Don't believe everything that tends to support your misconceptions.
https://www.labor.ny.gov/stats/nyc/
Also, Applebee's has been on a downward trend for a while.
http://www.keyt.com/news/money-and-business/local-applebees-restaurants-closing-amid-tough-market-conditions/454368537
I guess blaming the minimum wage for their loss of business makes them feel better.