Let’s talk about Applebee’s. When people think about casual dining jobs, they usually picture long hours, difficult customers, and mediocre tips. But here’s what’s interesting: Applebee’s is actually one of the more straightforward restaurant jobs out there—and for many people, it’s a solid entry point into food service or a flexible part-time gig.
Here’s what most people don’t realize about learning how to get hired at Applebee’s: they’re almost always hiring (1,600+ locations need constant staff), the hiring process is fast (often 1-2 weeks), you can make decent money with tips ($15-25/hour total as a server), and the schedule flexibility is real. Plus, you don’t need experience—they’ll train you.
I’ve helped thousands of people figure out how to get hired at Applebee’s, and I’m about to break down everything you need to know. The pay structure (how tipping actually works), the benefits (they exist, surprisingly), the application secrets, interview strategies that work, and what it’s really like working in America’s neighborhood grill.
Whether you’re 16 and need your first job, 25 and want flexible hours around school, or 45 and looking for supplemental income, Applebee’s has positions. This complete guide on how to get hired at Applebee’s covers every step from clicking “apply” to serving your first riblet platter.
Let’s get you hired. 🍔
The Quick Facts About How to Get Hired at Applebee’s
Here’s what you need to know right now:
💰 Starting Pay (Server): $2.13-$5/hour + tips (total $15-25/hour with tips)
💰 Starting Pay (Kitchen/Host): $12-$16/hour
📍 Location Count: 1,600+ restaurants across U.S. and 15+ countries
👥 Employees: 30,000+ team members
⏱️ Time to Get Hired: 1-2 weeks average (often faster)
🎂 Minimum Age: 16 years old for most positions, 18+ for server (some states)
💉 Drug Test: Generally NO (most locations don’t test)
🔍 Background Check: YES (but lenient)
🎓 Education Required: None
🍽️ Restaurant Experience: NOT required (they train)
📅 Schedule: Very flexible, part-time and full-time available
🎯 Hiring Speed: FAST (restaurants always need staff)
💪 Physical Demands: Moderate to high (fast-paced, on your feet all shift)
Now let’s break down why Applebee’s is worth considering and how to actually get the job.
Why Applebee’s is Actually a Decent Restaurant Job
Before diving into how to get hired at Applebee’s, let’s talk about why it works for many people.
1. The Tips Can Be Decent (Better Than You Think)
Server earnings breakdown:
- Base pay: $2.13-5/hour (tipped minimum wage)
- Tips: $10-20/hour average (varies by location and shift)
- Total: $15-25/hour typically
Good shifts (dinner, weekends):
- $20-30/hour with tips
- Walk out with $100-200 cash per shift
Slower shifts (weekday lunch):
- $12-18/hour with tips
- Still better than most entry-level retail
Real talk: Applebee’s isn’t fine dining, but volume makes up for lower check averages. You’re turning tables, serving lots of customers, and tips add up.
2. The Hiring Process is FAST
Unlike corporate retail (weeks of waiting):
- Apply online Monday
- Interview Tuesday or Wednesday
- Hired by Thursday
- Start the following week
Restaurants need bodies. If you seem reliable and presentable, you’ll likely get hired.
3. Schedule Flexibility is Real
You can actually:
- Work around school schedules
- Request specific days off
- Pick up extra shifts when you need money
- Trade shifts easily
- Work part-time (15-25 hours) or full-time (30-40 hours)
This matters if you’re:
- A student
- A parent
- Working a second job
- Need variable hours
4. No Experience Required
Applebee’s hires people with zero restaurant experience:
- First-time servers
- High school students
- Career changers
- Anyone willing to learn
Training is provided. You’ll shadow experienced servers, learn the POS system, and get food/menu training.
5. The Work is Straightforward
You’re not learning molecular gastronomy. You’re:
- Taking orders
- Delivering food
- Refilling drinks
- Processing payments
- Providing decent service
The menu is familiar. Burgers, ribs, salads, apps. Nothing complicated.
6. Team Atmosphere
Restaurants create tight teams:
- You’re in the trenches together
- Coworkers become friends
- Support each other during rushes
- Post-shift hangouts common
Many people stay because of the team, not the company.
7. Cash Tips Daily
Servers leave with cash every shift.
- No waiting for paychecks
- Immediate gratification
- Real money in hand
This is huge for people living paycheck to paycheck.
What Jobs Can You Get at Applebee’s?
Let’s break down positions when learning how to get hired at Applebee’s.
Server** – $2.13-$5/hour + tips ($15-$25/hour total)
This is the core position. You’re waiting tables, taking orders, serving food, earning tips.
What you’ll do:
- Greet customers and take drink orders
- Explain menu and specials
- Take food orders
- Deliver food and drinks
- Check on tables regularly
- Process payments
- Bus tables (some locations)
- Upsell appetizers, desserts, drinks
Best for: Personable people, multitaskers, those who want flexible hours and cash tips, extroverts, hustlers.
Physical demands: HIGH
- On your feet entire shift (6-8 hours)
- Carrying heavy trays
- Constant movement
- Fast-paced during rushes
- Mental multitasking (remembering orders, table numbers, timing)
Real talk: Serving is hard work. Rushes are intense. Difficult customers happen. Kitchen makes mistakes. But when you’re in the zone and making $25/hour with tips, it feels worth it.
Minimum age: 18 in most states (some states allow 16)
Schedule: Lunch shifts (11am-4pm), dinner shifts (4pm-11pm), weekends
Tips breakdown:
- Weekday lunch: $40-80 per shift
- Weekday dinner: $80-150 per shift
- Weekend dinner: $120-250+ per shift
Host/Hostess – $12-$15/hour
You’re greeting guests, managing seating, handling waitlists.
What you’ll do:
- Greet customers at the door
- Manage reservation system
- Seat guests
- Handle waitlists during busy times
- Answer phones
- Support servers
- Keep entrance area clean
Best for: Friendly people, organized individuals, those who prefer non-tipping positions, younger workers (16+), people who want restaurant experience without serving.
Physical demands: Moderate. Standing most of shift, but not as intense as serving.
Minimum age: 16 years old typically
Why some prefer it: No tip stress, consistent hourly pay, less intense than serving, good entry position.
Bartender – $2.13-$5/hour + tips ($18-$30/hour total)
Making drinks, serving bar customers, helping servers with drink orders.
What you’ll do:
- Make cocktails, beer, wine
- Serve bar customers
- Process bar tabs
- Help servers with drink orders
- Manage bar inventory
- Check IDs
Requirements:
- 21+ years old
- Bartending experience usually preferred (but not always required)
- Alcohol service certification (depending on state)
Tips: Generally better than servers—bar customers tip well, especially during happy hour and weekends.
Typical earnings: $20-35/hour with tips
Line Cook – $13-$17/hour
Cooking food in the kitchen, following recipes, maintaining quality.
What you’ll do:
- Prepare menu items following recipes
- Work various stations (grill, fry, sauté, etc.)
- Maintain food safety standards
- Keep kitchen clean and organized
- Work with kitchen team
- Handle high-volume orders during rush
Best for: Those who prefer back-of-house work, people who don’t want customer interaction, physically capable workers, team players who thrive under pressure.
Physical demands: VERY HIGH
- Standing entire shift
- Hot kitchen environment
- Fast-paced
- Repetitive motions
- Lifting, bending, reaching
No tips, but consistent hourly pay and no customer drama.
Minimum age: 18 typically
Dishwasher – $12-$15/hour
Washing dishes, maintaining cleanliness, supporting kitchen.
What you’ll do:
- Wash dishes, pots, pans, utensils
- Keep dish area organized
- Support kitchen with clean supplies
- Take out trash
- Maintain sanitation standards
Best for: First-time workers, those who want simplest restaurant job, people who prefer solo work, reliable workers.
Physical demands: HIGH (hot, wet, repetitive, fast-paced during rushes)
Minimum age: 16 typically
Real talk: Dishwasher is entry-level restaurant work. It’s hard, hot, and repetitive. But it’s straightforward, and you can move up to prep cook or line cook quickly.
Shift Supervisor – $15-$19/hour
Leading shifts, managing staff, handling issues.
Requirements: 1-2 years restaurant experience typically
What you’ll do:
- Supervise front and back of house during shift
- Handle customer complaints
- Manage cash and deposits
- Train new staff
- Ensure quality and speed standards
Assistant Manager – Salaried $35-$45K
Supporting general manager with operations, managing staff, handling issues.
Requirements: 2-3 years restaurant management experience
General Manager – Salaried $45-$65K
Running the entire restaurant—hiring, scheduling, inventory, sales, profitability, everything.
Requirements: 3-5 years restaurant management typically
The Pay Structure at Applebee’s
Let’s get into money when learning how to get hired at Applebee’s.
Server Pay Breakdown (The Real Numbers)
Hourly wage: $2.13-5/hour (tipped minimum wage, varies by state)
Tips: $10-20/hour average
Total typical earnings:
| Shift Type | Hours | Tips | Total Earned |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekday Lunch | 5 hours | $50-80 | $10-16/hr ($50-80) |
| Weekday Dinner | 6 hours | $90-150 | $15-25/hr ($90-150) |
| Weekend Dinner | 7 hours | $140-250 | $20-35/hr ($140-250) |
Weekly example (4 dinner shifts, 1 lunch):
- 28 hours worked
- $450-700 in tips
- Total: $500-750/week
- Monthly: $2,000-3,000
The reality:
- Good servers at busy locations: $20-25/hour average
- Average servers: $15-20/hour
- Slower locations/poor servers: $12-16/hour
Non-Tipped Position Pay
| Position | Starting Pay | After 1 Year |
|---|---|---|
| Host/Hostess | $12-15/hr | $13-16/hr |
| Dishwasher | $12-15/hr | $13-16/hr |
| Line Cook | $13-17/hr | $15-19/hr |
| Bartender (base) | $2.13-5/hr + tips | Same + tips |
| Shift Supervisor | $15-19/hr | $16-21/hr |
How Raises Work
Performance reviews: Usually annual
Typical raises: $0.25-$0.75/hour
Promotions: Bigger jumps ($2-4/hour or salary)
Real talk: Raises are modest. Most servers make more money through better shifts and improved tip averages, not hourly raises.
The Benefits (Yes, They Exist)
Understanding how to get hired at Applebee’s means knowing what benefits are available.
Benefits for Full-Time Employees (30+ hours)
Health Insurance:
- Medical coverage available
- Starts after 60-90 days typically
- Cost: $50-150/paycheck (varies by plan)
Paid Time Off:
- Vacation time (limited)
- Accrues with hours worked
Employee Meal Discounts:
- 25-50% off meals while working
- Sometimes free meal during shift
- Discounts on off-duty visits
Flexible Scheduling:
- Request days off
- Trade shifts
- Part-time or full-time hours
Benefits for Part-Time Employees
Meal Discounts:
- Everyone gets this
- 25-50% off
- Often free meal during shift
Flexible Scheduling:
- Work around other commitments
- Pick up extra shifts when needed
Tip Opportunities:
- Immediate cash daily (servers, bartenders)
Real talk: Don’t expect amazing benefits. Applebee’s benefits are basic. The real “benefits” are flexibility, quick hiring, and cash tips.
The Application Process
Alright, let’s get into the actual how to get hired at Applebee’s steps.
Step 1: Apply Online
Go to Applebees.com/careers or DineEquityJobs.com
Search by:
- Location (city, state, ZIP)
- Position type
Pro tip: Applebee’s has 1,600+ locations. Apply to multiple locations near you.
You can also apply in person:
- Walk in during slow times (2-4pm)
- Ask for manager
- Request application
- This can work well—shows initiative
Step 2: Complete the Application
You’ll need:
Personal Information:
- Contact details
- Work authorization
Availability:
- What days can you work?
- What shifts?
- Weekends? (Essential for servers)
BE AS FLEXIBLE AS POSSIBLE. Restaurants need people nights, weekends, holidays.
Work History:
- Previous jobs (if any)
- Restaurant experience is a plus but NOT required
- First-timers are hired regularly
Education:
- Current schooling or highest level
- Not a major factor
Why Applebee’s:
- Keep it simple and genuine
- “I’m looking for flexible work and want to gain restaurant experience”
Step 3: The Interview (Usually Quick)
What to expect:
- Often same day or next day after applying
- 15-30 minutes
- With manager or assistant manager
- Casual but professional
Questions are straightforward:
- Why do you want to work here?
- What’s your availability?
- Can you work weekends?
- Have you worked in restaurants before?
- How do you handle stress?
That’s it. Applebee’s interviews aren’t complicated.
Interview Questions & How to Answer
“Why do you want to work at Applebee’s?”
❌ Bad: “I just need money” or “I don’t have other options”
✅ Good: “I’m looking for flexible work that fits my schedule, and I want to gain restaurant experience. I’ve heard good things about the team environment at Applebee’s, and I like that you train people without restaurant experience. Plus, I live nearby and the hours work well for me.”
Why this works: Honest, mentions flexibility (they value this), shows you’ve thought about it, practical.
“What’s your availability?”
✅ Be as flexible as possible: “I’m available most days and can work evenings and weekends. I prefer [X hours per week] but I’m flexible if you need more. I understand restaurants are busiest nights and weekends, and I’m prepared to work those times.”
Reality check: If you can’t work weekends, you probably won’t get hired as a server. Weekends are when money is made.
“Have you worked in a restaurant before?”
✅ If yes: “Yes, I worked at [restaurant] as a [position]. I learned how to multitask, handle rushes, and provide good service under pressure.”
✅ If no: “No, but I’m a fast learner and I’m excited to learn. I have customer service experience from [wherever], and I know how to stay calm when things get busy. I’m ready to jump in and learn from your team.”
Both work. Applebee’s expects to train people.
“How would you handle a difficult customer?”
✅ Good answer: “I’d stay calm and friendly, listen to their concern without interrupting, apologize for any issue, and do my best to fix it. If I couldn’t resolve it, I’d get a manager right away. The goal is to turn their experience around and make sure they leave happy.”
“Can you handle working in a fast-paced environment?”
✅ “Yes, I work well under pressure. I stay focused, prioritize tasks, and move quickly without sacrificing quality. I understand restaurant rushes are intense, but I’m ready for that challenge.”
“Where do you see yourself in a year?”
✅ If you want to advance: “I see myself becoming a really strong server here, maybe moving into a training role or shift supervisor position if opportunities are available.”
✅ If it’s just a job: “I see myself as a reliable team member who shows up on time and provides great service. I want to be someone the team can count on.”
Both are fine. Managers appreciate honesty.
“Why should we hire you?”
✅ Strong answer: “You should hire me because I’m reliable, I’m a hard worker, I’m friendly and good with people, and I’m available when you need me most—nights and weekends. I’ll show up on time every shift, I’ll learn quickly, and I’ll be a positive team member. Plus, I genuinely want this job and I’m ready to start immediately.”
Questions YOU Should Ask
✅ Good questions:
- “What does a typical shift look like?”
- “What’s the training process?”
- “How does tip sharing work here?” (important for servers)
- “What makes someone successful in this position?”
- “When could I start if hired?”
What Applebee’s is Looking For
Understanding how to get hired at Applebee’s means knowing their priorities:
Key Qualities
Reliable:
- Show up every scheduled shift
- On time
- Dependable
Friendly:
- Smile
- Positive attitude
- Team player
Flexible:
- Work nights, weekends, holidays
- Handle changing schedules
Hardworking:
- Fast-paced environment
- Hustle during rushes
- No complaining
Coachable:
- Accept feedback
- Learn quickly
- Follow systems
Real talk: Applebee’s bar is “will you show up and work hard?” That’s it. They’re not looking for Gordon Ramsay. They want reliable people who can handle the pace.
Background Check & Drug Testing
Background Check
Yes, Applebee’s runs background checks.
What they check:
- Criminal history (usually 7 years)
- Employment verification (sometimes)
What typically disqualifies:
- Recent violent crimes
- Theft (especially food service/retail)
- Sex offenses
- Falsifying application
What usually doesn’t:
- Minor offenses years ago
- Traffic violations
- Arrests without convictions
Applebee’s is fairly lenient. They give second chances.
Timeline: 3-7 business days
Drug Testing
Generally NO drug testing for most positions.
Exception: Some franchises may test, management positions sometimes tested.
Reality: Most hourly positions (server, host, cook, dishwasher) are NOT drug tested at Applebee’s.
Your First Day at Applebee’s
Welcome to Applebee’s!
Orientation
Length: 2-4 hours typically
What you’ll do:
- Paperwork (I-9, W-4, direct deposit)
- Watch training videos (food safety, customer service, policies)
- Tour of restaurant
- Introduction to team
- Uniform requirements explained
What to bring:
- Government ID
- Social Security card OR birth certificate + ID
- Bank account info (for direct deposit of hourly wages)
- Pen
Your Uniform
Servers:
- Black pants (not jeans)
- Black non-slip shoes
- Applebee’s will provide shirt/apron
- Black belt
- Name tag
Kitchen:
- Black pants
- Non-slip shoes (REQUIRED—kitchens are slippery)
- Applebee’s provides chef coat or shirt
- Hat/hairnet
Dress code is strict but simple.
Training Period
Length: 3-7 days typically
What happens:
- Shadow experienced servers/staff
- Learn POS system (point-of-sale)
- Menu training (taste food, learn descriptions)
- Practice taking orders
- Learn table sections
- Food running
- Gradual independence
Server training specifics:
- Start as food runner/busser
- Shadow server for few shifts
- Get your own small section
- Build up to full section
Training is fast. You’re expected to learn on the job.
First Paycheck
Pay schedule: Bi-weekly (every 2 weeks) typically
Payday: Friday usually
Method: Direct deposit (for hourly wages)
Tips: Cash daily (servers, bartenders)
First check: 2-3 weeks wait (just hourly wages—tips are daily)
What It’s Actually Like Working at Applebee’s
Real talk about the day-to-day.
Your Schedule
Shifts:
- Morning prep: 9am-2pm (minimal)
- Lunch: 11am-4pm or 5pm
- Dinner: 4pm-11pm or midnight
- Late night: 9pm-close (2am weekends some locations)
Hours:
- Part-time servers: 15-25 hours/week
- Full-time servers: 30-40 hours/week
Scheduling:
- Usually posted 1-2 weeks ahead
- Digital or paper schedule
- Shift trades are common
The Pace (It Gets CRAZY)
Slow times:
- Weekday afternoons (2-5pm)
- Late morning (before lunch rush)
- Slow in January-February typically
Busy times:
- Lunch rush (12-1:30pm)
- Dinner rush (6-8pm)
- Weekend nights (INSANE—Friday/Saturday 5-10pm)
- Holidays (Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, etc.)
During rushes:
- You’re serving 4-7 tables simultaneously
- Orders coming in constantly
- Kitchen is backed up
- Customers are impatient
- You’re literally running
- It’s controlled chaos
After rush: Tips are counted, shift drinks happen (some locations), war stories shared.
The Physical Reality
You will:
- Stand/walk 6-8 hours straight
- Carry heavy trays (30-40 lbs)
- Move FAST constantly
- Bend, reach, lift repeatedly
- Work in hot kitchen areas (if back of house)
First week your feet will HURT. Get good non-slip shoes.
Not for everyone. If you have physical limitations, serving may not work.
The Customer Reality
Types you’ll encounter:
Regular customers: Know their order, tip decently, easy (best customers)
Families with kids: Messy tables, patient service needed, tips vary
Date night couples: Usually pleasant, decent tips
After-church crowd: Sunday lunch, known for being demanding and tipping poorly (server legend)
Complainers: Everything is wrong, want free food, exhausting
Great tippers: Make your day, you remember them
Stiff you: No tip despite good service (it happens, it sucks)
Real talk: Most customers are fine. 10% are difficult. 5% are great tippers who make it worthwhile.
The Money (Real Examples)
Good server at decent location:
- 4 dinner shifts per week
- 6 hours average per shift
- $120-150 per shift in tips
- Weekly: $480-600 in tips
- Monthly: $2,000-2,400
Average server:
- 4-5 shifts per week
- Mix of lunch and dinner
- $80-120 per shift
- Weekly: $320-600
- Monthly: $1,300-2,400
Plus hourly wages: $50-100 per paycheck (most goes to taxes)
Servers live on tips. Your paycheck is basically zero.
The Culture
The good:
✅ Cash tips daily (walk out with money)
✅ Schedule flexibility (work around life)
✅ Fast hiring (need job fast? This works)
✅ No experience needed (they train)
✅ Team camaraderie (restaurant staff bond)
✅ Decent money ($15-25/hour with tips)
✅ Simple work (not rocket science)
The challenges:
❌ Physically exhausting (on feet all day, fast-paced)
❌ Difficult customers (complaints, demands, rudeness)
❌ Inconsistent income (tips vary)
❌ Weekend/night/holiday work (required)
❌ No paid time off (for part-timers)
❌ Kitchen mistakes (you deal with angry customers)
❌ High turnover (people quit constantly)
❌ Tip theft concerns (occasionally happens)
Insider Tips for Getting Hired
1. Apply in person during slow times (2-4pm)
Managers are more available, shows initiative.
2. Emphasize flexibility
“I can work nights, weekends, and holidays” = hired.
3. Smile and be friendly
They’re assessing personality—show you’re pleasant.
4. Apply to multiple locations
Each Applebee’s hires independently. Cast a wide net.
5. Follow up
Call back after 2-3 days if you haven’t heard.
6. Don’t overdress
Business casual is fine. No need for suit.
7. Be available to start immediately
“I can start this week” is music to their ears.
8. Reference specific availability
“I’m available Monday-Saturday after 4pm and anytime Sundays.”
9. Apply in high-turnover seasons
Summer, back-to-school (September) = lots of openings.
10. Show up sober and presentable
Sounds obvious but… just be professional.
FAQs About How to Get Hired at Applebee’s
Q: How long does it take to get hired?
A: 1-2 weeks typically. Often faster if they need people urgently.
Q: What’s the minimum age?
A: 16 for host/dishwasher, 18 for server (varies by state), 21 for bartender.
Q: Do I need restaurant experience?
A: No. Applebee’s trains from scratch.
Q: How much do servers really make?
A: $15-25/hour total with tips typically. Good servers at busy locations make more.
Q: Do they drug test?
A: Generally no for hourly positions.
Q: Can I work part-time?
A: Yes! Most servers are part-time.
Q: Is it hard work?
A: Yes. Physically demanding and mentally stressful during rushes. But manageable.
Q: What if I can’t work weekends?
A: You probably won’t get hired as a server. Weekends are essential.
Q: Do I keep all my tips?
A: Mostly. Some locations have tip pooling (share with bussers, hosts). Ask during interview.
Q: Can I move up?
A: Yes. Server → Trainer → Shift Supervisor → Management is possible.
Q: Is working at Applebee’s worth it?
A: If you need flexible work, fast hiring, and can handle the physical demands—yes.
Applebee’s vs. Other Casual Dining
| Factor | Applebee’s | Chili’s | IHOP | Olive Garden |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Server Tips | $15-25/hr | $15-25/hr | $12-20/hr | $18-30/hr ✅ |
| Hiring Speed | Fast ✅ | Fast | Fast | Medium |
| Menu Complexity | Simple ✅ | Simple | Simple | Medium |
| Busy Times | Dinner/weekends | Dinner/weekends | Breakfast/brunch | Dinner/weekends |
| Shift Flexibility | Good ✅ | Good | Good | Good |
Applebee’s advantages:
- Fast hiring
- Simple menu
- Flexible scheduling
- Decent tips for volume
Applebee’s disadvantages:
- Tips lower than upscale casual dining
- Corporate chain (less personality)
- Inconsistent management by location
Alright, Let’s Get You Hired at Applebee’s
So there you have it—everything you need to know about how to get hired at Applebee’s.
Is it glamorous? No.
Is it easy? Definitely not.
Is it a solid way to make $15-25/hour with flexible scheduling? Yes.
If you need fast hiring, flexible hours, cash tips daily, and can handle the physical demands, Applebee’s is a practical option.
Your Action Plan (Do This Today):
- ✅ Go to Applebees.com/careers or apply in person
- ✅ Apply to 3-5 locations near you
- ✅ Emphasize weekend/evening availability
- ✅ Dress business casual for interview
- ✅ Show you’re friendly and reliable
- ✅ Be ready to start immediately
- ✅ Follow up after 2-3 days
- ✅ Get good non-slip shoes BEFORE you start
- ✅ Be prepared for physical, fast-paced work
- ✅ Understand you’re there for tips, not hourly wage
Applebee’s is hiring. Restaurants always need staff. Now that you know how to get hired at Applebee’s, you’re ready to start serving.
Go get that apron. 🍔
