13 Popular Applebee's Entrees Ranked From Worst To Best

How Nostalgia Influenced The Taste Test Results

Applebee's, a well-known casual dining chain, recently underwent a taste test of its most popular entrees by food writer Allyson Morgan. Conducted in September 2026, the evaluation ranked 13 menu items from lowest to highest based on flavor, texture, and overall satisfaction. The goal was to help diners navigate the extensive menu with informed choices.

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The ranking process involved sampling each dish as served in restaurants, focusing on classics like burgers, pasta, and grilled items that evoke nostalgia for many customers. Morgan noted that growing up in the Midwest made Applebee's feel familiar, with meals reminiscent of childhood and college years. This personal connection influenced her perspective on what constitutes a satisfying meal at the chain. Factors such as seasoning balance, ingredient quality, and preparation consistency played key roles in the final scores.

What Makes An Applebee's Entree Stand Out

Morgan explained that emotional ties to certain dishes affected her judgment, particularly for items tied to early dining experiences. For example, the classic cheeseburger received a mid-range score not because it was poorly made, but because it reminded her of simpler times, even if newer options outperformed it technically. She emphasized that while nostalgia adds value, the ranking prioritized objective taste and execution. Dishes that relied heavily on sauces or fried elements tended to rank lower due to heaviness or lack of depth, while those with fresh components and balanced seasoning rose to the top.

The highest-ranked entrees shared common traits: grilled proteins, vibrant vegetable sides, and sauces that enhanced rather than overwhelmed the main ingredient. Items like the Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken and the Southwest Chicken Bowl earned top marks for their freshness and flavor layering. In contrast, deep-fried options and heavy cream-based pastes landed near the bottom, criticized for being one-note or overly rich. Morgan suggested that diners seeking a satisfying meal should look for grilled or blackened preparations and consider modifying sides to include more vegetables.

What was the number one ranked entree at Applebee's in the taste test? The Cedar Grilled Lemon Chicken topped the list due to its juicy texture, bright citrus flavor, and well-balanced seasoning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did some popular items like the Riblet Platter rank lower? The Riblet Platter placed near the bottom because of its overly sweet sauce and fatty meat, which lacked complexity despite being a fan favorite.

Can customers customize their orders to improve their meal? Yes, Morgan noted that requesting sauces on the side, substituting fries for steamed broccoli, or choosing grilled over fried options can significantly enhance the dining experience.