Applebee’s and IHOP, two restaurant brands owned by Dine Brands Global, are preparing to open Ontario’s first fully integrated dual-branded location in Ajax at 155 Kingston Road.
The company’s new concept is set to operate from the existing Applebee’s restaurant, marking the next phase of that location while introducing IHOP to Durham Region for the first time, according to Insauga. The grand opening is scheduled for July 28 and will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a pancake tower unveiling, free pancakes for the first 100 customers, and a weekly redemption offer for four consecutive weeks.
The Ajax restaurant is owned and operated by Sanjay Patel. Unlike previous locations where the two brands operated separately, the new concept features a shared menu, one kitchen, one point-of-sale system, cross-trained staff, and exclusive menu items available only at dual-branded restaurants. Canada’s first integrated locations were previously opened in Winnipeg in late 2024 and in Regina earlier this year.
Inside, the restaurant features a shared entrance with separate Applebee’s- and IHOP-themed dining areas, and customers can order from either menu regardless of where they are seated. Regular operating hours will be 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
IHOP’s menu includes its well-known buttermilk pancakes, breakfast favorites, handcrafted burgers, and other comfort food selections. Applebee’s continues to serve its signature fire-grilled steaks, riblets, salads, burgers, and other lunch and dinner options, giving customers access to both menus during a single visit.
Patel is also partnering with Feed The Need in Durham, the region’s largest food distribution network, through a permanent in-restaurant donation program. As part of the grand opening, restaurant staff will visit the organization’s facility to serve free pancakes to staff, volunteers, and members. Patel said supporting the local community and helping address food insecurity are priorities for the new restaurant.
