Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, togetherness, and of course—great food. But not everyone wants to spend hours prepping, cooking, and cleaning up. Whether you’re traveling, short on time, or just want a break from the kitchen, finding restaurants open on Thanksgiving can be a game-changer.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the best national chains, local spots, and tips for making your Turkey Day memorable—without lifting a single pan.

Why More Americans Are Dining Out on Thanksgiving

Let’s face it: cooking a full Thanksgiving meal is no easy task. From thawing the turkey to preparing five sides and two desserts, it’s a production. That’s why more Americans are skipping the stove and opting to dine out.

Here are a few reasons why:

• No prep or cleanup
  
• Perfect for small families or solo diners
  
• Professional chefs = consistently delicious food
  
• Many restaurants offer exclusive Thanksgiving menus
  
• Options for everyone, including vegetarians and kids
  

National Chain Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving

Several well-known restaurant chains stay open on Thanksgiving and offer special holiday meals. Here are some top picks you can rely on for Thanksgiving 2025:

1. Cracker Barrel

Known for: Homestyle cooking and cozy atmosphere
Thanksgiving Hours: Typically 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Cracker Barrel offers a delicious dine-in Thanksgiving meal with turkey, dressing, sweet potato casserole, cranberry relish, and pumpkin pie. They also sell heat-and-serve meals you can enjoy at home.

2. Denny’s

Known for: 24/7 breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Thanksgiving Hours: Open all day

Denny’s serves a hearty Turkey & Dressing Dinner, complete with gravy, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and your choice of sides. Great for night owls or early risers.

3. Bob Evans

Known for: Farm-fresh comfort food
Thanksgiving Hours: Usually 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Bob Evans features its Farmhouse Feast—a full Thanksgiving dinner with turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, rolls, and pies. Available for dine-in or carryout.

4. Boston Market

Known for: Rotisserie meats and holiday meals
Thanksgiving Hours: Vary by location

Expect a full traditional Thanksgiving spread: turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, stuffing, and cornbread. You can also pre-order meals to-go.

5. Golden Corral

Known for: All-you-can-eat buffet
Thanksgiving Hours: Typically 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Perfect for families and big eaters, Golden Corral offers unlimited turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, desserts, and more in a buffet-style setting.

6. Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Known for: Upscale dining and premium steaks
Thanksgiving Hours: Afternoon to evening

Looking for a fine-dining experience? Ruth’s Chris provides a three-course Thanksgiving dinner that includes oven-roasted turkey, sides like sweet potato casserole, and pumpkin cheesecake.

7. IHOP

Known for: Pancakes and breakfast all day
Thanksgiving Hours: Open 24/7 in most locations

Many IHOP locations offer special holiday menus including turkey dinners. Plus, you can always fall back on their signature pancakes.

Local Restaurants and Hidden Gems

While big chains are convenient, don’t overlook your local restaurants. Many independently owned eateries stay open and provide unique Thanksgiving menus.

Types of Local Spots to Look For:

• Hotel restaurants often serve gourmet Thanksgiving buffets.
  
• Farm-to-table cafes offer organic and locally sourced menus.
  
• Ethnic restaurants sometimes feature Thanksgiving fusion dishes—think turkey enchiladas or tandoori turkey.
  
• Bakeries and cafes may have limited holiday hours but offer pre-made sides, pies, and desserts.
  

How to Find Local Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving:

• Search on Google Maps: Type “restaurants open on Thanksgiving near me.”
  
• Use Yelp and TripAdvisor filters for holiday hours.
  
• Check OpenTable for availability and special menus.
  
• Visit restaurant websites or social media for updates.
  

Tips for Dining Out on Thanksgiving

Dining out on a major holiday is different from an ordinary night out. Here’s how to make the most of it:

1. Book Early

Reservations fill up fast, especially at upscale restaurants. Try booking 2-3 weeks in advance.

2. Call to Confirm

Even if Google says a place is open, hours can vary. Always double-check.

3. Ask About Special Menus

Some places only offer a fixed Thanksgiving menu, while others offer their full regular menu alongside.

4. Consider Takeout or Delivery

Many restaurants offer Thanksgiving to-go meals that you can enjoy at home with minimal effort.

5. Be Kind to Staff

Remember, restaurant staff are working while others are celebrating. Tip generously and be patient—it goes a long way.

Budget-Friendly Thanksgiving Meals

Dining out doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are some affordable options:

• Denny’s Thanksgiving Meal: Starts around $12
  
• Boston Market Individual Meal: $13–$15
  
• Golden Corral Buffet: Typically $20–$25 for adults
  
• Bob Evans Farmhouse Feast (To-Go): Feeds 4 for around $60
  

Pro Tip: Sign up for loyalty programs or check for coupons on restaurant apps or websites.

Family-Friendly Thanksgiving Dining Options

Have kids in tow? Choose places that cater to families:

• Golden Corral: Buffet-style means there’s something for everyone.
  
• IHOP: Fun pancakes and kid-friendly turkey plates.
  
• Bob Evans: Comfort food that children usually love.
  
• Applebee’s: Casual atmosphere and flexible menu options.
  

Some restaurants even offer free kids’ meals with the purchase of an adult entree on Thanksgiving.

Plant-Based and Vegetarian Thanksgiving Options

More restaurants now cater to plant-based eaters. Here’s what you might find:

• Vegetarian Stuffed Squash
  
• Lentil or Chickpea Loaf
  
• Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Mushroom Gravy
  
• Dairy-Free Pumpkin Pie
  

Chains like Sweetgreen, Native Foods, and Veggie Grill offer Thanksgiving-style meals for vegetarians and vegans. Call ahead to see if your local branch has them available.

Thanksgiving Meal Kits & Delivery Services

Want the restaurant food experience without leaving home? Check out these options:

• Cracker Barrel Heat n’ Serve Meals
  
• Whole Foods Holiday Dinner Packages
  
• HelloFresh or Blue Apron Thanksgiving Kits
  
• Instacart and UberEats from local restaurants
  

These options are ideal for small gatherings, solo diners, or last-minute planners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are most restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day?
A: Not all. While many national chains stay open, hours vary. Always check directly with the restaurant.

Q: Do I need a reservation for Thanksgiving dinner?
A: Yes, especially at sit-down or upscale restaurants. Book early to secure a table.

Q: Can I get takeout on Thanksgiving?
A: Absolutely. Many restaurants offer full meals to-go—perfect for at-home celebrations without the stress.

Q: Are vegan options available at Thanksgiving restaurants?
A: Increasingly, yes. Many places offer vegetarian and vegan dishes—just call ahead to confirm.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Thanksgiving Your Way

Whether you’re spending Thanksgiving solo, with family, or on the road, there’s no shortage of restaurants open on Thanksgiving ready to serve you a memorable meal. From hearty homestyle dishes at Cracker Barrel to elegant turkey dinners at Ruth’s Chris, there’s a table for everyone.

So skip the stress this year—make a reservation, place a takeout order, or find a cozy local spot. However you choose to celebrate, enjoy your Thanksgiving with great food and zero cleanup.