32 Restaurants Open on Christmas Day This Year
Christmas dinner is special — some people wait all year for it. However, that doesn’t mean it has to include a ton of work. There’s actually no rule that states you have to cook on Christmas Day. If you’re still recovering from Thanksgiving or maybe went all out for Christmas Eve, treat yourself by relaxing at one of your favorite restaurants this year.
As it can be pretty easy to get caught up in a whirlwind of festivities this holiday season, finding restaurants open on Christmas Day instead of spending the full day in the kitchen cooking and baking just may come in handy. Whether the plan is to host your family this year, travel to another state, or keep it solo and local, everyone can relate to the urge to scrap all dinner plans and go somewhere to eat out — that is, if your favorite restaurants are actually open on the big day.
So if you find yourself looking for someone else to do all the cooking, serving, and cleaning up this year (don’t forget to tip well!), it would be a smart idea to do a little research first. We’ve done all the difficult work for you and have provided you with more than 30 restaurants set to be open on Christmas. As many people are likely in the same sleigh as you, though, be sure to call your favorite restaurant ahead of time to either make a reservation or double check their hours of operation on the big day.
Happy holidays!
Applebee’s
Staying true to the slogan “Great food, good people” is the best gift anybody can receive for the holiday and Applebee’s is doing just that. The restaurant will be open on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but hours may vary by location, so use their neighborhood location app to find out.
Benihana
Sushi and hibachi is never not an option, and Benihana always puts on a show. And in true fashion, they’ll be doing just that for Christmas Day. Just be sure to make a reservation because space is limited and seats will go fast.
Boston Market
Open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Boston Market’s holiday meals are the true miracle we all need this year. Plus, if you order early enough, they’ll deliver the meal right to your doorstep.
Buca di Beppo
For those who wish to satisfy their pasta cravings no matter the occasion, Buca di Beppo has got you covered (in your favorite marinara).
Buffalo Wild Wings
Wing-lovers, rejoice! The majority of Buffalo Wild Wings locations will be open on Christmas Day. Be sure to call ahead of time to confirm.
Del Frisco’s
Open via reservation on December 24 and December 25, Del Frisco’s offers an unforgettable experience with a three-course prix-fixe dinner menu featuring their delicious 14-ounce prime rib.
Denny’s
The Denny’s slogan is literally “Always Open,” and that rings true for their locations on Christmas Day.
Domino’s
Pizza is always a great idea, and for Domino’s fanatics the pizza chain is set to be open on Christmas Day. This, however, does depend on location, so be sure to check the location nearest you.
Dunkin’
America runs on Dunkin’ and this holiday season, it’ll be no different. Treat yourself or your friends and family to some warm coffee and donuts on the big day, as most locations will be open.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse
Depending on where you’re located, you may be able to nab yourself a delicious dinner from Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse this Christmas, as most locations will be operating.
Fogo de Chão
Known for providing Brazilian fare with seasonal offerings, Fogo de Chão will be spreading plenty of holiday cheer, as locations will be open both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. And you can even opt for delivery.
Golden Corral
For those looking to eat until they’re full on the big day, Golden Corral has got you covered. While most locations are set to be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, be sure to check your local restaurant to be sure.
Huddle House
Huddle House fans, this one’s for you! For all 24 hours of Christmas, you can stop by to get any of the restaurant’s signature meals.
IHOP
Open for regular business hours, IHOP makes Christmas morning that much more special. Feeling like staying on the couch? Order delivery instead.
Kona Grill
Craving Kona for Christmas? You’re in luck! Nationwide locations will operate from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. both December 24 and December 25.
Legal Sea Foods
If you’re craving seafood for the holidays, Legal Sea Foods is the place for you. Provide food for the whole family with their holiday takeout platters.
Macaroni Grill
Celebrate a full day of good food with Macaroni Grill. Open both December 24 and December 25, classic Italian dishes are available for both dine-in and takeout.
Marie Callender’s
Lucky enough to live near a Marie Callender’s restaurant? Locations will be open on Christmas Day (and Christmas Eve!), but they may be operating under limited hours depending on location. Use their store locator to find out in advance.
McCormick & Schmick’s
Fresh seafood may be on the menu this holiday season and if you’re looking to get it from McCormick & Schmick’s, their week-long online holiday sale is just for you. If you’re looking to dine-in for dinner, though, be sure to book a reservation ahead of time.
McDonald’s
Always there in a pinch and rare to disappoint, McDonald’s is there to make you feel warm inside every time. Most locations will be open on Christmas Day, but better to call ahead or check your location’s hours to confirm before leaving the comfort of your home.
Morton’s Steakhouse
Morton’s Steakhouse is offering a three-course Christmas dinner, which features a winter salad, chateaubriand (a cut of tenderloin), and a chocolate cake for dessert. Open on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with a rather large to-go menu, this may be the best option for those interested in enjoying their meal at home.
Panda Express
Yes, please, to Chinese food on Christmas! Most Panda Express locations are noted to be open on Christmas Day, but you’ll want to check the one closest to you before you head out.
Perkins
Besides the homestyle cooking delivered straight to your door, the best perk about eating at Perkins is their Holiday Bake Shop — chock-full of seasonal cheesecake, cake, and pies.
Red Lobster
Select locations are open on Christmas Day for dine-in and to-go orders. Specific locations, as well as hours of operation, can be found here.
Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
Open for all of the major holidays, Ruth’s Chris invites you to celebrate the season with “sizzling steaks, delectable desserts, and warm hospitality.” The restaurant’s classic prix-fixe menu is available as well as to-go ordering.
Shoney’s
Most locations will be open, with potentially varying hours depending on location.
Sizzler
Fans of the popular Sizzler chain will be able to get their fix this holiday season, as select locations will be open both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Sonic
If slushies and hot dogs are what you’re craving, Sonic locations will be open on Christmas to make the day less stressful.
Starbucks
Whether you consider Starbucks to be a restaurant or not, one thing you won’t have to debate is whether or not it’ll be open on Christmas Day. Most locations will be open all day, but be sure to check first before pulling up.
STK Steakhouse
Like many other steakhouses around the nation, STK Steakhouse will be open on Christmas Day. While there will be a special Christmas menu available, the regular menu will be an option for you to grab too.
TGI Fridays
It doesn’t matter if you’re in the mood for loaded potato skins or ribs, TGI Fridays has you covered this Christmas.
Waffle House
Open on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Waffle House scratches that specific itch for the fluffiest and crispiest waffles known to man. Check out their holiday merch and dine out in style.
