11 Restaurant Chains Open on Thanksgiving 2025

Thanksgiving feels special when you can share a good meal without spending hours peeling, roasting, and cleaning. Sometimes cooking at home just isn’t realistic. Maybe you are traveling, hosting last-minute, working late, or simply prefer to skip the stress. The good news is that several popular restaurant chains keep their doors open, so you have options besides your own kitchen. You can sit down for a full holiday menu or grab something to go and enjoy it at home. Either way, you can enjoy the holiday without the pressure.

1. Cracker Barrel

Cracker Barrel is known for holiday dining, and you can usually count on finding a full Thanksgiving spread available for dine-in or to go. The menu typically includes sliced turkey, stuffing, gravy, sweet potato casserole, green beans, rolls, and pie, so you can enjoy a traditional holiday meal without turning on your oven. You can also order family packs if you want enough to feed a group without spending a full day in the kitchen. Hours can vary based on location, so you should confirm before heading out.

2. Applebee’s

You can stop at many Applebee’s locations on Thanksgiving if you want a casual meal. While some restaurants close, most remain open with their regular menu and sometimes add holiday specials. The relaxed atmosphere works well when you want a holiday meal without getting too formal, and you may even find lighter options if you want something other than turkey. Service is fast and friendly, and families can eat without the hassle of prep or cleanup. Make sure to check your local hours because timings can differ by franchise.

3. IHOP

IHOP gives you the option to enjoy Thanksgiving without sticking to the usual turkey and gravy. Most locations stay open and maintain regular menus, which means you can have pancakes, omelets, or burgers instead of the traditional spread. It is a great choice when you want something quick or when you have kids who may not love a full holiday meal. IHOP usually offers flexible hours, and diners appreciate the consistent prices. Because franchise rules vary, you should confirm with your local restaurant before heading out.

4. Waffle House

Waffle House is known for never closing, and Thanksgiving is no exception at most locations. You can enjoy waffles, hash browns, eggs, and coffee on the holiday with friendly service and affordable prices. This restaurant appeals to travelers, workers with odd schedules, and anyone who wants a simple meal without the big holiday fuss. Seating is counter-style and casual, which makes it a low-pressure choice. Since hours can occasionally vary by area, it is smart to check ahead before getting on the road.

5. Denny’s

Denny’s has become a reliable destination for Thanksgiving dining, and most restaurants stay open all day. You can order breakfast, lunch, or dinner at any hour, and some locations feature seasonal turkey plates with potatoes, stuffing, and vegetables. Families appreciate the availability because you do not need to rush or plan around limited time windows. Denny’s relaxed atmosphere works well when you want comfort food without cooking, and the service is generally fast. Hours can differ, so you should confirm your location first.

6. Boston Market

Boston Market has built its brand around homestyle meals, so Thanksgiving fits naturally. Many locations offer complete holiday dinners that make you feel like you are eating at home without having to prepare anything. You can order individual plates or pick up a larger meal that feeds several people. The side dishes include mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, stuffing, and other classic favorites. Availability and pickup times vary among locations, so you should check early because they often sell out during the holiday week.

7. Golden Corral

Golden Corral stays open at many locations and offers buffet-style service, which is perfect when you want options. You can enjoy turkey, ham, vegetables, potatoes, rolls, and desserts, but you can also choose from regular menu items if you feel like something different. Families like the flexibility because everyone can pick their own favorites without compromise. It is a relaxed and affordable way to celebrate without cooking. Hours and participation differ among franchises, so you should check your local restaurant first.

8. Ruby Tuesday

Ruby Tuesday is often open on Thanksgiving with a selection of regular menu items and sometimes seasonal specials. You can sit down for burgers, soup, salads, or comfort food and enjoy a slower pace than fast food without needing a reservation in most locations. It is a nice compromise when you want a sit-down meal but do not need a full traditional turkey spread. The experience varies by franchise because each owner sets hours, so you should confirm before heading out for dinner.

9. Fogo de Chão

If you want something upscale without cooking, you may be able to visit Fogo de Chão for the holiday. Many locations serve holiday menus with carved meats, salads, cheese, traditional sides, and rich desserts. It is a generous dining experience and ideal when you want a celebratory atmosphere without preparation or cleanup. The service is attentive, and you can linger over a long meal if you want a relaxed holiday outing. Reservation policies and hours differ, so you should check your nearest location early.

10. McDonald’s

Some McDonald’s locations remain open on Thanksgiving, which helps when you need something quick on the road or while traveling. You can usually expect regular menu items and drive-thru service, which is helpful if you do not have time to sit down. It might not be a traditional holiday meal, but it is practical and reliable when everything else is closed. Availability varies widely because franchise owners set hours, so you should confirm online or by phone before making the trip.

11. Starbucks

Starbucks keeps doors open at many locations and is useful if you need a warm drink, breakfast sandwich, or a quick snack. Thanksgiving mornings can feel chaotic, so you might appreciate a quiet stop before cooking, traveling, or visiting family. You can enjoy coffee, pastries, or seasonal drinks that help you ease into the holiday spirit. Hours are usually shorter, and some stores close entirely because of staffing needs, so you should check your local schedule before heading out.