Guess where I found myself this week? IHOP. The joy of having breakfast, lunch, and dinner all under one roof is simply unbeatable. And, boy, do those pancakes get me rolling! But pancakes are just a slice (or stack) of what's on offer. There's a whole lunch and dinner menu that demands attention.
I bet you're wondering just how IHOP became IHOP. Sure, everyone knows it's the International House of Pancakes, but ever wondered about its story? Rewind back to 1958 and you'll find Jerry and Al Lapin alongside Albert Kallis, flipping pancakes and making history in Burbank, California. Trading as the International House of Pancakes, the trio rebranded to the now-iconic IHOP in 1973. And well, the rest is history. Today, there are more than 1,800 IHOP stores globally – seeing the iconic ihop.com in your search bar is a sure sign of good times ahead.
Just how global is IHOP?
Primarily, you'll find IHOP in the United States. But should you find yourself needing a pancake fix outside of the country, you're covered if you're about to step off the plane in:
- Canada
- Mexico
- Guatemala
- United Arab Emirates
- Kuwait
- Saudi Arabia
- Qatar
- Egypt
- Ecuador
- Pakistan
- India
- Peru
Stateside, you can have your fill in any one of the 221 locations in California, 213 in Texas, or the 146 locations in Florida. Find your nearest IHOP easily on their website.
Does IHOP just flip pancakes?
Absolutely not! They're renowned for their pancakes and breakfasts, but IHOP's lunch and dinner menu is just as mouthwatering. Fun fact: during my last stop at IHOP, I went all-in for the Jalapeno Kick burger- a fiery delight loaded with sauteed jalapenos, Serranos, onions, bacon, peppers, lettuce, tomatoes and jalapeno mayo. Served on a brioche bun with French fries in tandem. I promise, heaven just descended on a plate. You'll find unequivocally delicious appetizers, sandwiches, and beverages too.
And oh, IHOP stays open from 7am to 11pm, 7 days a week. Some store hours may vary, so be sure to verify for your local restaurant.
Does IHOP come to you?
Yes, they do! Not in the mood to dress up and step out? You can still savour IHOP's meals from the comfort of your home. Just log in to their website to check for delivery in your area. Speaking of, during one of those lazy weekends, I just curled into my couch and had a stack of their tasty pancakes delivered right at my doorstep. Pure bliss!
Yes, there is. If you're 55 or above, you get to enjoy a special menu that's been designed with love for senior guests. Kids aren't left out either- there's a smorgasbord of kiddie delights waiting for them too.
Healthwise, IHOP is committed to catering for customers that prefer a healthier lifestyle. Of note is the Simple & Fit 2-Egg Breakfast: scrambled egg whites, 2 slices of turkey bacon, fresh fruit and whole wheat toast- all under 600 calories!
Vegans aren't left out either. While the options may differ among the locations, there are several vegan-friendly menu standouts like oatmeal, sourdough toast with jam, and house salad among others.
Does IHOP serve good old grits?
Indeed they do! You'll find them at certain locations, especially in the Southern states. I could not resist ordering their creamy buttery grits and a cup of sweet tea, during a road trip through Alabama.
Can I gift someone IHOP?
Of course, you can! IHOP has both physical and digital gift cards. I once surprised my foodie nephew for his college graduation with a digital IHOP gift card- the absolute joy in his voice was priceless!
My IHOP Experience: A Casual Take
Pros
- The Jalapeno Kick Burger is otherworldly
- Consistently friendly service at various locations
- Delicious and satiating breakfast options
Cons
- The scramble eggs seemed slightly artificial
- There can be long waiting times during peak hours
- Some may find the syrup options limited