The Surprising Way Applebee’s Got Its Name
Surprising Applebee’s Name: Applebee’s is known for its cheap drinks, hearty ribs, and creamy pasta meals. It doesn’t sell either apples or bees, so it’s a strange name for a chain of relaxed restaurants.
But there’s a good reason for that: the founders chose the name at random from a phone book, and it wasn’t even their first option.
Bill and T.J. Palmer were married and lived in Georgia when they decided to open a restaurant.
Rewind & Capture says that they wanted it to feel like a local pub and offer friendly service and good food at a lower price than most of their competitors.
Except for one thing, they were almost ready to open in 1980. Still, they didn’t have a name. So, one night, the Palmers sat down and looked through a phone book until they found a name they liked.
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The Palmers picked the Applebee’s name out of a phone book
When Bill and T.J. saw the name Appleby, they knew it was the right one, but they ran into trouble right away. Insider says that Georgia State Incorporations told them that the name Appleby was already taken.
They also tried other names, like Cinnamon and Pepper, but none of them were taken. So, they chose to try their first pick again, but this time with a small change.
“The name Appleby’s had already been registered by someone else just two weeks before I called the state to reserve it.
I looked into this to find out that a new restaurant called Appleby’s was going to open at Shannon Mall in South Atlanta.
The next name I tried was Cinnamon’s. It was also taken. Peppers was the third name I tried. It, too, was taken.
I called the state and asked if they would accept it if I put my letters in front of Applebys and changed the spelling.
“The state representative said yes, so I reserved the name ‘T. J. Applebee’s, Inc.,'” T.J. Palmer told the Imponderables.
Applebee’s says that the first branch opened soon after in Atlanta, Georgia, under the name T.J. Applebee’s Rx for Edibles and Elixirs.
Soon, the couple sold the restaurant to W.R. Grace and Co., and in 1986, it became known as Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar.
FAQs-Surprising Applebee’s Name
Applebee’s got its name from one of its founders, Bill Palmer, whose mother’s maiden name was Appleby. He combined it with his partner’s last name, T.J. Appleby, to create “Applebee’s.”
The founders of Applebee’s were Bill Palmer and T.J. Appleby.
The first Applebee’s restaurant was located in Decatur, Georgia.
As of the latest available data, Applebee’s operates over 1,800 restaurants globally.
Applebee’s is known for its casual dining and serves a variety of American dishes, including burgers, steaks, pasta, and seafood.
Yes, Applebee’s operates as a franchise, with many of its restaurants being independently owned and operated.
Yes, Applebee’s offers vegetarian and vegan options on its menu. These options may vary depending on the location.
Applebee’s provides gluten-sensitive menu items, but cross-contamination in the kitchen is possible. It is advisable to inform the staff about specific dietary restrictions.
Yes, Applebee’s offers a kids’ menu with a variety of options designed for younger diners.
Yes, Applebee’s offers delivery and takeout services in many of its locations. Customers can check their local Applebee’s for availability.
Yes, Applebee’s has a rewards program called “Applebee’s Neighborhood Rewards.” Members can earn points and receive exclusive offers.
Applebee’s generally operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not require reservations. However, it’s advisable to check with your local Applebee’s for any specific policies.
Yes, Applebee’s serves a variety of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails, in accordance with local laws and regulations.
Yes, Applebee’s offers catering services for events and parties. Customers can contact their local Applebee’s for more information and specific offerings.