Applebee’s

They’ve recently done a few renovations so now the interior is more in tune with the local atmosphere and looks more modern than the photos here. The menu has also had some updates and there hasn’t been anything yet that I’ve tried and left disappointed.
Try their steak. No, seriously. Get one of their steaks medium rare and you will be pleasantly surprised. I found it to be better than Longhorn and I thought they’re supposed to be all about steak. The seasoned veggies are always perfectly seasoned and cooked with just enough crunch but not mushy (I hate mushy food). Spinach artichoke dip is at the top of my list along with the crispy wonton tacos. Drinks are a must whenever I go out, and while they can’t make anything that isn’t from the menu (sad face) they do make a kick ass margarita. I try and catch it on happy hour.
Service has always been good. No complaints in that department.
I’ve gotten away from the three cheese chicken penne pasta because there was usually a load of pasta with little sauce and few pieces of chicken. And the boneless wings were a bit dry when I had them off the 2 for $ 20 menu.

This is a typical Applebee’s. The food was ok, no wow moments and our server kept the drinks full. My wife did ask for some crushed red peppers to go with her chicken pasta and they took crushed red pepper for roasted red peppers. When we got the bill they decided to charge us $.99 for their goof. After a brief conversation the waitress fixed the bill. I will try other restaurants before I go back.

The usual Applebee’s never fails to leave one hungry. We settled for the 2 for $ 20 with an appetizer. Of course, the spinach dip was good. The chips weren’t salty like they usually are and I guess that’s a plus. The oriental chicken salad was good, but it was too much. I was kind of full from lunch and the appetizer before it arrived. Chris loved his sirlion. Dublin is a small town and the place wasn’t kicking for a Monday night. Maybe the weekend proves it wrong.

While the food wasn’t spectacular, the service was exceptional. The food was decent, but the slightly burnt edges of the chicken in my pasta kept it from being great. The server and assistant manager were exceedingly nice and helpful. The service was good enough to make me consider returning for a second attempt.