50 Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving This Year

While we love the tradition and togetherness of Thanksgiving, the reality of cooking the feast can be overwhelming. The planning, the shopping, the hours in the kitchen, and the mountain of dishes afterwards can leave you feeling more drained than grateful.
What if you could reclaim the holiday this year?

Imagine a Thanksgiving where the only thing you cook is a new memory. A growing tradition for many is to skip the stress and let professional chefs handle the meal by choosing a restaurant for Thanksgiving. It’s a simple trade: you get to focus entirely on laughter and connection, and they handle the rest.

This guide is your key to a truly relaxing celebration. I’ve curated a list of wonderful restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day, from cozy family spots to elegant fine dining, to help you find the perfect place for a stress-free Thanksgiving meal you’ll remember fondly.

Why Choose a Restaurant for Thanksgiving Dinner?

Benefits of Dining Out Instead of Cooking

The decision to have a restaurant Thanksgiving takeout offers liberating advantages that extend far beyond simply avoiding kitchen duty. Choosing a restaurant for your Thanksgiving dinner reservations can transform your holiday experience in several meaningful ways.

First, it's an unparalleled time-saver. The average home cook spends over seven hours preparing a Thanksgiving meal – time that could be spent catching up with loved ones, watching the big game, or simply relaxing. When you choose full-service Thanksgiving dining, you reclaim this precious time. There's no week-of menu planning, no stressful last-minute grocery runs for forgotten ingredients, and no frantic calculations for turkey cooking times.

Secondly, restaurants offer professional expertise and consistency. The Thanksgiving dinner specials you'll enjoy are prepared by skilled chefs who have perfected their recipes. Your turkey will be cooked precisely to temperature, your sides will be expertly seasoned, and your desserts will be bakery-quality. 

Furthermore, Thanksgiving at restaurants provides a change of scenery that can make the holiday feel truly special. A beautifully decorated restaurant creates an immediate festive atmosphere without you needing to hang a single decoration. This is particularly beneficial for smaller households or those who find traditional preparations overwhelming. 

What to Expect From Thanksgiving Menus

When considering what restaurants open on Thanksgiving, you might wonder if restaurant menus can capture the traditional spirit of the holiday. Rest assured that most establishments crafting Thanksgiving lunch specials strike a careful balance between tradition and innovation.

Traditional menus typically feature roast turkey as the centerpiece, often with creative twists like herb-infused brines or special glazes. This is accompanied by classic sides: stuffing/dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole. Many restaurants also include autumn-inspired salads, rolls with butter, and of course, pumpkin pie for dessert.

However, the modern holiday dinner menu 2026 offerings often expand beyond these basics. You'll frequently find alternative main courses like prime rib, honey-baked ham, or roasted duck for those who want the festive experience without the traditional turkey. Seafood options like salmon or lobster tail sometimes appear on upscale menus, and vegetarian/vegan offerings have become increasingly common.

Top National Restaurant Chains Open on Thanksgiving

For many Americans, national chains offer a reliable, familiar option for Thanksgiving dining. These establishments typically offer special Thanksgiving meal deals alongside their regular menus, providing something for everyone in your party.

Cracker Barrel Thanksgiving Specials

Cracker Barrel has built its reputation on homestyle cooking that feels like grandma's kitchen, making it a natural fit for Thanksgiving. Their Thanksgiving buffet options typically feature roast turkey with cornbread dressing and cranberry sauce, complemented by a choice of sides like their famous hashbrown casserole, sweet potato casserole, and green beans. The meal concludes with a slice of pumpkin pie. The restaurant's rustic decor and rocking chair-lined porch add to the cozy, traditional atmosphere that many seek on the holiday.

Image credit: Cracker Barrel

Denny's Holiday Menu and Hours

Denny's position as America's diner makes it a welcoming spot for Thanksgiving, particularly for those seeking a more casual approach to the holiday. While their restaurant Thanksgiving offerings vary by location, they often feature a special turkey platter with all the trimmings. The advantage of Denny's is their round-the-clock operation – perfect for families whose Thanksgiving timing doesn't fit the traditional afternoon meal. Their Thanksgiving 2026 restaurant hours typically remain their normal 24/7 schedule, making them one of the most accessible restaurants open Thanksgiving night.

Applebee's Festive Dinner Options

Applebee's often crafts special dine-in Thanksgiving meals that bring festive flavors to neighborhoods across the country. Their approach typically includes a turkey dinner with stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, and cranberry sauce, but they also usually offer a honey-glazed ham option. The neighborhood bar and grill atmosphere provides a comfortable, celebratory environment that's perfect for families with members of different ages. Their car-side to-go option is also worth investigating if you prefer open restaurants near me on Thanksgiving.

IHOP's Seasonal Offerings

While primarily known for breakfast, many IHOP food places open for Thanksgiving with special offerings that might include turkey and stuffing pancakes or a more traditional holiday plate. Their versatility makes them an excellent choice for families who prefer breakfast foods any time of day: imagine enjoying pumpkin spice pancakes alongside your turkey!

Image credit: IHOP

Waffle House: A Classic Holiday Spot

If you're looking to break from tradition entirely, remember this: the yellow sign of a Waffle House is a beacon of consistency, shining 365 days a year. It's one of the most reliable open on Thanksgiving restaurants you'll find. It’s the place where you can find comfort in a familiar hashbrown-smothered meal, shared with travelers on the road, first responders on a break, and fellow non-conformists who believe that gratitude tastes just as good on a waffle as it does on a porcelain plate.

Casual Dining Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving

TGI Fridays Festive Menu

TGI Fridays is a savior for families with mixed tastes. They offer a festive three-course Thanksgiving meal with clever twists on classics, like herb-roasted turkey with apple-cranberry compote. The best part? Their entire regular menu of burgers and apps is also available, perfect for picky eaters. This flexibility also makes them a great option for restaurants open Thanksgiving night when you're craving a more casual, post-feast bite.

Olive Garden Holiday Hours

While Olive Garden doesn't typically serve a traditional Thanksgiving turkey dinner, many locations remain open with their regular Italian menu, making it a popular alternative for those who prefer pasta to poultry. Their never-ending first courses – salad and breadsticks – feel appropriately festive and abundant for a holiday meal. For families looking to break from tradition while still enjoying a generous, celebratory meal, Olive Garden represents an excellent “where to eat on Thanksgiving” option.

Image credit: Olive Garden

Red Lobster Thanksgiving Options

Red Lobster is among the list of seafood-centric restaurants serving Thanksgiving. Many locations remain open on Thanksgiving with their regular menu, featuring their famous endless shrimp promotion when available, along with wood-grilled fish, lobster tails, and of course, Cheddar Bay Biscuits. For those who want the best of both worlds, some locations may offer a limited Thanksgiving plate alongside their seafood selections, ensuring everyone at the table finds something to enjoy.

Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants Serving on Thanksgiving

For those seeking an elevated holiday experience, the best places for Thanksgiving dinner offer sophisticated atmospheres, exceptional service, and culinary excellence that transforms the meal into a true celebration.

Ruth's Chris Steak House Holiday Menu

For a truly luxurious Thanksgiving, Ruth's Chris Steak House delivers. Enjoy their signature multi-course feast, choosing between classic roast turkey with all the trimmings or their famous sizzling steaks. It's the perfect upscale, memorable option for those seeking restaurants near me that are open on Thanksgiving.

The Capital Grille Thanksgiving Dinner

If you're asking, "Who's serving Thanksgiving dinner near me that feels truly special?" – The Capital Grille should be at the top of your list. They offer a luxurious, multi-course feast in a sophisticated setting with impeccable service. Your meal might begin with a complimentary amuse-bouche before you choose between exquisite options like traditional roast turkey, a sophisticated dry-brined turkey, or their legendary dry-aged steaks. Every entrée is accompanied by traditional sides, and the experience culminates with decadent desserts.

Seasons 52 Seasonal Feast

If you're wondering, "Are there any restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day that won't leave me in a food coma?" – let me introduce you to Seasons 52. Their entire philosophy is built around fresh, seasonally inspired dishes, making Thanksgiving a perfect fit. You'll still get that beautiful roasted turkey with all the classic sides, each with a chef's elegant touch. The real magic is that their entire menu is cleverly crafted to be under 595 calories, so you can savor every course of your holiday feast and still feel fantastic afterward. 

Beyond these national upscale chains, don't overlook local fine dining establishments in your area. Restaurants like The Raymond 1886 in Pasadena offer "a delightful three-course feast" that showcases local flavors and chef-driven interpretations of Thanksgiving classics. 

This same spirit of discovery applies to all kinds of cuisine. If you're craving something different this year, a quick search for what Chinese restaurants are open on Thanksgiving can reveal fantastic local options for a festive and non-traditional meal.

READ ALSO

Stanley New Release - Latest Products, Tools & Gear

Target Drive Up Hours - Pickup Times & Store Availability

Family-Friendly Restaurants Open for Thanksgiving

When dining with children, the definition of a successful Thanksgiving meal expands to include factors like noise tolerance, menu flexibility, and overall atmosphere. These family restaurants open on Thanksgiving understand that joy sometimes comes with a side of chaos.

Golden Corral Buffet Options

For families with diverse tastes or hearty appetites, Golden Corral's Thanksgiving buffet options are often a popular choice. The extensive spread typically includes roasted turkey, ham, beef, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, sweet potato casserole, and a vast array of other sides and desserts. The buffet format allows everyone to choose their favorites and create their perfect plate, while the casual atmosphere means no one needs to worry about children getting restless.

Boston Market Traditional Meals

When you're wondering, "Who is serving Thanksgiving dinner in my area?" without any fuss, Boston Market is a wonderfully straightforward answer. They've built their entire brand on delivering that classic, home-cooked Thanksgiving feeling every single day. Their meals typically feature their signature rotisserie turkey with cornbread stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and vegetable sides.

Bob Evans Classic Dinners

Bob Evans' farm-fresh ethos translates perfectly to Thanksgiving, where they typically offer complete family-style meals for pickup or dine-in. Their Thanksgiving feast usually includes whole roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, green beans with ham, cranberry relish, and pumpkin pie. Their reputation for consistency and value makes them a trusted choice for Thanksgiving dinner reservations year after year.

Fast Food and Quick-Service Options on Thanksgiving

While not traditional, quick-service food places open for Thanksgiving fill an important niche for those needing a simple meal, traveling long distances, or working on the holiday.

McDonald's and Burger King Holiday Hours

Thanksgiving hours at McDonald's and Burger King vary significantly by location and ownership, with many closing entirely or operating with reduced hours. Some locations, particularly those in travel plazas or hospitals, may remain open with regular menu service. It's essential to call your local restaurant ahead of time rather than assuming they'll be open. For those seeking a quick, affordable, and familiar meal on Thanksgiving, these options can provide nourishment when other fast food options open on Thanksgiving night might be closed.

Image credit: McDonald's

Starbucks and Dunkin' Seasonal Drinks

While primarily beverage-focused, many Starbucks and Dunkin' restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day, often with reduced hours. They provide welcome caffeine fixes for those starting early with holiday preparations or needing a break from family time. Their seasonal offerings – like pumpkin spice lattes, caramel apple spices, and holiday-themed baked goods – can themselves become small Thanksgiving traditions for many.

Tips for Dining Out on Thanksgiving Day

How to Make a Reservation in Advance

Begin your research at least two to three weeks before the holiday, as popular spots fill quickly. When calling, ask specific questions about menu options, pricing, deposit requirements, and cancellation policies. Many restaurants require pre-orders or offer special menus for Thanksgiving, so understanding the requirements beforehand prevents surprises. If you have special dietary needs, mention them when reserving – chefs often appreciate advance notice for significant modifications.

Best Times to Visit for Shorter Waits

Thanksgiving dining typically follows predictable patterns, with the busiest periods occurring between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM – traditional dinner times for many families. Consider booking earlier lunches (11:00 AM to 1:00 PM) or later dinners (after 5:00 PM) for a more relaxed experience with potentially better service. And for those of you wondering about breakfast open on Thanksgiving near me, a mid-morning meal is a brilliant strategy to miss the main dinner rush entirely. If your chosen spot doesn't take reservations, these off-peak times are absolutely essential for getting a table without a long, hungry wait.

How to Save Money With Thanksgiving Deals

While restaurant dining typically costs more than home cooking, strategic approaches can maximize value. Look for early bird specials or prix fixe menus that often bundle courses at a better value than ordering à la carte. Some restaurants offer Thanksgiving lunch specials at lower prices than dinner service. Consider Thanksgiving buffet options at mid-range establishments, which often provide excellent value, especially for larger appetites. For those truly budget-conscious, some grocery chains like Walmart offer complete Thanksgiving meal deals "serving 10 people for less than $4.00 per person", though these require home preparation.

READ ALSO

Your Ultimate Guide to the Ulta Hair Event: Everything You Need to Know

Shopping Smarter with Shipt: Tips for Maximizing Your Experience

Why Gen Z is Bringing Stanley Back in Style

Final Thoughts: Where to Enjoy a Stress-Free Thanksgiving Meal

The quest for restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day reveals an incredible diversity of options to suit every preference, from asian restaurants open on Thanksgiving to fine dining establishments creating unforgettable holiday experiences. The common thread binding these choices is the opportunity to focus on gratitude and togetherness rather than on the burdens of meal preparation and cleanup.

Whether you choose the homestyle comfort of Cracker Barrel, the sophisticated ambiance of a steakhouse, the family-friendly buffet at Golden Corral, or even the non-traditional approach of Chinese restaurants open on Thanksgiving, what matters most is the shared experience with loved ones. The perfect Thanksgiving isn't defined by a perfectly browned turkey or flawlessly executed sides, but by the laughter, conversation, and connections fostered around the table.

Last Blog

Published 3 days ago 243

Published 3 days ago 262

Published 3 days ago 243

Published 3 days ago 262