Which Restaurants Open on Christmas Day? Get to Know  

This year, several restaurants open on Christmas Day.

Christmas is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to gather with family and friends for some festive cheer! This special day brings people together, whether you’re traveling to loved ones or hosting a holiday gathering at home. But let’s be honest: no celebration feels complete without delicious food to share.

If you’re wondering which restaurants will be open on Christmas Day, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve got all the details you need to find your favorite eateries, ensuring you won’t have to worry about cooking.

So, let’s dive in and discover where you can grab a tasty meal this holiday season!

Popular Restaurant Chains That Stay Open on Christmas

Christmas is a cherished holiday celebrated with joy, togetherness, and traditions that vary across cultures. Many families gather around beautifully decorated trees, exchange gifts, and prepare hearty meals, often featuring dishes like roasted turkey, ham, and an assortment of festive treats. 

While home-cooked meals have long been a staple of Christmas celebrations, dining out has become an increasingly popular trend in recent years.

So, if you want to make your Christmas Eve extra special with delightful food that is prepared in your favorite restaurants. Let’s check the below list and know which restaurant chains are open on Christmas day at limited hours. 

Applebee

This holiday season, Applebee’s will be open on Christmas Day across the USA, welcoming you with warm smiles and festive cheer! Hours may vary by location, so be sure to check ahead.

Enjoy their special holiday-themed menu, crafted to make your Christmas celebration even more memorable. 

Here’s a sneak peek at the festive offerings you can enjoy at Applebee’s this Christmas.

Menu Item	Availability	Price	Description
Cranberry Margarita	1st Dec – 25th Dec	$6.99	A refreshing margarita with cranberry juice and lime garnish
Candy Cane Martini	Only Christmas day	$8.50	Creamy vanilla martini with a candy cane rim
Peppermint Cheesecake Slice	Entire holiday season	$8.99	Creamy cheesecake topped with crushed peppermint candies
Holiday Ribs Combo	On Christmas Eve	$19.99	Juicy ribs served with cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and slaw
Cheesecake Dessert Platter	Entire holiday season	$ 8.99	Seasonal cheesecake with peppermint sprinkles

Bar Louie 

Make this holiday season truly special by celebrating with Bar Louie. Host an unforgettable holiday party by choosing their catering services. For orders of $150 or more, enjoy a free dessert bar. 

Offer Details

• Available for orders placed by December 30
• Use promo code: SLEIGH24 to claim your free dessert!

This December, indulge in their two festive drink flavors, perfect for a holiday escape.

• The Diva: ​A delightful mix of SKYY Pineapple, Pama Liqueur, pineapple, and pomegranate.
• NEW! Royal Red Sangria: A refreshing blend of Crown Royal Apple, Disaronno Amaretto, Josh Cellars Cabernet, orange, lemon, lime, and Fever-Tree sparkling grapefruit.

IHOP

This Christmas, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a festive feast at IHOP? Known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious meals, this beloved restaurant chain will be open on Christmas but business hours may vary by location. They serve up a mouthwatering special holiday menu that’s sure to bring joy to your table.

What’s on their Festive Menu?

IHOP offers Christmas deals on food, including:

• Gingerbread Pancakes: A warm, spiced treat that captures the essence of the holidays.
• Chocolate Peppermint Pancakes: A sweet and minty twist that’s perfect for the festive season.
• Wonka-Inspired Menu: Dive into a whimsical selection that’s sure to delight the inner child in everyone!

Plus, don’t miss out on the Gift Card Bonus of IHOP. It is a perfect way to spread the holiday cheer. 

Olive Garden 

Olive Garden will be open during its regular hours on Christmas Eve, allowing guests to enjoy a festive dining experience with family and friends. Whether you’re craving their signature pasta dishes, fresh salads, or delicious desserts, Olive Garden provides a welcoming atmosphere to celebrate the holiday. 

Popeyes 

Popeyes, the renowned fast-food chain, has introduced two exciting offerings: the Festive Family Box and the Midday Mardi Gras Happy Hour. 

The Festive Family Box “bundles the best of Popeyes,” featuring four pieces of Bone-In Signature Chicken, four Chicken Tenders, four regular sides, and four Buttermilk Biscuits.

Popeyes chicken is marinated in a delightful blend of Louisiana herbs and seasonings, then hand-battered and breaded in a crispy Southern coating, and fried to golden perfection. This convenient all-in-one meal is available for a limited time at U.S. locations for just $20.

The Festive Family Box is designed to simplify mealtime, offering a much-needed break from the hustle of holiday meal planning and preparation. With multiple protein options and customizable sides, it ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy exactly what they desire.

Why Choose to Dine Out on Christmas?

60% of customers say that during the holidays, they plan to dine out at a restaurant, while 50% want to order delivery or takeout for a gathering at home.

Below are the reasons why people choose to dine out on Christmas. 

Convenience

The shift toward eating out on Christmas Day reflects changing lifestyles and preferences. Instead of spending hours in the kitchen, families and friends can enjoy the convenience and luxury of a festive meal at a restaurant, freeing up time to focus on creating memorable moments together. 

Variety of Options 

Celebrating Christmas dinner at a restaurant offers a delightful variety of food options, making your festive occasion truly special. You can enjoy a wide selection, including:

• Buffets: Enjoy an expansive spread featuring diverse dishes to satisfy every palate.
• Traditional Dishes: Savor classic holiday favorites that raise the spirit of the season.
• Other Options: Explore unique culinary creations and seasonal specialties to make your dining experience memorable.

Support Local Businesses 

Dining out during the holidays also provides an opportunity to support local businesses. 88% of customers believe that ordering a meal from a restaurant is a good way to contribute to their community’s economy during the festive season. This choice enhances the holiday spirit.

Festive Atmosphere

Restaurants often go all out in decorating for the holiday season, creating a beautiful and festive atmosphere. The ambiance enhances the dining experience, allowing people to immerse themselves in the spirit of Christmas while enjoying their meals.

Types of Restaurants Open on Christmas Day

During the holiday season, many people are looking for convenient dining options on Christmas Day. Many spots placed the “closed” sign on the 25th, while many restaurants are open on Christmas Day. 

Here are several types of restaurants that remain open to cater to festive cravings. 

Fast Food Chains

Fast food restaurants open on Christmas Eve, providing a quick and satisfying meal for those who crave familiar favorites. Whether it’s a burger, fries, or a chicken sandwich, these establishments ensure that fast food lovers can enjoy their food without the hassle of cooking.

Waffle House, Dunkin’ Donuts, and Burger King are famous fast food places for those craving comfort food.

Steakhouses

For those looking to enjoy a hearty meal, steakhouses are a popular choice on Christmas Day. These restaurants offer a delicious escape from holiday cooking, serving up juicy meat in a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s a great way to gather with family and friends without the stress of meal preparation.

Chinese Restaurants

Chinese cuisine has become a beloved tradition for many families during the holidays. On Christmas, Chinese restaurants often see a huge customer line. From savory dumplings to traditional dim sum, these restaurants offer a unique culinary experience.

Other Restaurants

In addition to fast food, steakhouses, and Chinese eateries, various other restaurants may also remain open on Christmas. From Italian eateries to casual diners, there are plenty of options for those looking to enjoy a meal outside of the home.

No matter your preference, these dining establishments ensure that everyone can find a delicious meal to enjoy during the festive season. 

Tips for Finding Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve in Your Area

With restaurants open on Christmas Day, you can skip the long hours in the kitchen and enjoy festive meals with your loved ones. While there’s a certain charm to preparing a homemade feast, it can quickly turn stressful especially if you’re dealing with an overcooked ham or frantically searching for last-minute dinner ideas in a magazine.

If you’d prefer to avoid the culinary mess and order your holiday meal online, here are some helpful tips to find restaurants that are open on Christmas Day.

• Visit Restaurant Websites and Apps: Check the official websites or apps of local restaurants to see their Christmas hours and any special offerings.
  
• Call Restaurants Directly: Reach out to restaurants by phone to inquire about their holiday hours whether they will be open on Christmas Day.
  
• Use Food Delivery Apps: Explore popular food delivery services like Foodpanda, UberEats, and DoorDash to find out which restaurants are available for delivery on Christmas.
  
• Check Online Hours: Before heading out, it’s worth double-checking holiday hours, as some places may have adjusted schedules. Look for the restaurant’s hours of operation on their online profiles or social media pages to confirm if they are open on Christmas.

FAQs

1. Is Applebee’s open on Christmas Day?

Applebee’s locations operate on Christmas Day, but hours may vary by location. It’s best to check with your local restaurant for specific hours.

2. Is Starbucks working on Christmas?

Starbucks locations often open on Christmas Day, but hours can vary by store. It’s recommended to check with your local Starbucks for their specific schedule.

3. What is the most common thing to eat on Christmas?

The most common Christmas meal varies by region, but traditional dishes often include roasted turkey or ham, mashed potatoes, and various festive desserts like gingerbread cookies or fruitcake.

4. What time should Christmas dinner be served?

Christmas dinner is served in the early to late evening, often around 5 PM to 7 PM, but this can vary based on family traditions and regional customs.

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