20 Chain Restaurants Open Nationwide on Christmas
The twinkling lights, the soft hum of carols, and the scent of pine and cinnamon wafting through the air – Christmas is truly a magical time of year. For many, it’s a day of unwrapping presents, sharing laughter, and indulging in hearty feasts with family and friends. Yet, preparing that sumptuous Christmas meal can be daunting, especially for those hosting large gatherings or those not inclined to spend the day in the kitchen. Moreover, travelers, people away from family, or those simply looking for a change in tradition might find themselves wondering, “Where can we dine out on Christmas Day?”
If you’re nodding in agreement or if the mere thought of doing dishes sends a shiver down your spine, you’re in for a treat. A number of national restaurant chains have recognized the need for festive dining options outside the home and remain open on Christmas Day, serving everything from breakfast pancakes to elegant steak dinners.
In this blog, we’re about to embark on a culinary journey across the USA, unearthing 20 popular chain restaurants that keep their doors open and kitchens bustling even on December 25th. Whether you’re in the mood for Asian flavors, traditional American fare, or a caffeine kick to power through the day, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, relax, let the professionals handle the cooking, and focus on what truly matters – cherishing moments with loved ones.
Why Many Choose to Dine Out on Christmas
While the image of a home-cooked Christmas feast, set amidst twinkling lights and adorned with festive delicacies, is deeply ingrained in our collective cultural psyche, an increasing number of people are choosing to dine out on this special day. But what’s driving this shift?
First and foremost, convenience plays a pivotal role. With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, from shopping marathons to attending back-to-back parties, many find it a relief to have a meal prepared, served, and cleared away by someone else. No need to plan a menu, grocery shop, or wake up at the crack of dawn to get the turkey in the oven. Plus, there’s the undeniable allure of a kitchen that remains spotless post-feast.
Then there’s the matter of skills and space. Not everyone feels confident preparing a meal for a large gathering, and not every home is equipped with a dining area fit for a big family. Dining out provides an equalizing platform where everyone can enjoy a delicious meal without the constraints of culinary skills or space.
For travelers or those far from home, dining out becomes more of a necessity than a choice. Whether they’re on a business trip, vacation, or just away from family, many prefer the warm ambiance of a restaurant to the solitude of room service in a hotel.
Lastly, dining out offers a change of pace. Some families make it a new tradition, a break from the routine, a chance to sample different cuisines, or just an opportunity to step out, see the city lights, and feel the festive spirit in the air.
The List: 20 Chain Restaurants Open on Christmas
- Denny’s
Open Hours: 24/7
Why Visit: A classic American diner, Denny’s provides a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of yesteryears. If you’re seeking a traditional yet casual setting for your Christmas meal, this is the place.
Dish to Try: The Holiday Turkey & Dressing Dinner is a festive favorite.
Locations: Virtually everywhere, including major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and many more. - IHOP
Open Hours: 7am – 10pm (hours may vary by location)
Why Visit: Pancakes for Christmas? Why not! IHOP offers a unique blend of breakfast and dinner options suitable for all palates.
Dish to Try: The Frosted Mint Hot Chocolate and Red Velvet Pancakes.
Locations: Nationwide, from San Francisco to Miami. - Waffle House
Open Hours: 24/7
Why Visit: For a Southern twist to your Christmas meal, head to Waffle House. Its inviting ambiance is perfect for both families and solo diners.
Dish to Try: Pecan Waffles with a side of hash browns, “scattered, smothered, and covered”.
Locations: Predominantly in the South but stretching to parts of the Midwest and Northeast. - Boston Market
Open Hours: 11am – 10pm
Why Visit: Craving a traditional Christmas roast but without the hassle? Boston Market’s rotisserie style meals can fill that void.
Dish to Try: The Christmas Day Meal featuring hand-carved ham or turkey.
Locations: Across major cities and suburbs from coast to coast. - Buca di Beppo
Open Hours: 11am – 10pm
Why Visit: For a festive Italian feast, Buca di Beppo offers family-style servings in a fun, communal setting.
Dish to Try: The Christmas Lasagna paired with a Tiramisu for dessert.
Locations: Widely distributed, including spots like Seattle, Dallas, and Orlando. - Applebee’s
Open Hours: 11am – 12am (hours may vary by location)
Why Visit: Known for its friendly ambiance and varied menu, Applebee’s provides a fusion of traditional and modern American dishes.
Dish to Try: The Bourbon Street Steak paired with their special Christmas dessert, a Peppermint Brownie Sundae.
Locations: Nationwide, in both urban and suburban locations. - Buffalo Wild Wings
Open Hours: 11am – 11pm
Why Visit: For those who prefer a more laid-back Christmas dinner, Buffalo Wild Wings offers a sporty vibe and a vast array of wing flavors.
Dish to Try: Honey BBQ wings and a festive Christmas Ale.
Locations: From the East Coast to the West Coast, in major cities and college towns. - Cracker Barrel
Open Hours: 7am – 9pm
Why Visit: This old country store and restaurant offer a rustic and nostalgic dining experience, perfect for families and friends looking for homestyle meals.
Dish to Try: The Country Fried Turkey or their famous Christmas Ham.
Locations: Predominantly in the Southern and Midwestern states, but branching out nationally. - Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Open Hours: 12pm – 10pm
Why Visit: For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, Ruth’s Chris provides a luxurious setting with premium steaks and wines.
Dish to Try: The Filet and Lobster Tail combo with a side of Sweet Potato Casserole.
Locations: Major cities including Atlanta, Denver, Boston, and more. - Golden Corral
Open Hours: 10am – 8pm
Why Visit: A buffet-style restaurant, Golden Corral offers a plethora of choices from salads to desserts, ensuring everyone gets their favorite dish.
Dish to Try: The carved turkey and the famous Chocolate Wonderfall fountain.
Locations: Spread across the country from North to South and East to West. - Olive Garden
Open Hours: 11am – 10pm
Why Visit: Transport yourself to Italy this Christmas by enjoying classic Italian dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Dish to Try: The Tour of Italy – a sampler of their most loved dishes. Don’t forget the endless breadsticks!
Locations: Across all major states and cities. - Ruby Tuesday
Open Hours: 11am – 10pm
Why Visit: With its diverse menu and salad bar, Ruby Tuesday offers a blend of traditional and innovative dishes.
Dish to Try: The Hickory Bourbon Salmon or their Triple Prime Burger.
Locations: From New York to California and everywhere in between. - P.F. Chang’s
Open Hours: 11am – 11pm
Why Visit: Ditch the traditional and go for an Asian-inspired Christmas meal. P.F. Chang’s brings authentic Asian cuisine in a contemporary setting.
Dish to Try: The Mongolian Beef or the festive Christmas Spring Rolls.
Locations: Mostly in urban centers and popular mall locations across the country. - Red Lobster
Open Hours: 11am – 10pm
Why Visit: Seafood lovers rejoice! Red Lobster offers a variety of seafood dishes perfect for a special Christmas dinner.
Dish to Try: The Ultimate Feast which gives you a bit of all the classics.
Locations: Coast to coast, especially popular in coastal cities. - Perkins
Open Hours: 7am – 10pm
Why Visit: Offering both hearty meals and baked goods, Perkins is ideal for those looking for a casual yet satisfying dining experience.
Dish to Try: The turkey and stuffing dinner or their special Christmas pie.
Locations: Nationwide, often found near highways and in suburban areas. - Hardee’s
- Open Hours: Hours can vary widely, but many locations might operate from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Why Visit: Hardee’s offers hearty fast-food options, especially for those craving big, flavorful burgers or breakfast items on the go.
- Dish to Try: Their Thickburgers, especially the “Monster Thickburger”, are a must-try. For breakfast, their biscuits are very popular.
- Locations: Hardee’s chains are primarily located in the Southeast and Midwest regions of the U.S.
- Domino’s
- Open Hours: Many Domino’s locations open from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. on Christmas Day, but this can vary.
- Why Visit: If you’re not in the mood to cook or just want a casual pizza night with family, Domino’s provides both pickup and delivery options.
- Dish to Try: While their pizzas are the main attraction, their stuffed cheesy bread and chicken wings are great add-ons. Consider their ExtravaganZZa Feast pizza for a topping-packed option.
- Locations: Domino’s has numerous locations throughout the U.S., making it one of the most accessible pizza delivery options.
-
- Open Hours: Some locations are open 24 hours, but many will have limited hours on Christmas Day, often from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Why Visit: For those wanting a quick bite or craving classic fast-food flavors on Christmas, Burger King provides an easy and familiar option.
- Dish to Try: The Whopper is their signature, but their Chicken Fries have also been a hit. Don’t forget about their seasonal Oreo peppermint milkshake during the holidays!
- Locations: Burger King chains are spread all over the U.S. in almost every city and town.Burger King
- Boston Market
Open Hours: 11am – 8pm
Why Visit: For those seeking a traditional Christmas meal without the hassle of cooking, Boston Market offers rotisserie meals that feel home-cooked.
Dish to Try: The Rotisserie Turkey Breast or the Holiday Ham, paired with classic side dishes.
Locations: Scattered throughout both the East and West coasts and also the Midwest. - Chili’s
Open Hours: 11am – 10pm
Why Visit: Ideal for those craving Tex-Mex on Christmas, Chili’s offers a variety of spicy dishes in a fun, casual setting.
Dish to Try: The Classic Ribeye Steak paired with a festive Margarita or the Christmas Quesadilla.
Locations: Nationwide, in cities, towns, and suburban locations.
Tips for Dining Out on Christmas
Dining out on Christmas can be a delightful experience, allowing you to bask in the holiday cheer without the stress of preparing a meal at home. However, it requires a tad bit of planning. First and foremost, always make a reservation in advance, as many restaurants can be fully booked during the festive season. It’s equally important to check the special Christmas menu, if any, to set your expectations right.
Don’t shy away from asking about any holiday deals or festive additions, as many restaurants offer unique dishes or drinks to mark the occasion. Remember to dress appropriately, considering the establishment’s ambiance and any potential dress codes. Given the busy nature of the season, ensure you allot enough time for the meal and don’t rush — enjoy the experience. Lastly, considering the staff are working on a holiday, leaving a generous tip is not only a kind gesture but also a way to spread the holiday spirit.
Conclusion
20 Chain Restaurants Open Nationwide on Christmas
The twinkling lights, the soft hum of carols, and the scent of pine and cinnamon wafting through the air – Christmas is truly a magical time of year. For many, it’s a day of unwrapping presents, sharing laughter, and indulging in hearty feasts with family and friends. Yet, preparing that sumptuous Christmas meal can be daunting, especially for those hosting large gatherings or those not inclined to spend the day in the kitchen. Moreover, travelers, people away from family, or those simply looking for a change in tradition might find themselves wondering, “Where can we dine out on Christmas Day?”
If you’re nodding in agreement or if the mere thought of doing dishes sends a shiver down your spine, you’re in for a treat. A number of national restaurant chains have recognized the need for festive dining options outside the home and remain open on Christmas Day, serving everything from breakfast pancakes to elegant steak dinners.
In this blog, we’re about to embark on a culinary journey across the USA, unearthing 20 popular chain restaurants that keep their doors open and kitchens bustling even on December 25th. Whether you’re in the mood for Asian flavors, traditional American fare, or a caffeine kick to power through the day, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, relax, let the professionals handle the cooking, and focus on what truly matters – cherishing moments with loved ones.
Why Many Choose to Dine Out on Christmas
While the image of a home-cooked Christmas feast, set amidst twinkling lights and adorned with festive delicacies, is deeply ingrained in our collective cultural psyche, an increasing number of people are choosing to dine out on this special day. But what’s driving this shift?
First and foremost, convenience plays a pivotal role. With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, from shopping marathons to attending back-to-back parties, many find it a relief to have a meal prepared, served, and cleared away by someone else. No need to plan a menu, grocery shop, or wake up at the crack of dawn to get the turkey in the oven. Plus, there’s the undeniable allure of a kitchen that remains spotless post-feast.
Then there’s the matter of skills and space. Not everyone feels confident preparing a meal for a large gathering, and not every home is equipped with a dining area fit for a big family. Dining out provides an equalizing platform where everyone can enjoy a delicious meal without the constraints of culinary skills or space.
For travelers or those far from home, dining out becomes more of a necessity than a choice. Whether they’re on a business trip, vacation, or just away from family, many prefer the warm ambiance of a restaurant to the solitude of room service in a hotel.
Lastly, dining out offers a change of pace. Some families make it a new tradition, a break from the routine, a chance to sample different cuisines, or just an opportunity to step out, see the city lights, and feel the festive spirit in the air.
The List: 20 Chain Restaurants Open on Christmas
- Denny’s
Open Hours: 24/7
Why Visit: A classic American diner, Denny’s provides a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of yesteryears. If you’re seeking a traditional yet casual setting for your Christmas meal, this is the place.
Dish to Try: The Holiday Turkey & Dressing Dinner is a festive favorite.
Locations: Virtually everywhere, including major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and many more. - IHOP
Open Hours: 7am – 10pm (hours may vary by location)
Why Visit: Pancakes for Christmas? Why not! IHOP offers a unique blend of breakfast and dinner options suitable for all palates.
Dish to Try: The Frosted Mint Hot Chocolate and Red Velvet Pancakes.
Locations: Nationwide, from San Francisco to Miami. - Waffle House
Open Hours: 24/7
Why Visit: For a Southern twist to your Christmas meal, head to Waffle House. Its inviting ambiance is perfect for both families and solo diners.
Dish to Try: Pecan Waffles with a side of hash browns, “scattered, smothered, and covered”.
Locations: Predominantly in the South but stretching to parts of the Midwest and Northeast. - Boston Market
Open Hours: 11am – 10pm
Why Visit: Craving a traditional Christmas roast but without the hassle? Boston Market’s rotisserie style meals can fill that void.
Dish to Try: The Christmas Day Meal featuring hand-carved ham or turkey.
Locations: Across major cities and suburbs from coast to coast. - Buca di Beppo
Open Hours: 11am – 10pm
Why Visit: For a festive Italian feast, Buca di Beppo offers family-style servings in a fun, communal setting.
Dish to Try: The Christmas Lasagna paired with a Tiramisu for dessert.
Locations: Widely distributed, including spots like Seattle, Dallas, and Orlando. - Applebee’s
Open Hours: 11am – 12am (hours may vary by location)
Why Visit: Known for its friendly ambiance and varied menu, Applebee’s provides a fusion of traditional and modern American dishes.
Dish to Try: The Bourbon Street Steak paired with their special Christmas dessert, a Peppermint Brownie Sundae.
Locations: Nationwide, in both urban and suburban locations. - Buffalo Wild Wings
Open Hours: 11am – 11pm
Why Visit: For those who prefer a more laid-back Christmas dinner, Buffalo Wild Wings offers a sporty vibe and a vast array of wing flavors.
Dish to Try: Honey BBQ wings and a festive Christmas Ale.
Locations: From the East Coast to the West Coast, in major cities and college towns. - Cracker Barrel
Open Hours: 7am – 9pm
Why Visit: This old country store and restaurant offer a rustic and nostalgic dining experience, perfect for families and friends looking for homestyle meals.
Dish to Try: The Country Fried Turkey or their famous Christmas Ham.
Locations: Predominantly in the Southern and Midwestern states, but branching out nationally. - Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Open Hours: 12pm – 10pm
Why Visit: For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, Ruth’s Chris provides a luxurious setting with premium steaks and wines.
Dish to Try: The Filet and Lobster Tail combo with a side of Sweet Potato Casserole.
Locations: Major cities including Atlanta, Denver, Boston, and more. - Golden Corral
Open Hours: 10am – 8pm
Why Visit: A buffet-style restaurant, Golden Corral offers a plethora of choices from salads to desserts, ensuring everyone gets their favorite dish.
Dish to Try: The carved turkey and the famous Chocolate Wonderfall fountain.
Locations: Spread across the country from North to South and East to West. - Olive Garden
Open Hours: 11am – 10pm
Why Visit: Transport yourself to Italy this Christmas by enjoying classic Italian dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Dish to Try: The Tour of Italy – a sampler of their most loved dishes. Don’t forget the endless breadsticks!
Locations: Across all major states and cities. - Ruby Tuesday
Open Hours: 11am – 10pm
Why Visit: With its diverse menu and salad bar, Ruby Tuesday offers a blend of traditional and innovative dishes.
Dish to Try: The Hickory Bourbon Salmon or their Triple Prime Burger.
Locations: From New York to California and everywhere in between. - P.F. Chang’s
Open Hours: 11am – 11pm
Why Visit: Ditch the traditional and go for an Asian-inspired Christmas meal. P.F. Chang’s brings authentic Asian cuisine in a contemporary setting.
Dish to Try: The Mongolian Beef or the festive Christmas Spring Rolls.
Locations: Mostly in urban centers and popular mall locations across the country. - Red Lobster
Open Hours: 11am – 10pm
Why Visit: Seafood lovers rejoice! Red Lobster offers a variety of seafood dishes perfect for a special Christmas dinner.
Dish to Try: The Ultimate Feast which gives you a bit of all the classics.
Locations: Coast to coast, especially popular in coastal cities. - Perkins
Open Hours: 7am – 10pm
Why Visit: Offering both hearty meals and baked goods, Perkins is ideal for those looking for a casual yet satisfying dining experience.
Dish to Try: The turkey and stuffing dinner or their special Christmas pie.
Locations: Nationwide, often found near highways and in suburban areas. - Hardee’s
- Open Hours: Hours can vary widely, but many locations might operate from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Why Visit: Hardee’s offers hearty fast-food options, especially for those craving big, flavorful burgers or breakfast items on the go.
- Dish to Try: Their Thickburgers, especially the “Monster Thickburger”, are a must-try. For breakfast, their biscuits are very popular.
- Locations: Hardee’s chains are primarily located in the Southeast and Midwest regions of the U.S.
- Domino’s
- Open Hours: Many Domino’s locations open from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. on Christmas Day, but this can vary.
- Why Visit: If you’re not in the mood to cook or just want a casual pizza night with family, Domino’s provides both pickup and delivery options.
- Dish to Try: While their pizzas are the main attraction, their stuffed cheesy bread and chicken wings are great add-ons. Consider their ExtravaganZZa Feast pizza for a topping-packed option.
- Locations: Domino’s has numerous locations throughout the U.S., making it one of the most accessible pizza delivery options.
-
- Open Hours: Some locations are open 24 hours, but many will have limited hours on Christmas Day, often from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Why Visit: For those wanting a quick bite or craving classic fast-food flavors on Christmas, Burger King provides an easy and familiar option.
- Dish to Try: The Whopper is their signature, but their Chicken Fries have also been a hit. Don’t forget about their seasonal Oreo peppermint milkshake during the holidays!
- Locations: Burger King chains are spread all over the U.S. in almost every city and town.Burger King
- Boston Market
Open Hours: 11am – 8pm
Why Visit: For those seeking a traditional Christmas meal without the hassle of cooking, Boston Market offers rotisserie meals that feel home-cooked.
Dish to Try: The Rotisserie Turkey Breast or the Holiday Ham, paired with classic side dishes.
Locations: Scattered throughout both the East and West coasts and also the Midwest. - Chili’s
Open Hours: 11am – 10pm
Why Visit: Ideal for those craving Tex-Mex on Christmas, Chili’s offers a variety of spicy dishes in a fun, casual setting.
Dish to Try: The Classic Ribeye Steak paired with a festive Margarita or the Christmas Quesadilla.
Locations: Nationwide, in cities, towns, and suburban locations.
Tips for Dining Out on Christmas
Dining out on Christmas can be a delightful experience, allowing you to bask in the holiday cheer without the stress of preparing a meal at home. However, it requires a tad bit of planning. First and foremost, always make a reservation in advance, as many restaurants can be fully booked during the festive season. It’s equally important to check the special Christmas menu, if any, to set your expectations right.
Don’t shy away from asking about any holiday deals or festive additions, as many restaurants offer unique dishes or drinks to mark the occasion. Remember to dress appropriately, considering the establishment’s ambiance and any potential dress codes. Given the busy nature of the season, ensure you allot enough time for the meal and don’t rush — enjoy the experience. Lastly, considering the staff are working on a holiday, leaving a generous tip is not only a kind gesture but also a way to spread the holiday spirit.
