Exploring the world of chain restaurant appetizers can lead to delightful discoveries and some not-so-great experiences. In this blog post, we rank 20 appetizer combos from popular chain restaurants, guiding you through tastes and textures that either ignite your taste buds or leave you wanting more. From classic American samplers to exotic flavors, these combos offer something for every palate. Read on to find out which appetizer reigns supreme and which ones fall flat.
Applebee’s: Classic Combo
Applebee’s Classic Combo is a staple for those seeking variety in their appetizers. This platter includes mozzarella sticks, boneless wings, and spinach artichoke dip, offering a taste of everything. Each component brings something unique to the table. The mozzarella sticks are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, providing a comforting texture. The boneless wings, lightly sauced, add a bit of spice without overwhelming the senses. Finally, the spinach artichoke dip, creamy and rich, rounds out the combo. This variety makes it simultaneously satisfying and quintessentially Applebee’s.
TGI Fridays: Fridays Signature Whiskey-Glazed Sampler
TGI Fridays offers the Signature Whiskey-Glazed Sampler, a feast for the senses. This sampler includes tender ribs, savory shrimp, and flavorful chicken, all glazed with a signature whiskey sauce. The ribs, falling off the bone, are the highlight, bursting with smoky sweetness. The shrimp, perfectly cooked, complement the ribs with a touch of seafood flair. Chicken adds a hearty base, soaking up the whiskey glaze delightfully. Altogether, this sampler is a journey through taste, balancing sweet, smoky, and savory notes in every bite.
Chili’s: Triple Dipper
The Triple Dipper from Chili’s is perfect for those who can’t decide on just one appetizer. This combo features Southwestern eggrolls, chicken crispers, and Big Mouth bites, each adding its distinct flair. The eggrolls, filled with spicy chicken and cheese, provide a crunchy, flavorful start. Chicken crispers, crispy and juicy, offer a delightful crunch with every bite. The Big Mouth bites, essentially mini burgers, complete the trio with a satisfying heft. This combo is a harmony of textures and tastes, making it a favorite among diners.
Outback Steakhouse: Aussie Signature Sampler
Outback Steakhouse’s Aussie Signature Sampler is a tribute to bold flavors and hearty portions. Featuring Bloomin’ Onion petals, cheese fries, and mac & cheese bites, this combo is a taste adventure. The Bloomin’ Onion petals are crispy and seasoned perfectly, offering a zesty bite. Cheese fries, smothered in a creamy cheese sauce, add a savory delight. Finally, the mac & cheese bites, crunchy on the outside and creamy inside, complete the sampler. This combo is perfect for those who crave robust flavors and a satisfying meal.
The Cheesecake Factory: Roadside Sliders & Avocado Egg Rolls Combo
The Cheesecake Factory’s Roadside Sliders & Avocado Egg Rolls Combo is an elegant blend of classic and exotic. The sliders, mini burgers with caramelized onions, offer a rich, savory experience. Avocado egg rolls, filled with fresh avocado and sundried tomatoes, bring a refreshing, creamy contrast. Each element of this combo is crafted to deliver distinctive flavors that complement each other. The fusion of sliders and egg rolls creates a unique dining experience, appealing to those who appreciate both traditional and contemporary tastes.
Buffalo Wild Wings: House Sampler
Buffalo Wild Wings’ House Sampler is a lively option for those who love a little bit of everything. This combo includes wings, nachos, and mozzarella sticks, each adding its unique flavor. The wings, available in various sauces, provide a spicy kick that defines the sampler. Nachos, generously topped with cheese and jalapeños, offer a crunchy, cheesy delight. Mozzarella sticks add a classic touch, with their crisp exterior and gooey interior. This sampler is a celebration of fun and flavor, perfect for sharing with friends during a game day.
Olive Garden: Lasagna Fritta & Calamari Combo
Olive Garden’s Lasagna Fritta & Calamari Combo brings a taste of Italy to your table. The Lasagna Fritta, fried to golden perfection, offers a crispy exterior with a warm, cheesy, and savory inside. Calamari, lightly breaded and fried, adds a seafood twist that’s both tender and satisfying. This duo complement each other beautifully, balancing rich, cheesy textures with light, crispy bites. Ideal for those who enjoy Italian flavors, this combo provides a comforting yet exciting dining experience at Olive Garden.
Red Robin: Towering Onion Rings & Pretzel Bites
Red Robin’s Towering Onion Rings & Pretzel Bites offer a striking visual and flavorful experience. The onion rings are stacked high, each ring crisp and perfectly seasoned. They provide a satisfying crunch that pairs excellently with dipping sauces. Pretzel bites, warm and soft, bring a touch of comfort with a hint of saltiness. This combo is both visually appealing and delicious, making it a go-to choice for those who enjoy classic American snacks in a fun, engaging presentation.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: Appetizer Platter
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse’s Appetizer Platter is designed for sharing, offering a delightful mix of flavors. Featuring spinach dip, wings, and sliders, this platter caters to diverse tastes. The spinach dip is creamy, with just the right amount of cheese and herbs, perfect for dipping. Wings, tossed in your choice of sauce, add a punch of heat and flavor. Sliders, small yet satisfying, round out the platter with a savory delight. This combo is ideal for gatherings, bringing people together through a shared love of tasty morsels.
Ruby Tuesday: Cheddar Cheese Queso & Spinach Artichoke Dip
Ruby Tuesday’s Cheddar Cheese Queso & Spinach Artichoke Dip is a comforting and creamy combo. The cheddar cheese queso, smooth and rich, provides a luscious cheese experience with a hint of spice. Spinach artichoke dip, creamy and flavorful, balances the queso with its herbal notes. Together, they create a delightful dip duo, perfect for sharing with friends. The accompanying tortilla chips add a crunchy texture, making this combo a warm and welcoming starter, ideal for cheese lovers and dip enthusiasts alike.
Cracker Barrel: Country Sampler
Cracker Barrel’s Country Sampler offers a taste of Southern hospitality. This platter includes biscuits, fried okra, and chicken tenders, each embodying the essence of comfort food. The biscuits, warm and fluffy, are a classic staple, perfect for any meal. Fried okra brings a unique texture, crunchy on the outside and tender inside. Chicken tenders, seasoned and fried, offer a satisfying bite with a touch of nostalgia. This combo is a tribute to homestyle cooking, making it a popular choice for those craving a taste of the South.
Bonefish Grill: Bang Bang Shrimp & Ahi Tuna Sashimi
Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp & Ahi Tuna Sashimi bring sophistication to the appetizer scene. The Bang Bang Shrimp, coated in a spicy, creamy sauce, offer a burst of flavor that’s both addictive and satisfying. Ahi Tuna Sashimi, finely sliced and fresh, adds a touch of elegance with its delicate taste and texture. This combo is perfect for seafood lovers who appreciate a mix of bold flavors and refined presentation, making it a standout on Bonefish Grill’s menu.
P.F. Chang’s: Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps & Dumplings
P.F. Chang’s combines freshness and flavor with Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps & Dumplings. The lettuce wraps, filled with savory chicken, provide a light and refreshing start. Dumplings, steamed or fried, offer a comforting bite with their juicy filling. Together, they create a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. This combo is a favorite for those who seek an Asian-inspired appetizer that excites the palate, combining the crisp, cool lettuce with the warm, rich dumplings in a truly delightful pairing.
Texas Roadhouse: Cactus Blossom & Rattlesnake Bites
Texas Roadhouse brings a taste of the West with the Cactus Blossom & Rattlesnake Bites. The Cactus Blossom, a blooming onion with a spicy kick, offers a crispy, flavorful experience. Rattlesnake Bites, filled with cheese and jalapeños, add a fiery twist that complements the blossom. This combo is perfect for those who enjoy bold, spicy flavors and a bit of Southern charm. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking an appetizer that packs both heat and heartiness, making it a standout on the menu.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill: Zucchini Fritte & Mozzarella Marinara
Carrabba’s Italian Grill offers a taste of Italy with its Zucchini Fritte & Mozzarella Marinara combo. The Zucchini Fritte, lightly battered and fried, provide a crispy, vegetable delight. Mozzarella Marinara, with its gooey center and tangy marinara sauce, adds a classic Italian flavor. This pairing is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of crispy textures and rich, cheesy goodness. Together, they create a delightful appetizer that’s both comforting and flavorful, capturing the essence of Italian cuisine.
Yard House: Poke Nachos & Onion Ring Tower
Yard House’s Poke Nachos & Onion Ring Tower is a fusion of textures and flavors. The Poke Nachos, topped with fresh fish and a blend of sauces, offer a unique twist on a classic snack. The Onion Ring Tower, stacked high, provides a crispy, savory experience with each bite. This combo is ideal for those who appreciate a creative and adventurous take on appetizers. It’s a delightful pairing that offers something a little different, making it a must-try for Yard House patrons.
Perkins: Mozzarella Sticks & Chicken Tenders Combo
Perkins’ Mozzarella Sticks & Chicken Tenders Combo offers a comforting taste of classic American appetizers. The mozzarella sticks, crispy and filled with gooey cheese, are a timeless favorite. Chicken tenders, perfectly cooked and seasoned, offer a hearty, satisfying bite. Together, they create a familiar and enjoyable dining experience that appeals to all ages. This combo is perfect for those who appreciate the simplicity and flavor of traditional appetizers, making it a beloved choice for families and individuals alike.
LongHorn Steakhouse: Wild West Shrimp & Firecracker Chicken Wraps
LongHorn Steakhouse’s Wild West Shrimp & Firecracker Chicken Wraps offer a taste of adventure on a platter. The Wild West Shrimp, seasoned and crispy, bring a hint of spice with each bite. Firecracker Chicken Wraps, filled with tender chicken and a spicy sauce, add a bold flavor that complements the shrimp. This combo is perfect for those who crave a bit of heat and excitement in their appetizer choice. It’s a flavorful pairing that captures the essence of a Western-inspired dining experience.
Uno Pizzeria & Grill: Pizza Skins & Giant Meatball Combo
This combo is as indulgent as it sounds. The Pizza Skins are an innovative twist, combining the flavors of a pizza with crispy potato skins, creating a delightful contrast of textures. Topped with gooey cheese and savory toppings, they’re a hit among cheese lovers.
The Giant Meatball stands as a testament to classic Italian cuisine, with a rich, hearty flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying. Juicy and tender, it pairs perfectly with the Pizza Skins, making this combo a memorable experience.
Perfect for sharing, it’s a must-try for those who love hearty Italian favorites.
O’Charley’s: Spicy Jack Cheese Wedges & Loaded Potato Skins
O’Charley’s offers a duo that’s hard to resist. The Spicy Jack Cheese Wedges bring a kick of heat, enveloped in a crispy coating that’s a joy to bite into. The combination of spicy cheese and crunch is simply irresistible.
Alongside, the Loaded Potato Skins are a comfort food classic, generously topped with cheese, bacon, and scallions. Each bite offers a rich taste experience that’s both familiar and satisfying.
Together, they create a balance of spice and comfort that’s perfect for those who appreciate bold flavors and hearty snacks.
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