REGINA — It started before sunrise, with hundreds lining up in the cold for a chance at free pancakes and a first look at Regina’s newest restaurant.
By 6 a.m. Tuesday, a line had already formed outside Regina’s new dual-branded IHOP and Applebee’s, stretching around the building and deep into the parking lot as residents waited for doors to open.
By mid-morning, hundreds had cycled through.
The early rush was driven by a familiar promotion tied to IHOP openings across North America. The first 400 guests received free pancakes for a year, typically awarded as one free short stack each week.
For many in line, the wait was worth it.
“We got here just after six,” said one Regina resident near the front of the line. “It’s cold, but for free pancakes for a year, you do it.”
Another guest described the atmosphere as part event, part community gathering.
“It feels like the whole city showed up,” they said. “You don’t see lineups like this very often.”
A dual concept, new to Regina
The restaurant combines IHOP’s breakfast-focused menu with Applebee’s casual dining offerings under one roof, a concept that has been expanding in select markets but remains relatively uncommon in Canada.
The Regina location officially opened March 17, bringing two internationally recognized brands together in a single space.
For customers, it means pancakes in the morning and burgers, appetizers and sit-down dining later in the day.
For the city, it represents something more.
Economic signal for the city
New restaurant openings are often viewed as a sign of economic confidence, particularly in the hospitality sector, which continues to recover and grow following the pandemic.
Business leaders have consistently pointed to the role restaurants play in driving local spending, supporting jobs and attracting visitors.
Mike Tate, CEO of the Regina and District Chamber of Commerce, has emphasized the broader impact of entertainment and hospitality businesses in the city.
“These businesses contribute to the quality of life for families and citizens,” Tate said in a recent interview. “Without that investment, we wouldn’t have as vibrant or connected a community.”
Restaurants like IHOP and Applebee’s also serve a role in tourism, offering recognizable brands for travellers passing through Saskatchewan while adding to the city’s overall appeal.
A morning of momentum
Inside, staff moved quickly to manage the steady flow of customers as the dining room filled almost immediately.
Outside, the line continued well into the morning.
Some came for the promotion. Others came out of curiosity. Many simply wanted to be part of something new.
“It’s exciting to see something different open up here,” one customer said. “It gives people more options and a reason to go out.”
By late morning, all 400 pancake promotions had been claimed, but the crowds did not slow.
More than just pancakes
While the opening-day buzz centred on free food and long lines, the long-term impact will be measured in jobs, sustained customer traffic and how well the concept integrates into Regina’s competitive restaurant landscape.
Historically, major chain openings in the city have drawn strong initial interest, often followed by a period where long-term success depends on consistency, pricing and customer loyalty.
Still, Tuesday’s turnout sent a clear message. Residents are willing to show up. And when something new opens its doors in Regina, the city pays attention.
As one person leaving the restaurant put it, “It’s not just about pancakes. It’s about having something new to experience.”
Watch our short SaskToday highlight video from the opening.
