Don’t know what to do for dinner tonight? Why not head to Applebee’s in Cherry Hill? The wait staff and servers are courteous, the menu delivers varied choices and getting dessert is never a bad idea (especially when it’s all so good). Best of all it has something for everyone, every palate, every age!

Even before entering the doors, I noticed the clean environment surrounding the well-kept building. Arriving at a designated booth, I noticed a spotless table with not even a crumb upon it. The comfortable furniture was good as new, the carpet was vacuumed clean, and the counter-tops were gleaming as if they had just been waxed.

Although the atmosphere is an important part in the appeal of a restaurant, the service given can also change a good evening to great. At Applebee’s, the employees displayed outstanding hospitality. For example, there was always someone to hold the door open for incoming customers. The waitresses I observed greeted the parties they served with a smile and a brief introduction about the specials. One of the largest positives about Applebee’s altogether is the food, of course.

The menu at Applebee’s is very well-rounded for all prices, ages, and dietary requirements. On the menu there are marked orders for meals below a certain calorie count, and there is even a section for “lighter fare” meals. Having a lighter meal may be a good option if you also get one of the highly acclaimed and “decadent” milkshakes from Applebee’s. From “shorty-shakes” to warm to drinks, lemonades, and regular fountain sodas, you may need more than one visit to get the full Applebee’s experience (and that’s just for the drinks!). The food on the menu contains quite a large selection too, and for quite agreeable prices.

There is a “2 for $20” deal which consists of one appetizer plus two full size entrees, all for only twenty dollars! The endless and filling list of appetizers is also a big draw. The choice is never easy however because new foods are constantly appearing on the menu. The newest appetizer as of now is a “Cheeseburger Eggroll.” Although I did not order it, I’m sure like most of the food, it tasted very delicious, and came out warm and freshly served. The service again can be complimented as the wait staff makes sure the food is out at a reasonable time and is delivered to the correct customer.

Personally, my favorite dish is the Thai Shrimp Salad. An oriental salad with almonds and edamame, mixed with shrimp and chili lime vinaigrette. It was made to perfection. For dessert I ordered the Butter Pecan Blondie. A moist, warm, light brown brownie topped with cold vanilla ice cream and petite pecans. A cup of cream cheese sauce comes on the side to spread on top to complete the masterpiece.

Applebee’s is a fantastic place to have a pleasant dinner around friendly people. The food is amazing, the employees are friendly, and the atmosphere is welcoming.

The review is a series of reviews that the Introduction to Journalism class is doing on restaurants local to Cinnaminson.