Never had bad food at Applebees over the years.  2 for 25 is a good deal.  Their appetizers always seem good.  Drinks are cheap.  I am no food snob, in fact I am the opposite of picky.  But that is not why I think Applebee's is decent/good.  I have just always gotten good tasting eats at a pretty good price (considering what other restaurants cost anymore) over the years.  Well priced, and their food is good for the $. 
I also have always had a good experience at Chili's, which is probably owned by the same corp that owns Applebees.  Chilis has 2 for 25 deals, and again, never had bad food there.  I haven't gone to Chili's a lot, but when I have it has been good for the $.  DGAF if others hate on it, for the $ it is a decent value IMO.