American grill bar & pancake chain Applebee’s will launch its first Indian location in Bengaluru this year.

The brand will be established in the territory via a partnership with local operator Dine Brands International.

“India is an important growth market for us,” said Dine Brands president – international Steve Joyce. “As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India represents an opportunity for Applebee’s and we think Indian guests will love our local as well as Western tastes, hand-made to order menu items and signature cocktail bar.”

“We are the newest Applebee’s international franchisee and will introduce their food and beverage to India,” said Dine Brands international franchisees CEO Rohit Malhotra.

The firm is expected to open another nine Applebee’s restaurants over a seven-year period.