Applebee's

Look, it's Applebee's. You know exactly what you're getting: the same menu that exists in 1,700+ locations across America, microwaved apps, and drinks that prioritize value over craft. But here's the thing—when you're in Vegas and want cheap drinks without casino chaos or Strip pricing, Applebee's actually makes sense. It's predictable, it's affordable, and sometimes that's exactly what you need.

The Happy Hour Lowdown

Applebee's runs their legendary late-night happy hour from 9pm-close daily with $1-$5 drink specials and half-price appetizers after 9pm. During regular happy hour (typically Monday-Friday 3pm-6pm), you're getting similar deals on well drinks, domestic drafts, house wines, and apps. The exact promotions vary by location, but Applebee's is notorious for aggressive drink deals—$1 margaritas were a whole thing. It's the cheapest drinking you'll find that isn't a dive bar or your hotel room.

Why You're Actually Here

Because you're broke, tired of casino bars, or just need something familiar after sensory overload from the Strip. Applebee's is comfort in its most corporate form—predictable food, cheap drinks, booths you can actually relax in. Multiple Vegas locations mean there's probably one near you. The apps during happy hour are solid drunk food, and nobody's judging you for ordering the sampler platter and a $3 margarita.

The Vibe Check

It's suburban chain restaurant through and through—sports on TV, families with kids, tourists seeking refuge from resort pricing, locals who just want cheap wings. The decor's whatever the corporate refresh cycle dictated. Music's radio hits and completely forgettable. You'll get servers who range from genuinely trying to clearly over it. It's not an experience; it's a transaction, and that's fine.

Real Talk

The food is aggressively mediocre—frozen apps, microwaved entrees, nothing's actually made fresh. You're not here for culinary excellence; you're here for $5 and a buzz. Service quality varies wildly by location and time of day. The atmosphere has zero Vegas energy—it's the same Applebee's in Oklahoma or Maine. If you wanted adventure or local flavor, this is the wrong choice. But if you wanted cheap and familiar, it's perfect.

Pro Tips

Late-night happy hour from 9pm-close is the real deal—cheapest drinking legally available in Vegas. The apps during happy hour are better value than entrees. Stick to simple drinks; don't order anything requiring actual bartending skill. Download the app for occasional extra deals and rewards. Multiple locations mean pick one that's convenient; they're all basically identical. Lower your expectations to "functional chain restaurant" and you'll be pleasantly surprised by how much money you save.