Restaurants Open Christmas Day: Your Ultimate Dining Guide for 2025
Christmas is a time of celebration, family, and delicious food. While many people enjoy the tradition of cooking and sharing meals at home, not everyone has the time or desire to spend hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re traveling, hosting a small gathering, or simply want to enjoy a hassle-free holiday meal, knowing which restaurants are open on Christmas Day can make your celebration stress-free.
If you’re wondering what restaurants will be open this Christmas, look no further. We’ve compiled a list of popular restaurants that typically remain open on Christmas Day 2025, so you can enjoy a festive meal without the fuss.
Why Are Some Restaurants Open on Christmas Day?
While many restaurants close their doors on Christmas Day to allow employees to spend time with their families, some stay open to serve customers. The reasons why certain restaurants remain open on Christmas Day vary, but here are a few common ones:
1. Accommodating Travelers
Christmas is a busy travel time, and many people are away from home or on vacation. Restaurants that stay open on Christmas Day provide travelers with an option to enjoy a meal while they’re away from home.
2. Alternative to Home Cooking
For some families, cooking a large Christmas meal can be stressful and time-consuming. Dining out offers a hassle-free alternative, allowing families to enjoy a traditional holiday meal without the stress of cooking and cleaning.
3. Special Holiday Menus
Many restaurants that stay open on Christmas Day offer a special holiday menu, featuring classic Christmas dishes like roast turkey, prime rib, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and seasonal desserts. These menus often provide a festive dining experience, perfect for celebrating the holiday.
Popular Restaurants Open on Christmas Day 2025
Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a fancy holiday feast, several well-known restaurants will be open on Christmas Day. Here’s a list of popular chain restaurants that typically remain open on Christmas Day. Be sure to call your local restaurant ahead of time, as hours and availability can vary.
Fast Food Chains Open on Christmas Day
If you’re looking for a quick meal or snack on Christmas Day, several fast food chains stay open. These are great for grabbing a bite on the go.
1. McDonald’s
McDonald’s is known for being open year-round, including Christmas Day. While hours may vary, most locations will offer a full menu of breakfast and lunch items.
2. Burger King
Many Burger King locations remain open on Christmas Day, offering their classic Whoppers, fries, and other favorites. Always check with your local restaurant for specific hours.
3. Popeyes
Popeyes is another fast food chain that often stays open on Christmas Day. If you’re craving fried chicken, biscuits, and Cajun-style sides, Popeyes is a great option.
4. Wendy’s
Wendy’s locations are usually open on Christmas Day, serving burgers, fries, and other fast food staples. Check local hours to confirm availability.
5. Arby’s
If you’re craving roast beef or turkey sandwiches on Christmas Day, many Arby’s locations will be open. They often serve their regular menu, including their famous curly fries.
Sit-Down Chains Open on Christmas Day
If you’re looking for a more traditional holiday meal, many sit-down restaurants will be open on Christmas Day. Here are some popular sit-down chain restaurants that typically serve a festive meal on Christmas.
1. Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel is a popular choice for Christmas Day dining. They offer a special holiday menu with classic dishes like turkey and dressing, ham, mashed potatoes, and seasonal desserts. It’s a cozy, family-friendly option for Christmas Day meals.
2. Boston Market
Known for its rotisserie chicken and home-style sides, Boston Market offers a holiday feast on Christmas Day. Their menu typically includes turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, and pies, making it a great place for a comforting Christmas meal.
3. Denny’s
Denny’s is famous for being open 24/7, including holidays like Christmas. On Christmas Day, they offer a special holiday menu with options like turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a diner-style meal.
4. Maggiano’s Little Italy
Maggiano’s Little Italy offers family-style dining and is open on Christmas Day in many locations. While their menu includes Italian specialties, they typically offer a special Christmas menu featuring turkey, stuffing, and other holiday favorites.
5. The Cheesecake Factory
The Cheesecake Factory is open on Christmas Day and often offers a special holiday menu featuring traditional Christmas dishes, along with their regular menu. It’s an upscale option for those seeking a festive meal.
6. Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Ruth’s Chris Steak House is known for its upscale dining and is open on Christmas Day. Their holiday menu includes prime rib, steak, and other holiday specialties, making it a great option for a more elegant Christmas meal.
Upscale Dining Options Open on Christmas Day
If you’re looking for an upscale dining experience, several high-end restaurants remain open on Christmas Day, offering a luxurious holiday feast.
1. Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse
Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse is a high-end chain that offers an upscale Christmas dinner. Their holiday menu typically includes steak, prime rib, and classic holiday sides. Make a reservation early, as these restaurants tend to get busy.
2. Eddie V’s
Eddie V’s offers a seafood-focused Christmas menu, along with traditional holiday dishes like prime rib. Known for its elegant atmosphere, Eddie V’s is a great choice for a special holiday meal.
3. The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille is another upscale restaurant open on Christmas Day. Their special holiday menu features prime steak, lobster, and other delicious options. Reservations are highly recommended.
Local and Independent Restaurants Open on Christmas Day
In addition to national chains, many local and independent restaurants stay open on Christmas Day. These can include neighborhood diners, regional favorites, and hotel restaurants. Here are some ways to find local options:
1. Check Local Listings
Many cities and towns provide local dining guides or websites that list restaurants open on holidays. Websites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and OpenTable often have up-to-date information about holiday hours.
2. Call Ahead
It’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm if your favorite independent restaurant will be open on Christmas Day. Some restaurants may have special hours, limited menus, or require reservations.
3. Hotel Restaurants
If you’re staying at a hotel or resort, check with their in-house restaurant. Many hotel restaurants stay open on Christmas Day, offering special holiday menus to both guests and the general public. These are great options for travelers or those looking for a more refined dining experience.
How to Plan for Christmas Day Dining Out
If you plan to dine out or order takeout on Christmas Day, here are some tips to ensure you have a smooth experience:
1. Make Reservations Early
Many restaurants fill up quickly on Christmas Day, especially those offering special holiday menus. Be sure to make reservations well in advance, as some popular spots may have limited availability.
2. Check for Special Holiday Hours
Since Christmas is a holiday, many restaurants have adjusted hours. Be sure to check the hours of operation for the restaurant you plan to visit. Some restaurants may have earlier closing times or limited menu options.
3. Order Takeout or Pre‑Order Holiday Meals
If you prefer to enjoy a meal at home, many restaurants offer pre‑ordered Christmas meals or takeout options. These meals often include everything from roast turkey to mashed potatoes, making it easy to enjoy a festive meal without the hassle of cooking.
4. Confirm Special Menus
Many restaurants offer a special Christmas menu with traditional dishes. Be sure to check in advance to confirm what will be available. If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, it’s a good idea to ask about menu options ahead of time.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a traditional holiday feast, or an upscale dining experience, there are plenty of restaurants open on Christmas Day to choose from. From fast food options like McDonald’s and Burger King to sit-down favorites like Cracker Barrel and The Cheesecake Factory, there’s something for everyone.
Be sure to call ahead, make reservations, and confirm holiday hours to ensure a smooth dining experience. And if you prefer to enjoy your meal at home, consider ordering takeout or pre‑ordering a Christmas meal. No matter how you celebrate, dining out on Christmas Day can provide a stress-free and enjoyable holiday meal.
