Additional Coverage:
- I ordered the cheapest burger meal at Applebee’s, Chili’s, and TGI Friday’s — one chain had the best value by far (businessinsider.com)
Value-Based Burger Showdown: Applebee’s, Chili’s, and TGI Fridays Face Off
With fast food prices soaring, many are seeking more bang for their buck. Could sit-down chains offer a comparable alternative?
I investigated, comparing the cheapest cheeseburger-and-fries combos at Applebee’s, Chili’s, and TGI Fridays. Surprisingly, all three offered decent meals for around $10, but one emerged as the clear winner in terms of value.
TGI Fridays: Tasty Burger, but Thirsty Wallet
At TGI Fridays, the $9.99 cheeseburger was cooked perfectly to my medium-well preference and generously loaded with toppings. The patty was a respectable size, and the burger held together admirably.
The fries, while crisp, were overly salty, leaving me craving a drink – which, unfortunately, wasn’t included. While the meal was worthwhile, the lack of a beverage was a definite drawback.
Applebee’s: Messy but Delicious
Applebee’s “Really Big Meal Deal” offered a cheeseburger, fries, and a drink for $9.99, outshining TGI Fridays on value. The burger itself was delicious, cooked to perfection with a slightly charred exterior and a juicy pink center.
However, the generous toppings made for a messy eating experience, requiring a fork and knife. The fries were hot, crispy, and thankfully, not as salty as TGI Fridays’.
Chili’s: The Value Champion
Chili’s “3 for Me” menu stole the show. For $10.99, I received a burger, fries, a drink, and a starter (I chose a tasty baked potato soup).
While the burger itself was a bit basic, featuring only cheese, onions, and a tangy sauce, the large, well-cooked patty and fresh bun compensated. The fries were thick-cut and perfectly salted.
The addition of a starter, even a small one, elevated the meal to the best overall value.
The Verdict
While all three restaurants offered satisfying meals for a reasonable price, Chili’s took the crown. The inclusion of a starter, alongside the burger, fries, and drink, cemented its position as the most budget-friendly option.
While the Chili’s burger could benefit from additional toppings, its value proposition was undeniable. Perhaps next time I’ll request extra toppings – hopefully at no extra charge.