Restaurant Review: Applebee's in Salem, Virginia

If you're looking for a bargain at a nice, sit-down establishment, check out the chain restaurant, Applebee's. Their 2 for $20 deal consists of one appetizer to share and an entrée. They have 4 appetizers to choose from: Spinach and Artichoke Dip, Crunchy Onion Rings, Boneless Buffalo Wings and Mozzarella Sticks. And they have a large variety of entrees to choose from, including a Chicken Tenders Basket, Three-cheese Chicken Penne, 7-ounce House Sirloin and even seafood, their Double Crunch Shrimp.

Their lunch menu is another budget-friendly choice. They have a Pick 'n Pair Lunch special, starting at just $5.99. You create a favorite combo, such as BBQ Chicken Salad and Tomato Basil Soup, picked from a list of soups, salads and sandwiches. A great value for lunch, my husband and I have done this a few times.

On their regular menu, one can enjoy their famous ribs, steaks, an awesome French Onion Soup that is hands down favorite, chicken and seafood, pasta and pasta bowls, burgers and sandwiches, the menu is extensive. Their new burger, the Quesadilla Burger, which comes with their delish French fries seasoned with salt and pepper, was amazing. It was a burger nestled in a southwestern-style grilled tortilla, with pico de gallo, shredded lettuce and their Mexi-ranch sauce piled on. Messy, but worth it. My husband's favorite is the Chicken Broccoli Pasta Alfredo Bowl and a value at only $10.29 that comes with a side of toasted bread.

Least we forget the drinks, and Applebee's has a full bar. Try any of their margaritas or other alcoholic beverages. And save room for dessert: Applebee's has some awesome desserts, including Strawberry Cheesecake, Chocolate Mousse and Hot Fudge Sundae. On a budget? "Splurge" on one of their $1.99 dessert shooters.

For the kiddies in the family, Applebee's has Chicken Fingers, Mini Cheeseburger, Grilled Cheese Sandwich and Kraft Macaroni and Cheese. Not the healthiest choices, but kids are sure to love them.

All in all, Applebee's is a pretty good value as far as chain restaurants go and has decent menu choices. If you're definitely on a budget, stick with the 2 for $20 deal or the Pick 'n Pair lunch value.