Appetizers are trending at fast casual restaurants. Those shareable plates allow guests to mix, match and create the perfect combination. Applebee’s new Ultimate Trio exceeds guests’ expectations with the tremendous amount of food options.
Applebee’s is the Official Grill + Bar Sponsor of the NFL. While professional football teams have a play for every scenario on the gridiron, guests want all choices at their favorite restaurants, too. Even though they might crave a particular burger or long for a crunchy taco, new, different and exciting are feelings that bring guests back to the table.
The new Ultimate Trio allows guests to choose three appetizers and three sauces for $14.99. Guests can order the appetizer for dine-in, for to go or for delivery. According to Applebee’s, there are 81,600 possible combinations.
The 10 appetizers are Boneless Wings, Mozzarella Sticks, Chicken Quesadilla, Crunchy Onion Rings, Chicken Wonton Tacos, Brew Pub Pretzels, Applebee’s Riblets, Double Crunch Shrimp, Waffle Fries and Classic Fries. The 10 sauces are Classic Buffalo, Honey BBQ, Sweet Asian Chile, House-Made Ranch, Bleu Cheese, Honey Dijon Mustard, Marinara Sauce, Chipotle Lime Salsa, Cocktail Sauce, and Blue Moon White Cheddar Beer Cheese.
Applebee’s
With 81,600 combinations, it is almost impossible to order every single option. Basically, it would require ordering at least 223 different orders every day of the year to come close to hitting all the possibilities.
Personally, the combination that earned my top billing is Chicken Wonton Tacos, Brew Pub Pretzels and Chicken Quesadilla paired with Chipotle Lime Salsa, Sweet Asian Chile and Blue Moon Cheddar Beer Cheese.
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First, pretzels and beer cheese are a classic pairing. Whether enjoyed with an ice cold beer or a favorite soda, there is something cravable about the appetizer. The touch of salt with the creamy cheese satisfies. The pretzels have a slight crunch on the outside while the warm, pillowy center is scrumptious. Everyone will fight over who gets the last bite.
The chicken quesadilla is a classic. It is a heartier appetizer since it has protein. The tortilla is crispy which contrasts the gooey cheese. At the right moment, that cheese pull creates anticipation for the first bite.
When paired with the Chipotle Lime Salsa, it has the right balance of zesty, smoky and fresh. Never too spicy, it helps cut through the cheese’s richness.
Lastly, the Chicken Wonton Tacos are an Applebee’s classic. The combination of Sweet Asian chile marinated grilled chicken nestled in a crispy wonton has just the right crunch. Topped with the restaurant’s signature coleslaw and cilantro, the dish is a smart fusion food.
Having some extra Sweet Asian Chili sauce for dipping or drizzling is a great part of the Ultimate Trio appetizer. Just like salsa on a quesadilla or beer cheese with pretzels, an extra helping of sauce makes the dish feel even more customized.
I have my Ultimate Trio best combination, but there are 80,599 more options to explore. Ready to head to Applebee’s to find your favorite food order?
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