Applebee's vs Red Lobster: Menu Prices Compared (2026)
The short answer
Red Lobster is the cheaper of the two. Of the 3 directly comparable items we could match across both menus, Red Lobster is cheaper on 2 of them, by an average of $6.23 per item.
Deals Worth Knowing at Both
Applebee's
- The 2 for $25 menu — an appetizer plus two entrees — is roughly $10 below ordering the same three items separately and covers most of the popular dishes.
- The $9.99 weekday lunch combo pairs a half sandwich or salad with soup or fries and is the cheapest sit-down lunch at any national casual chain.
- Applebee's runs $1 and $5 cocktail promotions several times a year; the Dollarita in particular is the cheapest drink at any chain restaurant.
Red Lobster
- Order before 3:00 PM on a weekday — the lunch menu serves the same signature shrimp dishes for roughly $9 less than dinner.
- Cheddar Bay Biscuits are unlimited and free with any dine-in entree, so skip paid appetizers if you are watching the total.
- Join My Red Lobster Rewards for a free appetizer or dessert on signup plus a birthday reward.
Applebee's vs Red Lobster — FAQ
Is Applebee's cheaper than Red Lobster in 2026?
Red Lobster is cheaper on most matched items — 2 of 3. Across the whole menu Applebee's is the lower-priced of the two, at $15.49 for a typical item against $15.49 at Red Lobster.
What is the price difference between Applebee's and Red Lobster?
On matched items the average difference is $6.23, or about 27% overall. Applebee's averages $14.56 across 42 priced items; Red Lobster averages $20.04 across 37.
Which has the cheaper entry price, Applebee's or Red Lobster?
Applebee's starts at $1.00 (Dollarita (limited promotion)) and Red Lobster at $4.49 (Baked Potato).
Are these prices the same at every location?
No. Both chains let franchise owners set prices, so figures move by a dollar or more between markets and run highest at airport, stadium and highway locations. Treat these as the typical U.S. price, not a quote.