Sometimes the best bites aren’t listed under “entrées.” Appetizer menus are often filled with generous portions, shareable plates, and bold flavors—making them ideal for anyone dining on a budget or just looking for more variety. Whether you’re craving sliders, wings, or loaded nachos, these restaurants offer appetizers substantial enough to become your main course.
Applebee’s – Half-Priced Appetizers and Hearty Portions
Applebee’s is known for its late-night half-price appetizers (usually available after 9 p.m.). Favorites like Boneless Wings, Mozzarella Sticks, and Spinach Artichoke Dip can easily stand in for a full meal, especially when paired together. To save more, you can buy an Applebee’s gift card online with cashback from Fluz and combine it with promotions.
TGI Fridays – Loaded Plates with Loyalty Perks
Fridays’ appetizer menu includes Loaded Potato Skins, Chicken Quesadilla Rolls, and their signature Fridays Sampler. These items are designed to share—but they’re also satisfying enough to enjoy solo.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse – Tapas with Serious Size
Known for generous portions, BJ’s appetizers include Crispy Calamari, Ahi Poke, and Chicken Lettuce Wraps. When paired with a house salad or side, they become a full meal for less than many entrées. Sign up for BJ’s Premier Rewards Plus to earn points, and you can also get cashback at BJ’s Restaurant with a gift card from Fluz.
The Cheesecake Factory – The Appetizer Menu That Eats Like a Full Dinner
Portion size is everything at The Cheesecake Factory. Their Avocado Egg Rolls, Buffalo Blasts, and Roadside Sliders are well-suited to replacing an entrée entirely. While it’s a bit pricier than others on this list, one appetizer and a small salad can easily feed one or two diners.
Chili’s – Shareable Starters with Bold Flavor
Chili’s appetizer selection includes Texas Cheese Fries, Fried Pickles, and the popular Triple Dipper, which lets you choose three options to create your own sampler. Perfect for sharing or eating solo. You can earn cashback with a Chili’s gift card from Fluz and pair it with My Chili’s Rewards to get even more value.
Red Robin – Bottomless Sides and Loaded Starters
Red Robin’s Towering Onion Rings, Pretzel Bites, and Bar Wings are great for those looking for indulgent, filling snacks. Order during happy hour or pair with bottomless fries for a full meal experience. Join Red Robin Royalty for birthday burgers and ongoing offers.
Buffalo Wild Wings – Wings, Nachos, and More
Known for game-day energy and hearty apps, Buffalo Wild Wings’ Ultimate Nachos, Fried Pickles, and Wings in snack-size portions can make up a satisfying meal. Sign up for Blazin’ Rewards to earn free food, and you can also get cashback at Buffalo Wild Wings with a gift card from Fluz.
Best Strategy: Pair and Stack
Ordering two appetizers often costs less than one entrée—and with loyalty programs and cashback platforms, the savings can multiply. Before heading out, check if you can buy a gift card through Fluz to earn cashback instantly, especially at chains like Chili’s, Applebee’s, and BJ’s.
