Applebee locations across the United States are announcing planned closures as part of ongoing business adjustments. Owners cite shifting customer traffic, rising labor costs, and changing dining habits as drivers for which Applebee’s are closing.
Below is a concise overview of key closures, performance by region, and what the changes mean for customers and brand presence.
| Metro Area | Location(s) Closing | Closure Date | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA | Applebee Hollywood | August 2024 | Lease expiration |
| Chicago, IL | Applebee West Loop | July 2024 | Performance issues |
| Dallas, TX | Applebee North Dallas | September 2024 | Reconstruction |
| Phoenix, AZ | Applebee Biltmore | June 2024 | Low traffic |
Store Closures Across Major Cities
Several Applebee restaurants in dense urban markets are on the closure list due to high operating expenses and reduced footfall. Owners evaluate rent, labor, and consistent sales volume before deciding to shutter locations.
In Los Angeles, the Hollywood site will close after its lease ends, while Chicago’s West Loop location faces lower traffic and profitability challenges. Dallas customers will see one branch close in September during a property reconstruction project, and Phoenix’s Biltmore store has already shut down citing weak demand.
Regional Performance and Exit Patterns
Performance varies widely by region, with some markets maintaining stable traffic while others struggle with saturation and delivery competition. Exit patterns show a trend toward suburban repositioning rather than urban expansion.
Leadership highlights that closures are part of a portfolio optimization strategy, focusing resources on stronger performing units and remodeling dated sites. Data from corporate filings and franchise disclosures point to underperforming locations in high-cost urban cores as primary candidates.
Menu and Service Changes Ahead of Closure
Limited Time Offers During Shutdown
Some closing locations run limited time offers and promotions to drive final traffic, though these vary by franchisee and market.
Transition to Delivery-Only or Pop-Up Models
A handful of sites explore delivery-only kitchens or pop-up concepts, though this remains rare and location-dependent.
Customer Impact and Alternatives
Diners near closing Applebee’s are encouraged to review updated hours and confirm service availability via the official website or by calling the restaurant directly. Alternatives in the same neighborhood may include similar casual dining chains with comparable menu formats and price points.
Many locations transition to other brands or independent operators, so menu familiarity may shift even when the building remains open.
What to Watch as Closures Continue
- Monitor official announcements for confirmed closure dates in your area
- Verify rewards and gift card balances before the final service day
- Check for new restaurant brands moving into former Applebee spaces
- Review updated hours at nearby locations to maintain your usual visits
FAQ
Reader questions
Why are specific Applebee locations suddenly closing without prior notice?
Closures often follow long term performance reviews, and while corporate announcements may appear sudden, local franchisees work with landlords and corporate teams for months before final decisions.
Will my preferred Applebee be replaced by another restaurant brand?
Some sites are repurposed by new operators, while others remain vacant temporarily depending on market conditions and lease terms.
Can I still use my rewards card or gift cards at closing Applebee locations?
Active rewards and gift cards are typically honored until the location’s final service date, but users should check regional policies and balances in advance.
Are jobs at closing Applebee locations affected immediately?
Staffing changes and scheduling adjustments begin well before the last service day, and displaced employees are often given priority consideration at nearby open locations when possible.