A Chicago woman, Shawneesha Cobbs, 28, was arrested at an Applebee’s in Portage, Indiana, following a dispute over the restaurant’s ‘all you can eat’ meal policy. The incident occurred on Friday, August 2, around 8:30 pm.
Applebee’s offers a special where customers can have unlimited amounts of one of three mains – boneless wings, shrimp, or riblets – and fries for $15.99. Cobbs allegedly purchased two of these specials but shared them with more than two friends at the table.
When the restaurant manager explained that each person would need to pay $15.99, an argument ensued over the bill. Police were called to the scene after dispatch reported hearing “multiple females screaming and threatening people,” according to Region News Source.
Despite the group’s claim that the policy wasn’t clear, officers found the rules clearly stated in bold print on the menu. Cobbs became disorderly, ignoring police orders to calm down, which led to her arrest. She was taken to Porter County Jail and charged with disorderly conduct.
Local news reports state that a member of the party later returned to pay the bill in full.
This incident occurs as Applebee’s and other fast-casual restaurants introduce value deals to compete with fast-food chains and attract inflation-weary customers. Similar strategies have been employed by Chili’s, Wendy’s, Burger King, Starbucks, Popeyes, and Taco Bell.
For instance, McDonald’s recently introduced a $5 meal deal, while Burger King offers a similar $5 Your Way Meal. Wendy’s has a $3 breakfast offer, and Jimmy John’s provides a $10 Total Package Meal.
These value offerings reflect the ongoing competition in the fast-food and fast-casual dining sectors as restaurants seek to attract budget-conscious consumers in a challenging economic climate.
