Does Applebee’s Microwave Their Food (Dining Myth Explained)

Does Applebee’s Microwave Their Food?

Applebee’s, a popular chain of casual dining restaurants, has been a topic of curiosity for many diners wondering about the preparation of their meals. One common question that often arises is whether Applebee’s microwaves their food.

In this article, we’ll explore the truth behind this dining myth and delve into the methods Applebee’s employs in their kitchen to serve up their signature dishes

Rumors and Speculation

One of the most common rumors surrounding Applebee’s is whether or not they microwave their food. This rumor has been circulating for years and has even made its way to popular online forums like Reddit. Former Applebee’s employees have claimed that the restaurant does indeed microwave some of their menu items.

So, does Applebee’s microwave their food? The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. While it is true that some of the pre-packaged appetizers and sides are reheated in the microwave, not all of the food at Applebee’s is prepared this way. The restaurant chain prides itself on its grilled items, such as steak and chicken, which are cooked on a grill to perfection.

Reheating and Pre-Packaging

Applebee’s, like many chain restaurants, uses pre-packaged ingredients for some menu items.

Pre-packaged ingredients, like mashed potatoes or broccoli, may be microwaved before serving.

However, the main proteins, such as steak and chicken breast, are cooked on the grill or in-house.

Reheating food in the microwave doesn’t necessarily lower its quality or taste.

Many restaurants use microwaves as a quick and efficient way to heat pre-made items without compromising taste or quality.

How Much of Applebee’s Menu is Microwaved?

• Steaks are grilled fresh in the restaurant.
  
• Mashed potatoes arrive pre-made and are microwaved.
  
• Most appetizers like mozzarella sticks are cooked fresh in the fryer.
  
• Chicken on salads and sandwiches is grilled in-house daily.
  
• Riblets are cooked sous vide and then finished on the grill.
  
• Pastas like Four Cheese Mac are microwaved from a pre-made package.
  
• Oriental Chicken Salad arrives pre-made and is tossed with dressing.
  

Why Microwaving Makes Sense For a Chain Restaurant

For a huge chain like Applebee’s with hundreds of locations, microwaving some menu items ensures consistency. Pre-made dishes allow Applebee’s to serve thousands of customers every day efficiently. Food safety regulations also limit which items Applebee’s cooks can make from scratch.

Menus have to be streamlined so each Applebee’s cooks dishes the same way. While microwaved food may not be as fresh, it allows Applebee’s to quickly serve classic American dishes. Customers know what to expect when visiting any Applebee’s location.

Former Employee Insights

Former Applebee’s employees have come forward with their experiences working in the chain’s kitchens. Some have claimed that the restaurant does rely on microwaving certain dishes, especially when it comes to reheating frozen or pre-made components of a dish.

However, it is also worth noting that not all former employees have had the same experience. Some former employees have stated that Applebee’s takes pride in its made-from-scratch dishes and that microwaving is not a common practice in their kitchens.

Setting the Record Straight

So, what can we conclude about Applebee’s and their use of microwaves? While there have been claims from former employees and rumors floating around, it is safe to say that not all of the food at Applebee’s is microwaved. Like any chain restaurant, they rely on pre-packaged ingredients for some menu items, but they also have dishes that are made in-house and cooked to perfection on a grill.

If you’re looking for a grilled chicken breast or a steak cooked to your liking, Applebee’s is not going to disappoint. On the other hand, if you’re ordering a pre-packaged appetizer like mozzarella sticks, they may be reheated in the microwave.

FAQS 

Does Applebee’s microwave their food?

 According to former Applebee employees, some food items on the menu are pre-packaged and simply microwaved before being served to customers.

Are the steaks at Applebee’s cooked on a grill?

 Yes, Applebee cooks their steaks on a grill to ensure they are cooked to perfection.

Does Applebee’s use a microwave to cook their mashed potatoes?

No, Applebee’s does not use a microwave to cook their mashed potatoes. They are made fresh in the kitchen using traditional cooking methods.

Is the grilled chicken at Applebee’s cooked on a grill?

Yes, the grilled chicken at Applebee’s is cooked on a grill to give it that delicious smoky flavor.

What are some popular menu items at Applebee’s?

Popular menu items at Applebee’s include the Oriental Chicken Salad, Four Cheese Mac and Cheese with Honey Pepper Chicken Tenders, and the Riblets.

Is all the food at Applebee’s microwavable?

No, not all the food at Applebee’s is microwavable. While some pre-packaged items may be microwaved, other dishes are cooked using various methods.

Can I trust the quality of food at Applebee’s if it is microwaved?

Yes, Applebee’s takes pride in delivering quality food to their customers. Even if some items are microwavable, they are made with ingredients that meet USDA standards.

Can I trust the opinions of a former Applebee’s employee regarding their cooking methods?

While a former Applebee’s employee may provide insight into the cooking methods, it’s always a good idea to consider multiple sources of information.

Is it worth eating at Applebee’s if they don’t cook everything from scratch?

Whether or not it’s worth eating at Applebee’s is a personal preference. If you’re looking for a dining experience where everything is cooked from scratch, Applebee’s may not be the right choice for you. However, if you enjoy their menu options and the convenience they offer, you might still enjoy eating there.

Can I trust the quality of food at Applebee’s if they don’t cook everything from scratch?

Despite not cooking everything from scratch, Applebee’s still strives to provide quality food for its customers. They have rigorous standards in place to ensure the freshness and safety of their menu items.

The Final Verdict

If you enjoy dining at Applebee’s, don’t let the rumors of microwaved food discourage you. While it is true that some items on the menu may be reheated in the microwave, there are plenty of dishes that are cooked fresh and made with care.

 Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what you’re looking for in a dining experience. If you’re looking for a quick and casual meal, Applebee’s is a great option. However, if you’re craving a gourmet meal prepared from scratch, you may want to explore other dining options.