Applebee’s is aiming to generate buzz for its revamped menu by offering customers across the country a chance to try two of its new appetizers free of charge during an upcoming “Taste the Change Day.”
As a follow-up to the “Change the Taste Fest” event the chain held in Times Square in May, Applebee’s customers will be able to test the new Churro S’Mores and Sriracha Shrimp—two of the menu items that were sampled by fest attendees. The chain expects to serve about 2 million plates of those offerings during the all-day promotion, which will be held on July 21 at nearly all Applebee’s locations.
Applebee’s menu has debuted a number of items this year, including 11 appetizers—such as the Sriracha Shrimp and Churro S'Mores—and a lineup of bar-and-grill offerings that includes the Triple Hog Dare Ya, a supposed beast of a sandwich stacked with pulled pork, Black Forest ham, bacon, crispy onions and melted cheddar cheese on a ciabatta bun.
In addition to menu adjustments, the chain has made other recent upgrades. Many Applebee’s franchisees have refreshed the look of their restaurants, and the chain’s logo, website and advertising have been tweaked to project a more modern aesthetic.
"Our new food and new look and feel will pleasantly surprise those who haven't visited us in awhile," Applebee's President Steve Layt said in a statement. "We're confident that if they give us a try, they'll be back."
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