What’s on Applebee’s Alcohol Menu? A Guide to Drinks & Prices

Beer and Draft Selections

When you slide into an Applebee’s booth, the first thing many guests glance at is the beer list. The chain typically carries a mix of domestic lagers, light ales, and a rotating selection of craft brews. Expect staples like Bud Light, Coors Light, and Miller Lite alongside regional favorites that change seasonally. Draft options are usually limited to two or three taps, but they often include a pale ale and a seasonal IPA, giving casual drinkers and hop enthusiasts something to discuss.

Price points are modest: a standard 12‑ounce domestic bottle or can generally runs between $4 and $5, while a draft pour can creep up to $6 depending on the locale. If you’re looking for a low‑calorie option, the light beers stay under $4 in most markets.

Wine List Overview

Applebee’s wine program leans toward approachability rather than high‑end sophistication. The list is split into reds, whites, rosés, and a small sparkling section. Common choices include a California Cabernet Sauvignon, a Pinot Noir for those who prefer something softer, and a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay on the white side. Rosé, often a Pinot Grigio blend, appears as a summertime standby.

Glasses are typically priced from $6 for a house red to around $10 for a premium option. Bottles are also available, but the selection is limited—usually a few red and white bottles that sit in the $20‑$30 range. If you’re unsure, the server can suggest a “house” wine that pairs well with most menu items.

Signature Cocktails and Classic Mixes

The cocktail menu at Applebee’s is a blend of familiar classics and a handful of house‑named drinks. Expect the usual suspects—Margaritas, Long Island Iced Teas, Mojitos, and Old Fashioneds—alongside signature creations like the “Applebee’s Bourbon Smash” or “Spicy Pineapple Margarita.” These house cocktails often incorporate fresh fruit juices or a dash of the chain’s own sauces for a subtle twist.

Pricing for mixed drinks typically starts around $8 for a basic rum‑and‑coke style and can rise to $12 for a more elaborate concoction with premium spirits. The “Happy Hour” menu, when available, frequently offers a $2‑$3 discount on these drinks between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays.

Spirits, Liqueurs, and On‑the‑Rocks

If you prefer something straight or on the rocks, Applebee’s carries a modest selection of popular spirits: vodka, gin, rum, tequila, bourbon, and whiskey. Brands are usually the well‑known ones—Absolut, Bacardi, Smirnoff, Jack Daniel’s—so you won’t be surprised by a boutique label. A neat pour or a simple highball will set you back roughly $7‑$9.

For those who enjoy a splash of liqueur, options like Kahlúa, Baileys, or Cointreau are available as mixers. These are typically used in the signature cocktails but can also be ordered on the side for a personalized twist.

Pricing, Specials, and Regional Variations

While Applebee’s aims for consistency, you’ll notice price differences from state to state due to local taxes and liquor licensing fees. In most urban locations, a draft beer sits at $5‑$6, a glass of wine at $7‑$10, and a cocktail at $9‑$12. Suburban or lower‑cost markets often see the lower end of those ranges.

Happy Hour is the most reliable way to stretch your budget. Many restaurants run a two‑hour window on weekdays where select beers, wines, and mixed drinks are discounted. Some locations also feature “$5 cocktails” on certain days, but the exact offerings can change weekly, so it’s worth asking your server for the current specials.

Tips for Ordering at Applebee’s Bars

• Ask about the rotating craft tap. Even if you’re not a beer aficionado, the seasonal IPA can be a pleasant surprise.
• Pair wine by flavor. Light whites complement salads and seafood, while fuller reds stand up to the chain’s grilled steaks.
• Watch the “house” cocktail tag. These are usually the most cost‑effective and still taste solid.
• Check the happy‑hour schedule. Timing your visit can shave a few dollars off each drink.

FAQ

What types of beer are typically on the Applebee’s menu?

Applebee’s offers domestic lagers like Bud Light and Coors Light, a couple of light ales, and a rotating selection of craft or seasonal brews on draft.

Does Applebee’s serve wine by the bottle?

Yes, but the bottle list is limited. You’ll usually find a few reds, whites, and sometimes a rosé, priced in the $20‑$30 range.

Are there any low‑price cocktail options?

During weekday happy hour, many locations discount cocktails by $2‑$3, and some even feature a $5‑$6 “special” cocktail on certain nights.

Can I get a non‑alcoholic version of a cocktail?

Most servers will gladly make a “mocktail” using the same mixers without the spirit, though it’s not always listed on the menu.