Applebee's is the largest casual dining chain in the world, with locations throughout the U.S. and many countries worldwide. We take pride in having a friendly, welcoming, neighborhood environment for both our staff and guests that makes everyone enjoy their Applebee's experience.

2000: Applebee's introduces a new menu and the number of restaurants climbs over 1,250.

2000: Applebee's expands international development by opening restaurants in Latin America and the Middle East.

2001: The number of restaurants climbs to 1,392. Julia Stewart joins IHOP Corp. as their Chief Executive Officer.

2002: The number of restaurants climbs to 1,496.

2002: The Heidi Fund was established, in honor of a Kansas City server, to financially help Applebee's associates who suffer catastrophic life-changing events.

2003: Applebee's celebrates the opening of the 1,500th restaurant in LaGrange, Georgia, owned and operated by Bill Palmer, founder of the first Applebee's restaurant in Atlanta and current Applebee's franchisee.

2004: Applebee's makes a successful partnership by introducing its Weight Watchers® menu. Applebee's gains sales by rolling out Carside To Go pickup service.

2005: Applebee's expands international growth to Ecuador, Brazil and Jordan. Applebee's is recognized by IR Magazine for its excellence in investor relations.

2006: Lloyd Hill announces transition to Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Dave Goebel is named President and Chief Executive Officer. Applebee's franchise partner in Greece, Milomel Hellas A.E., receives a prestigious Superbrands award for excellence in casual dining.

2007: Applebee's opens its first location in China; Applebee's is named one of three finalists for the Gartner High-Performance Workplace (HPW) Excellence Award; Applebee's Services, Inc. is purchased in November by IHOP Corp, led by Julia Stewart, creating the largest full-service restaurant company in the world.

2008: ServSafe Alcohol awards Applebee's the Best Chain Responsible Beverage Alcohol Service Training Program; Applebee's, along with IHOP, becomes part of the DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN) behind the tagline 'Great Franchisees. Great Brands.' Michael J. Archer is appointed president of Applebee's Services, Inc.