Whether you’re a busy couple trying to make time for each other, or you’re looking for an affordable way to spend some quality time without the fuss, Applebee’s could be a solution to your problem. With the Date Night Pass, this popular restaurant chain went a step further and gave couples a low-cost and accessible option to share a night out over comfort food and cocktails.
And what a deal it was! Save a bunch of money, get weekly dates, and just ask Walker Hayes, Applebees is a fancy place for a date night:
But here’s a spoiler… things did not go quite as intended with the Applebees date night pass. In this 2025 update, we’ll explore what the Applebee’s Date Night Pass is, all the drama and history, weigh the pros and cons of Applebee’s as a date, and give you some tips to transform your next visit into a more memorable experience. Let’s dive in!
What is the Applebee’s Date Night Pass?
In January 2024, Applebee’s rolled out the Date Night Pass to appeal to couples seeking a break from cooking and Netflix marathons. Supposedly 1,000 of these date night redeeming passes would be sold for $200.
The Date Night Pass was introduced to make date nights more affordable, with each pass providing 52 uses (one per week) at $30 off per visit (or up to $1,560 in total discounts) all for the low price of a $200 purchase.
What’s Included: While each restaurant may offer slight variations, the Date Night Pass typically includes:
- Two entrees from a select menu (often including fan favorites like burgers, pasta, or salads)
- An appetizer or dessert to share
- Drink specials—perfect if you want to toast to the night
- What’s not included: Tax, gratuity, alcohol, retail, and fees
- Valid from Feb. 1, 2024 through Jan. 31, 2025.
But get this, the first batch of passes was sold out in under a minute! This resulted in a public uproar (meaning – the internet lost it’s mind). Many on Reddit, TikTok, and other social medias suspected that the promotion was fraudulent which led to many of them boycotting the restaurant. Here’s just one example of a disappointed customer’s video on TikTok:
Of course, Applebee’s had to respond. So, they decided to release another 1,000 Applebee’s date night passes into the wild. These would be made available for purchase via a random drawing system to customers who missed their chance the first time around.
And it would see that this act of goodwill bailed the company out of this unpleasant situation. But can we know what you’re wondering, can you get a date night pass right now?
Current Availability: According to the Applebee’s website the drawing for the date night pass is closed, and there is no mention of when, or if, this promotion will be held again. For now, they simply say, “We hope you continue to make Applebee’s your date night destination.”
But that raises another important question—Promotion or not, is Applebee’s even a good date night? Let’s take a deeper look:
Pros and Cons of Applebee’s on a Date Night
Thinking about whether Applebee’s is right for your next night out? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Pros:
- Affordable Menu: Applebee’s offers a variety of budget-friendly options, including appetizers, entrées, and drinks.
- Casual Atmosphere: Great for low-pressure dates or casual evenings.
- Specials: There are consistent promotions like 2-for-$25 meal deals and happy hour specials to make it cost-effective.
- Convenient Locations: Widely available, making it easy to find one nearby.
- Comfort Food: If you’re looking to “play it safe” it’s hard to go wrong with Applebee’s. Familiar dishes can help to create a relaxed and cozy vibe.
Cons:
- Ambiance: Applebee’s isn’t known for its romantic settings—think booths, TVs with sports, and a lively crowd. It’s cozy but not exactly candle-lit!
- Noise Level: The restaurant can be busy and loud, especially during peak hours or game nights. If you’re hoping for quiet conversation, this might not be ideal.
- Predictable Experience: It’s Applebee’s—you know what you’re going to get (for better or worse…). And while reliable, it doesn’t offer the thrill of trying somewhere new or unique.
TL;DR – If a low-key, casual date is the goal then an Applebee’s date night may be perfect! But if you’re looking for something a bit more unique and memorable, then allow us to introduce you to LoveTrack:
LoveTrack is a one of a kind date night planning app built to make you a hero in your relationship! You can learn more about how it works by clicking here.
How to Make an Applebee’s Date Night Better
Set on going to Applebee’s? We can help with that as well!
With a little planning, an Applebee’s date night can definitely go from “just dinner” to a more meaningful experience. Here are some quick tips to elevate your dinner at Applebee’s to a new level:
- Bring a Bit of Romance to the Table
Add a personal touch to make your date special. A small, battery-operated candle or a single flower can add a warm, romantic feel without overwhelming the casual atmosphere. - Dress Up for the Occasion
We know, it’s Applebee’s but hear us out. Sometimes, the key to a memorable night is how you show up. Dress up a bit for the evening—it’s a fun way to set the tone and make the night feel like an event, even if you’re keeping it budget-friendly. - You can’t over-emphasize the importance of good conversation
Engaging conversation alone can be the difference between a “good date” and a “bad date”. Now this doesn’t mean you have to script out the evening, but putting some thought into icebreakers, questions, and interesting conversation topics beforehand can pay out greatly! - Plan a Post-Dinner Activity
Turn Applebee’s into the start of a bigger night! Plan an activity afterward, like catching a late movie, going for a scenic drive, or taking a stroll around a nearby park. This simple addition can transform your Applebee’s date into an evening to remember.
Want more tips like these? You can’t miss the LoveTrack App!
We offer helpful tips like these on every single date we help you plan to make sure things go off without a hitch every time.
The Bottom Line (Let’s wrap this thing up)
If you were able to get your hand on one, the Applebee’s Date Night Pass is a simple, affordable way to enjoy a night out together. While it may not offer the candlelit vibe of a fancy restaurant, it brings decent food, a casual atmosphere, and—if you bring a little creativity—some memorable moments to share.
If you weren’t one of the lucky few who got their hands on an Date Pass then it looks like you’re probably out of luck for now. BUT DON’T GIVE UP ON DATE NIGHT!
All the stats available show that date nights save relationships. Whether it’s Applebee’s or anything we strongly encourage you to get a date night planned; and we’ll always be right here if you need any help!
Here’s to better relationships and enjoying more time together in 2025!