Free apps and VIP service at their favorite bar 'n grill.

Goldman Sachs's private-equity arm is near a deal to buy closely held Apple American Group LLC, the largest franchisee of Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants in the U.S., people familiar with the matter said.

GS Capital Partners is buying Apple American from Weston Presidio Capital, which manages more than $3 billion and invests in late-stage growth companies. Weston Presidio has owned Apple American since 2005.

[WSJ]