41 Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving Day in 2024
If you don’t want to cook a meal yourself, you may be wondering what restaurants are open on Thanksgiving. While this special holiday is all about gathering around the table and sharing a great meal with friends and family, cooking for a large group of people can be stressful and expensive. Therefore, picking up take-out or planning a dinner at one of the numerous restaurants open on Thanksgiving appeals to many.
Best of all, there are many options to choose from, including upscale restaurants serving traditional Thanksgiving meals, fast food places for quick bites and fast-casual restaurants offering something different for the holiday, such as a multi-course Chinese meal.
No matter why you’re searching for restaurants open on Thanksgiving day, this list is here to help with the 41 most popular places open on Thanksgiving this year.
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What Restaurants Are Open on Thanksgiving?
When envisioning Thanksgiving activities, dining out at a restaurant may not be on top of your list. In fact, many people will center the entire holiday around cooking a traditional meal and may not realize dining out is an option. Yet, despite what you might think, there are many different types of restaurants open on Thanksgiving day, from fast food places to fast-casual eateries and even upscale restaurants.
If you’re just looking for a quick bite to eat, the majority of fast food restaurants are open on Thanksgiving. On the other hand, if you’re aiming to make your Thanksgiving dinner a memorable experience, you can reserve a table at a fine dining restaurant. With the latter option, you’ll find that most eateries are serving regular high-end menus and a special Thanksgiving menu complete with all the traditional Thanksgiving foods.
Holiday reservations at upscale places are often highly coveted and they fill up quickly, so be sure to make a reservation in advance. For any other type of restaurant open on Thanksgiving, make sure to check opening times before heading out because many establishments have holiday operating hours that are different from their usual hours.
What Fast Food Restaurants Are Open on Thanksgiving?
As mentioned, there are numerous fast-food restaurants open on Thanksgiving, with the majority of big names being open and ready to serve all your favorite dishes. McDonalds, Burger King and Popeye’s are just a few among the large list of fast food restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day.
Keep in mind that some fast food restaurants open on Thanksgiving only offer drive-through service or may have limited operating hours, so call ahead if you want to be sure your local fast food restaurant is open on Thanksgiving.
Is Cracker Barrel Open on Thanksgiving?
This homestyle restaurant is open on Thanksgiving, allowing you to enjoy all your favorite Southern foods. Cracker Barrel also offers special seasonal menu items during the holiday months, including a full Thanksgiving meal that’s available for dine-in and take-out.
Is Denny’s Open on Thanksgiving?
Craving a hot stack of pancakes and a fresh-brewed cup of joe this holiday season? If so, you’ll be able to head to Denny’s on Thanksgiving day. While this chain of restaurants is open on Thanksgiving in most cases, be sure to confirm with your local Denny's as certain locations may be closed or have special holiday hours. Many locations will also be serving a Thanksgiving feast if you want something traditional.
41 Popular Restaurants That Are Open on Thanksgiving Day
1. Bob Evans
Experience the comforting flavors of a home-cooked meal at Bob Evans Farmhouse Kitchen. This popular chain restaurant that's open on Thanksgiving offers the regular dinner menu as well as lunch and breakfast options. Bob Evans also serves four different Thanksgiving meals, all of which are available for pick-up, allowing you to dine at home without doing the cooking.
2. Applebee’s
Celebrate Thanksgiving at your friendly neighborhood grill! Applebee’s is not only open on Thanksgiving but also doesn’t require reservations. However, note that certain locations may have reduced opening hours. While there doesn't appear to be a Thanksgiving meal, you'll be able to enjoy all your favorite regular Applebee's dishes when dining here for the holiday.
3. Boston Market
Trade the turkey for chicken at this next restaurant that’s open on Thanksgiving. Boston Market offers fresh grilled chicken and savory sides. Along with the regular menu items, there will be some seasonal dishes and accompaniments on offer like stuffing, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie.
You can even get Thanksgiving meal catering, which involves collecting a prepared Thanksgiving meal to enjoy at home. If planning to dine at Boston Market, do note the restaurant will have special holiday hours, so check the exact opening and closing times before heading out for your meal.
4. Arby’s
Craving a cheesy, beefy sandwich on turkey day? If so, you’ll be pleased to hear that Arby’s is another of the restaurants open on Thanksgiving. It’s open for both dine-in and drive-through service and will be serving the regular menu. Although there's no holiday special, it's a good place to drop in for a quick pick-me-up between Thanksgiving activities.
5. Buffalo Wild Wings
Get wild this Thanksgiving at Buffalo Wild Wings! This popular sports bar and restaurant is open all day on Thanksgiving and will be serving the full regular menu of crispy, saucy wings and fried accompaniments. Buffalo Wild Wings is also a great spot to catch the Thanksgiving Day football games thanks to the multiple jumbo flatscreens at every location.
6. White Castle
Dine like a king this holiday at this next fast food restaurant open on Thanksgiving! White Castle is open all day on Thanksgiving and will be serving juicy burgers and cheesy sliders with a smile. The drive-through and dining room will both be open during holiday hours, making it a highly convenient option for good, quick eats.
7. Popeye’s
Craving crispy chicken and zesty flavors of Louisiana? Popeye’s is another of many fast food restaurants open on Thanksgiving. When dining here, you can replace the turkey with fried chicken or fried fish, both of which can be accompanied by sides like mac and cheese and mashed potatoes with gravy.
Don’t want to miss out on turkey? No problem! For the holidays only, you can get a Popeye’s turkey complete with Cajun seasoning which you can serve next to all the classic Popeye’s sides. This item is pre-order though, so get one reserved if you want to enjoy this Thanksgiving dish.
8. Burger King
If you’re after some filling, grab-and-go food this Thanksgiving, you’ll be pleased to learn that Burger King is open throughout the holiday. This classic fast-food restaurant will be serving its regular menu, with both drive-through and counter service available. The majority of outlets will also be serving the full Burger King breakfast menu. However, some locations may have shortened hours, so check before you visit.
9. Golden Corral
Partake in a Thanksgiving meal with a wide variety of options at Golden Corral. This restaurant is open for Thanksgiving and is serving a piping hot buffet. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner menus of all-you-can-eat fare, with both regular menu dishes and a few Thanksgiving specials on offer.
Like some other restaurants open on Thanksgiving, Golden Corral also offers a full holiday meal to-go. Serving six to eight diners, it features a turkey, glazed ham or pork roast, plus traditional sides and a whole pie.
10. Domino's
Sometimes you just need a slice of cheesy pizza, even on Thanksgiving! As one of the most popular pizza chains, it’s not surprising that most Domino's restaurants are open on Thanksgiving. Both carry-out and delivery will be available for your convenience. Whether it’s your main meal or a snack before or after a cooked Thanksgiving dinner, all your Domino's favorites will be up for grabs throughout the day.
11. IHOP
Start your Thanksgiving morning with the perfect breakfast at IHOP. America’s ‘House of Pancakes’ is one of the multiple breakfast places open on Thanksgiving and is ready to serve up fluffy flapjacks, waffles, breakfast platters and more.
If you’re hungry later in the day, most locations will also be serving lunch and dinner menu items like burgers, steak dinners and sandwiches. Holiday hours may be in effect at your local IHOP, so be on the lookout for special information.
12. Hardee’s
Get wrapped up in goodness at Hardee’s! This is another of the fast food restaurants open on Thanksgiving that will be serving meals from breakfast through dinner, including biscuit sandwiches, juicy burgers and crispy fries. Whether you get Thanksgiving breakfast at Hardee’s or stop in for a mid-day or late-night burger, this chain is a great choice for a flavorful snack this holiday season.
13. Waffle House
Dig into a syrupy stack at Waffle House for a filling and tasty Thanksgiving breakfast. This restaurant is open on Thanksgiving from early in the morning and offers all the regular menu items. Dining at Waffle House is quick, easy and delicious, making it another of the best breakfast places open on Thanksgiving to stop by.
14. McDonald’s
You can order up the most famous fast food in the world this holiday season as McDonald’s is another of the restaurants open on Thanksgiving. Many locations will have amended hours in effect but the McDonald’s breakfast, lunch and dinner menus will all be available. So whether this is your main meal or you’re picking up a snack between events, you can indulge in all the most popular McDonald’s items no matter where you are or what you’re doing this Thanksgiving.
15. Starbucks
The holidays are no time to cut back on caffeine, and luckily, most Starbucks locations will be open for the holiday. The coffee chain will offer the full regular menu on Thanksgiving, plus Starbucks holiday menu food and drinks to get you in the festive spirit. If your nearby location has a drive-through, it will likely be open as well, but be sure to check as some locations will only be offering at-counter ordering.
16. Ruby Tuesday
Dive into seafood, juicy burgers and baby back ribs at Ruby Tuesday. As one of the many affordable restaurants open on Thanksgiving, Ruby Tuesday is the perfect place to enjoy a fast-casual meal of American fare. There are also some yummy fall menu items to try like pumpkin cheesecake. Do note that this eatery doesn’t usually take reservations and may have shortened hours for the holiday.
17. Sizzler
Veer away from holiday traditions and opt for a steak dinner at Sizzler, another of the restaurants conveniently open on Thanksgiving. Dig into hand-cut steaks served with loaded baked potatoes. You can even go all out and add lobster to your order and most locations will have a turkey dinner on offer if you want traditional dishes. Reservations are not required at Sizzler but hours may be reduced at certain locations.
18. Sonic
Celebrate Thanksgiving at “America’s Drive-In” this year. Sonic is another fast food restaurant open on Thanksgiving, serving up popular favorites like burgers, chili cheese dogs and custom drinks. Sonic may have holiday hours in effect, so check with your nearest location before visiting.
19. TGI Fridays
Thank God it’s Thanksgiving! Celebrating Turkey Day at your local TGI Fridays is a great choice as the vast menu means there’s something for everyone. Live it up with cold beer, saucy wings and famous loaded potato skins. This is also another of the restaurants open on Thanksgiving that will have the football games on multiple big-screen TVs.
20. Subway
Get a festive footlong this Thanksgiving at Subway, another convenient grab-and-go restaurant open on Thanksgiving. Enjoy custom Subway breakfast options, sandwiches, cookies and all the other regular menu items at your local Subway. There are also quite a few healthy items at Subway, making this a great place to stop in if you’re looking for a low-calorie pick-me-up between Thanksgiving events.
21. Chart House
Impress your family and friends with an unforgettable view at Chart House. This upscale seafood restaurant is open on Thanksgiving and will be serving a special three-course menu for the holiday. You can also order regular Chart House menu dishes if you don’t want to go for the special Thanksgiving menu. Reservations are recommended at this establishment but standard operating hours shouldn't be affected by the holiday.
22. Denny’s
As mentioned earlier, beloved diner chain Denny’s will be open on Thanksgiving, with many locations being open 24 hours. Whether you start Thanksgiving day with breakfast at Denny’s, grab a full meal or pick up before- or after-Thanksgiving dinner snacks to enjoy with the game, you can count on this chain’s comfort food classics being as good as ever. In the past, Denny’s has also offered Thanksgiving special dishes, but the return of these items this year has not yet been confirmed.
23. Del Frisco’s Grille
Looking for a swankier restaurant serving Thanksgiving dinner? If so, you’ll want to book a table at Del Frisco’s Grille this holiday season where you can indulge in gourmet American fare. The regular menu will be on offer and features holiday-worthy dishes like steak, truffled mac and cheese with lobster, crab cakes and heritage pork chops.
Most locations will also have a special Thanksgiving menu with all the classic dishes. While this high-end restaurant is open on Thanksgiving, be sure to make reservations and call ahead for location-specific information regarding holiday menu items.
24. Eddies V’s
Celebrate the fall feast of thanks with a sophisticated meal at Eddie V’s. This upscale joint is known for its innovative menu filled with high-quality ingredients and top-notch service. Specially for the holidays, there will be an affordable Thanksgiving meal available complete with turkey and all the trimmings, plus pie for dessert.
The full regular menu will also be available. Just make a reservation to secure your table as this high-end spot is a popular place to dine for those who want to leave the cooking to someone else.
25. Maggiano’s Little Italy
Shake things up this Thanksgiving with a family-style Italian meal everyone will love. Maggiano’s Little Italy is an upscale casual eatery serving its seasonal fall menu on Thanksgiving Day. There’s also a special Thanksgiving menu available for carry-out if you want to dine at home without doing the actual cooking. If eating at the restaurant, don’t forget to make a reservation.
26. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar
Experience prime steaks and an eclectic wine selection at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar. This upscale chain is one of many steakhouse restaurants open on Thanksgiving. It will be serving a special three-course menu of Thanksgiving favorites with the full dinner menu available as well. Reservations are highly recommended if you plan to visit on the holiday.
27. McCormick and Schmick’s
Enjoy the fresh flavors of the Pacific Northwest at McCormick and Schmick’s this holiday season. Discover succulent seafood, mouthwatering steaks and craft cocktails while spending time with your family over a great meal. In addition to the regular menu, McCormick and Schmick’s will be serving a traditional turkey dinner complete with classic sides. Be sure to reserve your table soon to avoid missing out.
28. Morton’s Steakhouse
Savor the good life at Morton’s Steakhouse. This is another upscale steakhouse restaurant open on Thanksgiving that’s the ideal place to go if you want to celebrate in style without the stress of hosting.
This year, Morton’s is serving an innovative three-course Thanksgiving menu. It will feature classic dishes like autumn salad, butternut squash bisque and turkey with stuffing, potatoes and green bean casserole, plus pumpkin pie cheesecake to finish. As with other high-end restaurants open on Thanksgiving, be mindful to reserve your table in advance.
29. Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Luxuriate in classic fine dining at Ruth’s Chris Steak House for your Thanksgiving gathering this year. You'll get to experience immaculate hospitality and perfectly cooked steaks when celebrating at this iconic chain. Ruth’s Chris will be serving a three-course Thanksgiving feast as well as the regular dinner menu, offering something for everyone.
30. Season’s 52
Enjoy an artisan-inspired Thanksgiving meal at Season’s 52. This popular restaurant that’s open on Thanksgiving will be serving a multi-course menu of Thanksgiving classics. The holiday meal is available for dine-in or to-go. Dishes include roasted turkey, brioche stuffing and both mashed Yukon potatoes and sweet potatoes. There’s also an excellent selection of wine for Thanksgiving to accompany your feast.
31. STK Steakhouse
Swap turkey for award-winning steaks at STK Steakhouse. Catch a vibe while enjoying a great meal at this swanky restaurant known for its lively DJs, high-end service and curated experiences. Alongside the regular menu, this restaurant that’s open on Thanksgiving usually serves a special menu with turkey and all the fixings.
32. Sullivan’s Steakhouse
Leave the cooking to the professionals and enjoy a steak at Sullivan’s Steakhouse this Thanksgiving. This fine dining restaurant has an upscale dress code and sophisticated décor that combine to make celebrating here feel extra special. Sullivan’s will be serving a roasted turkey dinner Thanksgiving menu as well as the full regular dinner menu.
33. Red Lobster
Celebrate Thanksgiving with tasty shrimp, gourmet lobster and famous Cheddar Bay biscuits at Red Lobster. This classic casual chain will be serving its regular menu on Thanksgiving Day, allowing you to enjoy a seafood feast. Keep in mind that not every Red Lobster takes reservations, so assume you'll be seated on a first-come first-serve basis.
34. Black Angus Steakhouse
Cut into the dry-aged steak of your dreams at Black Angus Steakhouse. As with many other steakhouse restaurants open on Thanksgiving, Black Angus will be offering its regular à la carte menu and a special Thanksgiving menu for you to enjoy with your family this holiday.
35. Brio Italian Grill
Make your Thanksgiving stress-free with a trip to Brio Italian Grill. This lively restaurant is open on Thanksgiving throughout the day and will be serving up Italian favorites as well as a special Thanksgiving menu. The holiday menu, featuring turkey, sides and dessert, can also be collected to eat at home.
36. Romano’s Macaroni Grill
Dive into Italian comfort classics that make you feel right at home at Romano’s Macaroni Grill. This homey Italian eatery is serving its classic menu on Thanksgiving day, so gather around with the family and enjoy all your favorites. Romano’s will also be serving a multi-course Thanksgiving meal if you’d rather stick with the classics and reservations are encouraged no matter which menu you choose to indulge in.
37. Fogo de Chão
Put the feast in Thanksgiving with an all-you-can-eat meat fest at Fogo de Chão. This popular Brazilian steakhouse is known for its savory grilled meats carved tableside that can be enjoyed alongside a vast selection of sides. Fogo de Chão is serving its regular menu of fire-roasted churrasco meats on Thanksgiving Day.
38. Cracker Barrel
You can enjoy a Southern-style Thanksgiving meal at Cracker Barrel this year as the comfort food restaurant is open on Thanksgiving. The regular menu will be available alongside a Thanksgiving menu which includes turkey, classic sides and pie. You can also order the full Thanksgiving menu for pick-up to dine at home.
39. Steak ‘n Shake
Fill up on the original steak burger at Steak ‘n Shake. This fast food restaurant open on Thanksgiving will be offering the regular menu complete with juicy burgers, old-fashioned hand-spun milkshakes and delicious chili cheese fries to brighten up your holiday with flavor.
40. Pei Wei Asian Kitchen
Craving made-to-order Chinese food this Thanksgiving? Pei Wei will be open for business and serving up all your favorite dishes. While most locations will have normal operating hours, make sure to double-check the holiday operating hours for your nearest outpost of this popular Chinese restaurant chain before visiting.
41. Local Chinese Restaurants
In the past, Chinese restaurants were the only restaurants open on Thanksgiving. While this is not the case anymore, most local Chinese restaurants, including standalone local eateries and national chains, will be open on Thanksgiving Day. Support your favorite Asian eatery this holiday season by indulging in a delicious meal with family and friends, whether you dine in or take out. Just be sure to call ahead to ensure the location is open before visiting.
Thanksgiving is a special holiday to spend time with loved ones and what better way to make the most of time together than by skipping the stress of cooking and dining out? Whether you’re looking for breakfast places open on Thanksgiving, high-end eateries or anything in between, this list of the top restaurants open on Thanksgiving is essential reading to discover the perfect place for your holiday meal.
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