But, really, who are we kidding? You're probably going to pay one way or the other.
IHOP's free-pancake offer is part of the California-based chain's annual fundraiser to support local charities. In exchange for a free short stack of pancakes between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Tuesday at participating restaurants, the chain asks that diners make a donation that will be used for a local Children's Miracle Network Hospital. In Los Angeles, that's Children's Hospital Los Angeles.
It might renew your faith in the human spirit to know that most diners who come in for free pancakes do make a donation before heading for the door.
The event ends up being one of the chain's most profitable days of the year. (Most people order something to go along with the pancakes, such as bacon and eggs, so the restaurant ends up making money. And if you want fancier pancakes, like the ones shown here, you'll have to pay for them.)
It also ends up being one of the chain's busiest days of the year, as well; so plan your visit accordingly. If you're looking for a local restaurant, note that the IHOP website was overwhelmed Tuesday morning because of a frenzy of interest. Again, plan your trip accordingly.
IHOP says it has collected more than $5.35 million for charities -- and given away more than 10 million buttermilk pancakes -- since it began the annual fundraising fete seven years ago.
One last thing before you hop on the carb train and in the name of doing good deeds: The calorie counters over at Diets in Review note that the short stack of buttermilk pancakes at IHOP have 490 calories "before you add butter and syrup." They suggest that you participate in the fundraiser by making a cash donation, and then make your own healthier pancakes at home. Those buzz kills.
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