Applebee’s Diners Opt for Cheaper Items as Prices Rise

Applebee’s diners are choosing less-expensive menu options as inflation erodes consumer spending power.

Dine Brands Global Inc., which also owns IHOP, says Applebee’s customers are also skipping dessert and just having one drink instead of a couple. But the chain’s generous portions are helping to keep diners coming, according to Chief Executive Officer John Peyton. Applebee’s same-store sales surpassed analysts’ estimates in the most recent quarter.