Operated by Thrive Restaurant Group, the restaurant is the first dual-branded location of its kind in the Midwest and one of about 40 operating nationwide. The project included exterior and interior updates, layout changes, and major behind-the-scenes upgrades, including more than $200,000 invested in new kitchen equipment to support both brands and expanded menu options.
Thrive hired about 40 additional employees for the expanded operations, including the start of breakfast hours. Great Bend was selected for the conversion because the existing restaurant was ready for a refresh, the market did not have an IHOP franchisee, and the community’s size and dining needs matched the concept.
The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on Aug. 18 with Thrive leaders, employees, and community members. Hours are 7 a.m.–11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m.–midnight Friday and Saturday, and 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Sunday; information is available by phone at 620-792-8800 or email at greatbend@thriverg.com.