Published on Tuesday, July 8, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Dine Brands announced plans to open a dual-branded Applebee’s and IHOP restaurant in Costa Rica in the coming weeks, marking a major return for one brand and a debut for the other.

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar, a U.S.-based casual dining chain known for American staples such as salads, burgers, chicken dishes, and its signature “riblets,” will reopen in Costa Rica after a five-year hiatus.

The chain originally entered the market in 2009 and operated five locations before closing in 2020, citing financial losses during the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic. As of 2024, Applebee’s operates more than 1,800 restaurants worldwide.

IHOP (International House of Pancakes) will make its Costa Rican debut with the new opening. The U.S. breakfast-focused chain is known for pancakes, waffles, omelets, and other classic American breakfast items, while also offering lunch and dinner options. IHOP had over 1,700 locations worldwide as of 2024.

The two restaurants will be located under one roof at Plaza Tempo Shopping Center in Escazú, San José. Franchisee BLT UK Holdings Limited will operate the location as part of Dine Brands’ strategy to expand through co-branded restaurant formats.

According to Dine Brands International, an affiliate of Dine Brands Global, Inc. (parent company of Applebee’s, IHOP, and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop), the dual-concept model is a core part of its international growth strategy.

There are currently 18 co-branded Applebee’s-IHOP locations in seven countries: Mexico, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Honduras, and Peru.

The Escazú location will feature separate dining areas for each brand, with shared common spaces including restrooms and host stands. A single kitchen will serve both restaurants, offering improved operational efficiency and an integrated guest experience.

“I am incredibly proud of the progress we are making to expand and grow with new and existing franchisees around the world,” said Scott Gladstone, president of international and corporate development at Dine Brands Global. “Our expansion plans create opportunities to adapt to local customs, tastes, and traditions, as well as new formats and varying footprints. We are committed to creating compelling and profitable opportunities for franchisees and the company, and new and unique experiences for our guests.”

As of December 31, 2024, Dine Brands operates more than 3,500 restaurants across 19 international markets. In 2024 alone, Dine Brands International and its franchisees opened 36 new restaurants.

Applebee’s and IHOP join a growing number of U.S.-based restaurant chains investing in Costa Rica. Starbucks, the Seattle-based coffee giant, recently opened a new location in Guanacaste.

In May 2025, Dunkin’, the American coffee and donut chain, announced a $5 million investment to open new locations across Costa Rica.

----------------
What other American food franchises would you like to see in Costa Rica?  We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com