After 25 Years, Famous IHOP Dish Still Embarrassing to Say, but More Delicious to Eat

GLENDALE, CA–(Marketwire – August 30, 2010) –  Twenty-five years ago, IHOP’s Rooty Tooty Fresh ‘N Fruity debuted in a star-studded premiere, complete with Groucho Marx-style funny glasses. Along with other unforgettable pop culture classics from the year — such as Back to the Future, Golden Girls, Sesame Street’s Elmo and the hit song We Are the World — this child of the ’80s has only improved with age. Since it first arrived on IHOP menus, the iconic breakfast item has been center plate for millions of memorable occasions and life’s everyday victories.

In celebration of Rooty Tooty Fresh ‘N Fruity’s 25^th anniversary, IHOP introduces the “Super” Rooty Tooty Fresh ‘N Fruity limited time offer. Available now through October 3 at participating locations, guests can enjoy two of IHOP’s fluffy, world-famous Buttermilk pancakes topped with their choice of cool strawberry, warm blueberry or cinnamon-apple compote and creamy whipped topping. Served with a “super” combo of golden hash browns and eggs, the promotion starts at $4.99; for just a little more add crisp bacon, pork sausage links or hearty ham.

“Twenty-five years ago, the Rooty Tooty Fresh ‘N Fruity appeared with an unforgettable television advertisement featuring guests wearing disguises as they ordered the funny-named dish,” said Carolyn O’Keefe, IHOP’s senior vice president, marketing. “Now a part of the American Lexicon, the Rooty Tooty Fresh ‘N Fruity continues to twist and tempt the tongues of guests, old and young alike, who crave a taste of fun that is uniquely IHOP.”

The “Super” Rooty Tooty Fresh ‘N Fruity fun continues online where guests can visit www.ihop.com to “Mask Your Mug” by digitally placing a pair of the memorable funny nose and glasses on any existing photo and upload to their Facebook profile. To add to the fun, users can create their very own “Rooty Tooty Alias” and receive a Rooty-inspired nickname to share with their friends. 

For more information or to find an IHOP restaurant near you, please visit www.ihop.com. Follow IHOP on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ihop.

ABOUT IHOP
For 52 years, the IHOP family restaurant chain has served its world famous pancakes and a wide variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner items that are loved by people of all ages. IHOP offers its guests an affordable, everyday dining experience with warm and friendly service. The first IHOP opened in Toluca Lake, Calif. in 1958, and as of June 30, 2010, there were 1,476 IHOPs in 50 states and the District of Columbia, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. IHOP restaurants are franchised and operated by Glendale, Calif.-based International House of Pancakes, LLC and its affiliates. International House of Pancakes, LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN).