As IHOP (International House of Pancakes) continues to be well-received by the Filipino taste buds, DineEquity and its local partner Global Restaurant Concepts are set to open the first Applebee’s Grill and Bar later this month at Bonifacio Global City (BGC). The restaurant will be the third in Southeast Asia, after Indonesia and Singapore that have opened one each.
According to Daniel del Olmo, President for International at DineEquity, they are initially planning to open two more stores after the first. The second one has been determined to be placed in Eastwood City, while the third’s location is yet to be ascertained. The company's venturing into the Philippines comes in the midst of their 360-degree brand evolution for both IHOP and Applebee’s that includes every touch point of the guest experience.
Applebee’s is known for its American-themed signature grill and bar menu that features salads, burgers, shrimp, chicken, steak, pasta, and of course, its famous riblets. With over 2,000 restaurants and 28,000 employees in 49 states, 16 international countries, and one US territory, Applebee’s is the largest casual-dining chain in the world today.