Uncovering the Legendary Applebee's Connection at the Cincinnati Open

The Cincinnati Open, formerly known as the Western & Southern Open, has long been a cherished tradition for tennis enthusiasts across the region and beyond. But beyond the thrilling matches and the electric atmosphere, the tournament has also been intertwined with a unique culinary tradition that has captured the imagination of fans and players alike.

Exploring the Iconic Applebee's Legacy at the Cincinnati Open

The Applebee's Phenomenon: A Culinary Intersection for Tennis Stars

The Mason Applebee's, located in close proximity to the Lindner Family Tennis Center and the Marriott hotel, became a hub for Cincinnati Open players seeking a convenient and familiar dining option. The restaurant's late-night hours and lack of competition in the area made it a natural choice for athletes looking to refuel after intense matches. The New York Times reported in 2014 that the Applebee's had become a staple for players, stretching back to 1997.The Applebee's connection transcended national boundaries, attracting not only American stars like John Isner but also international players such as Karin Knapp and Ernests Gulbis. The restaurant became a gathering place where athletes, coaches, and fans could mingle, creating a unique atmosphere that was later immortalized in the 2024 romantic sports drama "The Challengers."

The Challengers: Applebee's as a Cinematic Backdrop for Romance

In the film "The Challengers," directed by Luca Guadagnino, the Mason Applebee's plays a pivotal role in the development of the central characters' relationship. Midway through the movie, the protagonists, Tashi Duncan (Zendaya) and Art Donaldson (Mike Faist), share a transformative kiss in the restaurant's parking lot, marking the transition of their friendship into a romantic partnership.According to The Ringer, the Applebee's scene in "The Challengers" is "a tribute to a bygone era of athletes from across the globe eatin' good in the neighborhood." The inclusion of this iconic location in the film underscores the significance of the Applebee's tradition within the broader context of the Cincinnati Open and the unique experiences it has fostered over the years.

The Applebee's Legacy: A Farewell to a Beloved Tradition

Sadly, the Mason Applebee's, which had become a beloved institution for Cincinnati Open attendees, permanently closed its doors in 2019. The restaurant, located at 9660 Mason Montgomery Road, was replaced by a First Financial Bank, marking the end of an era.The closure of the Applebee's has left a void in the dining options available to tennis fans and players during the Cincinnati Open. However, the tournament continues to offer a diverse array of culinary experiences, from the renowned Alfio's Buon Cibo to the iconic Skyline Chili. Visitors can explore the full range of dining options by visiting the tournament's official website, cincinnatiopen.com/experience/dining.For those seeking dining options outside the tournament grounds, a wealth of restaurants within a five-mile radius of the Lindner Family Tennis Center provide ample opportunities to satisfy one's culinary cravings. The loss of the Applebee's may have been a bittersweet moment, but the Cincinnati Open continues to evolve, offering new and exciting dining experiences for its devoted fans.