Doherty Enterprises Inc. was among the franchise groups Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar recently celebrated for outstanding performance, community involvement and partnerships.

During the casual dining chain’s recent conference in Nashville, Tenn., the Allendale-based restaurant operator received several accolades. Those honors include:

• Golden Apple Award nominee, recognizing top 1% of general managers
  • •  Alicia Silverman, general manager, Applebee’s Toms River
• Hometown Hero, to one of four individuals who exemplifies the “Doin’ Good in the Neighborhood” mantra
  • • Jermaine Belton, Applebee’s Woodbridge
• Culinary Excellence Award, for driving innovation and maintaining high kitchen standards:
  • • Neesha Seervai, vice president of operations, Applebee’s NYC
• Beverage Champion, leading efforts in creating exceptional beverage programs:
  • • Kurt Pahlitzsch, vice president of operations, Applebee’s NY/NJ

Additionally, Applebee’s named Doherty Director of Marketing Leigh Denardo and Marketing Manager Brittany Sweeney as marketing leader of the year. The honor recognizes their leadership in initiatives that drive brand visibility and engagement.

Doherty also received recognition for leading gift card sales for the year across Applebee’s 1,625 franchise locations.

Bringing the WOW

Considered one of the largest foodservice companies in the U.S., Doherty took home the Lloyd Hill Neighbor of the Year Award. The honors recognize franchise groups for outstanding community outreach.

Lastly, Applebee’s celebrated Doherty for donating more than $3 million to various organizations in 2024 alone. Organizations to benefit include Toys for Tots, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, American Cancer Society and Angela’s House.

President and CEO Tim Doherty believes the awards “are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our people.”

“Our WOW initiatives, including community outreach, employee engagement, and operational excellence, have made us stronger as a company and have fostered a culture of giving that is central to who we are,” he said in a statement. “The Lloyd Hill Neighbor of the Year Award is especially meaningful, as it reflects our commitment to making a positive impact in the communities we serve.”

Established in 1985, Doherty owns and operates about 80 Applebee’s locations in New Jersey and New York.

Within the Applebee’s system, Doherty has been a consistent leader and received numerous recognitions over the years for operational success, community involvement, and ability to deliver on the brand’s promise of great service and meaningful community engagement.

Ed Doherty, founder and chairman, shared, “This is not accomplished without everyone’s commitment to our vision of being the Best Foodservice Company in the Communities We Serve. It’s a true team effort, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved together.”

Other franchises in the family-owned company’s portfolio also include Panera Bread, Jinya Ramen Bar and Chevys Fresh Mex. Doherty also has its own concepts, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub and Sputino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas.