Applebee's Launches New Hand-Cut, Wood-Fired Menu

Forget what you know about Applebee's. The chain is looking to shake things up and bring in customers old and new, beginning with the introduction of its new hand-cut, wood-fired menu. Nearly 2,000 of its U.S. restaurants now have new American-made, wood-fired grills, according to a release. The new offerings represent the beginning of "a revamped and streamlined menu that elevates quality, flavor and freshness."

Julia Stewart, chairman and CEO of DineEquity, Inc., Applebee's parent company, says, "This goes far beyond a few new menu items or a limited-time offer. This is the biggest investment in culinary excellence in the company's history — transforming the menu, instilling pride in our employees, delighting current guests and giving others a reason to come back."

On the wood-fired menu is an option to "Create Your Grill Masterpiece" in which customers select a protein: hand-cut USDA choice steak, hand-cut bone-in pork chop, cedar-grilled salmon, grilled chicken breast, or double-glazed baby back ribs; and then select two sides. Sides include new Garlicky Green Beans, Fire-Grilled Veggies, and Maple Pecan Mashed Sweet Potatoes.

There are also several "Chef Selections" meals to choose from, including bone-in pork chop with honey apple chutney, cedar salmon with maple mustard glaze, and Smokin' Double Steak & Egg, which features two four-ounce sirloins, a fried egg, stout gravy, and bacon jam.