When Christmas Day arrives, most people envision cozy homes, home-cooked meals, and family gatherings. But not everyone celebrates with a full oven and sink full of dishes. Whether you’re traveling, working, celebrating unconventionally, or just looking to avoid the stress of holiday cooking, knowing which restaurants open Christmas Day can be a true holiday gift.

This guide explores the best restaurants serving meals on December 25th, from national chains to upscale dining spots and budget-friendly favorites. We’ll also include tips on making reservations, ordering takeout, and choosing vegan or vegetarian holiday meals. Let’s make your Christmas delicious and stress-free!

Why Choose to Dine Out on Christmas Day?

More people each year are opting for a restaurant meal on Christmas—and for good reason. Here’s why:

• No cooking or cleaning
  
• Perfect for travelers and solo diners
  
• Special Christmas menus you won’t get year-round
  
• A festive dining atmosphere without the work
  
• Options for every budget and dietary need
  

Whether you’re seeking a gourmet holiday experience or a casual bite after opening gifts, there’s a restaurant for you.

National Restaurant Chains Open on Christmas Day 2025

1. Denny’s

Open: 24/7, including Christmas
Denny’s has become a holiday tradition for many. Whether you’re craving pancakes or a full turkey dinner, Denny’s delivers. Some locations even offer a Turkey & Dressing Dinner with all the holiday fixings.

2. IHOP

Open: Varies by location; most are open
Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner on Christmas. Try festive menu additions like gingerbread pancakes or a holiday ham meal.

3. Waffle House

Open: 24/7, 365 days a year
This Southern favorite never closes, offering comfort food like waffles, bacon, hashbrowns, and coffee—even on Christmas morning.

4. Starbucks

Open: Many locations open limited hours
Need a caffeine boost or a peppermint mocha before or after your holiday meal? Starbucks is often open and serving holiday drinks and snacks.

5. Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Open: Most locations with limited hours
Looking for a fine-dining holiday dinner? Ruth’s Chris offers a three-course Christmas Day menu featuring filet mignon, lobster tail, or roast turkey.

6. Boston Market

Open: Select locations
Known for rotisserie chicken and comfort food, Boston Market serves holiday meal plates with turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, and cornbread. Full Christmas dinners are also available for pickup.

7. Buca di Beppo

Open: Most locations
Perfect for family-style Italian Christmas meals. Enjoy spaghetti, meatballs, lasagna, and even holiday-themed desserts.

8. Chart House

Open: Reservation recommended
A more upscale option, Chart House offers prime rib, seafood specials, and stunning views at many locations.

Local Restaurants and Hotels Open on Christmas Day

While national chains are convenient, many local restaurants and hotels open their doors with special Christmas Day menus. These range from lavish buffets to intimate prix fixe dinners.

Hotel Restaurants

Luxury hotels like Hilton, Marriott, Four Seasons, and Hyatt often host festive Christmas brunches and dinners. These meals are typically buffet-style and may include:

• Roast turkey and glazed ham
  
• Seasonal vegetables and soups
  
• Seafood towers or carving stations
  
• A selection of pies and desserts
  

Local Favorites

Independent restaurants in major cities and small towns often open for Christmas with unique menus. Check your city’s dining websites, Yelp, or Google Maps by searching “restaurants open Christmas Day near me.”

How to Find Christmas Day Restaurants Near You

Not sure what’s open in your area? Here’s how to easily locate restaurants serving on December 25:

1. Use Reservation Apps

• OpenTable: Search “Christmas Day dinner” in your city to see what’s open.
  
• Resy: Great for finding upscale and trendy restaurants.
  
• Yelp: Use the “Open Now” and “Christmas” filters.
  

2. Check Google Maps

Search “restaurants open Christmas Day near me” on Google Maps to get real-time listings, hours, and customer reviews.

3. Follow Local Food Bloggers

Food influencers often share updated holiday dining lists for your city.

4. Call Ahead

Always call to confirm hours, menu availability, and whether reservations are required.

Ordering Takeout or Delivery on Christmas Day

Prefer to eat at home but don’t want to cook? Many restaurants offer Christmas Day takeout or holiday meal delivery:

Where to Order:

• Boston Market: Heat-and-serve Christmas meals
  
• Whole Foods: Pre-ordered holiday meals (turkey, sides, vegan options)
  
• Cracker Barrel: Holiday family packs available for pickup
  
• Uber Eats & DoorDash: Some fast-food and casual dining options may be available for delivery on December 25
  

Vegan and Vegetarian Christmas Dining

More restaurants are offering plant-based holiday meals, perfect for vegans and vegetarians. Options may include:

• Stuffed acorn squash or portobello mushrooms
  
• Vegan roasts with cranberry glaze
  
• Dairy-free mashed potatoes and gravy
  
• Plant-based holiday desserts
  

Chains like Native Foods, Veggie Grill, and The Cheesecake Factory (with multiple vegetarian menu items) are excellent options if open near you.

Family-Friendly Christmas Restaurants

Bringing the kids? These restaurants offer casual settings, comfort food, and often special kid-friendly holiday meals:

• Golden Corral: Buffet-style with Christmas Day specials
  
• Denny’s and IHOP: Familiar meals and breakfast all day
  
• Applebee’s and TGI Fridays: Fun and relaxed atmosphere
  
• Local diners or brunch spots: Often less crowded and more flexible with kids
  

Tips for Dining Out on Christmas Day

To make your Christmas meal smooth and enjoyable, follow these expert tips:

1. Make Reservations Early

Spots at popular restaurants book up quickly for December 25. Book online or by phone in advance.

2. Confirm Hours

Holiday hours can vary even within the same chain. Double-check the website or call the specific location.

3. Ask About the Menu

Some restaurants have limited or fixed menus on Christmas. If you have dietary restrictions, ask ahead.

4. Arrive on Time

Staffing is limited on holidays, and delays can pile up. Arriving early can make your experience smoother.

5. Be Patient and Kind

Remember, restaurant staff are working on a holiday—kindness and gratitude go a long way.

Budget-Friendly Christmas Dining Options

Don’t want to splurge on Christmas dinner? There are plenty of affordable places to eat:

• Denny’s Turkey Dinner: Around $12–$15
  
• Waffle House Meal: Under $10
  
• IHOP Holiday Combos: $10–$14
  
• Boston Market Individual Meals: $13–$17
  

Look out for coupons, rewards, and seasonal promotions too.

Upscale Options for a Luxurious Christmas Meal

Want to treat yourself? Fine-dining restaurants that may be open include:

• Ruth’s Chris Steak House
  
• Chart House
  
• The Capital Grille
  
• Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse
  
• Local hotel restaurants with five-course meals
  

Expect elegant surroundings, professional service, and gourmet flavors. Reservations are essential.

Final Thoughts: Make Christmas Delicious and Memorable

Choosing to dine out on Christmas Day offers convenience, comfort, and culinary delight. Whether you’re a solo diner, a couple looking for a quiet holiday meal, or a family skipping the kitchen chaos, there are plenty of restaurants open Christmas Day to meet your needs.

From fast-food to fine dining, buffet to takeout, you’ll find the perfect holiday solution right around the corner. Don’t wait—book your spot, prepare your appetite, and enjoy the gift of a stress-free Christmas dinner.