The Applebee’s Incident: When “All You Can Eat” Went Too Far
On a normal day, a woman from Chicago found herself in handcuffs after a misunderstanding over Applebee’s all-you-can-eat appetizer policy. Shawneesha Cobbs, 28, was arrested at an Applebee’s in Portage, Indiana, after sharing her all-you-can-eat order with others at her table.
It all started innocently enough. Applebee’s had recently reintroduced their popular all-you-can-eat appetizer deal, which includes options like double-crunch shrimp, tender riblets, and boneless buffalo wings for $15.99.
The catch? The deal is strictly per person, a rule clearly stated on the menu. However, Cobbs either missed or ignored this detail and began sharing her appetizers with her friends.
When the restaurant staff noticed the sharing, they informed Cobbs that the deal was not meant to be shared. This led to a heated argument between Cobbs and the Applebee’s manager. The situation escalated quickly, with Cobbs becoming increasingly disruptive, even as other diners
complained about the disturbance.
The authorities were called to the scene around 8:30 PM. Despite their presence, Cobbs continued to argue loudly, at one point even trying to cover another person’s mouth with her hand. After multiple warnings, she was arrested for disorderly conduct and taken to the Porter County Jail.
Cobbs’ arrest has sparked a mix of reactions online. Some people sympathize with her, arguing that the “all-you-can-eat” concept can be misleading. Others believe that rules are rules and should be followed, especially when clearly stated. Regardless of where one stands, this incident serves as a reminder to always read the fine print and understand the terms of any deal.
While the idea of unlimited appetizers is undoubtedly appealing, it’s essential to remember that such offers come with specific conditions. Shawneesha Cobbs’ experience at Applebee’s is a cautionary tale about the importance of understanding and respecting these conditions to avoid unnecessary trouble.