Two popular Grill and Bar chains, Chili’s and Applebee’s engaged in a social media spat over their recently introduced deals.
The feud started when on Friday, Applebee’s posted a tweet, that said that its $9.99 “Really Big Meal Deal” is better than “other $10.99 deal,” allegedly referencing Chili’s current promotional offer.
In its response, Chili's tweeted by quoting Applebee’s tweet, “@us next time...” It then went on to promote its deal that comes with “bottomless drinks, UNLIMITED chips and salsa, and a Big Smasher with fries.” Whereas Applebee’s offers a choice of a bacon cheeseburger or fried chicken sandwich, fries, and a drink. The Chili's post ended by saying, “Y’all could literally never,” while mocking Applebee’s.
The online exchange between the two food chains immediately gained traction. Chili’s tweet gained 10 million views and 130,000 likes from fans, while Applebee’s tweet gained 9.5 million views and 1,000 likes.
Chili’s Chief Marketing Officer George Felix told CNN, that it’s
“no secret that we like to have a little fun on our social channels, and we are extremely passionate about making sure our guests are truly getting the best value in casual dining.”
How did customers respond to the online feud between Applebee’s and Chili’s?
The online feud between Applebee’s and Chili’s drew significant attention from the fans. Many people supported Chili’s stating that the $10.99 meal at Chili’s comes with more food on the menu in comparison to Applebee’s “Really Big Meal Deal.”
"Damn, it’s too early for y’all to be beefing." A fan wrote on X.
"Wrong day to mess with Chilis admin" Another said.
"Craving a triple dipper after this Beef." One person replied.
“Not baaaaad in this economy. However, @Chilis is $10.99 meal also includes an appetizer, in addition to the sandwich, fries and drink. So, once your deal includes an appetizer as well, then we can talk. I appreciate the hustle of competition though! Society desperately needs it.” A user replied to Applebee’s tweet while preferring Chili’s menu over them.
"That triple dipper, too. Yeah … have to side with Chili’s here." Someone else commented.
"I'll be at Chili's on my birthday this Friday." Wrote another user.
“the girlies are fighting but i’m on chilis’ side.” A fan mentioned while pointing out their online spat.
“Chili's is so good and such a better deal! 👍 My family has gone to Chili's a lot more in the past several months, because of your deals. Your lunch specials are great too!” One user tweeted while appreciating Chili’s.
However, a section of fans seemingly sided with Applebee's offers. A section of X users said:
"Please keep it forever" a user commented.
"I love you" another user said.
Another section of the internet sounded neutral:
One user on X said, "Applebees you didn’t have to do this. I can love both. I don’t want to have to lose you."
The basic difference between the menu at Chili's and Applebee's
Chili’s menu has more of a Southwestern vibe while Applebee’s offers traditional American fare on its menu. It is known for its bold spices and mixes, featuring dishes such as fajitas, chili, and Southwestern eggrolls.
Applebee’s menu features a wide range of cheeseburgers, pasta, ribs, and salads. Hand-battered fish and chips are one of their unique items. The menu at Chili’s might be costlier than Applebee’s but their portions are larger. For instance: the most expensive Applebee's steak goes for $24.99, while the costliest one from Chili's is $30.89, according to a report in Mashed.
Your perspective matters!
Start the conversation