As the holiday season approaches, Doherty Enterprises Inc.-owned Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar locations are rallying to bring joy to children in need across New Jersey and New York. Through January 4, 2026, the Allendale-based restaurant group is seeking to raise $250,000 for the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program, continuing a tradition that has spanned nearly three decades. Since 1998, Doherty Enterprises has contributed more than $5.6 million to the cause, making a tangible difference in communities across the region.
This year’s campaign encourages customers to participate in several creative ways. Guests can round up their checks to the nearest dollar, purchase “paper gift packs,” or even order special holiday-inspired cocktails with proceeds supporting the program. As a gesture of thanks, anyone contributing $10 or more will receive a coupon for a complimentary appetizer on a future visit, blending giving with a festive dining experience. Additional family-friendly activities include a Breakfast with Santa event scheduled for December 13 at select Applebee’s locations, providing an opportunity for children and families to engage in holiday cheer while supporting a worthy cause.
Doherty Enterprises is one of the largest foodservice companies in the United States and among New Jersey’s largest privately held businesses. Its portfolio spans more than 160 restaurants, including national brands such as Panera Bread, Wendy’s, Chevy’s Fresh Mex, and Jinya Ramen Bar, alongside its own concepts like The Shannon Rose Irish Pub and Sputino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas. The company’s scale and commitment to local communities enable it to make a meaningful impact, particularly during the holiday season.
Kurt Pahlitzsch, Vice President of Operations for Doherty Enterprises, emphasized the importance of this long-standing partnership: “We’re proud to celebrate our 27th year partnering with Toys for Tots and supporting children in need throughout our local communities. This initiative reflects our commitment to giving back, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to spread holiday cheer to both our guests and the families we serve.”
Within New Jersey alone, Doherty operates Applebee’s locations in more than 30 towns, including Brick, Bridgewater, Butler, Clark, Clifton, Edison, Garfield, Hackensack, Hackettstown, Hillsborough, Howell, Jersey City, Kearny, Lacey, Linden, Manchester, Manahawkin, Manalapan, Middletown, Milltown, Mount Olive, Newark, Newton, North Bergen, Ocean, Paramus, Parsippany, Phillipsburg, Piscataway, Rockaway, Tinton Falls, Toms River, Totowa, Union, and Woodbridge. Each location becomes a hub of community support, welcoming diners who want to make a difference while enjoying a meal.
Doherty’s dedication to philanthropy demonstrates how restaurants can serve as more than just dining destinations—they can become vital community partners. By combining festive programming, accessible donation options, and a family-friendly approach, the company ensures that participating in the campaign is simple, meaningful, and rewarding. For locals seeking more information on how to get involved or to learn about additional charitable and community-focused events, exploring New Jersey restaurants offers updates and insights on culinary businesses actively giving back to their communities.
With nearly three decades of commitment to Toys for Tots, Doherty Applebee’s continues to turn dining into giving, helping ensure that children across New Jersey and New York experience the joy of the holiday season. This campaign is a reminder of the powerful role local businesses play in supporting families, creating shared moments of generosity, and strengthening the community spirit that defines the Garden State.
