Applebee’s 2 for $25 menu in 2025 offers a straightforward deal, but knowing which combos are included helps you maximize value. This popular dinner option has been a fan favorite for years, and the 2025 version continues to deliver solid choices for two people. Whether you are planning a casual date night or a quick meal with a friend, this deal keeps things simple and affordable. Let’s break down exactly what you get, what it costs, and how to pick the best items for your money.
The concept is easy: you choose one appetizer to share, then each person picks a main course. The total price is $25, plus tax and tip. But not every item on the menu is included, so you need to know the rules. In 2025, Applebee’s has kept most of the classic favorites while adding a few new options. Prices remain steady at $25, though some locations may vary slightly due to local costs. Always check your local restaurant for exact pricing, but the national average holds firm.
Applebee’s 2 For $25 Menu 2025 With Prices
This heading covers the core details you care about. The deal includes a shared appetizer and two full-sized entrees. No drinks or desserts are part of the price, but you can add them separately. The appetizer choices are limited to a few popular options, and the entree list has about ten selections. Each entree comes with a side, like fries or vegetables, depending on the dish. The value is clear: a typical appetizer costs around $8 to $10, and entrees range from $12 to $16 each. So you save roughly $5 to $10 compared to ordering separately.
What Appetizers Are Included
You get to pick one appetizer from a short list. In 2025, the options are:
- Boneless Wings (classic or spicy, with ranch or blue cheese)
- Spinach and Artichoke Dip with tortilla chips
- Classic Nachos (with beef or chicken, cheese, and toppings)
- Mozzarella Sticks (six pieces with marinara sauce)
These are all shareable portions, not huge but enough for two people. If you want a larger appetizer, you can upgrade for an extra charge, but the standard ones work well. The nachos are a filling choice, while the spinach dip is lighter. Boneless wings are a crowd-pleaser, and mozzarella sticks are a safe bet for picky eaters.
Entree Choices For Each Person
Each person selects one entree from the following list. Prices are included in the $25 total, so no extra cost per item. The 2025 menu includes:
- Classic Bacon Cheeseburger (with fries)
- Chicken Tenders (four pieces with fries and honey mustard)
- Grilled Chicken Breast (with steamed broccoli or mashed potatoes)
- Riblets (half rack, with fries and coleslaw)
- Fiesta Lime Chicken (with rice and pico de gallo)
- Three-Cheese Chicken Penne (pasta with Alfredo sauce)
- Oriental Chicken Salad (with crispy noodles and mandarin oranges)
- Quesadilla Grande (with chicken or beef, served with sour cream)
- Double Crunch Shrimp (with fries and cocktail sauce)
- Steak (6 oz sirloin, with mashed potatoes and vegetables)
Not all locations offer every item, so check the menu when you arrive. The steak option is a great value since it normally costs more than $15 alone. The riblets are also a solid pick for meat lovers. Vegetarians have fewer options, but the quesadilla or salad can work if you skip the meat.
Side Dishes And Customizations
Each entree comes with a standard side. For burgers and tenders, it’s fries. For grilled chicken, you choose between broccoli or mashed potatoes. The steak comes with mashed potatoes and vegetables. You can swap sides for a small fee, usually $1 to $2. For example, upgrading to onion rings or a baked potato costs extra. But the default sides are fine for most people.
If you have dietary restrictions, ask your server about modifications. The kitchen can often remove cheese or sauce, but they may not substitute gluten-free options. The salad is a lighter choice, while the pasta is heavier. The shrimp dish is crispy, not grilled, so keep that in mind if you want something healthier.
How To Order The Deal
Ordering is straightforward. Tell your server you want the 2 for $25 deal. They will explain the appetizer choices and entree options. You can mix and match any combos from the list. For example, one person can get the steak while the other gets the chicken tenders. The appetizer is shared, so decide together. If you both want the same entree, that’s fine too.
Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Ask for the 2 for $25 menu.
- Choose one appetizer from the list.
- Each person picks one entree from the list.
- Confirm any side swaps or upgrades.
- Enjoy your meal and pay $25 plus tax and tip.
That’s it. No hidden fees or complicated rules. The deal is available all day, every day, at participating locations. Some restaurants may have limited hours for the deal, but most offer it during lunch and dinner.
Value Comparison: Is It Worth It?
Let’s do the math. A typical appetizer like boneless wings costs $9.99. A bacon cheeseburger is $12.99. A steak is $16.99. If you ordered those separately, the total would be $39.97. With the deal, you pay $25, saving nearly $15. Even if you pick cheaper items, like the chicken tenders at $11.99, you still save around $5. The deal is designed to encourage you to buy more, but it’s a genuine bargain if you want a full meal.
However, watch out for add-ons. Drinks, desserts, and extra sides are not included. A soda costs about $3, and a dessert like the Triple Chocolate Meltdown is $7. So your total can climb quickly. Stick to water or iced tea to keep costs down. Also, tip on the full price of the meal, not just the $25. Servers still work for the regular menu prices.
Pros And Cons Of The Deal
Here are the main advantages and disadvantages:
- Pro: Great value for two people, especially if you choose expensive items like steak or riblets.
- Pro: Simple ordering process with no coupons needed.
- Pro: Available every day, including weekends.
- Con: Limited appetizer and entree choices compared to the full menu.
- Con: Not ideal for vegetarians or vegans, as most options include meat or cheese.
- Con: Portions are standard, not extra large, so very hungry people may want more food.
Overall, the deal works best for couples or friends who want a casual meal without overspending. If you have a big appetite, consider adding a side or dessert.
2025 Menu Changes And Updates
Compared to previous years, the 2025 menu has a few tweaks. The biggest change is the removal of the Oriental Chicken Salad dressing, which was replaced with a new citrus vinaigrette. The salad itself is still available, but the flavor is slightly different. Also, the riblets portion size may have shrunk a bit, according to some customer reports. The steak option remains the same, but the quality can vary by location.
New for 2025 is the Double Crunch Shrimp, which replaced a fish dish from last year. This shrimp is breaded and fried, served with fries and cocktail sauce. It’s a lighter option compared to the steak or burger. The quesadilla grande also got a recipe update, with more cheese and a thicker tortilla. These changes are minor, but they keep the menu fresh.
Regional Price Variations
While the national price is $25, some locations charge more. In high-cost areas like New York City or San Francisco, the deal may be $27 or $28. In smaller towns, it might stay at $25. Always check the menu board or ask your server before ordering. The deal is still a good value even at a higher price, but it’s worth knowing upfront.
Also, some Applebee’s locations offer a lunch version of the deal for $20, but that is not the 2 for $25 menu. The lunch deal has smaller portions and fewer choices. Stick to the dinner version for the best value.
Tips For Getting The Most Value
To maximize your $25, follow these tips:
- Choose the most expensive entrees, like steak or riblets, to get the biggest discount.
- Share the appetizer evenly, or ask for extra plates if you want to split it differently.
- Skip drinks and desserts to keep the total low.
- If you are very hungry, add a side of fries for $2 to fill up.
- Use the Applebee’s app or website to check for any additional promotions or coupons.
Another tip: go during off-peak hours. The deal is available all day, but lunchtime or early dinner (4-6 PM) often has shorter waits. You can also order takeout, but the deal is typically for dine-in only. Some locations allow takeout, but call ahead to confirm.
What About Drinks?
Drinks are not included, but Applebee’s often has drink specials. For example, a house wine or domestic beer might be $4 to $6. Cocktails are more expensive, around $8 to $10. If you want alcohol, factor that into your budget. Soft drinks and iced tea are about $3 each. Water is free, so that’s the best option for saving money.
If you are celebrating a special occasion, you can add a dessert for two. The Triple Chocolate Meltdown is a popular choice, but it costs extra. The deal does not include dessert, so you pay separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get the 2 for $25 deal for takeout?
Some locations offer it for takeout, but not all. Call your local Applebee’s to check. If they do, you can order online or by phone.
What if I want a different appetizer not on the list?
You cannot substitute. The deal only includes the listed appetizers. If you want something else, you pay full price for it separately.
Is the deal available for lunch?
The 2 for $25 is usually available all day, but some restaurants have a separate lunch deal. Ask your server for details.
Can I get two different entrees for myself?
No, the deal is for two people. Each person gets one entree. You cannot order two entrees for yourself unless you pay for a second deal.
Does the price include tax and tip?
No, tax and tip are extra. The $25 is for the food only. Tip your server based on the full menu value, not the discounted price.
These answers cover the most common questions. If you have specific dietary needs, ask the restaurant directly. The staff is usually helpful and can guide you to the best choices.
Final Thoughts On The 2025 Deal
The Applebee’s 2 for $25 menu in 2025 with prices is a reliable option for a budget-friendly meal. It works well for couples, friends, or even solo diners who want leftovers. The key is to pick the right items and avoid extras that inflate the bill. With a little planning, you can enjoy a satisfying dinner for two without breaking the bank.
Remember to check your local menu for any changes. Some items may be temporarily unavailable, and prices can vary. But overall, this deal remains one of the best values in casual dining. Next time you are near an Applebee’s, give it a try. You might be surprised at how much food you get for $25.
One last thing: the deal is not always advertised on the menu board. You have to ask for it. So don’t be shy. Just say, “We’d like the 2 for $25 deal.” Your server will handle the rest. Enjoy your meal!