Quick Answer
The Applebee's Ultimate Trio is a build your own appetizer sampler that lets you pick three appetizers from a list of ten options and three dipping sauces from a separate list of ten. Pricing typically lands between $14.99 and $17.99 depending on location, and the platter is sized for two to four people to share.
The most popular picks in 2026 are Boneless Wings, Mozzarella Sticks, Chicken Wonton Tacos, and the new Pickle Fries. With ten appetizers and ten sauces, the menu math works out to roughly 80,000 possible combinations, which is why the menu copy calls it the most customizable starter in casual dining.
How the Ultimate Trio Actually Works
Most appetizer samplers at chain restaurants are pre set: you get the items the kitchen picks, and someone at the table usually ends up disappointed. The Ultimate Trio flips that. You choose three appetizers (you can even double or triple up on the same one) and three sauces, then the kitchen plates everything on a single shareable board. The flexibility is the entire pitch.
The Ten Appetizer Options in 2026
The current lineup mixes long running classics with two newer additions (Pickle Fries and Waffle Fries) that joined the menu last year.
- Boneless Wings. Crispy breaded chunks of chicken, ready to toss in sauce or dip on the side.
- Mozzarella Sticks. Golden fried on the outside, melted and gooey in the middle. A safe crowd pleaser.
- Chicken Quesadilla. Grilled chicken, melted cheese, and spices folded into a warm tortilla and cut into wedges.
- Crunchy Onion Rings. Thick cut onions in a crisp beer batter.
- Chicken Wonton Tacos. Tangy chicken stuffed into crispy wonton shells, topped with slaw and cilantro. A signature Applebee's pick.
- Brew Pub Pretzels and Beer Cheese Dip. Soft warm pretzels served with a creamy beer cheese.
- Applebee's Riblets. Bite sized pork riblets in a sweet and savory BBQ sauce.
- Double Crunch Shrimp. Crispy battered shrimp with a satisfying crunch.
- Waffle Fries. Cross cut seasoned potatoes designed to hold a generous scoop of dip.
- Pickle Fries (NEW). Thin cut dill pickles in a light batter, fried until crispy. The tangy and crunchy hit that was missing from the menu.
The Ten Sauce Options
An appetizer is only as good as its sauce, and the Ultimate Trio gives you three pairings to play with.
- Classic Buffalo
- Honey BBQ
- Sweet Asian Chile
- House made Ranch
- Bleu Cheese
- Honey Dijon Mustard
- Marinara
- Chipotle Lime Salsa
- Cocktail Sauce
- Blue Moon White Cheddar Beer Cheese
Three Combinations That Always Work
Eighty thousand combinations is a fun marketing line but a paralyzing menu decision. Here are three pre built trios I keep going back to.
The Game Day Classic. Boneless Wings, Mozzarella Sticks, Crunchy Onion Rings. Sauces: Classic Buffalo, Marinara, House made Ranch. This hits every bar food note in one platter and pairs well with a draft beer.
The Sweet and Savory Explorer. Chicken Wonton Tacos, Riblets, Brew Pub Pretzels. Sauces: Sweet Asian Chile, Honey BBQ, Blue Moon White Cheddar Beer Cheese. A more interesting flavor arc that moves from tangy to smoky to rich.
The Seafood and Crunch Combo. Double Crunch Shrimp, Pickle Fries, Waffle Fries. Sauces: Cocktail Sauce, House made Ranch, Honey Dijon Mustard. Best on a Friday night with a Perfect Margarita on the side.
Appetizer and Sauce Pairing Guide
| Appetizer | Flavor Profile | Best Sauce |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Wonton Tacos | Tangy, Asian inspired | Sweet Asian Chile |
| Brew Pub Pretzels | Salty, warm | Blue Moon Beer Cheese |
| Mozzarella Sticks | Cheesy, comforting | Marinara |
| Pickle Fries | Tangy, crispy | House made Ranch |
| Double Crunch Shrimp | Seafood, crunchy | Cocktail Sauce |
| Boneless Wings | Crispy, customizable | Classic Buffalo + Bleu Cheese |
How I Order the Trio for Different Group Sizes
For two people, the Ultimate Trio is enough food to act as a shared starter before two entrees. For four people, I usually order one Trio plus one extra plate of Boneless Wings, because wings are the first thing that always disappears. For a larger group of six or more, two Ultimate Trios with overlapping sauces is the most efficient order, since the platters arrive faster than ordering six individual appetizers.
The Trio is also a strong takeout choice. Most items hold their crunch on a fifteen minute drive home if you keep the sauces in their separate containers (do not let the kitchen pre toss the wings unless you are eating in the parking lot).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Ultimate Trio cost?
Prices vary by franchise but the Ultimate Trio generally ranges from $14.99 to $17.99. Considering you get three full appetizer portions, the per item cost is significantly lower than ordering each separately.
Can I pick the same appetizer twice?
Yes. If your table is obsessed with Mozzarella Sticks, you can configure the Trio with two orders of sticks and one order of wings. The choice is entirely up to you.
Is the Ultimate Trio available for takeout?
Absolutely. It is one of the most ordered To Go items because it travels well. Ask for sauces packed separately so the appetizers do not get soggy in transit.
Is the Ultimate Trio part of Happy Hour?
The Trio itself is not on the half price appetizer list, but several of the individual items (Mozzarella Sticks, Boneless Wings, Wonton Tacos) are discounted during Happy Hour if you order them on their own.
The Takeaway
The Applebee's Ultimate Trio is the best appetizer order for groups that cannot agree. Ten appetizers, ten sauces, and the freedom to double up on favorites means everyone at the table wins. Start with one of the three combinations above, add a Mucho cocktail or a draft beer, and you have the easiest opener to a great Applebee's meal.
