When it comes to dining out at casual restaurants, appetizers can make or break the overall experience. While Applebee’s is known for its extensive menu and affordable prices, not all of their appetizers hit the mark. In fact, some of the starters on their menu have gained a reputation for being lackluster, disappointing, and downright unappetizing. Let’s take a closer look at the worst appetizers Applebee’s has to offer and why customers are steering clear of these subpar options.
1. Chicken Quesadilla
The Chicken Quesadilla at Applebee’s is a prime example of an appetizer that fails to live up to expectations. Despite being a popular choice among customers, many have reported that the quesadilla is often lacking in both flavor and substance. The tortilla is frequently described as being dry and bland, while the chicken filling is said to be sparse and underwhelming. Some customers have even complained that their quesadillas were served with little to no cheese, leaving them with a disappointing and unsatisfying experience.
Another issue with the Chicken Quesadilla is its inconsistency. While some customers have reported receiving a decent portion of chicken and cheese, others have been left with a quesadilla that is mostly just tortilla. This lack of consistency can be frustrating for customers who expect a certain level of quality and value from their appetizers.
Furthermore, the Chicken Quesadilla is often criticized for its lack of fresh ingredients. Many customers have noted that the pico de gallo and other toppings seem to be pre-made and lacking in flavor. This can make the overall taste of the quesadilla feel artificial and unsatisfying.
2. Neighborhood Nachos
Another appetizer that has garnered a less-than-stellar reputation at Applebee’s is the Neighborhood Nachos. This dish promises a heaping pile of tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, pico de gallo, and your choice of meat. However, many customers have found the nachos to be a disappointing letdown.
One of the main issues with the Neighborhood Nachos is the quality of the ingredients. Customers have reported that the tortilla chips are often stale and lacking in flavor, while the cheese is described as being rubbery and unappetizing. The pico de gallo is also frequently criticized for being bland and watery, lacking the fresh and vibrant flavors that one would expect from this classic topping.
Another problem with the Neighborhood Nachos is the portion size. While the menu promises a generous serving of nachos, many customers have found that the dish is actually quite small and overpriced for what you get. This can leave customers feeling unsatisfied and cheated, especially if they were expecting a hearty and filling appetizer.
3. White Queso Dip & Chips
The White Queso Dip & Chips is another appetizer at Applebee’s that has failed to impress customers. This dish features a bowl of white queso dip served with tortilla chips for dipping. While the concept of a cheesy dip and chips may sound appealing, many customers have found the execution to be lacking.
One of the main complaints about the White Queso Dip is its bland and uninspired flavor. Customers have described the dip as being overly thick and heavy, with a artificial taste that lacks any real depth or complexity. Some have even compared it to microwaved cheese sauce, rather than a fresh and flavorful dip.
Another issue with the White Queso Dip & Chips is the quality of the tortilla chips. Many customers have reported that the chips are often stale and tasteless, lacking the satisfying crunch and flavor that one would expect from a good tortilla chip. This can make the overall experience of eating the dip and chips feel unsatisfying and disappointing.
4. Spinach & Artichoke Dip
Spinach and artichoke dip is a classic appetizer that is beloved by many. However, the version served at Applebee’s has received mixed reviews from customers. While some have enjoyed the creamy and cheesy flavor of the dip, others have found it to be underwhelming and forgettable.
One of the main issues with the Spinach & Artichoke Dip at Applebee’s is the balance of flavors. Some customers have reported that the dip is overly heavy on the cheese and lacks the distinct taste of spinach and artichokes. Others have found the dip to be too greasy and oily, leaving an unpleasant aftertaste.
Another problem with the Spinach & Artichoke Dip is the texture. Some customers have described the dip as being overly thick and difficult to scoop up with the accompanying chips or bread. This can make the overall experience of eating the dip feel more like a chore than an enjoyable appetizer.
5. Brew Pub Pretzels & Beer Cheese Dip
The Brew Pub Pretzels & Beer Cheese Dip is an appetizer that sounds promising on paper, but falls short in execution. The dish features soft pretzels served with a beer cheese dip for dunking. While the combination of pretzels and cheese is a classic pairing, many customers have found Applebee’s version to be lackluster and forgettable.
One of the main issues with the Brew Pub Pretzels is the quality of the pretzels themselves. Customers have reported that the pretzels are often dry and tough, lacking the soft and fluffy texture that one would expect from a good pretzel. Some have even described the pretzels as being stale and flavorless.
Another problem with this appetizer is the beer cheese dip. While the concept of a cheesy dip infused with beer sounds appealing, many customers have found the flavor to be lacking. Some have described the dip as being too thin and watery, while others have found it to be overly salty and artificial tasting.
6. Boneless Wings
Boneless wings are a popular appetizer choice at many restaurants, and Applebee’s is no exception. However, the boneless wings at Applebee’s have received mixed reviews from customers. While some have enjoyed the various sauce options and the convenience of boneless wings, others have found them to be subpar in both flavor and texture.
One of the main complaints about the boneless wings at Applebee’s is the quality of the chicken. Many customers have reported that the chicken is often dry and overcooked, lacking the juicy and tender texture that one would expect from a good boneless wing. Some have even described the chicken as being rubbery and tough.
7. Mozzarella Sticks
Mozzarella sticks are a classic appetizer that are loved by many. However, the mozzarella sticks at Applebee’s have received mixed reviews from customers. While some have enjoyed the crispy exterior and gooey cheese filling, others have found them to be greasy and underwhelming.
One of the main issues with the mozzarella sticks at Applebee’s is the quality of the cheese. Some customers have reported that the cheese is often rubbery and lacking in flavor, rather than being stretchy and gooey as one would expect from a good mozzarella stick. Others have found the cheese to be overly salty and artificial tasting.
In conclusion, while Applebee’s may be known for its extensive menu and affordable prices, not all of their appetizers are created equal. From the bland and disappointing Chicken Quesadilla to the greasy and underwhelming Mozzarella Sticks, there are several appetizers on the menu that fail to impress customers. If you find yourself at Applebee’s, it may be wise to steer clear of these subpar options and opt for some of the restaurant’s better-received starters. Or you could always just skip the appetizers altogether and save room for the main course – after all, life is too short to waste time on mediocre mozzarella sticks!
