37 Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in 2025
With restaurants open on Christmas Day, there’s no need to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy festive dishes with loved ones. Sure, whipping up a homemade meal has its charm, unless you’re sweating over an overcooked ham or frantically flipping through a Christmas magazine for last-minute dinner ideas.
For those who’d rather skip the culinary mess or are traveling without family, looking into what restaurants are open on Christmas Day is the ultimate holiday hack.
Whether you’re craving a lavish three-course meal or just need a quick bite from a fast food eatery open on Christmas, we’ve got endless options to keep your holiday spirit merry and your stress levels low.
37 Popular Restaurants That Are Open on Christmas Day
1. Applebee’s
Head to Applebee’s, one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day, for a festive dining experience. You can look forward to holiday combos at this popular spot, featuring dishes like honey barbecue chicken breast and blackened Cajun salmon.
You can also pair your meal with delicious holiday cocktails. Whether dining in or ordering to-go, Applebee’s is a restaurant open on Christmas Day that's perfect for celebrating the season with family and friends.
Applebee's Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? No
- Type of Dining: Casual
- Best For: A casual meal with family or friends.
- Reservations Needed? No
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, for delivery
- Price Range: $$
- Locations: Nationwide
- Find Out More At: Applebee’s
2. Arby’s
Relish Arby’s signature roast beef sandwiches and its wide array of other meaty options. It may not be one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day, but Arby’s continues to serve up its regular menu along with a special value menu until and including December 24th. This limited-time menu includes delicious deals like the double roast beef sandwich and mozzarella sticks.
Arby's Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? No
- Type of Dining: Fast Food
- Best For: Grabbing some fast food between Christmas events.
- Reservations Needed? No
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, through the app
- Price Range: $
- Locations: Nationwide
- Find Out More At: Arby’s
3. Bar Louie
Celebrate the holidays in style at Bar Louie, one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day that embellishes its menu with more than just the regular options. This season, enjoy Bar Louie’s Steakmas-inspired holiday specials, including indulgent dishes and festive drinks that perfectly complement the season.
From the delicious three-cheese steak dip to the mouthwatering chimichurri filet, you'll be glad this is one of the restaurants open on Christmas, as the seasonal menu is sure to satisfy your hunger. Finally, nothing goes better with your meal quite like a gingerbread cookie martini or a smoked cinnamon pecan old-fashioned.
4. Benihana
Celebrate the holidays at Benihana, where teppanyaki chefs entertain while preparing sizzling hibachi-style dishes. This popular restaurant open on Christmas day serves both lunch and dinner and offers a more interactive and exciting dining experience.
You can indulge in signature dishes like the hibachi sirloin, shrimp and scallops, or try the renowned specialty sushi rolls. As is the case with most restaurants open on Christmas, reservations are recommended through OpenTable, which also applies if you're planning on visiting for Christmas Eve.
5. Bob Evans
Bob Evans is unlike most other restaurants open on Christmas Day in that it wows guests with a special holiday offering — the Farmhouse Feast. Enjoy holiday classics like slow-roasted turkey or hickory-smoked ham alongside hearty sides and desserts as ready-to-heat takeout.
You will need to order this in advance and there are four menus to choose from. Bob Evans is also open on Christmas Eve, all day, if you want to have a pre-Christmas breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Bob Evans Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? Yes
- Type of Dining: Casual
- Best For: A family dinner that can be eaten at home.
- Reservations Needed? Recommended
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, for pick-up or delivery
- Price Range: $$
- Locations: Midwest, Mid-Atlantic and Southeast
- Find Out More At: Bob Evans Farmhouse Kitchen
6. Bonefish Grill
Experience fresh seafood and a warm, inviting atmosphere at Bonefish Grill. As one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day and Eve, Bonefish Grill offers its regular menu, featuring favorites like bang bang shrimp and wood-grilled fish. Guests can also enjoy seasonal specials, such as Maker's Mark® bourbon-glazed salmon and pumpkin créme brûlée.
7. Boston Market
Treat yourself to a holiday feast at Boston Market, one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day that specializes in rotisserie meals. It offers a hearty selection of meals, including traditional holiday favorites like rotisserie chicken, turkey and ham alongside seasonal sides such as stuffing and cranberry walnut relish. For dessert, get a slice of the irresistible pumpkin pie or classic apple pie.
Boston Market Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? Yes
- Type of Dining: Casual
- Best For: A laid-back meal with friends or family.
- Reservations Needed? No
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes
- Price Range: $$
- Locations: East Coast, Midwest, Florida and Texas
- Find Out More At: Boston Market
8. Brio Italian Grille
Head to Brio Italian Grille for a festive Italian feast this Christmas! As one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day, Brio will be welcoming guests from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
You and your family can enjoy a Tuscan-inspired menu with savory pasta, tender flatbreads and rich holiday specials like chicken marsala and grilled salmon. If you'd prefer, you can also enjoy catering options for dine-in, curbside pick-up or delivery.
Brio Italian Grille Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? Yes
- Type of Dining: Upscale Casual
- Best For: A delicious Italian-style dinner with friends or family.
- Reservations Needed? Recommended
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, for pick-up
- Price Range: $$$
- Locations: Across 12 States
- Find Out More At: Brio Italian Grille
9. Buca di Beppo
Celebrate the holidays at Buca Di Beppo, where Italian classics are served family-style. While this restaurant offers its normal menu on Christmas Day, festive options like the holiday feast are available for large gatherings, perfect for those looking to indulge in delicious pasta, chicken and traditional sides. Check operating hours with your nearest restaurant, as it may vary from branch to branch.
10. Buffalo Wild Wings
Head over to Buffalo Wild Wings if you’re craving a casual fast-food spot. This restaurant that's open on Christmas Day is the ideal spot for those looking to enjoy signature wings, burgers and beer.
Be sure to try the holiday sauces or festive drink specials that are only around for a limited time. With a lively atmosphere and exciting flavors, few restaurants open on Christmas Day offer the perfect ambiance to unwind and enjoy a fun meal with friends and family like Buffalo Wild Wings does.
Buffalo Wild Wings Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? No
- Type of Dining: Fast Casual
- Best For: A casual holiday meal with friends.
- Reservations Needed? No
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, through the app
- Price Range: $
- Locations: Nationwide
- Find Out More At: Buffalo Wild Wings
11. Burger King
Swing by Burger King this holiday season if you’re craving a classic flame-grilled Whopper or other favorites that make this fast-food spot world famous. Although this is one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day, some of its locations offer limited hours, so be sure to call ahead to confirm availability.
If lip-smacking meals aren't enough, this restaurant open on Christmas Day, has also been known to celebrate the festive season with special holiday promotions like a limited-edition advent calendar and 31 days of deals for Royal Perks members.
Burger King Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? No
- Type of Dining: Fast Food
- Best For: Breakfast or a quick meal between Christmas activities.
- Reservations Needed? No
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, through the app
- Price Range: $
- Locations: Nationwide
- Find Out More At: Burger King
12. Chart House
Celebrate the holidays in style at Chart House, where breathtaking waterfront views meet exceptional seafood. If you’re looking for restaurants open on Christmas Day that offer a combination of foods from land and sea, look no further.
Chart House offers a festive three-course prix-fixe holiday menu featuring classics like slow-roasted prime rib and macadamia-crusted mahi-mahi.
If you're hoping to make the celebration even more memorable, head to Chart House for its special Christmas Eve Feast of the Seven Fishes. Be sure to book your table early at this popular restaurant open on Christmas Day to avoid missing out.
Chart House Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? Yes
- Type of Dining: Upscale Casual
- Best For: A sophisticated meal with high-quality meat and seafood.
- Reservations Needed? Yes
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, for pick-up or delivery
- Price Range: $$$
- Locations: Across 13 States
- Find Out More At: Chart House
13. Chipotle
Dig into a festive Christmas Eve meal at Chipotle, where you'll find all your favorite Mexican dishes available. Whether you're craving a burrito, bowl or tacos, the regular menu is served with no special holiday additions.
It's not one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day, but if you're looking to enjoy a delicious, quick meal on December 24th, without needing reservations, this is your go-to spot. Phone your nearest branch to enquire about operating times as most locations will be closing early on Christmas Eve.
14. Cracker Barrel
Although this popular restaurant chain isn't open on the 25th, you can still savor Southern comfort flavors at Cracker Barrel the night before. This top choice among restaurants open on Christmas Eve serves up dishes like country-fried turkey for the holiday season.
Also, check out the DIY hot chocolate bar or order a sparkling plum mimosa for a seasonal treat. Cracker Barrel also offers convenient "heat 'n serve" meals from December 21st to 28th, making it an easy pick for delicious food during the festive season.
Cracker Barrel Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? Yes
- Type of Dining: Fast Casual
- Best For: A comfort food Christmas feast with family.
- Reservations Needed? No
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, for pick-up
- Price Range: $$
- Locations: Across 43 States
- Find Out More At: Cracker Barrel
15. Del Frisco’s Grille
Taste holiday elegance at Del Frisco’s Grille, where chef-inspired dishes and private dining spaces make for one of the best Christmas date ideas. As one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day, you can relish premium offerings like wagyu chateaubriand with caviar butter and acclaimed wines.
Also, don't leave without having a taste of Santa’s Sleigh Ride, a festive cocktail featuring a blend of Jack Daniel’s, Tennessee honey and mulled wine.
Del Frisco’s Grille Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? Yes
- Type of Dining: Upscale Casual
- Best For: An elegant meal with high-end dishes and great wine.
- Reservations Needed? Yes
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, for pick-up or delivery
- Price Range: $$$
- Locations: CO, FL, MA, NJ, NY, TN, TX
- Find Out More At: Del Frisco’s Grille
16. Del Taco
Treat yourself to the convenience of Del Taco, one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day, for a fast holiday treat. While the classic menu will still be on offer, the Del App Wrapped features exclusive deals and free menu items through Christmas Eve. From tacos to crinkle-cut fries, Del Taco provides an easy, tasty break from traditional holiday fare without reservations.
17. Denny’s
Head to Denny’s if you’re looking for reliable comfort food. Known as one of the most popular choices amongst restaurants open on Christmas Day, Denny’s offers traditional dishes like its holiday turkey and dressing dinner alongside other seasonal treats. Plus, explore Christmas breakfast ideas with options like the Rudolph pancake breakfast and pumpkin pecan pancakes.
Denny's Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? Yes
- Type of Dining: Fast Casual
- Best For: A breakfast or a convenient, family-friendly meal on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
- Reservations Needed? No
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, for pick-up or delivery
- Price Range: $$
- Locations: Nationwide
- Find Out More At: Denny’s
18. Domino’s Pizza
If you feel the need to satisfy your cheesy holiday cravings, Domino’s Pizza is one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day perfect for doing just that. However, not all stores are guaranteed to be open so be sure to call and double-check with your nearest branch.
Along with classic pizza options, Domino’s is offering seasonal renditions, like The Festive One, topped with turkey, Cumberland sausage, crispy bacon and cranberry drizzle.
You can also enjoy new treats at this restaurant open on Christmas Day, like hot and cheesy dip, festive loaded fries and the sweet Twisted dough balls with chocolate and Oreo crumbs.
Domino's Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? No
- Type of Dining: Fast Food
- Best For: An easy and crowd-pleasing Christmas Day meal.
- Reservations Needed? No
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, for pick-up or delivery
- Price Range: $
- Locations: Nationwide
- Find Out More At: Domino's
19. Dunkin’
Sink into your sweet tooth with Dunkin' Donuts' festive offerings, including the Holiday Cookie Signature latte and seasonal foods like the hash brown brisket scramble. As a top choice among restaurants open on Christmas Day, Dunkin' offers both holiday-themed and regular menu items, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a cozy holiday gathering. Enjoy classics like peppermint mochas and specialty doughnuts without reservation.
20. El Torito
Enjoy festive Mexican flavors at El Torito this Christmas. While the regular menu may not be on display, a Christmas Day fixed-price menu has everything your taste buds are looking for. Plus, the vibrant atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to gather with family.
With no reservations required, El Torito is an easy choice when deciding between restaurants open on Christmas Day. If you're still not convinced, signature margaritas with a dash of holiday cheer should do the trick.
21. Fogo de Chão
Immerse yourself in a truly unique holiday dining experience at Fogo de Chão. Known for its fire-roasted meats carved tableside and an expansive market table filled with seasonal salads, soups and fresh vegetables, it stands out from most typical restaurants open on Christmas Day. Open on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, you and your loved ones can enjoy an unlimited sampling of churrasco-style meats and Brazilian specialties.
Fogo de Chão Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? No
- Type of Dining: Mid to Upscale Casual
- Best For: A Christmas Day feast with various types of meats and sides.
- Reservations Needed? Recommended
- Can You Order Ahead? No
- Price Range: $$
- Locations: Across 26 States and D.C.
- Find Out More At: Fogo de Chão
22. Hard Rock Café
Rock around the Christmas tree at Hard Rock Café, one of the most upbeat restaurants open on Christmas Day. Hard Rock Café’s seasonal offerings include a customizable two-course or three-course meal with appetizers, entrées and desserts. If you're in the mood for a family-friendly experience, check out the much-anticipated Breakfast with Santa, available on select dates in December.
23. Hardee’s
Treat your taste buds to a classic fast-food fix at Hardee's during the festive period. Although this popular spot isn't among restaurants open on Christmas Day, its hearty meals can still be enjoyed the night before, on Christmas Eve.
Fan favorites include the cinnamon and raisin biscuit and candied bacon, offering both sweet and savory options. Festive creations like the candied bacon frisco burger will also be on offer, while the comfort of the chain's familiar menu can still be enjoyed.
Hardee's Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? No
- Type of Dining: Fast Food
- Best For: A quick and tasty meal during a busy day of holiday activities.
- Reservations Needed? No
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, through the app
- Price Range: $
- Locations: Midwest and Southeast
- Find Out More At: Hardee’s
24. IHOP
Have a jolly good morning on December 25th with a stack of fluffy pancakes at IHOP, a top choice among restaurants open on Christmas Day. Along with its classic menu, IHOP offers festive holiday treats like seasonal pancakes and family feast options. Whether you're craving breakfast or hosting a holiday gathering, IHOP is ready to serve you on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
IHOP Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? No
- Type of Dining: Fast Casual
- Best For: A tasty Christmas Day breakfast.
- Reservations Needed? No
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, through the app
- Price Range: $$
- Locations: Nationwide
- Find Out More At: IHOP
25. Kona Grill
Feast on Kona Grill’s creative blend of American and global flavors this holiday season. It’s easily one of the best restaurants open on Christmas Day since it offers a festive selection of holiday specials.
Check out the prime rib surf and turf, or savor the traditional roasted turkey with miso mashed potatoes and cranberry stuffing. Plus, any of the impressive range of cocktails at this restaurant open on Christmas Day are worth adding to your meal. Go for Santa’s eggnog to make it an upbeat and refreshing celebration.
26. Legal Sea Foods
Savor fresh, high-quality ocean fare at Legal Sea Foods, the next on our list of restaurants open on Christmas Day. Alongside the regular menu, which features seafood classics like clam chowder, lobster and market-fresh fish, there will also be special holiday offerings, varying by location. Don't miss out on holiday specials, such as seasonal appetizers and starters available with a 20% discount.
27. McDonald’s
Fulfill your holiday cravings at McDonald's, one of the most iconic restaurants open on Christmas Day. This fast-food giant boasts one of the most impressive holiday menus year after year, including limited-time offerings like the double Big Mac, loaded with four juicy beef patties and Big Mac sauce.
If you're in the mood for something smaller or sweeter, go for the crispy cheese Melt Dippers with tangy tomato dip or the velvety smooth Celebrations McFlurry. Pair your meal at this restaurant open on Christmas Day with a seasonal drink like the salted caramel latte.
McDonald's Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? No
- Type of Dining: Fast Food
- Best For: A quick meal during the day.
- Reservations Needed? No
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, through the app
- Price Range: $
- Locations: Nationwide
- Find Out More At: McDonald's
28. Morton’s The Steakhouse
Dig into premium cuts of meat at Morton’s The Steakhouse. Since this is one of the fanciest restaurants open on Christmas Day, you’ll experience the pinnacle of holiday dining with its chateaubriand holiday dinner for two.
This three-course meal features a mouthwatering chateaubriand cut, served with roasted shallots and red wine. Open both on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, be sure to make a reservation for this one-of-a-kind dining experience.
Morton's The Steakhouse Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? Yes
- Type of Dining: Upscale Casual
- Best For: A sophisticated steak dinner with excellent wine pairings.
- Reservations Needed? Yes
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, for pick-up
- Price Range: $$$
- Locations: Across 22 States and D.C.
- Find Out More At: Morton’s The Steakhouse
29. Olive Garden
Relish in the delight of endless breadsticks, hearty pasta and warm hospitality at Olive Garden. Renowned for its Italian-inspired menu and family-style dining, it offers a cozy place to gather and make holiday memories.
While this isn't one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day, it’s perfect for those craving comfort classics like creamy fettuccine Alfredo or rich lasagna with loved ones on Christmas Eve.
30. Outback Steakhouse
Devour a flavorful taste of the Outback with bold steaks, seafood and iconic dishes like the Bloomin' Onion®. While most restaurants open on Christmas Day offer only regular menu options, Outback Steakhouse’s Steakmas Season menu offers special dishes such as bone-in ribeye with bourbon onion and the ever-popular chocolate tower cake. Outback will be open for both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and reservations are highly recommended.
31. P.F. Chang’s
Indulge in bold, Asian-inspired flavors this holiday at P.F. Chang’s, among the Chinese restaurants open on Christmas Day. This season, the restaurant offers a limited-time menu featuring festive dishes like flaming filet mignon wontons, chile crab and pork belly fried rice. If you’re celebrating on Christmas Eve, you might want to make a book for the Golden Feast, which centers around delicious Korean fried chicken.
32. Romano’s Macaroni Grill
Celebrate Christmas with a touch of Italian flair at Romano’s Macaroni Grill, one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. This lovely eatery will also be open on Christmas Eve from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy signature dishes like chicken scallopini or Mom’s ricotta meatballs and spaghetti. Known for scratch-made Italian cuisine, Romano's Macaroni Grill offers both dine-in and takeout options for a festive feast.
Romano’s Macaroni Grill Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? Not Confirmed
- Type of Dining: Fast Casual
- Best For: A hearty Italian feast, complete with everyone's favorite dishes.
- Reservations Needed? No
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, for pick-up or delivery
- Price Range: $$
- Locations: Across 14 States
- Find Out More At: Romano’s Macaroni Grill
33. Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Make your holiday truly memorable at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Enjoy a luxurious feast at this restaurant open on Christmas Day, featuring its signature sizzling steaks, seafood and classic sides served in an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere. Opening and closing hours will vary based on your location, so call and confirm with your nearest branch before booking for a festive gathering.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? Yes
- Type of Dining: Upscale Casual
- Best For: A high-end meal in a relaxed and friendly space.
- Reservations Needed? Yes
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, for pick-up or delivery
- Price Range: $$$
- Locations: Across 38 States and D.C.
- Find Out More At: Ruth’s Chris Steak House
34. Shoney’s
Celebrate Christmas with a comforting meal at Shoney’s, known for its hearty all-you-can-eat buffets. As one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day, Shoney’s serves up a special holiday feast featuring traditional favorites like carved ham and turkey and a wide variety of sides and desserts. Walk-ins are welcome, though reservations are encouraged for larger groups.
35. STK Steakhouse
Experience an elevated holiday meal at STK Steakhouse, one of the restaurants open on Christmas Day, where meat lovers gather enthusiastically. The seasonal menu will feature the restaurant's signature prime rib and turkey, alongside the full menu.
Popular items include dry-aged steaks and truffle fries, ensuring a luxurious dining experience. Reservations are recommended due to high demand. As well as being one of the best restaurants to open on Christmas Day, STK Steakhouse also offers a Christmas Eve feast, if the traditionalist in you likes to dine at home on the main day.
STK Steakhouse Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? Yes
- Type of Dining: Upscale Casual
- Best For: A unique meal at a trendy eatery with friends or family.
- Reservations Needed? Yes
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, for pick-up
- Price Range: $$$
- Locations: Across 14 States and D.C.
- Find Out More At: STK Steakhouse
36. Waffle House
Enjoy a warm and hearty meal at Waffle House (even if it does not include waffles). This iconic restaurant open on Christmas Day is renowned for being open 24 hours a day.
The classic menu at this restaurant features fluffy waffles, savory hash browns and other beloved breakfast staples. No reservations are needed. Just stop by for a comforting, homestyle meal to make your holiday even brighter.
Waffle House Christmas Details
- Special Christmas Menu Available? No
- Type of Dining: Fast Casual
- Best For: A tasty and nostalgic Christmas breakfast.
- Reservations Needed? No
- Can You Order Ahead? Yes, through the app
- Price Range: $$
- Locations: Across 25 States
- Find Out More At: Waffle House
37. Wendy’s
It may be reassuring to many to know that Wendy's is another popular restaurant that's open on Christmas Day! This popular restaurant chain sticks to its regular menu but throws in some seasonal twists to keep things festive. Expect classic favorites like fresh, never-frozen beef burgers and crispy chicken sandwiches alongside limited-time holiday menu items such as peppermint-themed Frosty treats.
Whether you opt for a traditional feast or crave something unique, knowing which restaurants are open on Christmas Day ensures your celebration is stress-free and delicious. No sweating over a dry turkey or scrambling to craft something Pinterest-perfect while relatives pitch in by eagerly devouring the appetizers.
Take the guesswork out of holiday plans and let someone else handle the cooking. From fine dining establishments to casual fast food spots open on Christmas, there’s no shortage of options to suit every Christmas craving.
For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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