What was the original name of the restaurant chain now called IHOP?

The restaurant chain now called IHOP originally used the name International House of Pancakes.

Al and Jerry Lapin, together with Albert Kallis and other partners, opened the first International House of Pancakes restaurant in Toluca Lake, Los Angeles, in 1958. The concept emphasized pancakes and other breakfast foods in a full-service restaurant setting.

The abbreviation IHOP became widely associated with the business, and the company officially shortened its name to IHOP in 1973. The brand continued to use the longer phrase in its identity and signage, especially through its familiar blue logo.

People sometimes expand IHOP incorrectly as “International Pancake House.” The official original name included the words “House of Pancakes,” making “International House of Pancakes” the canonical answer.