Receivables [Abstract] Receivables Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segment [Domain] Franchise Operations [Member] Franchise Operations [Member] Franchise Operations [Member] Company Restaurants [Member] Company Restaurants [Member] Company Restaurants [Member] Rental Operations [Member] Rental Operations [Member] Rental Operations [Member] Financing Operations [Member] Financing Operations [Member] Financing Operations [Member] Corproate [Member] Corproate [Member] Corproate [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Franchise Revenue Franchise Revenue Food and Beverage Revenue Food and Beverage Revenue Rental income Rental Income Rental income includes revenue from operating leases and interest income from direct financing leases. Financial Services Revenue Financial Services Revenue Revenues Revenues Income (loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Interest expense Interest Expense Debt and Debt Discount Represents the portion of interest incurred in the period on debt arrangements and amortization of debt discount that was charged against earnings. Interest Expense Interest Expense Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Impairment and closure charges Restructuring, Settlement and Impairment Provisions Capital Expenditures Capital Expenditures Capital Expenditures Goodwill (all franchise segment) Goodwill Total assets Assets Stock-Based Incentive Plans [Abstract] Stock-Based Incentive Plans [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Employee Stock Option [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Pre-tax compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Book tax benefit Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Total stock-based compensation expense, net of tax Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Net of Tax Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding, Beginning Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Excercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Forfeited Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Expired Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period Outstanding, Ending Vested and Expected to Vest Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number Exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Roll Forward] [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Roll Forward] Weighted Avg Share Prince, Beginning Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Avg Share Price, Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price 2012 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price 2012 Weighted Avg Share Price, Exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price 2012 Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price 2012 Weighted Avg Share Price, Forfeited Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price 2012 Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price 2012 Weighted Avg Share Price, Expired Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price 2012 Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price 2012 Weighted Avg Share Prince, Ending Vested and expected to vest, weighted avg share price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercisable, weighted avg share price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Excercisable Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options Tax Benefit from Stock Options Exercised Tax Benefit from Stock Options Exercised Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Unrecognized Compensation Cost Related to Restricted Stock and RSUs Expected Recognized Over a Weighted Average Period Unrecognized Compensation Cost Related to Restricted Stock and RSUs Expected Recognized Over a Weighted Average Period Unrecognized Compensation Cost Related to Restricted Stock and RSUs Expected Recognized Over a Weighted Average Period Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract] Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans [Table] Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans [Table] Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans [Table] Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans [Axis] Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans [Axis] Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans [Axis] Defined Contribution Pension Plan [Domain] Defined Contribution Pension Plan [Domain] Defined Contribution Pension Plan [Domain] First Tier of Employees Eligible Compensation Deferral First Tier of Employees Eligible Compensation Deferral [Member] Employers Matching Rate on First Tier of Employees Eligible Compensation [Member] Second Tier of Employees Eligible Compensation Deferral Second Tier of Employees Eligible Compensation Deferral [Member] Second Tier of Employees Eligible Compensation Deferral [Member] Defined Contribution Pension Plan [Line Items] Defined Contribution Pension Plan [Line Items] Defined Contribution Pension Plan [Line Items] Defined Contribution Plan, Contributions Made to Benefit Plan Defined Contribution Plan, Contributions Made to Benefit Plan Defined Contribution Plan, Contributions Made to Benefit Plan Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent Employees Eligible Compensation Deferral, Percent Employees Eligible Compensation Deferral, Percent Employees Eligible Compensation Deferral, Percent Receivables [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Table Text Block] Schedule of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Table Text Block] schedule of allowance for doubtful accounts [Table Text Block] Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) [Abstract] Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) [Abstract] Differences in capitalization and depreciation and amortization of reacquired franchises and equipment Deferred Tax Assets, Capitalization Depreciation Amortization of Reacquired Franchises and Equipment Deferred Tax Assets, Capitalization Depreciation Amortization of Reacquired Franchises and Equipment Deferred Tax Assets, Acquisition Financing Costs Deferred Tax Assets, Acquisition Financing Costs Deferred Tax Assets, Acquisition Financing Costs Employee compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Compensation Deferred gain on sale of assets Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Gain on Sale of Assets Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Gain on Sale of Assets Book/tax difference in revenue recognition Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Income Michigan business tax Deferred Tax Assets, Michigan business tax Deferred Tax Assets, Michigan business tax Kansas High Performance Incentive Program credits Deferred Tax Assets, Kansas High Performance Incentive Program Credits, Amount Deferred Tax Assets, Kansas High Performance Incentive Program Credits, Amount Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Total deferred tax assets after valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net Differences between financial and tax accounting in the recognition of franchise and equipment sales Deferred Tax Assets, Financial and Tax Accounting in the Recognition of Franchise and Equipment Sales Deferred Tax Assets, Financial and Tax Accounting in the Recognition of Franchise and Equipment Sales Differences in capitalization and depreciation (1) Deferred Tax Liabilities, Differences in Capitalization and Depreciation Deferred Tax Liabilities, Differences in Capitalization and Depreciation Differences in acquisition financing costs Deferred Tax Liabilities, Financing Arrangements Book/tax difference in revenue recognition Deferred Tax Liabilities, Tax Deferred Income Differences between book and tax basis of property and equipment Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities Net deferred tax (liabilities) Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Net Net deferred tax asset (liability) - current Deferred Tax Assets, Gross, Current Valuation Allowance - current Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance, Current Net deferred tax asset (liability) - current Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Net deferred tax asset (liability) - non current Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Valuation allowane - non current Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Net deferred tax asset (liability) - non current Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Net, Noncurrent Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due [Abstract] 2012 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current 2013 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years 2014 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years 2015 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years 2016 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years Thereafter Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Less interest Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments Capital lease obligations Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Net Minimum Payments Less current portion (1) Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due [Abstract] 2012 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current 2013 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2014 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] The Company [Abstract] The Company [Abstract] Restaurant Concept [Table] Restaurant Concept [Table] Restaurant Concept [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] IHOP [Member] International House Of Pancakes [Member] International House of Pancakes ("IHOP") [Member] Applebee's [Member] Applebee's [Member] Applebee's [Member] Type of Operations [Axis] Type of Operations [Axis] Type of Operations [Axis] Type of Operations [Domain] Type of Operations [Domain] Type of Operation [Domain] Franchised Units [Member] Franchised Units [Member] Entity Operated Units [Member] Entity Operated Units [Member] Licensing Agreements [Member] Licensing Agreements [Member] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Number of Restaurant Concepts Number of Restaurant Concepts Number of Restaurant Concepts Number of Restaurants Number of Restaurants Number of States in which Entity Operates Number of States in which Entity Operates Number of Territories in which Entity Operates Number of Territories in which Entity Operates Number of Territories in which Entity Operates Number of Countries in which Entity Operates Number of Countries in which Entity Operates Leases [Abstract] Leases Disclosure [Text Block] Leases Disclosure [Text Block] Description and amounts of entity's leasing arrangements for operating and capital leases. This element can be used to disclose the entity's entire lease disclosure as a single block of text. Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations Current Year [Abstract] Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations Current Year [Abstract] Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Parent [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Franchise revenues Company restaurant sales Rental revenues Financing revenues Franchise expenses Franchise Costs Restaurant expenses Restaurant Expenses Company restaurant expenses are operating expenses at company-operated restaurants and include food, beverage (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), labor, benefits, utilities, rent and other restaurant operating costs. Rental expenses Rental Expenses Rental expenses are costs of prime operating leases and interest expense on prime capital leases on franchisee-operated restaurants. Financing expenses Financing Expenses Represents the charge against earnings during the period primarily related to the cost of restaurant equipment. General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Amortization of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Loss on extinguishment of debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Loss (gain) on disposition of assets Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets Other (income) expense Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Intercompany dividend Intercompany Dividend Intercompany Dividend Benefit (provision) for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Concentration of Credit Risk [Policy Text Block] Concentration of Credit Risk [Policy Text Block] Concentration of Credit Risk [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrestricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrestricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Major Classes, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Major Classes, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Details of Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held and Used by Asset [Table Text Block] Details of Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held and Used by Asset [Table Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Start-up Activities, Cost Policy [Policy Text Block] Start-up Activities, Cost Policy [Policy Text Block] Advertising Cost, Policy, Expensed Advertising Cost [Policy Text Block] Advertising Cost, Policy, Expensed Advertising Cost [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Comprehensive Income or Loss [Policy Text Block] Comprehensive Income or Loss [Policy Text Block] Comprehensive Income or Loss [Policy Text Block] Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Treasury Stock [Policy Text Block] Treasury Stock [Policy Text Block] Treasury Stock [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Franchise Segment [Policy Text Block] Franchise Segment [Policy Text Block] Franchise Segment [Policy Text Block] Company Segment [Policy Text Block] Company Segment [Policy Text Block] Company Segment [Policy Text Block] Rental Segment [Policy Text Block] Rental Segment [Policy Text Block] Rental Segment [Policy Text Block] Financing Segment [Policy Text Block] Financing Segment [Policy Text Block] Financing Segment [Policy Text Block] Comparability of Prior Year Financial Data, Policy [Policy Text Block] Comparability of Prior Year Financial Data, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property and Equipment [Abstract] Property and Equipment [Abstract] Property and Equipment [Table] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Land Land [Member] Building and Building Improvements [Member] Building and Building Improvements [Member] Leaseholds and Leasehold Improvements [Member] Leaseholds and Leasehold Improvements [Member] Equipment and Fixtures [Member] Equipment and Fixtures [Member] Equipment and Fixtures [Member] Construction in Progress Construction in Progress [Member] Properties Under Capital Lease Obligations Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member] Property and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property and Equipment, Gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Depreciation Expense Depreciation Capitalized Interest, Net of Amortization Capitalized Interest, Net of Amortization Capitalized Interest, Net of Amortization Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Property Lease Guarantee [Member] Property Lease Guarantee [Member] Guarantee of Indebtedness of Others [Member] Guarantee of Indebtedness of Others [Member] Partially Guaranteed Third Party Financing Program [Member] Partially Guaranteed Third Party Financing Program [Member] Partially Guaranteed Third Party Financing Program [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Purchase Commitment, Remaining Minimum Amount Committed Purchase Commitment, Remaining Minimum Amount Committed Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value Number of Opt Ins Relating to Collective Action Suit Against Applebees Number of Opt Ins Relating to Collective Action Suit Against Entity Number of Opt Ins Relating to Collective Action Suit Against Entity Maximum Third Party Financing Available to Qualified Franchisees Maximum Third Party Financing Available to Qualified Franchisees Maximum Third Party Financing Available to Qualified Franchisees Percent of Loans Advanced Guaranteed Percent of Loans Advanced Guaranteed Percent of Loans Advanced Guaranteed Number of Franchisees With Loans Outstanding Under Third Party Financing Program Number of Franchises With Loans Outstanding Under Third Party Financing Program Number of Franchises With Loans Outstanding Under Third Party Financing Program Loan Amounts Outstanding Under Third Party Qualified Financing Program Loan Amounts Outstanding Under Third Party Qualified Financing Program Loan Amounts Outstanding Under Third Party Qualified Financing Program Supplemental Unemployment Benefits, Severance Benefits Supplemental Unemployment Benefits, Severance Benefits Unused Letters of Credit For Collateralizing Obligations With Insurance Companies For Outstanding Claims Unused Letters of Credit For Collateralizing Obligations With Insurance Companies For Outstanding Claims Unused Letters of Credit For Collateralizing Obligations With Insurance Companies For Outstanding Claims Document And Entity Information [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Other Intangible Assets [Abstract] Other Intangible Assets [Abstract] Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Segments Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Financing Obligations [Abstract] Financing Obligations [Abstract] Sale Leaseback Transaction Disclosure [Text Block] Sale Leaseback Transaction Disclosure [Text Block] 9.5% Senior Notes due 2018 [Abstract] 9.5% Senior Notes due 2018 [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other Assets [Member] Other Assets [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] October 2010 Refinancing [Member] Refinancing of Debt [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Senior Notes, due Oct 2018, fixed rate 9.5% [Member] Senior Notes, due Oct 2018, fixed rate 9.5% [Member] Senior Notes, due Oct 2018, fixed rate 9.5% [Member] Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Amended Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Amended Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Amended Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Expenses and Fees Amortization Period Expenses and Fees Amortization Period Expenses and Fees Amortization Period Deferred Finance Costs, Net Deferred Finance Costs, Net Interest Expense Debt and Debt Discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Period of Payment Outstanding Causing Default Under the Indenture Period of Payment Outstanding Causing Default Under the Indenture Period of Payment Outstanding Causing Default Under the Indenture 2012 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2013 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2014 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2015 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Long-term Debt Long-term Debt Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage [Abstract] Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage [Abstract] Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Comulsory Purchase Price Under Change of Control Comulsory Purchase Price Under Change of Control Comulsory Purchase Price Under Change of Control Comulsory Purchase Price Under Sale of Assets Under Certain Circumstances Compulsory Purchase Price Under Sale of Assets Under Certain Circumstances Compulsory Purchase Price Under Sale of Assets Under Certain Circumstances Minimum Aggregate Principal Amount Required for Trustees or Other Holders to Declare Principal and Accrued Interest Immediately Due Minimum Aggregate Principal Amount Required for Trustees or Other Holders to Declare Principal and Accrued Interest Immediately Due Minimum Aggregate Principal Amount Required for Trustees or Other Holders to Declare Principal and Accrued Interest Immediately Due Maximum Amount of Aggregate Principal Redeemed With Net Proceeds Raised in One or More Equity Offerings Maximum Amount of Aggregate Principal Redeemed With Net Proceeds Raised in One or More Equity Offerings Maximum Amount of Aggregate Principal Redeemed With Net Proceeds Raised in One or More Equity Offerings Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Long-term debt, less current maturities Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Lease [Table] Lease [Table] Lease [Table] LeaseType [Axis] LeaseType [Axis] LeaseType [Axis] Lease Type [Domain] Lease Type [Domain] LeaseType [Domain] Direct Financing Leases [Member] Direct Financing Leases [Member] Direct Financing Leases [Member] Net Investment Equipment Lease [Member] Net Investment Equipment Lease [Member] Net Investment Equipment Lease [Member] Lease [Line Items] Lease [Line Items] Lease [Line Items] Total minimum rents receivable Capital Leases, Net Investment in Direct Financing Leases, Minimum Payments to be Received Total minimum leases receivable Capital Leases, Net Investment in Sales Type Leases, Minimum Payments to be Received Less unearned income Capital Leases, Net Investment in Direct Financing Leases, Deferred Income Less unearned income Capital Leases, Net Investment in Sales Type Leases, Deferred Income Net investment in direct financing lease receivables Capital Leases, Net Investment in Direct Financing Leases Net investment in equipment leases receivables Capital Leases, Net Investment in Sales Type Leases Less current portion Net Investment in Leases Receivable, Current Net Investment in Leases Receivable, Current Long-term direct financing lease receivable Net Investment in Leases Receivable, Noncurrent Net Investment in Leases Receivable, Noncurrent Contingent Rental Income Over Base Rent Capital Leases, Contingent Rental Payments Received Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Additions to property and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Principal receipts from long-term receivables Proceeds from Notes and Equipment Contracts receivable The cash inflow from the principal repayments on notes and equipment contracts receivable. Proceeds from sale of assets Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Issuance of debt Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease) for Period, Net Issuance of debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Payment of debt Repayments of Debt Payment of debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Redemption of Series A Preferred Stock Payments for Repurchase of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Dividends Payments of Dividends Restricted cash Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Other Financing Activities Other Financing Activities Other Financing Activities Intercompany transfers Intercompany Transfers Intercompany Transfers Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net change Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of year Receivables [Table Text Block] Leases Receivable [Table Text Block] Leases Receivable [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Payments for Capital and Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Payments for Capital and Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Payments for Capital and Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rents to Be Received on Capital and Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rents to Be Received on Capital and Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rents to Be Received on Capital and Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, by Class of Financing Receivable [Axis] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, by Class of Financing Receivable [Axis] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Class of Financing Receivable [Domain] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Class of Financing Receivable [Domain] Equipment Leases Receivable [Member] Equipment Leases Receivable [Member] Equipment Leases Receivable [Member] Franchise Fee Note Receivable [Member] Franchise Fee Note Receivable [Member] Franchise Fee Note Receivable [Member] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Gift card receivables Gift Card Receivables Gift Card Receivables Credit card receivables Credit Card Receivables Notes receivable Notes Receivable Notes Receivable Financing receivable Financing Receivable Other Other Receivables Receivables Accounts, Other, Notes and Financing Receivables, Gross Accounts, Other, Notes, and Financing Receivables, Gross Less: allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable Receivables, net Accounts, Other, Notes, and Finance Receivables, Net Accounts, Other, Notes, and Finance Receivables, Net Less: current portion Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current Long-term receivables Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent Equipment Lease Receivable Average Annual Interest Rate Equipment Lease Receivable Average Annual Interest Rate Equipment Lease Receivable Average Annual Interest Rate Financing Franchise Fee Notes Receivable Lease Term Financing Franchise Fee Notes Receivable Lease Term Financing Franchise Fee Notes Receivable Lease Term IHOP Franchise Fee Notes 5-8 Yrs Average Annual Interest Rate IHOP Franchise Fee Notes 5-8 Yrs Average Annual Interest Rate IHOP Franchise Fee Notes 5-8 Yrs Average Annual Interest Rate Minimum Days Outstanding Before Delinquent Minimum Days Outstanding Before Delinquent Minimum Days Outstanding Before Delinquent Amount of Financing Receivables Delinquent Amount of Financing Receivables Delinquent Amount of Financing Receivables Delinquent Amount of Financing Receivables Included in Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Amount of Financing Receivables Included in Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Amount of Financing Receivables Included in Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of period Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses Provisions Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Provisions Charge-offs Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Charge-offs Recoveries Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Recoveries Balance at end of period Debt [Abstract] Debt [Abstract] Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Goodwill [Abstract] Goodwill [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] IHOP [Member] IHOP [Member] IHOP Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill Assets Held For Sale [Abstract] Assets Held For Sale [Abstract] Disclosure of Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Table Text Block] Disclosure of Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Table Text Block] Income Taxes [Abstract] Income Taxes [Abstract] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] Consolidating Financial Information [Abstract] Consolidating Financial Information [Abstract] Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Schedule of Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Schedule of Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations [Table Text Block] Schedule of Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations [Table Text Block] Schedule of Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations [Table Text Block] Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows [Table Text Block] Schedule of Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows [Table Text Block] Schedule of Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows [Table Text Block] Accounting Policies Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Significant Accounting Policies and Accounting Changes [Text Block] Significant Accounting Policies and Accounting Changes [Text Block] Significant Accounting Policies and Accounting Changes [Text Block] Preferred Stock and Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Preferred Stock and Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Series A Perpetual Stock [Member] Series A Perpetual Preferred Stock [Member] Series A Perpetual Stock [Member] Series B Convertible Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Convertible Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Convertible Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Convertible Stock [Member] Series B Convertible Stock [Member] Series B Convertible Stock [Member] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Convertible Stock Initial Stated Value Convertible Stock Initial Stated Value Convertible Stock Initial Stated Value Preferred Stock Dividend Rate per Annum, Increase due to Passed Dividends Accrued and Unpaid Preferred Stock Dividend Rate per Annum, Increase due to Passed Dividends Accrued and Unpaid Preferred Stock Dividend Rate per Annum, Increase due to Passed Dividends Accrued and Unpaid Preferred Stock, Maximum Dividend Rate per Annum Preferred Stock, Maximum Dividend Rate per Annum Preferred Stock, Maximum Dividend Rate per Annum Preferred Stock, Redemption Amount Preferred Stock, Redemption Amount Preferred Stock Redemption Premium Preferred Stock Redemption Premium Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Payments for Repurchase of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Payments of Stock Issuance Costs Payments of Stock Issuance Costs Preferred Stock Accretion Rate per Annum Preferred Stock Accretion Rate per Annum Preferred Stock Accretion Rate per Annum Aggregate Accretion of Series B Convertible Stock Aggregate Accretion of Preferred Convertible Stock Aggregate Accretion of Preferred Convertible Stock Preferred Stock, Accretion Value for Conversion Preferred Stock, Accretion Value for Conversion Preferred Stock, Accretion Value for Conversion Convertible Preferred Stock, Shares Issued per Aggregate Accretion Value Unit Convertible Preferred Stock, Shares Issued per Aggregate Accretion Value Unit Convertible Preferred Stock, Shares Issued per Accretion Value Unit Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Common Stock Repurchased Average Cost Per Share Common Stock Repurchased Average Cost Per Share Common Stock Repurchased Average Cost Per Share Current Federal Income Tax Expense Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Current State and Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Current State and Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Current State and Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Income Tax Expense Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred State Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred State Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred State Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Senior Secured Credit Facility, due Oct 2017, variable rate 4.25% [Member] Senior Secured Credit Facility, due Oct 2017, variable rate 4.25% [Member] Senior Secured Credit Facility, due Oct 2017, variable rate 4.25% Senior Secured Credit Facility, due Oct 2017, variable rate 6.0% [Member] Senior Secured Credit Facility, due Oct 2017, variable rate 6.0% [Member] Senior Secured Credit Facility, due Oct 2017, variable rate 6.0% [Member] New Term Loan [Member] New Term Loan [Member] New Term Loan [Member] Senior Secured Credit Facility, Outstanding Senior Secured Credit Facility, Outstanding Senior Secured Credit Facility, Outstanding Senior Notes Senior Notes Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Debt Instruments (Narrative) [Abstract] Debt Instruments [Abstract] Proceeds from Lines of Credit Proceeds from Lines of Credit Repayments of Lines of Credit Repayments of Lines of Credit Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Payments of Debt Restructuring Costs Payments of Debt Restructuring Costs Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Mandatory Prepayment of Debt, Percent per Quarter Mandatory Prepayment of Debt, Percent per Quarter Mandatory Prepayment of Debt, Percent per Quarter Mandatory Prepayment of Debt, Percent per Annum Mandatory Prepayment of Debt, Percent per Annum Mandatory Prepayment of Debt, Percent per Annum Upfront Fee on Debt, Percent Upfront Fee on Debt, Percent Upfront Fee on Debt, Percent LIBOR Rate Floor LIBOR Rate Floor LIBOR Rate Floor Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate LIBOR Rate Additional Margin LIBOR Rate Additional Margin LIBOR Rate Additional Margin Base Rate Floor Base Rate Floor Base Rate Floor Federal Funds Rate Additional Margin Federal Funds Rate Additional Margin Federal Funds Rate Additional Margin One Month LIBOR Rate Floor One Month LIBOR Rate Floor One Month LIBOR Rate Floor One Month LIBOR Rate Additional Margin One Month LIBOR Rate Additional Margin One Month LIBOR Rate Additional Margin One Month LIBOR Rate Additional Margin Uplift One Month LIBOR Rate Additional Margin Uplift One Month LIBOR Rate Additional Margin Uplift Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Assets Held For Sale [Roll Forward] Assets Held For Sale [Roll Forward] Assets Held For Sale [Roll Forward] Balance December 31, 2010 Assets Held-for-sale, Current Assets Transferred to Held For Sale Assets Transferred to Held For Sale Assets Transferred to Held For Sale Assets Sold Assets Held For Sale Sold Assets Held For Sale Sold Assets Refranchised Assets Refranchised Assets Refranchised Other Other Assets Held-for-sale, Current Balance December 31, 2011 Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract] Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract] Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Net Income (Loss) Per Share [Abstract] Net Income (Loss) Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Net (loss) income Interest rate swap, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Temporary decline in available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Income Tax Benefit Allocated to Interest Rate Swap Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities [Abstract] Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities [Abstract] Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities [Text Block] Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities [Text Block] Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Net (Loss) Income per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss)to cash flows provided by operating activities Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Non-cash interest expense Amortization of Financing Costs and Discounts Loss (gain) on extinguishment of debt and temporary equity Impairment and closure charges Impairment and Closure Charges Gross Noncash Impairment and Closure Charges Gross Noncash Deferred income taxes Increase Decrease Deferred Tax Expense Benefit Increase Decrease Deferred Tax Expense Benefit Non-cash stock-based compensation expense Share-based Compensation Tax benefit from stock-based compensation Tax Benefit from Stock-based Compensation Reductions in the entity's income taxes that arise when compensation cost (from non-qualified stock-based compensation) recognized on the entity's tax return exceeds compensation cost from stock-based compensation recognized on the income statement. This element increases net cash provided by operating activities. Excess tax benefit from stock options exercised Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Gain on disposition of assets Other Other Cash and Noncash Changes in Operating Activities Transactions that result in no cash inflows or outflows in the period in which they occur, but affect net income and thus are removed when calculating net cash flow from operating activities using the indirect method combined with the net change during the reporting period in the value of other assets or liabilities used in operating activities that are not otherwise defined in the taxonomy. This element is used when there is not a more specific and appropriate element. Changes in operating assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Receivables Increase (Decrease) in Receivables Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaid expenses Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense Current income tax receivables and payables Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable, Net of Income Taxes Receivable Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accrued employee compensation and benefits Increase (Decrease) in Employee Related Liabilities Gift card liability Increase (Decrease) in Gift Card Liability Other accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Other Accrued Liabilities Cash flows provided by operating activities Cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Additions to property and equipment Proceeds from sale of property and equipment and assets held for sale Principal receipts from notes, equipment contracts and other long-term receivables Cash flows provided by investing activities Cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Borrowings under revolving credit facilities Repayments under revolving credit facilities Line of Credit Facility, Decrease, Repayments Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Repayment of long-term debt (including tender premiums) Repayments of Long-term Debt Purchase of DineEquity common stock Redemption of Series A Preferred Stock Payment of debt issuance costs Principal payments on capital lease and financing obligations Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations Dividends paid (including Series A redemption premiums) Repurchase of restricted stock Payments for Repurchase of Other Equity Proceeds from stock options exercised Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Excess tax benefit from stock options exercised Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Change in restricted cash Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Cash flows used in financing activities Net change in cash and cash equivalents Supplemental disclosures Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest paid Interest Paid, Net Income taxes paid Income Taxes Paid Impairments and Closure Charges [Abstract] Impairments and Closure Charges [Abstract] Schedule of Impairment and Closure Charges [Table Text Block] Schedule of Impairment and Closure Charges [Table Text Block] Schedule of Impairment and Closure Charges [Table Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Long-Term Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Property and Equipment Depreciable Lives [Table Text Block] Property and Equipment Depreciable Lives [Table Text Block] Property and Equipment Depreciable Lives [Table Text Block] Schedule of Reclassification of Prior Period Expenses [Table Text Block] Schedule of Reclassification of Prior Period Expenses [Table Text Block] Schedule of Reclassification of Prior Period Expenses Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Table] Schedule of Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Table] Schedule of Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Table] Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Axis] Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Axis] Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Axis] Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Tradename [Member] Trade Names [Member] Liquor Licenses [Member] Liquor Licenses [Member] Liquor Licenses [Member] Other [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Franchising Rights [Member] Franchise Rights [Member] Recipes and Menus [Member] Recipes and Menus [Member] Recipes and Menus [Member] Leaseholds [Member] Leasehold Improvements [Member] Type of Intangible Assets [Axis] Type of Intangible Assets [Axis] Type of Intangible Assets [Axis] Type of Intangible Assets [Domain] Type of Intangible Assets [Domain] Type of Intangible Assets [Domain] Not Subject to Amortization [Member] Indefinite lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Member] Indefinite lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name Subject to Amortization [Member] Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Member] Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Member] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Line Items] Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Other Intangible Assets [Roll Forward] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward] Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, Beginning of Period Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Impairment Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill) Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Period Increase (Decrease) Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Period Increase (Decrease) Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, End of Period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Beginning of Period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense Refranchising Refranchising Adjustments to Intangible Assets Refranchising Adjustments to Intangible Assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, End of Period Total Other Intangible Assets, Beginning of Period Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Other Increase (Decrease) in Intangible Assets, Current Total Other Intangible Assets, End of Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract] Risk free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Weighted average historical volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Volatility Rate Dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Expected years until exercise Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Forfeitures Share-based Compensation, Fair Value Assumptions, Forfeitures Rate Share-based Compensation, Fair Value Assumptions, Forfeitures Rate Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block] Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block] Schedule of Impairment and Closure Charges [Table] Schedule of Impairment and Closure Charges [Table] Schedule of Impairment and Closure Charges [Table] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Facility Closing [Member] Facility Closing [Member] Sale Leaseback Transaction, Description [Axis] Sale Leaseback Transaction, Description [Axis] Sale Leaseback Transaction, Name [Domain] Sale Leaseback Transaction, Name [Domain] Support Center Sale Leaseback Agreement [Member] Support Center Sale Leaseback Agreement [Member] Support Center Sale Leaseback Agreement [Member] Restaurant Concept [Axis] Restaurant Concept [Axis] Restaurant Concept [Axis] Restaurant Concept [Domain] Restaurant Concept [Domain] Restaurant Concept [Domain] Applebee's Restaurant Support Center [Member] Applebee's Restaurant Support Center [Member] Applebee's Restaurant Support Center [Member] Investment Geographic Region [Axis] Investment Geographic Region [Axis] Investment Geographic Region [Domain] Investment Geographic Region [Domain] Lenexa, Kansas [Member] Lenexa, Kansas [Member] Lenexa, Kansas [Member] Minnesota and Wisconsin [Member] Minnesota and Wisconsin [Member] Minnesota and Wisconsin [Member] Impairment and Closure Charges [Line Items] Impairment and Closure Charges [Line Items] Impairment and Closure Charges [Line Items] Lenexa lease termination Business Exit Costs Long-lived Tangible Asset Impairment Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Other closure charges Other Restructuring Costs Impairment Total Impairment and closure charges Payments Made For Sublease Termination Fees and Related Closing Costs Payments for Restructuring Company Operated Restaurants Sold Company Operated Restaurants Sold Company Operated Restaurants Sold Restaurants With Fee Ownership Restaurants With Fee Ownership Restaurants With Fee Ownership Impaired Company Operated Restaurants Impaired Company Operated Restaurants Impaired Company Operated Restaurants Impaired Franchise Restaurants Taken Back by the Company Impaired Franchise Restaurants Taken Back by the Company Impaired Franchise Restaurants Taken Back by the Company Restaurants Held for Sale Written Down Based on Estimated Sales Value Restaurants Held for Sale Written Down Based on Estimated Sales Value Restaurants Held for Sale Written Down Based on Estimated Sales Value Impaired Parcels of Real Estate Impaired Parcels of Real Estate Impaired Parcels of Real Estate Impaired Fee Ownership Company Operated Restaurants Impaired Fee Ownership Company Operated Restaurants Impaired Fee Ownership Company Operated Restaurants IHOP Cafe Company Operated Restaurants Closed Company Operated Restaurants Closed Company Operated Restaurants Closed Franchise Restaurants Taken Back by the Company and Closed Franchise Restaurants Taken Back by the Company and Closed Franchise Restaurants Taken Back by the Company and Closed Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Preferred Stock Preferred Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Treasury Stock, at cost Treasury Stock [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding, Beg Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Stockholders' Equity, Beg Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding, Beg Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Treasury Stock, Shares, Beg Treasury Stock, Shares Foreign currency translation Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Repurchase of restricted shares Restricted Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Restricted Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Repurchase of restricted shares Restricted Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Restricted Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Net issuance of shares pursuant to stock plans Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Net issuance of shares pursuant to stock plans Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Reissuance of treasury stock, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Treasury Stock Reissued Reissuance of treasury stock, value Stock Issued During Period, Value, Treasury Stock Reissued Stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Tax benefit from stock options exercised Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Dividends—Series A preferred stock Conversion of Series B preferred stock Conversion of Stock, Shares Converted Conversion of Series B preferred stock Conversion of Stock, Amount Converted Accretion of Series B preferred stock Preferred Stock, Accretion of Redemption Discount Purchase of DineEquity common stock Purchase of DineEquity common stock Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Treasury Stock, Shares, End Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding, End Stockholders' Equity, End Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding, End Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefit [Abstract] Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefit [Abstract] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Beginning of Period Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefit, Change as a Result of Current Year Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefit, Change as a Result of Current Year Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefit, Change as a Result of Current Year Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, End of Period Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment excluding Long Lived Assets Held-for-Sale [Text Block] Disclosure of long-lived, physical assets that are used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale. Examples include land, building and production equipment. This disclosure may include property plant and equipment accounting policies and methodology, a schedule of property, plant and equipment gross, additions, deletions, transfers and other changes, depreciation, depletion and amortization expense, net, accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization expense and useful lives and income statement disclosures. This element may be used as a single block of text to include the entire PPE disclosure, including data and tables. This element excludes long lived assets held for sale. Income Taxes (Details) (Narrative) [Abstract] Income Taxes (Details) (Narrative) [Abstract] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Relates to Massachusetts Legislation Requiring Unitary Businesses to File Combined Reports [Member] Relates to Massachusetts Legislation Requiring Unitary Businesses to File Combined Reports [Member] Relates to Massachusetts Legislation Requiring Unitary Businesses to File Combined Reports [Member] Relates to Various State Net Operating Carryovers for DineEquity, IHOP, and Subsidiaries [Member] Relates to Various State Net Operating Carryovers for DineEquity, IHOP, and Subsidiaries [Member] Relates to Various State Net Operating Carryovers for DineEquity, IHOP, and Subsidiaries [Member] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Unrecognized Tax Benefits Including Penalties and Interest Unrecognized Tax Benefits Including Penalties and Interest Unrecognized Tax Benefits Including Penalties and Interest Liability for Unrecognized Tax Benefit Expected to be Paid Within One Year Liability for Uncertain Tax Positions, Current Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties Accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties Accrued Decrease in Accrued Interest Resulting From Release of Liabilities for Unrecognized Tax Benefits Related to Gift Card Income Deferral as a Result of New IRS Guidance, Net Decrease in Accrued Interest Resulting From Release of Liabilities for Unrecognized Tax Benefits Related to Gift Card Income Deferral as a Result of New IRS Guidance, Net Decrease in Accrued Interest Resulting From Release of Liabilities for Unrecognized Tax Benefits Related to Gift Card Income Deferral as a Result of New IRS Guidance, Net Various NOL Carryovers of State Taxes Expiring 2012 Through 2030 if Unused Operating Loss Carryforwards Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease) Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease) Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Unrecognized Tax Benefits Estimated Decrease in 2012 Unrecognized Tax Benefits Estimated Decrease next year Unrecognized Tax Benefits Estimated Decrease next year Stock-Based Incentive Plans (narrative) [Abstract] Stock-Based Incentive Plans (narrative) [Abstract] DineEquity, Inc. 2011 Stock Incentive Plan [Member] DineEquity, Inc. 2011 Stock Incentive Plan [Member] DineEquity, Inc. 2011 Stock Incentive Plan [Member] IHOP Corp. 2001 Stock Incentive Plan [Member] IHOP Corp. 2001 Stock Incentive Plan [Member] IHOP Corp. 2001 Stock Incentive Plan [Member] Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors [Member] Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors [Member] Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors [Member] 2005 Stock Incentive Plan for Non-Employee Directors [Member] 2005 Stock Incentive Plan for Non-Employee Directors [Member] 2005 Stock Incentive Plan for Non-Employee Directors [Member] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Shares Approved for Issuance Preferred Stock and Stockholders' Equity [Text Block] Preferred Stock and Stockholders' Equity [Text Block] Disclosures related to accounts comprising stockholders' equity. Includes: (1) balances of common stock, preferred stock, additional paid-in capital, other capital and retained earnings;(2)amount and nature of changes in separate accounts, including the number of shares authorized and outstanding, number of shares issued upon exercise and conversion, and for other comprehensive income, the adjustments for reclassifications to net income; (3) rights and privileges of each class of stock authorized; (4) basis of treasury stock, if other than cost, and amounts paid and accounting treatment for treasury stock purchased significantly in excess of market; and (5) dividends paid or payable per share and in the aggregate for each class of stock for each period presented. Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Abstract] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Franchise Rights [Member] Leaseholds and Other [Member] Leaseholds and Other [Member] Leaseholds and Other [Member] Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Income tax rate reconciliation [Abstract] Income tax rate reconciliation [Abstract] Statutory federal income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate State and other taxes, net of federal tax benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes Change in unrecognized tax benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits Change in valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance State adjustments including audits and settlements Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlements, Domestic Compensation related tax credits, net of deduction offsets Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based Compensation Cost Changes in tax rates and state laws Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate Kansas high performance incentive program credits Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, High Performance Incentive Program Credits Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, High Performance Incentive Program Credits Goodwill intangibles adjustment Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses Non-deductible preferred stock issuance costs Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Non-deductible preferred stock issuance costs Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Non-deductible preferred stock issuance costs Other Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Effective tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Goodwill [Text Block] Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Property and Equipment [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Current Year [Abstract] Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Current Year [Abstract] Assets [Abstract] Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Receivables, net Inventories Inventory, Net Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Net, Current Assets held for sale Intercompany Due from Affiliate, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Long-term receivables Property and equipment, net Other intangible assets, net Other assets, net Other Assets, Noncurrent Investment in Subsidiaries Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current maturities of long-term debt Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued employee compensation and benefits Employee-related Liabilities, Current Gift card liability Gift Card Liability, Current Other accrued expenses Other Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt Financing obligations Sale Leaseback Financing Obligations The sale leaseback financing obligations due after one year from the balance sheet date or beyond the operating cycle, if longer, accounted for under the financing method. Capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Deferred income taxes Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Total stockholders' equity Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities and Equity Schedule of Sale Leaseback Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Sale Leaseback Transactions [Table Text Block] Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract] Segment Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Total revenue Segment Expenses: Cost of Revenue [Abstract] Company restaurant expenses Total segment expenses Cost of Revenue Gross segment profit Gross Profit General and administrative expenses Debt modification costs Income (loss) before income taxes (Provision) benefit for income taxes Net income (loss) Net income (loss) available to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract] Less: Series A preferred stock dividends Dividends, Preferred Stock Less: Accretion of Series B preferred stock Less: Net (income) loss allocated to unvested participating restricted stock Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Unvested Participating Restricted Stock The amount of net income (loss) which is allocated to unvested participating restricted stock. Net income (loss) available to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Net income (loss) available to common stockholders per share Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted average shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Consolidated Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Consolidating Financial Information Consolidated Financial Information Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosure of the condensed financial statements (balance sheet, income statement and statement of cash flows), normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. Impairment And Closure Charges Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Impairment and Closure Charges Impairment and Closure Charges Disclosure [Text Block] Description of impairment of long-lived assets, goodwill impairment as well as closure charges. This element may be used as a single block of text to encapsulaten the entire disclosure including data and tables. Future Minimum Lease Rents Due [Abstract] Future Minimum Lease Rents Due [Abstract] Asset Cost of Leased Property Asset Cost of Leased Property Asset Cost of Leased Property Carrying Amount on Leased Property Capital Leases, Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Net Contingent Rent Expense on Leases Contingent Rent Expense on Leases Contingent Rent Expense on Leases Minimum Rent Expense on Leases Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals 2012 Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Current Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Current 2013 Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Two Years Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Two Years 2014 Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Three Years Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Three Years 2015 Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Four Years Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Four Years 2016 Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Five Years Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Five Years Thereafter Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due Thereafter Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due Thereafter Total minimum rents receivable Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due Total Direct Financing Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due Total 2012 Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Current Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Current 2013 Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Two Years Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Two Years 2014 Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Three Years Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Three Years 2015 Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Four Years Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Four Years 2016 Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Five Years Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due Thereafter Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due Thereafter Total minimum rents receivable Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due Total Operating Lease Sub Lease Receivable Due Total Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Assets Current assets: Prepaid income taxes Prepaid Taxes Prepaid gift cards Prepaid Gift Cards Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of payments made in advance related to gift card marketing which are expected to be charged against earnings within one year. Assets held for sale Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Total assets Current liabilities: Accrued interest payable Interest Payable, Current Current maturities of capital lease and financing obligations Capital Lease and Financing Obligations, Current Capital Lease and Financing Obligations, Current Other accrued expenses Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Financing obligations, less current maturities Capital lease obligations, less current maturities Total liabilities Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Convertible preferred stock, Series B, at accreted value, shares:10,000,000 authorized; 35,000 issued; 2011 - 34,900 outstanding; 2010 - 35,000 outstanding Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $.01 par value, shares: 40,000,000 authorized; 2011 - 24,658,985 issued, 18,060,206 outstanding; 2010 - 24,382,991 issued, 18,183,083 outstanding Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in-capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Treasury stock, at cost; shares: 2011 - 6,598,779; 2010 - 6,199,908 Treasury Stock, Value Total stockholders' equity Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Stock Options [Member] Stock Options [Member] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Less: Series A preferred stock dividends Redeemable Preferred Stock Dividends Less: Accretion of Series B preferred stock Accretion of Preferred Stock Increase in the initial stated value of Preferred stock at the rate of 6% per annum, compounded quarterly, commencing on the issue date of such share. Less: Net (income) loss allocated to unvested participating restricted stock Net income (loss) available to common stockholders - basic Effect of unvested participating restricted stock Dilutive Securities, Effect on Basic Earnings Per Share, Including Options and Restrictive Stock Units Effect of dilutive securities, Convertible Series B preferred stock Dilutive Securities, Effect on Basic Earnings Per Share Numerator - net income available to common shareholders - diluted Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Weighted average outstanding shares of common stock - basic Effect of dilutive securities, Stock Options Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Effect of dilutive securities, Convertible Series B preferred stock Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Conversion of Preferred Stock Weighted average outstanding shares of common stock - diluted Net income (loss) per common share - Basic Net income (loss) per common share - Diluted Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Sale Leaseback Transaction [Table] Sale Leaseback Transaction [Table] Year of Cash Flow [Axis] Year of Cash Flow [Axis] Year of Cash Flow [Axis] Year of Cash Flow [Domain] Year of Cash Flow [Domain] Year of Cash Flow [Domain] 2012 [Member] Due Current [Member] Due Current [Member] 2015 [Member] Due in Four Years [Member] Due in Four Years [Member] Sale Leaseback Transaction Agreement for Properties Sale Leaseback Transaction Agreement for Properties [Member] Sale Leaseback Transaction Agreement for Properties [Member] Master Lease Agreement [Member] Master Lease Agreement [Member] Master Lease Agreement [Member] Sale Leaseback Transaction [Line Items] Sale Leaseback Transaction [Line Items] 2012 Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within One Year 2013 Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Two Years 2014 Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Three Years 2015 Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Four Years 2016 Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Five Years Thereafter Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions Less interest Interest Portion of Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions Total financing obligations Present Value of Future Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions Less current portion Present Value of Future Minimum Lease Payments Sale Leaseback Transactions, Current Present Value of Future Minimum Lease Payments Sale Leaseback Transactions, Current Long-term financing obligations Present Value of Future Minimum Lease Payments Sale Leaseback Transactions, Noncurrent Present Value of Future Minimum Lease Payments Sale Leaseback Transactions, Noncurrent Number of Monthly Leaseback Obligation Payments in Fiscal Year Number of Monthly Leaseback Obligation Payments in Fiscal Year Number of Monthly Leaseback Obligation Payments in Fiscal Year Parcels of Real Property Under Sale Leaseback Transaction Parcels of Real Property Under Sale Leaseback Transaction Parcels of Real Property Under Sale Leaseback Transaction Sale Leaseback Transaction, Gross Proceeds Sale Leaseback Transaction, Gross Proceeds Number of Options to Extend Initial Sale Leaseback Term Number of Options to Extend Initial Sale Leaseback Term Number of Options to Extend Initial Sale Leaseback Term Sales Leaseback Term Sales Leaseback Term Sales Leaseback Term Extensions Period for Option to Extend Sale Leaseback Initial Term, In Years Extensions Period for Option to Extend Sale Leaseback Initial Term, In Years Extensions Period for Option to Extend Sale Leaseback Initial Term, In Years Properties Assigned to Franchisee or Released From Lessor Properties Assigned to Franchisee or Released From Lessor Properties Assigned to Franchisee or Released From Lessor Reduction in Property and Equipment and Financing Obligations as a Result of Sales Transactions Reduction in Property and Equipment and Financing Obligations as a Result of Sales Transactions Reduction in Property and Equipment and Financing Obligations as a Result of Sales Transactions Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Abstract] Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Share-based Payments, by Title of Individual [Axis] Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Share-based Payments, by Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual with Relationship to Entity [Domain] Title of Individual with Relationship to Entity [Domain] Board of Directors [Member] Board of Directors [Member] Board of Directors [Member] Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Shares Issued Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Shares Issued Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Shares Outstanding Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Shares Outstanding Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Shares Outstanding Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Released in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Released in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Released in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Shares, Outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Share Price Deferred Compensation Arrangement With Individual Share Price Deferred Compensation Arrangement With Individual Share Price Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward] Outstanding at beginning of period Released Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Released in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Released in Period Forfeited Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Outstanding at end of period Financial Instruments Disclosure [Text Block] Financial Instruments Disclosure [Text Block] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Restaurant Franchising Agreement [Axis] Restaurant Franchising Agreement [Axis] Restaurant Franchising Agreement [Axis] Restaurant Franchising Agreement [Domain] Restaurant Franchising Agreement [Domain] Restaurant Franchising Agreement [Domain] Second Agreement [Member] Second Agreement [Member] Second Agreement [Member] Memphis, Tennessee [Member] Memphis, Tennessee [Member] Memphis, Tennessee [Member] Assets Held-for-sale [Member] Assets Held-for-sale [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Discontinued Operation or Asset Disposal [Member] Discontinued Operation or Asset Disposal [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Gain Sale of Company Operated Restaurants Sold Gain (Loss) on Sale of Properties Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Assets Held For Sale Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Assets Held for Sale Assets Held for Sale Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosure of long-lived assets held for sale. Disclosure may include the description of the facts and circumstances leading to the expected disposal, manner and timing of disposal, the carrying value of the assets held for sale, the gain (loss) recognized in the income statement and the income statement caption that includes that gain (loss). Schedule of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Nature of Operations [Text Block] Nature of Operations [Text Block] Schedule of Selected Quarterly Financial Data [Table] Schedule of Selected Quarterly Financial Data [Table] Schedule of Selected Quarterly Financial Data [Table] Selected Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items] Selected Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items] Selected Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items] Total revenue Gross Profit Franchised Company Operated Restaurants in the Quarter Franchised Company Operated Restaurants in the Quarter Franchised Company Operated Restaurants in the Quarter Charges related to the termination of sublease for Applebee's Support Center Gain (Loss) on Contract Termination Charges Related to the Retirement of Debt and Series A Preferred Stock Charges Related to the Retirement of Debt and Series A Preferred Stock Charges Related to the Retirement of Debt and Series A Preferred Stock Franchisor Disclosure [Axis] Franchisor Disclosure [Axis] Franchisor Disclosure [Domain] Franchisor Disclosure [Domain] St. Louis, Missouri [Member] St. Louis, Missouri [Member] St. Louis, Missouri [Member] New England [Member] New England [Member] New England [Member] Washington DC [Member] Washington DC [Member] Washington DC [Member] First Agreement [Member] First Agreement [Member] First Agreement [Member] Assets Held For Sale [Line Items] Assets Held For Sale [Line Items] Company Operated Restaurants Taken Back to be Refranchised Company Operated Restaurants Taken Back to be Refranchised Company Operated Restaurants Taken Back to be Refranchised Assets Held For Sale Sold Number of Company Operated Restaurants Number of Company Operated Restaurants Number of Company Operated Restaurants Reacquired Franchises and Equipment Reacquired Franchises and Equipment Held for Sale Reacquired Franchises and Equipment Held for Sale Restaurants With Assets Included in Assets Held for Sale Restaurants With Assets Included in Assets Held for Sale Restaurants With Assets Included in Assets Held for Sale Parcels of Land With Refranchised Restaurants Parcels of Land With Refranchised Restaurants Parcels of Land With Refranchised Restaurants Parcels of Land Intended for Future Restaurant Development Parcels of Land Intended for Future Restaurant Development Parcels of Land Intended for Future Restaurant Development Restaurant Held for Refranchising Restaurant Held for Refranchising Restaurant Held for Refranchising Company Operated Restaurants Franchised and Sale of Related Restaurant Assets Company Operated Restaurants Franchised and Sale of Related Restaurant Assets Company Operated Restaurants Franchised and Sale of Related Assets Refranchised Restaurants Refranchised Restaurants Refranchised Restaurants Parcels of Land With Refranchised Restaurants Were Sold Parcels of Land With Refranchised Restaurants Were Sold Parcels of Land With Refranchised Restaurants Were Sold Company Operated Restaurant Subject to Leaseback Company Operated Restaurant Subject to Leaseback Company Operated Restaurant Subject to Leaseback Restaurants Subject to Leaseback Sold Restaurants Subject to Leaseback Sold Restaurants Subject to Leaseback Sold Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Reclassification, By Line Item [Axis] Reclassification, By Line Item [Axis] Reclassification, By Line Item [Axis] Reclassification by Line Item [Domain] Reclassification by Line Item [Domain] Reclassification by Line Item [Domain] Rental Expense [Member] Rental Expense [Member] Rental Expense [Member] Impairment and Closure Charges [Member] Impairment and Closure Charges [Member] Impairment and Closure Charges [Member] General and Administrative Expense [Member] General and Administrative Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Franchise Revenues [Member] Franchise Revenues [Member] Franchise Revenues [Member] Franchise Expense [Member] Franchise Expense [Member] Franchise Expense [Member] Financing Revenues [Member] Financing Revenues [Member] Financing Revenues [Member] Other Income (Expense) [Member] Other Income (Expense) [Member] Other Income (Expense) [Member] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Assets, Net [Member] Other Assets, Net [Member] Other Assets, Net [Member] Concentration Risk by Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk by Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Nine Largest Franchisees [Member] Nine Largest Franchisees [Member] Nine Largest Franchisees [Member] IHOP [Member] Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Concentration Risk, Percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Concentration Risk, Largest Franchisee Concentration Risk, Largest Franchisee Concentration Risk, Largest Franchisee Accounts Receivable, Net Accounts Receivable, Net Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Minimum Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Minimum Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Maximum Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Maximum Advertising Expense Advertising Expense Number of Restaurants Reacquired Until Refranchised Number of Restaurants Reacquired Until Refranchised Number of Restaurants Reacquired Until Refranchised Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment [Abstract] Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment [Abstract] Other Expense, Reclassified Amount, Allocation Other Expense, Reclassified Amount, Allocation Other Expense, Reclassified Amount, Allocation Restricted Cash, Reclassification, Allocation Restricted Cash, Reclassification, Allocation Restricted Cash, Reclassification, Allocation Other Intangible Assets Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Other Intangible Assets Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Other Intangible Assets Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Convertible Preferred Stock [Axis] Convertible Preferred Stock [Axis] Convertible Preferred Stock [Axis] Preferred Convertible Stock [Domain] Preferred Convertible Stock [Domain] Preferred Convertible Stock [Domain] Convertible Preferred Stock [Member] Convertible Preferred Stock [Member] Series B [Member] Series B [Member] Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Treasury Stock, Shares