Applebees *always* has a manager on duty. I know because I am a weekly customer and I have asked to speak with a manager on many occasions. They have always been responsive to whatever I wish to discuss.

One thing that has come up is the timing of appetizers/entrees.

Applebees' computer has a target amount of time for you to consume your appetizer. In the meantime it cues up the entree for the cook to prepare. I find this allotment to be seriously lacking in relation to the amount of time I need to complete my appetizer. Thus the entree was frequently arriving prior to completion of the entree.

While management was clearly able to describe the procedure, they also made it clear "this is how it is." I made it clear this is unacceptable, and that I didn't wish my appy getting cold because my entree arrived. I asked if I could order my entree after completing the appetizer. The manager said "yes, but that will mess the computer up."

Who the devil cares about the computer or "target times"? The heck with that. So that is what I do now to avoid what happened to you. It is a sure bet the appy will be done when the entree arrives.

You really should bring these things to management's attention while you are there - it gives them a chance to verify your claim and compensate you. At least you have a method of ordering that will prevent a repeat occurence.