TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Oct. 16, 2013) - In what has become a neighbourhood tradition, Applebee's franchised restaurants across Canada will thank our nation's veterans and active duty Canadian Forces by inviting them to their neighbourhood Applebee's for a free meal on Remembrance Day - Monday, Nov. 11, 2013.

Since Applebee's began its Remembrance Day tribute five years ago, its restaurants have served thousands of Canadian Forces veterans and members from coast to coast on their day of remembrance and respect. Last year, 3,146 members and veterans of the Canadian Forces received a free meal from Applebee's franchised restaurants across the country. This year, Applebee's aims to serve 10,000 free meals to give thanks and honour neighbourhood heroes.

Applebee's tribute to Canadian military also includes an online and in-restaurant 'Neighbours Thanking Neighbours' campaign, launched two years ago with hundreds of in-restaurant 'Thank You Wall Posters' signed in its restaurants across Canada. Online thank you messages can be shared through the Applebee's Canada Facebook page, and Applebee's guests are invited to write messages of thanks to their neighbourhood heroes, on in-restaurant 'Thank You Wall Posters', starting Nov. 1, 2013.

"We owe a great debt to those who have served and continue to serve our country," said Brian Simowitz, Applebee's Regional General Manager - Canada. "Offering veterans and active duty Canadian Forces a free meal is our way of showing our appreciation and gratitude for the sacrifices they have made and continue to make for all Canadians. We also hope they look at our restaurants as a place to connect with current and former service members to share stories, meet up with old friends and make new ones. Applebee's is truly honoured to host the many Canadian men and women who serve our country. On Remembrance Day, it is our opportunity to serve them."

Applebee's is offering a Remembrance Day menu including some of its signature and favourite items:

Veterans and Active Canadian Forces Personnel will need to provide proof of service, which includes: permanent ID card for active personnel, temporary ID card for reservists, veteran's card or a photograph in uniform or wearing uniform.

About Applebee's Restaurants in Canada

Applebee's Neighbourhood Grill and Bar operates 18 franchised restaurants throughout Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Alberta. Find your neighbourhood Applebee's by visiting http://locator.applebeescanada.com.

About Applebee's International, Inc.

Applebee's (www.applebees.com) is the world's largest casual dining chain, with approximately 2,000 locations in 49 states, 15 countries and one U.S. territory. Based in Kansas City, Mo., Applebee's takes pride in providing a welcoming, neighbourhood environment where everyone can enjoy the dining experience. Applebee's Neighbourhood Grill & Bar® is a DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE:DIN) brand, and is franchised and operated by Applebee's International, Inc. and its affiliates.

* Offer is valid for Dine-in from a limited menu only during normal business hours on November 11, 2013. Traditional sides are included with the free entree. Upgraded side items or extras, beverages, desserts and gratuity are not included. Must present proof of military service.