Applebee’s Kids Menu 2026 – Updated Prices, Calories

Finding a meal your kids will actually enjoy — and that fits your budget — isn’t always easy. The Applebee’s Kids Menu is designed with smaller portions of fan-favorite dishes like chicken tenders, burgers, and mac & cheese, made especially for young appetites.

Whether you’re dining in or ordering to-go, this page gives you the latest kids’ menu items, updated prices, and helpful details so you can quickly choose the right meal without guessing.

Scroll down to see the full menu and find the best option for your little one.

 Full Kids Menu & Item Details 2026

If you’re here to see the complete kids menu Applebee’s offers, this section gives you exactly that — all available meals, what’s included with each plate, and a general pricing idea so you can decide quickly.

The kids’ menu at Applebee’s is built around smaller portions of popular favorites, designed for children 12 and under (age limit may vary by location). Most meals typically include:

• One main entrée
• One side (like fries, applesauce, broccoli, or mashed potatoes)
• A kid’s drink (milk, juice, or fountain drink — availability may vary)

Here’s what you’ll usually find on the Applebee’s kids’ meal lineup:

• Chicken Tenders
• Chicken Quesadilla
• Kraft® Macaroni & Cheese
• Mini Cheeseburger
• Grilled Chicken Alfredo
• Corn Dog
• Classic Hamburger
• 4 oz. Sirloin (at select locations)

 Popular Kids’ Meals at Applebee’s

Although there are many popular options on the Applebee’s Kids Menu, some meals have become clear favorites among kids. I’ve listed those favorite meals in the table below.

• Most items on the kids menu at Applebee’s range between $5.99 and $6.99.
• Steak or premium options like the 4 oz. Sirloin may cost slightly more.
• Calorie counts listed are for the main entrée only and do not include sides or drinks.

applebee’s Kids Meal Nutrition & Dietary Information

 Healthy Options on Applebee’s Kids Menu

Applebee’s Kids Menu now offers healthy and balanced options for kids that are low-calorie, grilled, or high in protein. These meals are designed to keep kids happy while providing nutritious sides like broccoli or fruit.

 Applebee’s Kids Menu Allergen & Gluten-Free Details

Applebee’s menu items cannot be considered 100% gluten-free because the kitchens use shared preparation areas and fryers, which can lead to cross-contact with gluten—even during busy times like happy hour.

The “Gluten Sensitive” (GS) label does not mean the item officially meets the FDA’s gluten-free standard (≤20 ppm); it simply indicates that the recipe is made without added gluten ingredients, though cross-contact may still occur during preparation, especially when the kitchen is bustling with happy hour orders.

 Kids’ Meal Sides, Drinks & Portion Sizes

If you’re checking what comes with an Applebee’s Kids Meal, here’s a clear breakdown of sides, drink options, and portion sizes so you know exactly what to expect.

Kids Meal Sides

Each kid’s meal typically includes one choice of side. Common options include:

• French fries
• Applesauce
• Steamed broccoli
• Mashed potatoes (at some locations)

This allows parents to choose between classic favorites and lighter options.

Included Drink Options

Every kid’s meal usually comes with one kid-sized drink, such as:

• 1% milk
• Chocolate milk
• Apple juice
• Fountain soft drink (varies by location)

The drink is included as part of the meal, not sold separately, in most cases.

Portion Sizes

Kids’ meals are designed with child-sized portions. A typical meal includes:

• A smaller entrée portion (for example: about 3 chicken tenders, a small cheeseburger, or a kid-sized mac & cheese)
• One side
• One drink

The portions are meant to be filling for children without being oversized, making them balanced and manageable for younger appetites.

Applebee’s Kids Menu Deals & Promotions

 Applebee’s Kids Eat Free Days & Family Deals

If you’re specifically looking to see whether Applebee’s offers a free kids meal promotion, the answer is: Yes — many locations do, but it is not nationwide or guaranteed everywhere. Kids Eat Free deals are usually decided by individual franchise locations, so availability, rules, and timing can vary. Kids Eat Free deals are usually decided by individual franchise locations, so availability, rules, and timing can vary.

How the Kids Eat Free Deal Usually Works

At participating locations:

• Children 12 and under can receive a free kids’ meal
• With the purchase of a full-price adult entrée
• Typically dine-in only
• Some locations allow up to two free kids’ meals per adult entrée

The most common day for this promotion is Tuesday, but some restaurants may run it on a different weekday — or not at all.

Holiday & Limited-Time Kids Deals

In addition to weekly offers, some Applebee’s locations occasionally run special promotions during:

• Halloween
• Easter
• Back-to-school periods
• Local franchise promotional events

These are usually short-term and location-specific.

Important Things to Check Before Visiting

• Confirm the exact day of the promotion at your local restaurant
• Ask if there’s a limit per table or per adult entrée
• Verify whether the deal applies to all kids’ menu items
• Make sure it’s available for dine-in only

Seasonal & Holiday Kids Promotions at Applebee’s

Applebee’s restaurants sometimes run limited-time offers that can include free kids’ meals, discounted combos, or special menu items aimed at families. These are usually tied to specific dates or times of year.

Halloween Specials

• Some locations offer “Kids Eat Free” on Halloween night or around the Halloween weekend.
• These promotions may let kids in costume eat free with a qualifying adult purchase.
• Details vary by restaurant and year.

Easter Promotions

• Certain Applebee’s restaurants have run Easter kids’ meal specials in the past.
• This can include free or discounted kids’ meals with adult entrée purchases during Easter Sunday brunch or dinner.

Spring & Summer Family Deals

• During spring break or summer months, some locations run family combo deals, like:
  • Discounted kids’ meals with adult entrees
  • Family bundle meals (e.g., 2 adult entrees + 2 kids’ meals at a set price)
• These offers are usually promoted locally via signage and social media.

Holiday Week Specials

• Around major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, a few restaurants may:
  • Offer free kid meals with purchase
  • Run discounted family meal packages
  • Include kids’ sides and drinks for a reduced price as part of a family holiday deal

Back-to-School & Weekday Specials

• Some Applebee’s locations have seasonal weekday specials like:
  • “Kids Eat Free” nights on off-peak days (e.g., generally Tuesday but sometimes other weekdays during school season)
  • Weekday family meal combos at reduced prices

Key Things to Know

• These seasonal and limited-time offers are not nationwide — they are chosen by individual Applebee’s franchise locations.
• Promotions may change each year and even from one restaurant to another.
• Offers are typically advertised locally:
  • On the restaurant’s door or window
  • On Applebee’s social media pages for that location
  • Through email or SMS promotions if you’re signed up

applebee’s Customization & Ordering Options (Kids Meals)

• Swap sides: Choose fries, applesauce, broccoli, or other available sides
• Modify main entrée: Remove cheese, ask for grilled instead of fried chicken
• Beverage choices: Milk, chocolate milk, juice, or soda
• Special requests: Remove sauces, dressings, or toppings if needed

How to Order Kids’ Meals

1. Dine-In: Tell your server exactly what modifications you want when ordering.
2. Takeout / To-Go: Place your order online or by phone; specify customizations clearly.
3. Curbside Pickup / Mobile App: Select the kids’ meal, then use the app’s “customize” options before checkout.
4. Third-Party Delivery: Most apps allow a “special instructions” box for custom requests.

Tips for Easy Customization

• Always mention allergies or sensitivities to the staff.
• Ask if grilled options or bunless meals are available for gluten-free needs.
• Double-check your order before finalizing, especially for online or app orders.

Kids Meals for Takeout & Family Dining

Many parents ask: Can I order Applebee’s kids’ meals for takeout? The answer is yes—Applebee’s makes it simple for families to enjoy their favorite kids’ meals, whether dining inside the restaurant or from the comfort of home.

Here’s how it works:

Browse the Applebee’s Kids Menu online or in the app to view available entrées, sides, and drinks.

1. Select Takeout or Delivery at checkout for quick and convenient pickup.
2. Choose Family Dining by visiting your nearest Applebee’s location, where kids’ meals are served fresh and portioned perfectly for little ones.
3. Customize Meals with sides and drinks to suit picky eaters or dietary needs.
4. Enjoy Flexible Options—whether dining in for a full sit-down meal or ordering kids’ meals to-go for family nights at home.

Applebee’s Kids Specials & Limited-Time Offers

Applebee’s often introduces kids specials and limited-time kids meals to keep dining fun and affordable for families.
These may include seasonal entrées, holiday promotions, or bundled deals where kids eat free with an adult entrée.
In 2026, some locations feature festive holiday menus and rotating kids’ meal flavors for extra variety.
Since availability differs, checking with your nearest Applebee’s ensures you don’t miss the latest specials.

Applebee’s Menu Categories

Applebee’s organizes its menu categories so families can easily explore all available meal options. For younger diners, the kids menu categories include entrées, sides, and drinks, allowing parents to quickly mix and match for a well-balanced meal.

Below is a clear breakdown of the Applebee’s kids menu categories in 2026:

• Kids Entrées – Cheeseburger, Chicken Tenders, Mac & Cheese, Grilled Chicken, Cheese Quesadilla, Spaghetti with Marinara, Mini Corn Dogs, Hot Dog, Grilled Cheese
• Kids Sides – Fruit, Steamed Broccoli, French Fries
• Kids Drinks – Milk, Soft Drinks

Nutritious and Delicious Choices for Kids

Applebee’s makes it simple for parents to find nutritious kids’ meals Applebee’s while still offering flavors kids love. Choices like grilled chicken with broccoli and fruit give a wholesome mix of protein, fiber, and vitamins, while lighter entrées such as spaghetti with marinara or a cheese quesadilla remain satisfying and child-friendly.

For families who prefer classic comfort foods, items like the mini corn dogs or a cheeseburger deliver great taste along with variety. Altogether, these tasty kids’ menu options balance nutrition and flavor, making every family mealtime both enjoyable and stress-free.

Why Choose Applebee’s for Family Meals?

Choosing Applebee’s family meals gives parents convenience, variety, and value, while kids enjoy flavorful favorites crafted for them. The Applebee’s kids menu benefits include balanced meals where entrées, sides, and drinks are bundled together—perfect for both picky eaters and health-conscious families.

With welcoming dining spaces, easy takeout options, and regular kids’ promotions, Applebee’s delivers a fun and stress-free mealtime that appeals to children and parents alike.

Trending Secret Menu Hacks

Parents enjoy experimenting with Applebee’s secret menu kids’ meals, and a few clever tricks make dining even more fun for little ones. Some of the most popular Applebee’s kids’ menu hacks are:

• Mix & Match Entrées – Request half an order of Mac & Cheese with a few Chicken Tenders for added variety.
• Healthier Swaps – Trade fries for steamed broccoli or fresh fruit at most locations, usually at no extra cost.
• Mini Combo Hack – Pair a grilled cheese with fruit for a balanced mix of sweet and savory flavors.
• Drink Upgrade – Ask for flavored water or a splash of lemonade blended with soda for a kid-friendly “mocktail.”
• Extra Dip Trick – Many kids love ranch, marinara, or honey mustard, and most restaurants will provide extra sauces free if requested.

What Else Does Applebee’s Offer?

Along with entrées and sides, families can enjoy Applebee’s kids’ menu extras that make mealtime both fun and convenient. Kids often receive activity sheets and crayons for entertainment, plus seasonal drinks or desserts that add an extra touch to the experience.

Beyond that, Applebee’s regularly offers Applebee’s additional offers such as “Kids Eat Free” nights, holiday-themed specials, and Club Applebee’s loyalty rewards.

These extras give parents not only affordable meals but also a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere packed with perks to keep children happy.

Popular Entrées on the Applebee’s Kids Menu

Applebee’s Kids Cheeseburger – A juicy beef patty topped with melted cheese on a soft bun. Why it’s popular: Always a hit with kids—perfectly portioned and full of flavor.
Kids Chicken Tenders Applebee’s – Crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders served with dipping sauce. Why it’s popular: Crunchy, tasty, and one of the easiest comfort foods for kids.
Applebee’s Kids Mac & Cheese – Creamy macaroni pasta blended with melted cheese. Why it’s popular: A classic kids’ favorite that’s filling and familiar.
Applebee’s Mini Corn Dogs – Bite-sized hot dogs wrapped in a crispy, golden batter. Why it’s popular: Fun to eat, snack-style, and loved by picky eaters.
Applebee’s Kids Hot Dog – A simple hot dog served warm in a soft bun. Why it’s popular: Customizable with ketchup or mustard, making it a safe and tasty choice.
Applebee’s Kids Grilled Chicken – Tender grilled chicken breast served with a side. Why it’s popular: A healthier option, packed with protein and kid-friendly flavors.
Applebee’s Spaghetti with Marinara (Kids) – Spaghetti noodles topped with tangy marinara sauce. Why it’s popular: Comforting, flavorful, and a go-to pick for pasta lovers.

Seasonal Offers, Limited-Time Promotions

Applebee’s keeps dining exciting for families with kids with seasonal offers and limited-time kids promotions, adding extra value to every mealtime. These deals often appear during holidays, school breaks, or special events, giving kids fresh menu choices or even free entrées with the purchase of an adult meal.

Parents appreciate these promotions for blending affordability with festive variety, making Applebee’s a favorite family dining destination. Since availability may differ by location, it’s always smart to check with your nearest Applebee’s for the latest specials.

Eligibility Requirements, Participating Locations, Terms and Conditions

Families can take advantage of Applebee’s kids eat free eligibility when they meet specific requirements, typically including the purchase of an adult entrée.

This promotion is offered at select restaurants, so it’s essential to check Applebee’s kids eat free locations before planning a visit. Each location may have its own schedule—often on weekdays or special holidays—and restrictions can apply regarding which menu items qualify.

Key points to keep in mind:

• Eligibility: Kids usually must be 12 or under and dine with an adult purchasing an entrée.
• Participating Locations: Not every Applebee’s offers this deal; check local listings or call ahead.
• Terms & Conditions: Only one free kids meal per adult entrée, promotional items may vary by season, and offers are subject to change (see Applebee’s kids eat free terms).

FREQUENTLY asked questions

Conclusion

For families checking out the Applebee’s menu, the Kids’ meals at Applebee’s in 2026 deliver a great mix of flavor, variety, and value. From beloved choices like Kids Chicken Tenders, Mac & Cheese, and Grilled Chicken, to well-portioned sides and drinks, the Applebee’s kids menu 2026 caters to picky eaters, health-conscious families, and anyone looking for seasonal or limited-time deals.

Starting at around $6.99 and paired with promotions like Kids Eat Free nights, Applebee’s makes family dining both enjoyable and affordable. This summary helps parents quickly see what’s available, what’s popular, and how to get the best value from their kids’ meals.