Chili’s and Applebee’s Clash Over Competing Meal Deals in Viral Social Media Feud

The two restaurant chains are battling for customer loyalty with value-focused promotions, sparking widespread online debate.

Applebee’s launched a $9.99 'Really Big Meal Deal' in November, offering a choice of a bacon cheeseburger or chicken sandwich, fries, and a drink.
Chili’s responded by promoting its $10.99 '3 for Me' deal, which includes an appetizer, entrée, beverage, and unlimited chips and salsa.
The feud escalated on X (formerly Twitter) after Applebee’s indirectly criticized Chili’s deal, prompting a sharp retort from Chili’s that gained significant online support.
Chili’s has seen a rise in same-store sales and foot traffic throughout 2024, while Applebee’s has faced declining sales despite its new promotion showing early signs of improvement.
The online exchange highlights the intense competition between the two chains as they aim to attract budget-conscious diners during a period of economic pressure.