Let's get this out of the way: My love for Applebee's goes way back. When I was in middle school, my mom and I dined at our local 'Bees before heading to the movies at least once a week. It was like a weird mother-daughter ritual that we never fully spoke about. We'd lock eyes, nod, and agree: It was time. To head. To the 'Bees.

One can only imagine my excitement, then, when I found out I was allowed to go back (allowed being the operative word here) and try EVERYTHING on the menu. This was a middle school dream come true!

But enough story time, here were my favorites:

Cocktails: Perfect Margarita

Calling any margarita perfect instantly makes me want to try it and prove it wrong. That said, this was pretty close to perfect. If perfect = potent, that is. The marg comes with its own shaker so you can refill your drink at the table (just like an old school milkshake). An added plus: It gives the illusion that you're getting more for your money.

Honorable mention: The massive blue goblet called the Shark Bowl. It's not always on the menu, but Applebee's will still serve it year-round if you ask for it.

Appetizers: Brew Pub Pretzels with Beer Cheese Dip

If I could've ended this video after trying the pretzels and cheese dip, I would have. That's how lovely this salty-cheesy combo is. I highly recommend asking for double the dip, because the pretzel to cheese ratio is a smidge off. Lactose-intolerant? Order the chain's most popular app: the boneless buffalo wings. They're crunchy and spicy.

Entrees: Shrimp 'N Parmesan Sirloin

I'd serve this at my wedding. I think that's enough of a review that you should just do what I say and order it. But if you're still not convinced (sigh)...the creamy, tangy lemon parmesan sauce makes the already juicy sirloin feel like a decadent dinner that you'd find at a swanky downtown restaurant. Let's not forget the fact that you get about six pieces of shrimp on top of your sirloin, making it one of the better surf 'n turf options I've had.

Sandwiches and Burgers: The Quesadilla Burger

When I say I think about this quesadilla burger at least once a week, know that I am not exaggerating whatsoever. No one, not a soul, asked for this combo, and yet here we are. Using a crunchy flour tortilla quesadilla as the bun for a burger is a feat we didn't think we'd accomplish in 2019. If you want to make it at home, here's a recipe.

Desserts: Triple Chocolate Meltdown

It's like a giant, soft, gooey, undercooked brownie that's been made just for you. I will personally have a meltdown if you do not order this.

Still hungry? Check out more of Julia Tries Everything on Delish’s YouTube channel.