What Restaurants Are Open on Thanksgiving? Your Ultimate Guide for 2025
Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and gratitude. While many people spend the holiday at home, cooking a traditional feast, others prefer to dine out or order takeout. Whether you’re traveling, hosting guests, or simply want to skip the stress of cooking, knowing what restaurants are open on Thanksgiving can be a lifesaver. This guide will help you find the best dining options for Thanksgiving 2025.
Why Do Some Restaurants Stay Open on Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel days of the year, and many people are away from home or simply prefer not to cook. As a result, several restaurants across the country stay open to serve those looking for a meal away from home. But why do some restaurants remain open?
Convenience for Travelers and Locals
Not everyone can make it home for the holiday, and those traveling often need a convenient meal option. Restaurants that remain open on Thanksgiving help meet this demand, offering travelers and local residents an opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of cooking.
Alternative to Home-Cooked Meals
For some people, cooking a large Thanksgiving meal at home can be overwhelming. Restaurants offer a way to enjoy a Thanksgiving feast without all the preparation and cleanup. Many restaurants even offer pre-prepared Thanksgiving meals to go, allowing customers to enjoy a stress-free holiday at home.
Special Holiday Menus
Many restaurants that stay open on Thanksgiving offer a special holiday menu featuring classic Thanksgiving dishes, including turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. These festive menus allow diners to indulge in the traditional flavors of the season without having to spend hours in the kitchen.
Popular Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving Day 2025
Several national restaurant chains remain open on Thanksgiving Day, offering a wide range of dining options from fast food to sit-down restaurants. Below, we’ve listed some of the most popular chains that are expected to be open on Thanksgiving this year. Remember, hours may vary depending on location, so it’s always a good idea to check ahead or make a reservation.
Fast-Food Chains Open on Thanksgiving
If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, these fast-food chains are likely to be open on Thanksgiving:
1. McDonald’s
McDonald’s is known for its convenience and fast service, making it a popular choice for those looking for a quick bite on Thanksgiving Day. Most locations will remain open, but hours may vary, so it’s best to check with your local restaurant.
2. Burger King
Many Burger King locations stay open on Thanksgiving, offering their signature Whoppers and other menu items. Depending on the location, some may have reduced hours, so call ahead to confirm.
3. Popeyes
For those craving something a little different, Popeyes will likely remain open, serving its famous fried chicken, biscuits, and sides. Some locations may offer special holiday deals, so it’s worth calling to check availability.
4. Wendy’s
Wendy’s is another popular fast-food chain that stays open on Thanksgiving. Whether you’re craving a burger or chicken nuggets, Wendy’s can provide a quick and satisfying meal. Call ahead for hours.
5. Arby’s
Arby’s, with its famous roast beef sandwiches, is also likely to stay open on Thanksgiving Day. Hours may vary by location, so it’s a good idea to confirm before heading out.
Sit-Down Chains Open on Thanksgiving
If you’re looking for a more traditional Thanksgiving meal with all the fixings, several sit-down restaurants will offer special holiday menus. Here are some of the most popular:
1. Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel is a favorite for Thanksgiving dining. The restaurant typically offers a special Thanksgiving meal, including turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. Reservations are recommended, as this is a popular spot for families.
2. Boston Market
Boston Market is known for its rotisserie chicken and home-style sides. On Thanksgiving, many locations offer a full Thanksgiving dinner, complete with turkey, stuffing, gravy, and pies. Boston Market also offers takeout options for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home.
3. Denny’s
Denny’s is known for being open 24/7, including holidays like Thanksgiving. If you’re in the mood for a diner-style meal, you can enjoy a turkey dinner with all the traditional sides. Denny’s typically offers a special Thanksgiving menu, making it a great choice for those looking for comfort food.
4. Maggiano’s Little Italy
If you’re in the mood for Italian food with a Thanksgiving twist, Maggiano’s Little Italy offers a special holiday menu. You can enjoy classic Thanksgiving dishes alongside their Italian specialties, making it a perfect choice for those who want something a little different this year.
5. The Cheesecake Factory
The Cheesecake Factory is a popular choice for those seeking a festive meal with a variety of options. Many locations offer a Thanksgiving menu featuring turkey, stuffing, and other classic dishes. Be sure to call ahead for availability and hours.
6. Ruth’s Chris Steak House
If you’re looking for an upscale dining experience, Ruth’s Chris Steak House typically remains open on Thanksgiving. They offer a special holiday menu, including turkey, steak, and classic sides. Reservations are strongly encouraged, as this is a popular choice for those seeking a high-end dining experience.
Upscale Dining Options Open on Thanksgiving
If you’re in the mood for a more refined holiday experience, these upscale restaurants typically offer a Thanksgiving feast:
1. Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse
Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse is known for its luxurious atmosphere and fine dining. On Thanksgiving, they typically offer a holiday menu that includes traditional Thanksgiving dishes as well as premium steak options.
2. Eddie V’s
Eddie V’s is another upscale restaurant that stays open on Thanksgiving. If you’re in the mood for seafood, Eddie V’s offers a seafood-focused Thanksgiving menu with options like lobster and crab, alongside traditional turkey and sides.
Local and Independent Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving
In addition to national chains, many local and independent restaurants also remain open on Thanksgiving. These may include family-owned diners, cafes, and regional favorites. Here are some ways to find local dining options:
1. Check Local Listings
Many cities or regions have local dining guides or websites that list restaurants open on holidays. Websites like Yelp, OpenTable, and Google Reviews often provide up-to-date information on hours and availability.
2. Call Ahead
It’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm if your local favorite will be open. Some independent restaurants may have special hours, limited menus, or require reservations.
3. Look for Hotel Restaurants
Many hotel restaurants remain open on Thanksgiving, offering special holiday meals to both guests and the general public. These can be great places to dine out if you’re traveling or looking for something elegant.
How to Plan for Thanksgiving Dining Out
If you’re planning to dine out or get takeout on Thanksgiving, here are some helpful tips:
1. Make Reservations Early
Many restaurants fill up quickly on Thanksgiving, especially those offering holiday menus. Be sure to make reservations well in advance to secure your spot. If your chosen restaurant accepts online reservations, take advantage of that feature.
2. Check for Special Holiday Hours
Since Thanksgiving is a holiday, many restaurants may have adjusted hours. It’s always a good idea to check with your local restaurant to confirm their hours of operation.
3. Order Takeout or Pre‑Order Thanksgiving Meals
If you prefer to enjoy your Thanksgiving meal at home, consider ordering takeout or pre‑ordering a full Thanksgiving dinner. Many restaurants, such as Boston Market and Cracker Barrel, offer complete holiday meals that you can enjoy at home with minimal preparation.
4. Be Prepared for Limited Menus
While some restaurants offer full Thanksgiving spreads, others may have limited menus. If you’re looking for a specific dish or meal, be sure to check ahead or ask the restaurant about their Thanksgiving menu offerings.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving is a time for family, celebration, and food, but not everyone wants to spend hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick fast-food meal, a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, or an upscale dining experience, there are plenty of restaurants open on Thanksgiving to satisfy your cravings. From fast food chains like McDonald’s and Popeyes to sit-down favorites like Cracker Barrel and The Cheesecake Factory, there’s something for everyone this holiday.
Before you head out, be sure to check local hours, make a reservation if necessary, and confirm any special holiday menus. No matter how you choose to celebrate Thanksgiving 2025, there are plenty of delicious options to enjoy without the stress of cooking at home.
