Applebee's

The 5-star rating is with regard to my overall time there, and reflective of the service.  I think people know what kind of food Applebees has and that rating the food is not of too much use here.

I follow a strict vegetarian ("vegan") diet, and I came here today after church on Easter.  My family (non-vegans) really wanted to go to Applebees.  The waiter was nice, friendly, talkative, had a good sense of timing with regard to checking in on us, and overall good-natured.  What is more, is that the moment I mentioned I needed advice on if I could construct a vegan item or if there were any options, he responded professionally and willing to help.  He retrieved his manager, and she was lovely.  Super nice, and understanding, even made a friendly note about how if I modify some entree they would compensate with extra veggies and make sure it "tastes real good."  I had mentioned I would be willing to do vegetarian if I had to, but she did not use that as an easy way out, which was very welcomed to see her trying to help me not have to break my diet choices.  I asked if any soups would work, and immediately she knew they had a chicken stock base [all of them], I appreciated it.  In the end, I ordered the Grilled Jalapeño-Lime Shrimp without the shrimp (i.e. flavored grilled veggies + white rice), and it was totally fine for a lunch item.  The veggies were fresh, crisp, and prepared with enough care, and the subtle flavors were refreshing. Nice portion size too.  

On our way out, someone was holding the door open for us (this is common practice at Applebees I think), but rather than another employee it was actually the manager again.  She asked me how everything was, and I told her it was great and that I really appreciated her help.  I did.  People like to joke or complain about Applebees, but let me say that being someone who follows a diet like mine -- I am used to people not really caring too much about trying to help me figure things out.  I have not been treated as well as I was at this Applebees very often at other establishments.  Thanks guys, it was memorably positive.  This Applebees is a nice one.

Poor Applebee's, getting such a bad rap.  Let me preface this quick review by saying I've been to an Applebee's in 3 different states and probably 12-15 different locations.  I used to go to one in GR about 3 times a week since it was close to my work and they gave us a punch card for freebies.  Anyhoot.  I really didn't see too many issues here.  Everything we asked for was given to us with a smile, even though our 18 month old was on the brink of destroying the place.  The food was decent, I had the french dip sliders, wife had the tomato soup, kid had the mac and cheese, and we all shared the spinach dip.  I really thought it was a solid 3 star performance.

I have not yet experienced good service at any Applebees location.  One time, the server put in my party's order and forgot mine.  Another time, the waitress completely ignored us and we ended up getting drinks from the bartender.  Another time, my husband's order came out completely wrong (not at all what he ordered).  When we've complained, the management doesn't seem interested in making the situation better.  Skip it!