces.
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The New York Post reported that Doherty Enterprises, Inc., a franchisee of Applebee's with locations in New York City, Long Island, and New Jersey, announced that the two fast-casual eateries will open a combined restaurant on the East Coast in Hawthorne, New York. This location is scheduled to open later this month.
How Does a Combination Applebee's/IHOP Work?
The grand opening of the combination Applebee's/IHOP will take place on March 18. There will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9 a.m. The dual-concept restaurant will be taking over an existing Applebee's.
The location will have a single kitchen preparing items from two full menus. So if you're craving an order of Cinn-A-Stack Pancakes and your friend wants an order of riblets, there's no need to go to two separate locations. Now it's all in one spot.
"We're bringing the best of both brands to our guests, so people can choose the experience they want in one convenient location," said Timothy Doherty, President and COO of Doherty Enterprises, in a statement.
"This concept is about choice and value for families, commuters, and local workers. Whether you come for fresh pancakes at 7 a.m. or our signature wings at 9 p.m., you'll be able to get your favorites without leaving the building. We're proud to invest in Hawthorne and create new jobs and community partnerships in the process."
As for decor, guests can "choose the atmosphere that suits their occasion." Feel like sitting behind the bar? Choose the Applebee's side. Want something a little more family-friendly? Step over to IHOP.
Of course, the burning question we have is which side Walker Hayes will step toward. After "Fancy Like" hit the airwaves, he received free Applebee's for life. But he's admitted he's feeling the fatigue from too many Bourbon Street Steaks.
"I used to work at Macaroni Grill," said Hayes. "And I mean, the food is solid, and the service is amazing — their whole brand is amazing — but if I just smell the Macaroni Grill, then I need to drive to another town. And I think we're there on Applebee's."
When Will My City Get A Combination Applebee's/IHOP?
Both IHOP and Applebee's are owned by Dine Brands Global, which plans to have 14 dual-concept restaurants open in the United States by the end of the year. As of now, there are 13 international locations and one domestic location, which opened last month in Seguin, Texas.
"Our international success with this concept has shown that our brand menus complement each other, providing something for everyone, from early mornings to late nights," said Dine Brands CEO John Peyton.
