Detroit to get first ever Applebee’s, IHOP combo

Detroit — The menu hasn’t been released yet, but the first ever co-branded restaurant featuring Applebee’s and IHOP will open across from the Renaissance Center late next year.

TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants, a Livonia-based restaurant group, announced Wednesday afternoon the company plans to start work on the 300-seat “Applebee’s Grill and Bar/IHOP concept” inside the Millender Center in April. The 11,939-square-foot restaurant will employ 100 people.

“As we continue to lead the way in the restaurant industry, TSFR is proud to expand our portfolio by uniquely combining two nationally recognized and family-oriented brands into one co-branded restaurant in the City of Detroit,” said TSFR Executive Chairman Mark Schostak in a news release.

“Applebee’s is built on the concept of being a neighborhood grill and bar, which is the perfect complement to the welcoming, family-friendly environment IHOP has delivered for nearly 60 years. We look forward to bringing more jobs to our community and providing an elevated dining experience to all restaurant guests.”

Schostak is leasing the space from Riverfront Holdings, Inc., a General Motors Co. subsidiary.

“(This) demonstrates our commitment to providing a diverse selection of meal options to suit building visitors, office workers and Detroit residents' needs,” said Claudia Killeen, manager of Renaissance Center development, General Motors Company, in a news release. “This offers more selections for people as they can find breakfast, lunch and dinner at a single location when they visit, work or stay in Detroit’s most iconic building.”

Schostak opened Detroit’s first Applebee’s near the Ferndale border on 8 Mile in 2015. The company owns 25 Olga’s Kitchen locations, and several other restaurants in Michigan.

ithibodeau@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @Ian_Thibodeau