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.