• The appetizer combo wars are heating up as restaurants battle to be the king of the sampler platter. • Applebee's just launched its Ultimate Trio, an appetizer sampler similar to Chili's Triple Dipper. • I preferred the selection of the Triple Dipper, but the Ultimate Trio is an undeniably great value.

Just when the chicken tender wars seem to have declared a truce, a new front is opening: the appetizer combo wars.

Chili's fan-favorite — and viral — appetizer sampler platter, the Triple Dipper, has helped the company achieve huge gains in recent years, especially among younger consumers who prioritize customization and value.

In October, the chain's parent company announced that Triple Dippers accounted for 11% of Chili's overall business, and sales of the menu item had increased

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