Q COSTARICA — On Monday, August 18, IHOP and Applebee’s, in the first dual-brand format in the country, will open their doors in Plaza Tempo, San Rafael de Escazú.
With this dual-brand format, Costa Rica becomes the 23rd country to welcome this concept, which combines two iconic brands under one roof.
According to Roger Páez Cambronero, Director of Operations for Costa Rica, the proposal seeks to offer variety and quality. “We are very happy and excited to return to the country,” he stated.
Páez added that IHOP is coming to Costa Rica for the first time, while Applebee’s returns with its renowned BBQ ribs and sports bar atmosphere. The Applebee’s chain arrived in Costa Rica in 2009 with a location in Santa Ana, but closed its doors in 2020 due to profitability issues.
For this opening, the brands created 70 direct and 50 indirect jobs, including suppliers, marketing, and maintenance services.
Regarding prices, Páez indicated that they will be “very competitive” compared to the local market. “The end consumer will be very happy and grateful with the offer,” he affirmed.
IHOP will offer pancakes starting at ¢4,900, burritos starting at ¢9,500, and milkshakes for ¢3,900. It will also include customized options such as gallo pinto.
Applebee’s will have hamburgers starting at ¢9,800, sandwiches starting at ¢6,900, and BBQ ribs starting at ¢12,900, all with sides included.
The menu will not be identical to that of the United States. The brand has made adjustments to combine international flavors with Latin American and Costa Rican consumer preferences.
“We have a blend of what the United States offers and what Latin America demands to meet the tastes of all Costa Ricans,” Páez explained.
Operating hours are 7:00 am to 10:00 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
The investment in this first restaurant was US$2 million. The plan is to open five more locations, strategically located in the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM) and tourist areas such as Guanacaste, with a total investment of US$10 million.
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