Applebee’s wines and dines Rexburg residents
- posted: 26 June 2007
- scrollnews@byui.edu
Flat-screen TVs, an array of sports posters, old trinkets, collector’s items and a fresh aroma welcomed roughly 60 hungry guests at Applebee’s grand opening June 23.
From babies to students, elderly women to drop-in bikers, this restaurant accommodated all who entered.
“Everybody is welcome here at Applebee’s. It’s casual, comfortable dining that is fit for everyone. I would invite everyone to come by,” said Todd Stenzel, general manager.
Stenzel wants students to know about a new feature at the restaurant. “We have what’s called carside to-go. You can call your order in and then drive up to the back to pick it up. We’ll bring your food right out to your car. We use a hand- held machine to ring you up, and it’s all very convenient.”
Mozzarella, provolone and parmesan cheese top off a rich mix of penne pasta, Italian seasoned grilled chicken, diced tomatoes, fresh basil and alfredo sauce. Don’t forget the side of toasted bread. Amy Hotzel, server trainer from Colorado, claims this meal is exquisite. “The three-cheese chicken penne is excellent. I’ve worked at different Applebee’s all over the nation, and I’ve never heard anything bad about this meal. It’s by far my favorite.”
The diverse menu includes buffalo wings, grilled shrimp dippers, Sante Fe chicken salads, Bourbon Street steaks, bruschetta burgers, and honey BBQ chicken sandwiches. It also includes, an entire Weight Watchers section, with meals such as a Southwest cobb salad, a tortilla chicken melt, and a Cajun lime tilapia.
Despite the varied food selections, Applebee’s also offers smoothies and other drinks. Mike Riley, bar trainer from Atlanta, Ga., has his favorite smoothie down. “Most definitely the mango-banana smoothie. Since the students don’t drink, this is a wonderful option. It is non-alcoholic; it’s tasty and great for a hot summer day.”
The $1 bite-sized brownie dessert is anticipated to be successful. It includes chunks of dark chocolate and nuts baked into a bite-sized brownie and drizzled with hot fudge. It’s served alongside a scoop of ice cream and topped off with powdered sugar.
Food and satisfied grins covered the faces of guests enjoying a birthday lunch.
“Our waitress here is so friendly. They have great service, and it was clear that they were very prepared for today’s opening. We had a large group and contemplated coming out to eat, but we’re very happy about how it turned out,” said Nancy Richards, customer from Rexburg.
Applebee’s serves lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and is open until midnight on Friday and Saturday. 
