Sorry, Chili's: Applebee's Easily Beats You With These Menu Items

Both Chili's and Applebee's are leaders in the fast casual dining space; however, they are not entirely alike in dignity. In fact, there's one specific area of the Chili's menu that Applebee's effortlessly beats. Of the many things Applebee's does better than Chili's, one of the most significant is boasting a more diverse array of appetizers.

Although the Triple Dipper appetizer combo is widely lauded as what you should absolutely order at Chili's if it's your first visit, the options simply don't measure up to that of Applebee's. Both restaurant menus have an appetizer section filled with a handful of choices that bear some resemblance, but Applebee's has a broader variety. The chain offers unique items that include Crispy Pickle Fries flavored with Tajín, a batch of Brew Pub Pretzels with a side of Beer Cheese for dipping, and a triumph of fusion food in the Bacon Cheeseburger Wonton Tacos.

Unfortunately, the basic blend of overly simplistic starters from Chili's falls short of Applebee's superior selection. Though Chili's was determined to have a slight edge over Applebee's with regard to which chain restaurant is more affordable, the fact that Applebee's menu of appetizers beats Chili's might still make it a better choice for those looking to expand their foodie horizons for a comparable price.

Both Chili's and Applebee's offer a number of similar appetizers on either menu. Among these include both boneless and bone-in chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, and chips with queso (but the Chili's app menu doesn't go much further beyond these offerings). Chili's has the edge with regard to cheese sticks, with its classic, honey chipotle, and Nashville hot fried mozzarella options, but Applebee's has a larger and more interesting overall variety of appetizers that still beats its sit-down chain counterpart. Further, comparing the prices between either restaurant's build-your-own triplet of appetizers, Applebee's is the clear winner.

A Chili's Triple Dipper in Southern California is priced at around $18.79 while the Ultimate Trio from Applebee's is only about $15.99. Both allow you to choose three appetizers and sauces, but your dollar will go further and your taste buds will have more opportunities for adventure at Applebee's. For those with a bigger appetite, you can also try The Classic Combo, which includes four fan-favorite appetizers.

The plate comes with boneless chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, a chicken quesadilla, and spinach and artichoke dip with chips. You can also select between six different flavors for your boneless wings. This robust plate of Applebee's appetizers is priced around $17.79 in Southern California and can vary depending on your specific location. Both spots certainly have merit and the choice is ultimately yours; however, you'll have much more to choose from if you head to Applebee's for your appetizing needs.