Can a weekday meal really feel gourmet when it costs less than your usual takeout?
I visit my local Applebee’s often to test value deals, and I keep asking that question. The Applebee’s $5.99 lunch menu promises full plates during weekday hours. I love that the deal covers a wide range of items, from classic burgers with fries to pasta and fresh salads.
The choice matters when you want a quick, satisfying meal without overspending. I find options like chicken tenders, sandwiches, and small pasta dishes make it easy to pick something I enjoy. Each dish usually comes with a side, so I leave feeling full and ready for the afternoon.
Availability varies by location, so I always check hours before I go. If you want solid value, this deal is a simple way to enjoy good food and sensible prices during the workday.
Key Takeaways
- The 5.99 lunch menu offers a range of affordable options for weekday meals.
- Choices include burgers, chicken, salads, pasta, and sandwiches with a side.
- Most locations participate, but availability and hours can vary.
- I find the deal fills me up and fits a busy schedule without overspending.
- Checking your nearest location’s hours helps ensure you don’t miss the offer.
Understanding the Applebee’s $5.99 lunch menu
I rely on weekday specials to get a filling meal without overspending.
I usually plan visits between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM, when the applebee lunch menu runs on weekdays. The 5.99 lunch is meant to be a straightforward value choice for workday hours.
Most items come with a side, such as crispy fries or a small salad, so the plate feels complete. Popular options include burgers, chicken tenders, and sandwiches that pair well with included sauces.
Participation and lunch menu prices may vary by location, so I always check the official site for exact lunch menu items and availability before I go. That saves time and avoids surprises about price or whether a local restaurant is offering the deal.
“Confirming hours and participation has kept my weekday orders consistent and satisfying.”
- I confirm hours and location participation.
- I note which items include fries or a salad.
- I ask staff about sauces and portion sizes.
Top Entree Selections for Your Midday Meal

For a quick midday pick-me-up, I focus on entrees that balance flavor and portion size.
Burgers and sandwiches
I often choose the Classic Burger from the 5.99 lunch menu because it arrives hot with a generous side of crispy fries. The Clubhouse Grille is my go-to when I want a meatier sandwich—turkey, ham, bacon, and cheese make it very filling.
Fresh salads and wraps
The grilled chicken caesar salad is a great lighter option. It pairs romaine, Parmesan, croutons, and grilled chicken for a reliable chicken caesar salad choice.
The oriental chicken salad mixes Asian greens, almonds, and crispy tenders with a sweet vinaigrette. I like it when I want crunchy texture and bright flavors without heavy sides.
Crispy chicken favorites
Chicken tenders come as a basket with fries and a choice of sauces. That combo feels classic and satisfying when I crave something crispy.
“The variety lets me switch between a juicy burger and a fresh salad depending on my mood.”
- I check the location menu to confirm availability of boneless wings and new items.
- Grilled chicken dishes usually deliver consistent flavor and portion size.
- Sides and sauces help turn simple items into a complete meal.
Maximizing Value with Lunch Combos and Specials

I look for ways to stretch my budget while still enjoying a satisfying midday meal.
Combos and specials give me flexibility. The Two for $20 deal lets two people share an appetizer and pick two entrees from a select list.
The appetizer choices often include boneless wings, mozzarella sticks, or spinach and artichoke dip. I like starting with boneless wings when I want a shareable bite.
Exploring the Two for Twenty Deal
The entree list usually features Three-Cheese Chicken Penne, Fiesta Lime Chicken, and the Classic Cheeseburger. Those pasta and chicken dishes match the taste of full-priced items.
I also use lunch combos to mix soups, salads, and sandwiches for a budget-friendly meal. The 5.99 lunch menu pairs well with these specials when I want a quick side or an extra salad.
“Sharing a starter and two entrees makes weekday dining feel like a real value.”
- I confirm participation and lunch menu items at my location before ordering.
- Combos let me try chicken tenders, burgers, or pasta without overspending.
- Choosing a side and sauces smartly stretches the deal further.
Navigating Dietary Preferences and Healthy Choices

When I want a healthier pick at midday, I look for grilled proteins and steamed sides.
Vegetarian and vegan options
I often order a House Side Salad or a Caesar Side Salad without chicken when I want something light. Tomato Basil soup is another simple vegetarian choice I trust.
For vegan needs, I ask to make the Impossible Burger without cheese or mayo. That small change turns a familiar item into a vegan-friendly option.
Tips for Calorie Control
My go-to is the grilled chicken caesar salad with dressing on the side. That lets me control portions of dressing and reduce calories easily.
I swap fries for steamed broccoli as a side to cut calories without losing volume. I also check the online nutrition guide before I visit to compare items from the 5.99 lunch deal.
- I customize grilled chicken dishes to fit my diet.
- I ask for dressings on the side for any chicken salad or caesar salad.
- I verify nutrition info for each item at my location before ordering.
“Small swaps and simple customizations keep my midday meal both satisfying and aligned with my goals.”
Essential Tips for Ordering Your Lunch

When I’m short on time, a quick call can turn a rushed plan into a smooth pickup.
Call ahead for takeout. Prep usually takes 10 to 20 minutes, so phoning ahead helps me time pickup with my schedule. I also ask for sauces on the side so chicken tenders and fries stay crisp.
I check the official site or app for the applebee lunch menu and current lunch menu prices. That gives me the most accurate hours and confirms whether the 5.99 lunch is available at my location. Availability may vary location by location, so I verify before I go.
“Joining the rewards program saved me extra on several lunch menu items.”
- I always confirm lunch hours for my chosen location.
- I ask for dressings and sauces on the side when ordering takeout.
- I join rewards to get extra offers on the 5.99 lunch and other items.
Conclusion
When I need a fast, filling meal between meetings, I choose options that feel hearty and simple.
The lunch menu offers a variety that fits my weekday routine. I can pick a chicken caesar or a classic caesar salad, grab tenders with fries, or swap a side for a lighter salad. The value and taste make each meal easy to enjoy.
I check lunch hours and confirm availability since offerings may vary location to location. Using combos and watching price specials helps me save time and money while getting solid food for dinner or a mid-day break.

