ALLENDALE, N.J. (Bergen County) — Doherty Enterprises, a family-owned restaurant franchise operator headquartered in Bergen County, has been named Applebee’s 2026 Abe Gustin Franchisee of the Year, the restaurant chain’s highest franchise honor.
The award was presented during Applebee’s recent franchise conference in Austin, Texas, recognizing Doherty Enterprises for its business performance, operational excellence, customer service, community involvement and leadership within the Applebee’s franchise system.
Doherty Enterprises operates Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar restaurants throughout New Jersey, New York City and Long Island.
“Our team members and managers earned this recognition through the work they do every day in our restaurants and communities,” said Ed Doherty, Chairman, CEO and Founder of Doherty Enterprises. “It reflects their commitment to our guests, to one another, and to the communities that have welcomed our restaurants for more than 30 years. We’re incredibly proud of this honor and grateful to all who made it possible.”
According to the company, the recognition also reflects its contributions to Applebee’s operations, marketing, technology and other initiatives supporting the restaurant chain’s continued growth.
Community involvement was another factor highlighted in the recognition. During the past year, Doherty Enterprises contributed nearly $5.7 million through 310 charitable events and partnerships with organizations including the American Cancer Society, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and Toys for Tots.
The company also provided financial assistance to 153 employees and their families experiencing hardship through its WOW a Friend Foundation.
In addition to the franchise award, John Chesebrough, general manager of the Applebee’s restaurant in Lindenhurst, Long Island, received the 2026 Golden Apple Award.
Chesebrough was among 15 Applebee’s general managers recognized nationwide for their performance and leadership.
According to Doherty Enterprises, Chesebrough achieved a 98% restaurant guest satisfaction rating, helped lead the implementation of the Toast point-of-sale system, mentored fellow restaurant operators and supported community fundraising efforts.
His restaurant’s community involvement included raising more than $13,000 for Toys for Tots.
“These awards recognize the people behind the results,” adds Timothy Doherty, President and COO of Doherty Enterprises. “We’re especially proud to see John honored for the leadership he brings to his restaurant, his team, and the Lindenhurst community. His recognition, alongside the Franchisee of the Year Award, is a testament to the dedication of our teams throughout all our Applebee’s restaurants.”
Founded in 1985, Doherty Enterprises is headquartered in Allendale and operates a portfolio of restaurant brands, including Applebee’s. The company has operated Applebee’s restaurants in the region for more than 30 years.
